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If you're one of those looking for a paradisiacal beach where dogs are welcome, we have good news for you: the Costa Brava is becoming increasingly pet-friendly and already has quite a few beaches where the furry ones can run, dig in the sand, chase imaginary seagulls, and end up more salty than an anchovy from l'Escala. From the long expanses of sand in Empuriabrava to hidden little coves in Sant Feliu de Guíxols, we offer you the definitive guide to dog-friendly beaches on the Costa Brava.
Dog-friendly beaches in the Costa Brava 2026
Cala del Niu (Sant Feliu de Guíxols)
No time restrictions.
Small, rocky, and with that air of mystery that's so popular on Instagram. Cala del Niu is one of the most unique options on the Costa Brava for dog owners. However, there are specific restrictions here: only a maximum of 5 dogs are allowed at a time. The idea is to preserve tranquility and avoid overcrowding in a very small space. So, if you're visiting in the middle of August, it's better to get up early. Or assume that you might have to wait your turn as if you were at a trendy vermouth bar.
Pere Grau Beach (Palamós)
Dog beach without time restrictions.
Between the lighthouse and the fishing port of Palamós you will find this small stony beach, 15 metres long and 12 metres wide, designated for dogs all year round. Indeed, it's modest, but functional. Perfect for a quick getaway or for those dogs that prefer stones to fine sand. Additionally, Palamós is always a great idea: seafront promenade, prawns and an unpretentious Mediterranean atmosphere.
L'Estartit Beach - Els Griells (L'Estartit)
Dog-friendly beach with no time restrictions.
This beach has one of the most spectacular views in all of Costa Brava: the Medes Islands. However, respect for the natural environment is sacred here. Therefore, in the dog-friendly area of about 600 m2 at Els Griells, animals must always be leashed. This measure seeks to protect the delicate dune ecosystem and avoid impacts on the fauna and flora of the area. Despite this limitation, it remains a fantastic option for a relaxed getaway with your four-legged friend. Ideal for the calmer dogs… or for humans who need to unwind.
Rec del Molí Beach (L'Escala)
Beach that accepts dogs without time restrictions.
L'Escala has also joined the list of municipalities that believe dogs have the right to go to the beach in the summer. The beach of Rec del Molí, just a few minutes from the ruins of Empúries, has a well-marked, designated area where animals can enter freely. It is a convenient beach, with fine sand and nearby parking, which is especially appreciated when you are laden with backpacks, water bags, toys, and a dog that decides to stop every ten meters to smell absolutely everything. There are no significant time restrictions, but there are basic rules of coexistence: keep the beach clean, control the behavior of your pet and respect the rest of the users.
Rubina Beach (Empuriabrava)
Dog beach with no time restrictions.
The queen mother of the dog-friendly beaches in Catalonia. La Rubina, in Empuriabrava, was a pioneer throughout Spain in creating a space for dogs, and it shows: it is large, comfortable and usually full of families with pets. Located within the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park, it is a broad, wild beach with that touch of freedom that the most hyperactive dogs love so much. Here they can run, swim and socialize without problems. The beach has all the services and you will find one of the best bars on the Costa Brava.
Things to keep in mind:
- Owners must control their animals at all times.
- You must pick up the faeces.
- It is necessary to carry up-to-date documentation and vaccines.
- Potentially dangerous dogs must be leashed and muzzled. Otherwise, dogs can enjoy a certain freedom, always with common sense.
Dog-friendly beaches in Cadaqués
Beaches without any time restriction.
Cadaqués, the pearl of the Costa Brava, with white alleys and tourists looking for the Salvador Dalí House-Museum, also has numerous spaces where dogs are welcome. The Town Hall has enabled several coves so that furry friends can dip their paws without problems. For example, we find St. Pius V Cove, next to Sa Conca; Es Sortell Beach, after Llané Petit; Pep Ton Cove, in front of Portlligat island; and Es Calders Cove, also near Portlligat. However, don't expect large expanses of sand or Caribbean resort conveniences: here what rules is the wild charm of the most authentic Costa Brava. Small, rocky coves with transparent waters. In Cadaqués you will find ideal beaches for the most adventurous dogs.
La Ribera's Beach (El Port de la Selva)
No time restrictions for dogs.
El Port de la Selva is one of the most beautiful villages in the north of the Costa Brava and, yes, it also thinks about dogs. On the Ribera beach there is a designated area for dogs to access. It is practical, urban and with services such as showers, washrooms and restaurants very close by. A very comfortable option to spend the day without giving up any comfort. As always, animals must be identified and under control. Potentially dangerous dogs must be leashed and muzzled.
Port de la Vall Beach (El Port de la Selva)
Dog beach with no time restrictions.
Quieter and less urban than the Ribera, this beach is perfect for those who are looking for a more relaxed experience. The area designated for dogs is at the end of the beach and combines sandy and stony parts. The best part? You can walk there using the coastal path from the town, on a beautiful walk with sea views. If your dog prefers walking more than swimming, this plan is practically perfect.
Sant Jordi Beach (Llançà)
Beach for dogs without any time restriction.
Small, discreet, and charming. Sant Jordi beach is one of those spots that seem to be discovered by chance. It's only about 50 meters long and 10 meters wide, but enough for dogs to enjoy a good festival of marine smells. The combination of sand and rocks gives it a very Costa Brava old school vibe. You won't find large services or sophisticated beach bars here, but that's precisely where its charm lies. There are no special restrictions beyond the usual ones. However, if the tramontana wind is blowing, prepare for a much more intense experience.
Les Portes Beach (Colera)
Beach suitable for dogs without time restrictions.
Also known as the Boats beach , this small beach in Colera, about 130 meters long, is perfect for those who wish to avoid crowds. It has a very local atmosphere, with thick sand and stones, and is close to the urban center. It's ideal to combine swimming with a leisurely stroll in the Natural Park of Cap de Creus. In addition, its proximity to bars and terraces allows for enjoying a drink while the dog sleeps exhausted under the table. The rules are the usual for any pet-friendly space: civility, leash if necessary, and control of the animals.
Dog beaches in autumn and winter
When the high season ends, many beaches on the Costa Brava relax their restrictions and become a doggy paradise:
In Palamós, for example, dogs are allowed on the Platja Gran, in a section delimited between Mar and Nàpols streets, from November 1st to March 15th.
In Tossa de Mar, dogs can access the beaches between November and March, an ideal time to discover the town without the summer crowds.
In Lloret de Mar, both Fenals (punta Garbí) and Lloret beaches allow dogs between October 16th and March 14th.
Palafrugell also authorizes dogs on their beaches out of high season.
As for Pals, dogs are also allowed off-season, but the City Council particularly reminds the need to protect dunes, lagoons, and sensitive areas of Baix Ter's marshes. In other words: if your dog discovers a protected plant, it's better to prevent it from deciding to turn it into its new favorite toilet.
Tips for your dog to enjoy a day at the beach:
Going to the beach with a dog is wonderful... until your dog decides to bury itself under the neighbor's towel. To avoid drama, here are some basic tips:
- Avoid the hottest hours. The sand burns and dogs can suffer from heat stroke very quickly.
- Always bring fresh water and a bowl.
- Never force the dog to enter the sea. Some swim like seals and others prefer to watch the waves from a distance.
- Check the paws after the bath: hot sand and salt can irritate.
- Don't forget about the shade. An umbrella or a small tent can make a difference.
- Always pick up the poop and keep the area clean.
- Watch out for rocky areas.
- If the dog is very nervous or not sociable, it's better to look for quiet hours or less crowded coves.
And after a day of salt, sun and swimming, it's time to rest. The best option? Stay in a Costa Brava rural house that also accepts dogs. There are increasingly more pet-friendly accommodations that understand that the dog is part of the family and offer large gardens, outdoor spaces, natural environments and even details especially thought for pets. Plus, staying in a rural house allows you to discover the Costa Brava at a different pace: walks through the forest, medieval villages, coastal paths and endless afternoons in the cool air.
