THEY say that dogs are man’s best friend, and who else would you want to go to the beach with other than your best friend?

Although unfortunately not every beach welcomes dogs (their loss), the Olive Press has found some seaside gems right in Andalucia for both you and your pet to enjoy this summer.

1. La Playa de la Rana (Adra, Almería)

The first official dog beach in Almería, La Playa de la Rana invited these furry friends to its sparkling waters in 2016. People- and their dogs- can swim on the coast of this 350-meter-long beach. La Playa de la Rana is located right outside the urban area, so pets, children, and adults alike can relax on the sands. According to the Municipal Ordinance on Tenure and Protection of Animals, dogs must be vaccinated and accompanied by a legal adult, and owners must be sure to pick up after their dogs and avoid feeding their pets on the beach.

2. Playa el Cable (Motril, Granada)

This easily accessible beach is composed of dark sand and gravel, and has few swimmers, but welcomes dogs with open arms. The area accessible for dogs in Playa el Cable is around 400 meters and is open 24/7 in the summer until September 30, but the owner must be aware of a few restrictions. Dogs must stay within the bounded area and be aware if their dog is potentially dangerous or nervous- and use a muzzle and leash where appropriate.

3. Playa El Castillo (Fuengirola, Málaga)

This beach, located right near Sohail Castle, is ideal for all members of the family- including your dog. This 800-meter-long beach is also a perfect photo op, with vibrantly colored boats all along the shore, and offers easy access to bustling beach bars. However, it is located right next to a highway, so be sure to be alert at all times. Additionally, dogs weighing over 20 kilograms must wear a muzzle. The beach is open from 10:00am to 11:00pm in the summer.

4. Playa Arroyo Totalán (Málaga)

Though the waters of Playa Arroyo Totalán are not suitable for bathing, the beach’s waters are clean and crystal clear. The beach itself is open 24/7 throughout the year. The beach is the largest in the Málaga province, boasting an area of around 14,000 square meters. PPP dog breeds, or those that are potentially dangerous, as well as dogs over 20 kilograms must wear a muzzle.

5. Playa de Piedra Paloma (Casares, Málaga)

One of the last beaches to be approved as a dog beach in Andalucia, the Playa de Piedra Paloma is next to a dog beach which closed in 2015, Playa de la Sal. The beach is almost completely natural and without human interference, sans a chiringuito, or beach bar, which offers all the basics for a beach in Spain: sardines, hammocks, and showers. This beautiful two kilometer long beach is well-maintained and shows off clear waters with slightly rocky seabeds. Playa de Piedra Paloma is open 24/7 and is a quiet place to spend quality time with man’s best friend.

6. Playa canina de Torre del Mar (Málaga)

Often named the best dog-friendly beach in Andalucia, this beach near the mouth of Río Vélez is a heaven for dogs and dog owners alike. The 4000 square meters beach even has a playground equipped with a swing, two balance bars, a jumping wheel, a tunnel and many other fun attractions for dogs. Visitors can also find water fountains and trash bins with covers at this dog-friendly area.  

7. Playa El Pinillo (Marbella, Málaga)

One of two dog beaches in Marbella, Playa El Pinillo is located on the eastern outskirts of the city. The designated dog-friendly area is just a short walk along the wooden path from the parking lot. Make sure not to go through the sand with your dog as you may fined. With fewer visitors than other beaches in Marbella, this beach is a perfect place to take your dogs. The city recently installed water fountains and showers for dogs at the beach as well.

8. Playa Ventura de Mar (Marbella, Málaga)

This dark sand beach in Marbella is open to dogs until October 15. It is located on the westernmost part of Playa Nueva Andalucia, near the Gran Hotel Guadalpín Banús. On the beach, dog owners must have their pets under control at all times and clean up after them.  Remember to stay within the dog-friendly zone as dogs are not allowed in other parts of the beach.

9. Playa canina de Torrox (Torrox, Málaga)

The newest dog beach in Andalucia, Playa canina de Torrox was declared a dog-friendly beach on July 7. It is a beach with small pebble stones so if you are looking for a golden sand beach, this may not be the best option. But this area is very easy to access and is located right next to the lighthouse. Also, dog owners may let their dog loose, but dogs that weigh more than 20kg must wear a muzzle.

10. Playa de Camposoto (San Fernando, Cádiz)

This dog-friendly zone is located in between Access 8 and Punta de Boquéron on the longest beach in Cádiz that is more than 6km in length. However, be warned that it is quite a journey to get to the dog-friendly beach. You have to walk about 2km along the beach to reach the area. If you decide to take on this long path, we recommend that you go later in the evening when the sun has begun to set.

11. Playa del Espigón (Mazagón, Huelva)

The only dog-friendly beach in Huelva this summer, Playa del Espigón is a 2,500 square meters paradise located within the Marismas del Odiel natural reserve. It is a perfect day trip destination for dog owners to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. There are no time or season restrictions for your dogs on this beach that stretches from the 6th footbridge until the Espigón.

Additional reporting by Diana Tang