Dog-Friendly Beaches on the Costa del Sol: Rules, Tips & Where to Go

Dogs on Costa del Sol beaches — what’s allowed, what’s not, and how to plan a family trip with your pup

Costa del Sol is a year-round beach paradise for families with kids, but it’s a more seasonal destination for those travelling with four-legged friends 🐶 Before you pack your towels, toys, and your dog’s water bowl, it’s worth getting to know the local rules about animals on beaches. In Spain (and in Andalusia), the regulations are quite specific — and their goal is safety, hygiene, and comfort for all beachgoers. Below, we explain them in a simple, family-friendly way.

What is the “swimming season” on the Costa del Sol?

This is a very important concept, because it determines whether your dog is allowed on the beach. Based on local information boards and regulations (e.g. Fuengirola), the swimming season applies:

• Easter (Semana Santa) — daily
• From the end of Easter to May 31 — on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays
• From June 1 to September 30 — daily
• Outside the swimming season, dogs are allowed on most beaches (as long as rules are followed).
• During the swimming season, dogs are not allowed on regular beaches.

(Source: Fuengirola city information boards – user document)

Are dogs allowed on beaches during the swimming season?

In general: NO ❌

With the exception of:

• assistance dogs
• guide dogs
• rescue dogs
• dogs accompanying people with disabilities

In all other cases, dogs are not allowed on regular beaches during the swimming season.

Where are dogs allowed?

Dogs are allowed:

• Outside the swimming season — on most beaches
• All year round — only on official dog beaches (playas caninas)

These beaches are:

• clearly signposted
• fenced or marked
• listed in local regulations

⚠️ Your dog must stay within the boundaries of this area — you are not allowed to walk with your dog onto neighbouring sections of the beach.

Rules for dog owners on dog beaches

If you’re heading to a legal dog beach, the following rules apply:

Documents & health

• you must carry your dog’s health booklet or vet card
• your dog must be microchipped
• your dog must have up-to-date vaccinations and deworming

Muzzle

Required for:

• dogs weighing over 20 kg
• breeds considered potentially dangerous (PPP)

Cleanliness

• dog waste must be picked up in bags
• disposed of only in designated bins

Failure to clean up = a serious offence

Supervision

• your dog must be under control at all times
• must not disturb other people
• in most municipalities: dogs must be on a leash

Walking corridor

On all beaches, a 6-metre corridor along the shoreline must be kept free for pedestrians.

Important: dog beaches ≠ swimming zones

Areas designated as dog beaches:

• are not recognised as official swimming zones
• follow the general rules of public coastal land use
• usually do not have lifeguards or swimming facilities

Legal basis (for curious parents 😉)

These rules are based on local legislation, including:

• Municipal Ordinance Regulating Animal Ownership
• Ayuntamiento de Fuengirola (BOPMA July 19, 2012 + amendment March 26, 2014)
• Ordinance Regulating Beach Use — art. 28

LittleFamilyHub recommends

• ✔️ Check the specific municipality you’re visiting — rules can vary slightly
• ✔️ Look for playa canina signs
• ✔️ Bring: water for your dog, waste bags, shade (umbrella)
• ✔️ Avoid peak heat hours
• ✔️ Always check the information boards at the beach entrance

Dog-friendly beaches on the Costa del Sol

Here’s a list of dog-friendly beaches on the Costa del Sol (year-round or known as pet-friendly destinations) based on Google Maps destinations & partly on our experience:

1. Playa del Castillo – Fuengirola (Málaga) — A long sandy stretch near the Sohail Castle. Dogs are welcome in designated sections, and it’s a popular spot for families enjoying beach time with their pups.
2. Playa El Pinillo – Marbella (Málaga) — A well-known dog-friendly beach in Marbella where dogs can run on the sand, splash in the sea, and enjoy plenty of open space and fresh sea breeze.
3. Playa El Ejido – Mijas (Málaga) — Part of El Ejido Beach has a clearly marked dog-friendly area. Shallow water and soft sand make it a relaxed option for dogs and families alike.
4. Playa Arroyo Totalán – Rincón de la Victoria (Málaga) — A quieter, more natural beach spot known for being dog-friendly. Dogs are allowed here year-round, following local rules and good beach manners.
5. Playa Chica Torrox (Málaga) — A small but charming dog-friendly beach in Torrox. Less crowded than central beaches, it’s ideal for calm walks, relaxed playtime, and a peaceful seaside experience with your pup.