Discover the best beaches to enjoy the sea with your dog

More and more families are choosing to travel with their dogs and share unforgettable holidays. Luckily, Catalonia boasts a growing number of beaches where our four-legged companions can also run, swim, and have fun by the sea.

Some stand out for their fine sand, others for the size of their designated areas, or for their easy access and parking. That’s why at CampingsCat.com we’ve compiled this ranking of the five best dog-friendly beaches on the Costa Brava, the Costa Dorada, and the Ebro Delta, considering the aspects that truly make a difference when traveling with your pet.

In this guide, you’ll find practical information about each beach: sand type, length, amenities, access, whether dogs are allowed on the entire beach or only in a designated area, and our rating based on our experience at each one.

How did we create this ranking?

At CampingsCat.com, we didn’t want to simply create a list of dog-friendly beaches. Our goal is to help you find beaches that offer a truly enjoyable experience for both you and your four-legged companion.

To achieve this, we analyzed the main dog-friendly beaches in Catalonia and selected those that, according to our criteria, offer the best experience. In this ranking, we considered aspects such as sand quality, ease of access, parking, available services, the natural surroundings, water quality, and the space designated for dogs.

Ranking index

In this article you will find beaches classified by area to make it easier for you to find the ideal destination depending on where you want to spend your vacation.

🏖️The 5 best dog-friendly beaches on the Costa Brava

🌊 The 5 best dog-friendly beaches on the Costa Dorada

🌾 The 5 best dog-friendly beaches in the Ebro Lands

At the end of the article you will also find a quick comparison, tips for going to the beach with your dog and answers to frequently asked questions.

The 5 best dog-friendly beaches on the Costa Brava (2026)

The Costa Brava is a top destination for traveling with dogs thanks to its wide variety of beaches, coves, and natural areas. While not all beaches allow pets during the summer season, there are several designated areas that stand out for the quality of their sand, their surroundings, and the services they offer.

Here is our ranking of the five best beaches to enjoy the sea with your four-legged companion.

1. Rubina Beach (Empuriabrava)

The best dog beach on the Costa Brava thanks to its fine sand, easy access and privileged natural surroundings.

If there’s one beach that has become a true benchmark for people traveling with dogs in Catalonia, it’s La Rubina Beach, located in Empuriabrava. It was one of the first beaches in the country to establish a specific area for dogs during the bathing season and, to this day, it remains one of the most highly recommended dog-friendly beaches in all of Catalonia.

What truly sets it apart is the combination of fine sand, a spectacular natural setting next to the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà wetlands, and a large enough area for dogs to enjoy the beach in complete comfort. Furthermore, access is easy, there’s free parking nearby, and it’s an ideal destination for both a day trip and a longer vacation.

Key Information

📍 Location: Empuriabrava (Castelló d’Empúries)

🏖️ Type of sand: Fine and golden

🐕 Dogs allowed: In a designated area

🚗 Parking: Free, within walking distance of the beach

♿ Accessibility: Very good

🚿 Amenities: Trash cans and showers nearby

La Rubina Beach is one of the best dog beaches in Catalonia and a must-see if you’re looking for a dog-friendly beach on the Costa Brava.

---

2. Rec del Molí Beach (L’Escala)

One of the quietest dog-friendly beaches on the Costa Brava, ideal for enjoying a natural environment with your dog.

Rec del Molí Beach, located in L’Escala, is one of the most popular destinations for those seeking a dog-friendly beach on the Costa Brava. While not as extensive as La Rubina Beach, it stands out for its tranquil atmosphere, proximity to the town center, and attractive natural surroundings.

It’s a highly recommended option for those who prefer a less crowded beach, where dogs can enjoy the sea in a designated area while their owners relax in a pleasant environment. Furthermore, its location allows you to combine a day at the beach with a stroll along the promenade or through the historic center of L’Escala.

Key Information

📍 Location: L’Escala (Alt Empordà)

🏖️ Type of sand: Sand and small pebbles

🐕Dogs allowed: Designated dog area

🚗 Parking: Free parking within walking distance

♿ Accessibility: Good

🚿 Services: Waste bins and excrement containers

If you’re looking for a quiet, well-located beach with a pleasant environment to spend a few hours with your dog, Rec del Molí Beach is one of the best options on the Costa Brava.

---

3. Sant Jordi Beach (Llançà)

A charming little beach, ideal for those seeking tranquility and crystal-clear waters to enjoy with their dog.

Sant Jordi Beach is one of those hidden gems on the Costa Brava that many travelers discover by chance and end up recommending. Located in Llançà, it offers a much more tranquil atmosphere than other dog-friendly beaches in the area, surrounded by the characteristic landscape of the Empordà coastline.

It’s an excellent option for those who prefer to avoid the more crowded beaches and enjoy a day at the sea with their dog in a relaxed setting. Its waters are usually crystal clear, and its proximity to the coastal path parapet walk allows you to complete the day with a pleasant stroll among coves and cliffs.

Key Information

📍 Location: Llançà (Alt Empordà)

🏖️ Type of sand: Coarse sand and pebbles

🐕 Dogs allowed: Designated area

🚗 Parking: Available within walking distance

♿ Accessibility: Good

🚿 Services: Trash cans and containers in the surrounding area

If you’re looking for a less crowded beach with a very pleasant natural environment and crystal clear waters, Sant Jordi Beach is an excellent option to enjoy a day at the beach with your dog.

---

4. Great Beach of Portbou (Portbou)

One of the northernmost dog-friendly beaches on the Costa Brava, ideal for quick getaways and for those seeking a natural environment without crowds.

Portbou’s Gran Beach is a great option for a trip with your dog if you’re looking for a simple, comfortable, and uncrowded experience. Located practically on the French border, it retains the charm of a quiet coastal town, with a wide, open beach surrounded by mountains.

Although it’s not a “touristy” beach in the most conventional sense, that’s precisely where its charm lies: space, tranquility, and a sense of freedom that’s hard to find in other, more crowded spots on the Costa Brava. It’s common to see people strolling with their dogs with complete ease, especially outside of the peak tourist season.

The surroundings are very natural, and the landscape, with the mountains enclosing the bay, adds to its scenic appeal. It’s an ideal stop if you’re exploring the coast or looking for a short getaway in the Alt Empordà region.

Key Information

📍 Location: Portbou (Alt Empordà)

🏖️ Type of sand: Medium-grained sand and pebble areas

🐕 Dogs allowed: Area permitted depending on the season

🚗 Parking: Available near the beach and in the village

♿ Accessibility: Good from the seafront promenade

🚿 Services: Basic (it is a sparsely developed beach)

If you’re looking for a quiet, easily accessible beach without crowds, Portbou’s Gran Beach is an excellent option for a stop with your dog, especially if you’re exploring the Alt Empordà or traveling towards France.

---

5. Griells Beach (L’Estartit)

One of the most comfortable dog-friendly beaches on the Costa Brava, perfect for families and for enjoying a full day with all services within easy reach.

The Griells Beach is one of the most convenient options for enjoying the sea with your dog if you’re looking for a family destination with all amenities close at hand. Located in L’Estartit, very near the Montgrí Natural Park, the Medes Islands, and the Baix Ter region, it combines a wide sandy beach with a stunning setting that invites you to spend the whole day there.

The designated dog area is integrated into an easily accessible beach, with a pleasant promenade and a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and accommodations nearby. This convenience, along with the proximity of several campsites, makes it a very attractive option for families traveling with pets.

The sand is fine, and the slope into the sea is gradual, allowing both dogs and their owners to enjoy the water with greater peace of mind. All of this makes it one of the most practical dog-friendly beaches on the Costa Brava.

Key Information

📍 Location: L’Estartit (Baix Empordà)

🏖️ Type of sand: Fine sand

🐕 Access with dogs: Area designated during the season established by the City Council

🚗 Parking: Several parking areas within walking distance

♿ Accessibility: Good, with easy access from the seafront promenade

🚿 Services: Restaurants, cafes, supermarkets, showers and other services nearby

If you are traveling as a family and value comfort without sacrificing a great experience with your dog, The Griells Beach is one of the most complete options on the Costa Brava.

Which beach on the Costa Brava do we recommend?

La Rubina → The best option if you’re looking for space, fine sand, and a complete experience.

Rec del Molí → Ideal for those who prefer tranquility and a pleasant environment.

Sant Jordi → Perfect if you value natural landscapes and a more intimate atmosphere.

Portbou Beach → An excellent alternative for a relaxing getaway to the Alt Empordà region.

Els Griells → The most practical option if you’re traveling with family and want all amenities nearby.

---

The 5 best dog-friendly beaches on the Costa Dorada (2026)

The Costa Dorada is a perfect destination for enjoying a holiday with your dog thanks to its wide, fine sandy beaches and calm waters. In recent years, several municipalities have created designated areas so that pets can also enjoy the sea comfortably and safely.

This is our ranking of the five best dog-friendly beaches on the Costa Dorada, taking into account the quality of the sand, ease of access, available services, and the overall experience they offer to both dogs and their owners.

1. Platja Llarga (Tarragona)

One of the best options on the Costa Dorada thanks to its fine sand, its large size and ease of access.

Tarragona’s Platja Llarga is one of the best-known beaches on the Costa Dorada and features a designated area where dogs can enjoy the sea during the authorized season. Its fine golden sand, spacious shoreline, and natural surroundings make it one of the favorite destinations for families traveling with their pets.

In addition to its convenient access, the beach’s proximity to the city of Tarragona makes it easy to combine a relaxing day by the sea with a visit to the historic old town or the waterfront promenade. It is an excellent choice for both day trips and longer holidays.

Key Information

📍 Location: Tarragona

🏖️ Type of sand: Fine, golden sand

🐕 Access with dogs: Designated and delimited area

🚗 Parking: Free and paid parking nearby

♿ Accessibility: Very good

🚿 Services: Showers, bins, beach bars and toilets depending on the season

If you’re looking for a spacious, comfortable beach with everything you need for a perfect day out with your dog, Platja Llarga is one of the best choices on the Costa Dorada.

---

2. Riera d’Alforja Beach (Cambrils)

The best option if you’re staying in Cambrils and looking for a comfortable beach to enjoy with your dog.

Riera d’Alforja Beach has become one of the best-known dog-friendly beaches on the Costa Dorada. Located next to the town center of Cambrils, it is a very convenient option for families who want to combine a day at the beach with a stroll along the seafront promenade or through the town center.

Although the designated dog area is smaller than at some of the other beaches on this list, it is well defined and allows dogs to swim and play safely. Its proximity to restaurants, supermarkets, and other amenities makes it a very convenient destination for spending a few relaxing hours.

Key Information

📍Location: Cambrils

🏖️ Sand type: Fine golden sand

🐕 Dog access: Designated dog-friendly area

🚗 Parking: Public parking available nearby

♿ Accessibility: Good

🚿 Facilities: Waste bins, regular cleaning, and amenities within walking distance. Dogs must remain within the designated dog-friendly area during the authorized season.

If you’re spending your holiday in Cambrils and looking for a well-connected beach with fine sand and all the amenities nearby, Riera d’Alforja Beach is a practical choice for enjoying the sea with your dog.

3. Punta del Riu Beach (Mont-roig del Camp)

One of the quietest beaches on the Costa Dorada, perfect for dogs that love running around in a natural setting.

Punta del Riu Beach, located in Miami Platja (Mont-roig del Camp), is one of the best options for those looking for a dog-friendly beach away from the crowds. Its location near the mouth of the Llastres River creates a peaceful natural setting, making it ideal for both scenic walks and relaxing by the sea with your dog.

Unlike more urban beaches, this one offers a calm and laid-back atmosphere. Its mix of sand and small pebbles, together with its spacious shoreline, gives dogs plenty of room to run and explore comfortably. It is a popular destination for visitors who prefer open spaces and a quieter beach experience.

Key Information

📍 Location: Miami Platja (Mont-roig del Camp)

🏖️ Sand type: Sand with small pebbles

🐕 Dog access: Designated dog-friendly area

🚗 Parking: Free parking within walking distance

♿ Accessibility: Good

🚿 Facilities: Waste bins and recycling containers; this beach offers basic amenities.

If you’re looking for peace and quiet, beautiful natural surroundings, and plenty of space for your dog to enjoy the sea away from the crowds, Punta del Riu Beach is an excellent choice.

---

4. Miracle Beach (Tarragona)

The best option if you want to combine a day at the beach with a visit to Tarragona’s city center.

Miracle Beach is one of Tarragona’s most iconic beaches and features a designated area where dogs can enjoy the sea during the authorized season. Its location, just a short walk from the city center, makes it an ideal choice for visitors who want to combine a relaxing day at the beach with a stroll through El Serrallo, the Mediterranean Balcony, or Tarragona’s historic old town.

Unlike more natural and secluded beaches, Miracle Beach is surrounded by a wide range of amenities. The designated dog-friendly area is also equipped with dog showers, wooden walkways, and waste bins, making the experience much more comfortable for both dogs and their owners.

Key Information

📍 Location: Tarragona

🏖️ Sand type: Fine golden sand

🐕 Dog access: Designated dog-friendly area

🚗 Parking: Public parking available nearby

♿ Accessibility: Excellent

🚿 Facilities: Dog showers, wooden walkways, waste bins, beach bars, and restrooms.

If you’re looking for a comfortable, well-equipped beach with easy access, Miracle Beach is an excellent choice for enjoying the sea with your dog.

---

5. La Pineda Beach (Vila-seca)

A recent addition that stands out for its fine sand, easy access, and excellent amenities.

La Pineda Beach, in the municipality of Vila-seca, is one of the newest dog-friendly beaches on the Costa Dorada. The local council has created a designated area where dogs can enjoy the sea in a regulated environment, expanding the range of dog-friendly beaches along the Tarragona coastline.

Its fine sand, calm waters, and easy access make it an excellent choice, especially for families and anyone looking for a comfortable, well-connected beach. The seafront promenade and nearby amenities also make it easy to enjoy a full day by the sea with your dog.

Key Information

📍 Location: La Pineda (Vila-seca)

🏖️ Sand type: Fine golden sand

🐕 Dog access: Designated dog-friendly area

🚗 Parking: Several parking areas nearby

♿ Accessibility: Very good

🚿 Facilities: Waste bins, showers, wooden walkways, and restaurants within walking distance.

If you’re looking for a modern, comfortable beach with excellent amenities to enjoy a day by the sea with your dog, La Pineda Beach is a highly recommended choice on the Costa Dorada. It’s the perfect option for families looking for an accessible beach with everything they need.

---

Which Costa Dorada Beach Do We Recommend?

Platja Llarga (Tarragona) → The best choice if you’re looking for fine sand, plenty of space, easy access, and all the amenities you need for a day at the beach with your dog.

Riera d’Alforja Beach (Cambrils) → Ideal if you’re staying in Cambrils and want a comfortable, well-connected beach with all the essential amenities nearby.

Punta del Riu Beach (Mont-roig del Camp) → Perfect for those who prefer peace and quiet, natural surroundings, and a less crowded beach.

Miracle Beach (Tarragona) → An excellent option if you’d like to combine a day at the beach with a visit to Tarragona’s historic old town.

La Pineda Beach (Vila-seca) → The best choice for families looking for a fine sandy beach with easy access and a wide range of amenities.

---

The 5 Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in the Terres de l’Ebre (2026)

The Terres de l’Ebre are a true paradise for travelers with dogs. Unlike many other parts of the Catalan coast, this region offers wide, natural, and peaceful beaches where dogs can run, play, and swim with plenty of space to enjoy themselves.

Here is our ranking of the five best dog-friendly beaches in the Terres de l’Ebre, selected for the quality of their natural surroundings, the amount of space available, ease of access, and the overall experience they offer for both dogs and their owners.

---

1. Riumar Beach (Deltebre)

The best dog-friendly beach in the Terres de l’Ebre, thanks to its vast stretch of fine sand and its stunning natural surroundings.

Riumar Beach is one of the most popular destinations in Catalonia for travelers with dogs. Located near the mouth of the Ebro River, it is renowned for its wide sandy beach, peaceful atmosphere, and the unique landscapes of the Ebro Delta Natural Park.

Its designated dog-friendly area allows dogs to enjoy the sea in comfort, while their owners can relax on a beach with fine sand, shallow waters, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. It is an ideal destination for both a day trip and a longer stay at one of the nearby campsites.

Key Information

📍 Location: Deltebre

🏖️ Sand type: Fine golden sand

🐕 Dog access: Designated dog-friendly area

🚗 Parking: Free parking available close to the beach

♿ Accessibility: Very good

🚿 Facilities: Showers, waste bins, and seasonal amenities.

If you’re looking for a wide, natural beach with plenty of space for your dog to run, play, and cool off in the sea, Riumar Beach is an excellent choice.

---

2. Bassa de l’Arena Beach (Deltebre)

One of the most spectacular natural spots in the Ebro Delta to enjoy the sea with your dog.

One of the most spectacular natural spots in the Ebro Delta to enjoy the sea with your dog.

Bassa de l’Arena Beach is one of the wildest beaches in Catalonia. Located within the Ebro Delta Natural Park, it features a vast stretch of sandy shoreline and an almost untouched landscape, making it the perfect destination for those seeking peace, quiet, and a close connection with nature.

It’s an excellent choice for dogs that need plenty of space to walk, run, and explore. As this is a highly protected natural area, it’s important to respect the environment and always follow the park’s regulations.

Key Information

📍 Location: Deltebre

🏖️ Sand Type: Fine sand

🐕 Dog Access: Dogs are allowed in accordance with the current regulations for the designated area.

🚗 Parking: Parking available nearby

♿ Accessibility: Good

🚿 Facilities: This is a natural beach with very limited facilities.

It’s the perfect destination for those who prefer wide open spaces and the unspoiled, wild landscapes of the Catalan coastline.

---

3. Cala Bon Caponet (L’Ametlla de Mar)

A small cove that’s perfect for anyone looking for crystal-clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere.

Cala Bon Caponet, located in L’Ametlla de Mar, is one of the most charming coves to enjoy the sea with your dog. Despite its small size, it stands out for its exceptionally clear waters and the beauty of its natural surroundings.

It’s an excellent choice for a short beach getaway or for combining a relaxing day by the sea with a scenic walk along the Ebro Coast.

Key Information

📍 Location: L’Ametlla de Mar

🏖️ Beach Type: Sand and pebbles

🐕 Dog Access: Dogs are allowed in the designated area.

🚗 Parking: Available nearby

♿ Accessibility: Good

🚿 Facilities: Waste bins

If you’re looking for a small, peaceful cove with crystal-clear waters, Cala Bon Caponet is an excellent choice.

---

4. Platjola Beach (Alcanar)

A pristine beach that’s perfect for those seeking peace, quiet, and plenty of space to enjoy the sea with their dog.

Platjola Beach, located in the Les Timbes area of Alcanar, is one of the most natural dog-friendly beaches in the Terres de l’Ebre region. Stretching for around 300 metres, it is known for its peaceful atmosphere, low visitor numbers, and an almost untouched landscape.

The beach is made up mainly of pebbles and is especially popular with visitors who prefer unspoiled natural settings over busy urban beaches. It also offers nearby parking and a beach cleaning service during the summer season.

Key Information

📍 Location: Alcanar (Les Timbes)

📏 Length: Approximately 300 metres

🏖️ Beach Type: Pebbles

🐕 Dog Access: Dogs are allowed on the designated dog-friendly beach (subject to specific regulations during the peak summer season).

🚗 Parking: Yes, available very close by

♿ Accessibility: Good

🚿 Facilities: Waste bins, dog waste bag dispenser, and daily beach cleaning during the summer

If you’re looking for a peaceful, natural beach away from the crowds, Platjola Beach is one of the best dog-friendly options in the Terres de l’Ebre region.

---

5. L’Arenal Beach (L’Ampolla)

An excellent choice for those looking for a family-friendly beach with a designated area to enjoy the day with their dog.

L’Arenal Beach, in L’Ampolla, is one of the most recent additions to the dog-friendly beaches of the Terres de l’Ebre region. Its fine sand, shallow waters, and easy access make it a particularly convenient option, especially for families.

Although the dog-friendly area is clearly designated, it provides plenty of space for dogs to enjoy the beach and the sea comfortably. Its proximity to the town’s amenities also makes it a very practical destination for a relaxing day by the coast.

Key Information

📍 Location: L’Ampolla

🏖️ Beach Type: Fine sand

🐕 Dog Access: Designated and clearly marked dog-friendly area

🚗 Parking: Available nearby

♿ Accessibility: Good

🚿 Facilities: Waste bins and a range of amenities along the nearby seafront promenade

If you’re looking for a comfortable, family-friendly beach with fine sand, L’Arenal Beach is an excellent place to enjoy the sea with your dog.

---

Which Dog-Friendly Beach in the Terres de l’Ebre Should You Choose?

Riumar Beach → The best choice if you’re looking for a long stretch of fine sand, calm waters, and a stunning setting in the heart of the Ebro Delta.

Bassa de l’Arena Beach → Ideal for nature lovers and dogs that need plenty of room to run and explore. It’s also one of the few beaches in the Ebro Delta where dogs are allowed year-round in the designated section.

Cala Bon Caponet → Perfect if you prefer a charming little cove with crystal-clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere.

Platjola Beach → The top option if you’re looking for an unspoiled, uncrowded beach surrounded by nature.

L’Arenal Beach → An excellent choice for families who appreciate easy access, fine sand, and nearby amenities.