Being at the beach with your loyal companion is a wonderful feeling… Watching them play, run, and enjoy the sand and sea is priceless. We have created this article on the best dog-friendly beaches in Málaga as we know that more and more travellers are choosing to bring their pets when they go on holiday, and things are changing to better accommodate dogs on our beaches. We will share which beaches are best, their available services, and give you some tips for unforgettable moments in good company.

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Come and enjoy the best dog-friendly beaches in Málaga

Discover the best dog-friendly beaches in Málaga, where your pet can run freely and enjoy the sea. Each of these beaches offers special facilities and a welcoming environment, ensuring both you and your dog have an unforgettable day.

Playa del Castillo

The Playa del Castillo in Fuengirola is an extensive sandy area with excellent services and high-quality tourism, located near the Fuengirola River and the Sohail Castle. The water is crystal clear and the waves are calm, making it a fantastic option if you want to sunbathe with your four-legged friend, as it is a dog-friendly beach. It features sun loungers, showers (including for dogs), and beach bars for refreshments. Note that dogs over 20 kilograms must wear a muzzle to access this beach, and dogs considered potentially dangerous are not allowed. Additionally, you can take the opportunity to visit the Sohail Castle.

Playa El Ejido, Mijas

In Mijas, a section of El Ejido Beach has been designated for dogs where they can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. This allows you to bring your dog and have a great time together at one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Málaga. This beach has showers that dogs can use, fine sand, and a calm sea, making it a very enjoyable beach, even for families. Keep in mind that this beach is quite close to Fuengirola.

Playa de Arroyo Totalán

Playa de Arroyo Totalán​

This beach is located in the municipality of Málaga and allows for the presence of dogs, functioning as a dog-friendly beach, although its waters are not classified as suitable for swimming. This does not mean that the water is not clean, but rather that it has not been given this classification. If you want to visit this beach, you should know that breeds of dogs considered dangerous are not allowed, and dogs over 20 kilograms must wear a muzzle.

Playa de Arroyo Hondo

This dog-friendly beach near Benalmádena is an excellent option if you want to enjoy the good weather with your dog in Málaga. It offers specific services for animals (dog showers and drinking fountains), as well as several beach bars and restaurants, allowing you to spend a full day at the beach. As an additional plan, we suggest a visit to the Colomares Castle, an iconic and unique monument.

There are more dog-friendly beaches throughout Málaga, but these are some of the ones that offer the best conditions for both humans and our furry friends. Come and discover them.

Dog services on Málaga beaches

The beaches in Málaga typically have essential services to ensure a fantastic day of relaxation, although some of them, including certain dog-friendly beaches, offer limited leisure options. You can almost always find rubbish bins, though they are not always suitable for animal waste (it is rare to find bins with plastic bag dispensers or ones designed to withstand high temperatures). On some beaches in Málaga, you can find drinking fountains for your dog and even special showers for your pet. We do not doubt that you will be able to enjoy the best that Málaga has to offer with your furry friend.

Regulations and tips for enjoying the beach with your dog

We all like a clean, peaceful beach with the best conditions, and this is achieved primarily through common sense. Nevertheless, here are some tips to keep Málaga’s dog-friendly beaches operational and to ensure we can all enjoy them together:

  • You must keep your dog under control at all times, even if it is off the leash. This is essential to ensure it does not cause any damage or disturb anyone.
  • The second point is related to the first: ensure that your dog does not bother anyone, as healthy coexistence is crucial for maintaining dog-friendly beaches.
  • Always pick up your pet’s waste and dispose of it in a suitable bin if available. If you cannot find a bin on the beach, take the bag to the nearest bin.
  • Ensure your dog has all the necessary vaccinations and remember to carry its vaccination record with you.
  • If you have a dog that is considered dangerous or is large, check if it is allowed on the beach and if it needs to wear a muzzle (this depends on the beach).

It is important to check the official sources (websites or offices) from the local councils before your visit, as regulations may change, and a beach might stop allowing dogs or the designated area for them might change location. Follow these tips and you will be able to enjoy some very fun moments with your dog!

Experience an unforgettable time with your dog in Málaga

You’ll find several dog-friendly beaches in Málaga where you can play and enjoy with your dog, so don’t waste time and book your next holiday now. We are here to help, and we have listed some accommodation options in Málaga where you can make the most of the wonderful Costa del Sol. You will find apartments, houses, and even villas in Benahavís, Benalmádena, Mijas Costa, Fuengirola, and more.

Use the “pet-friendly” filter to find the perfect home for you and your pet (or pets). Other filters will help you decide if you want a garden, pool, barbecue, sea views, and many other fantastic features. Have you already chosen Málaga as your next holiday destination?