If you want to go on holiday by the sea with your four-legged friend, you need dog-friendly beaches. Luckily, there are some in the typical holiday regions – we have researched a few beach paradises for dogs and people and present them.
When you go on holiday, your four-legged friend often comes along. But not every holiday is possible with a dog. Most furry friends love water. That’s why holidays with dogs by the sea are a great option, but unfortunately the little rascals are not welcome on all beaches. For this reason, there are specially designated dog beaches where dogs and dog lovers can meet.
What do you need to take to the beach? A packing list for dog owners
Before heading to the beach, dog owners should buy and pack a few things to ensure that their furry friend feels comfortable whatever the weather:
- A (foldable) water bowl as well as treats, a leash and a collar are a given – a harness and a leash are also good so that the dog can still have fun on beaches where leashes are required.
- Dog owners should also always have dog poop bags with them – this is especially true in places where a lot of people are and even lie down.
- If the dog comes out of the water soaking wet, towels or a dog bathrobe are good ways to get the fur dry and clean again quickly.
- A dog blanket is comfortable for relaxing on the beach.
- There are special dog life jackets for dogs that cannot swim particularly well.
- Floating dog toys bring maximum fun in the water.
- Sun protection for the dog is essential so that he can retreat to a shady spot from time to time.
- And yes, dogs can also get sunburnt – especially short-haired breeds. Sunscreen for dogs protects the animal’s skin.
- If you let your dog run around freely, you can also consider a GPS tracker.
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1. Dog-friendly beaches in Germany
Germany also has a lot to offer tourists. There are an incredible number of beautiful beaches on the North Sea and Baltic Sea. Dog-friendly beaches are ideal for traveling with a dog. A great insider tip is the beach between Bansin and Heringsdorf on Usedom – there is a specially designated dog beach in a beautiful coastal landscape. Four-legged friends can romp around in the gently sloping water.
Other dog-friendly beaches in Germany:
- Borkum: There is a dog beach on the west beach – however, dogs must be kept on a leash there.
- Eckernfoerde: There is also a long, designated dog beach there.
- Groemitz: This dog beach is particularly long and can be used off-leash all year round.
- St. Peter Ording: There are two dog beaches equipped with trash cans and poop bags.
The rascal is not a water rat, but still loves the sea? A life jacket for dogs helps the furry friend to stay afloat.
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2. Dog-friendly beaches in France
There are beautiful beaches in France, but dogs are often not allowed. We have found a few exceptions, however. One example is the sandy beach of Pampelonne in the municipality of Ramatuelle on the Côte d’Azur. The five-kilometer-long beach is dog-friendly and offers soft sand and a wonderful view of the Mediterranean near St. Tropez.
Other dog-friendly beaches in France:
- Narbonne Beach near Montpellier in southern France
- Beach of Anse du Brick near Cherbourg in Normandy
- Barneville-Carteret in Normandy
Want more tips for a dog-friendly vacation? There are a few dog owner hacks in this guide:
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3. Dog-friendly beaches in Spain
Platja Dels Liris is located in the east of Spain on the Mediterranean and is one of those hidden paradises that are not overrun with tourists. If you prefer a quieter place, this is the perfect place for you and your four-legged friend. The Costa Brava offers beaches with crystal clear water where both dogs and humans can feel at home and enjoy their vacation. Dogs are very welcome at Platja Dels Liris.
Other dog-friendly beaches in Spain:
- Playa de la Rubina in the very north-east of Spain
- Playa Agua Amarga in the south of Spain
- Barceloneta Beach directly in Barcelona
Sunburn is also possible for dogs. Animal lovers should pack dog sunscreen for a long day at the beach.
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4. Dog-friendly beaches in Italy
The Doggy Beach Lignano in Lignano Sabbiadoro on the Italian Adriatic coast is not named for nothing: the dog beach even has dog beds and parasols to prevent your four-legged friends from getting sunstroke. There is also a dog playground on the beach, as well as dog trainers and a vet.
Other dog-friendly beaches in Italy:
- Bay of San Fruttuoso near Genoa
- Marechiaro Baths in Viareggio in Tuscany
- Dog BeachLido Azzurro On Sicily
No dog can stand being in the scorching sun for long – awnings or beach tents provide shade and protection.
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Holidays by the sea with your dog: The best time to travel
In the high season, the seaside in the south is not only very crowded, but often extremely hot. This is usually not particularly pleasant for four-legged friends with thick fur. In addition, there are many beaches in the southern countries where dogs must be kept on a leash during the high season or where dogs are not allowed on the beach at all – in the low season, these rules are often relaxed. If you want to do yourself and your dog a favor, it is better to go on a beach holiday in spring or autumn.
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