A Guide to the Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Europe
When you’re a dedicated pet parent leaving your pooch at home whilst you swan off on holiday is just not an option. Holidays are just as fun and exciting for them as they are for you, especially when it means they can run along the beach with the wind in their fur.
The good news is if you’re planning on holidaying in Europe there is an abundance of dog-friendly beaches for both you and your beloved furry pal to enjoy.
So, pack your bags, grab your pet’s passport and go discover these fabulous dog-friendly beaches.
Potami Beach, Greece
The great thing about Greece is that dogs are welcome on pretty much all beaches as long as they are well behaved and you’re considerate of others when the beaches are busy. So, if you’re heading to the sunny islands of Greece, it shouldn’t be hard to find a place by the sea where you and your pooch are welcome.
Potami Beach in Samos is a large pebble beach and is particularly good for dogs. It’s a long stretch of coastline meaning there’s plenty of space for them to run about and swim.
If your dog starts to get too hot, you can take them to cool off in Potami Waterfall, which is a stunning area just a short walk from the beach.
There are also umbrellas and sunbeds available and a beach bar that provides snacks and cold drinks. It’s a beautiful setting that’s surrounded by steep cliffs covered with tall pine trees.
Note: The beach itself is accessible by car or on foot from Karlovassi Town.
Llevant Beach, Barcelona
Llevant Beach is a super popular beach in Barcelona and if you fancy yourself and your pooch some summer fun in Spain this is definitely the place to be.
Dogs can join you on this beautiful 1.2km stretch of coastline and can run around freely in a fenced-off area. The beach also has special dog showers and drinking fountains so you can wash their sandy paws and keep them hydrated and cool. Just ensure that you clean up any mess your dog leaves behind.
Note: Only dogs that are registered and chipped are allowed.
La Spiaggia di Pluto, Italy
From May through to September dogs can enjoy unlimited access to the lively La Spiaggia di Pluto beach in Bibione, Italy.
Not only can they relax on the sunbeds alongside you but they can also take a dip in the sea and join in pet games and obedience courses that are held on the dedicated dog agility field.
This beach couldn’t be more dog friendly with a plethora of dog bowls filled with water scattered across the beach and specific dog showers for washing your pup down at the end of the day. There are also free poo bags available so there’s no excuse for not cleaning up after your furry friend.
Note: visiting dogs must be vaccinated against rabies and the owner must carry the proof, plus they must be microchipped.
Sandymouth, Cornwall
If you don’t want to hop on a plane and prefer a staycation there are also plenty of dog-friendly beaches in the UK.
Cornwall has a myriad including the huge expanse of sandy beach at Sandymouth in North Cornwall. Here they welcome dogs all year round and it’s easy to access with good parking facilities. It’s a fabulous spot for a long leisurely walk along the waves where salty sea dogs can paddle their paws.
End your visit with a stop at the dog-friendly cafe for a warming hot chocolate or a quick bite to eat.
Crikvenica Beach, Croatia
In 2016, Croatia opened its first-ever dog-friendly beach in Crikvenica, a small coastal town in the region of Kvarner, finally giving dogs the freedom to swim in the Adriatic Sea.
The beach provides plenty of shade for your doggo to rest in you can even treat them to dog-friendly ice cream at the cafe to cool them down.
What makes this beach so fantastic though is the fact it serves ‘Snuffle’, a non-alcoholic dog beer made from beef or chicken and malt barley extracts. Your dog really can live its best life right alongside you at this marvellous Croatian beach.
If you want to take your pup away for a beach break and need help with dog travel, PBS Pet Travel can help. Get in touch to find out more.