If you have a dog and live in Málaga or are planning to visit, you've probably wondered: which dog beach can I take my dog to? The good news is that dog beaches in Málaga have improved in 2026, reaching 8 official options where your pet can enjoy the sea without restrictions.
In this complete guide, you'll discover all the dog-friendly beaches in the province of Málaga, from the popular Arroyo Totalán Beach in Málaga city to the new dog beach in Manilva. We include an interactive map, facilities information, updated regulations and practical tips so you and your dog can make the most of the Costa del Sol.
🐾 First Time at the Beach with Your Dog?
We've prepared a free guide with the 10 essential products for a dog beach day. Find out what to bring to Málaga's dog beaches and prepare the perfect day with your dog.
Watching your dog run free across the sand and dive into the sea is one of the best experiences you can have with your pet. And in Málaga, you now have 8 official places to make it happen.
— Beaches to enjoy with your dog in Málaga
🗺️ Dog Beach Map in Málaga: Find the Nearest One
Use our map to find the nearest dog beach and get real-time directions. All beaches are georeferenced with updated information on opening hours and available facilities.
📍 Automatic geolocation
🚗 Routes from your location
ℹ️ Updated facilities and services
🏖️ The 8 Best Dog Beaches in Málaga
1. Arroyo Totalán Beach – Málaga City ⭐
📍 Location: Between Málaga city and La Cala del Moral
📏 Length: 650 metres
🚗 Access: Easy, with nearby parking
The best dog beach in Málaga city and one of the most popular in the entire province. It's the ideal choice if you live in Málaga or nearby and are looking for a close, well-equipped beach.
Available facilities:
✅ Dog showers
✅ Bag dispensers
✅ Special waste bins
Why choose it: Perfect for large dogs that need space. Its great length allows dogs to run freely without overcrowding. Just 15 minutes by car from Málaga city centre.
How to get there: From Málaga city, take the A-7 heading east. Exit 254 towards El Palo/Totalán.
2. Castillo de Sohail Beach – Fuengirola
📍 Location: Fuengirola, next to Sohail Castle
📏 Length: 300 metres
🚗 Access: Good, with parking nearby
Located in an iconic area of Fuengirola, this dog beach combines history and fun for your pet. The surroundings of Sohail Castle give it a special touch.
Available facilities:
✅ Dog showers
✅ Waste bins
✅ Bag dispensers
✅ Clear signage
Why choose it: Ideal if you want to combine a beach visit with a walk around the castle and Fuengirola's seafront promenade. Very accessible from the tourist centre.
Atmosphere: Lively tourist area with many nearby services. Perfect for spending the entire day.
3. Torre del Mar Dog Beach – Vélez-Málaga
📍 Location: Torre del Mar (Vélez-Málaga)
📏 Length: 400 metres
🚗 Access: Excellent, parking nearby
One of the most established dog beaches in the province, with years of experience welcoming four-legged visitors.
Available facilities:
✅ Dog showers
✅ Rest area
✅ Hygiene bags
✅ Good accessibility
Why choose it: Quiet and family-friendly atmosphere. Perfect for dogs that are new to the beach or that can be somewhat nervous.
Additional advantage: Torre del Mar has an extensive seafront promenade, ideal for walking before or after the beach.
4. Piedra Paloma Beach – Casares
📍 Location: Casares (western Costa del Sol)
📏 Length: 500 metres
🚗 Access: Good
Set in a more natural and less urbanised environment, this dog beach offers a wilder and more authentic experience.
Available facilities:
✅ Basic facilities
✅ Natural surroundings
✅ Less crowding
Why choose it: If you prefer quiet dog beaches with fewer people. Ideal for dogs that get stressed by crowds or that enjoy more natural spaces.
Recommendation: Perfect for weekend getaways in low season. The less urbanised setting makes it special.
Why choose it: Completely new and modern facilities. It will be the nearest beach for those coming from the Cádiz area or the western Costa del Sol.
Ready to play
📋 Dog Beach Regulations in Málaga: Everything You Need to Know
Before visiting any dog beach in Málaga, it's important to know the basic rules to avoid problems and ensure a good experience for everyone.
✅ Mandatory:
📄 Up-to-date documentation:
Updated health card
Mandatory vaccinations (rabies, multivalent)
Identification microchip
Carry documentation with you
🧹 Pick up droppings:
Use the bags available in dispensers
Or bring your own
Dispose of them in the designated bins
🎯 Dog control:
Although a lead is not mandatory in the water
You must have full control over your pet
If your dog doesn't obey, keep it on a lead
🛡️ Civil liability:
Having insurance is recommended
You are responsible for any damage caused by your dog
❌ Prohibited:
⛔ Dogs classified as potentially dangerous breeds without a muzzle and lead
⛔ Dogs with contagious diseases
⛔ Aggressive or uncontrolled dogs
⛔ Leaving droppings without picking them up
⛔ Dogs without up-to-date vaccinations
📅 Opening Hours and Seasons:
Low season (October–May):
Most open without time restrictions
Free access throughout the day
Best time to visit if your dog doesn't tolerate heat
High season (June–September):
Check specific hours for each beach
Some have restrictions during peak hours (12:00–17:00)
Avoid the hottest hours for your dog's wellbeing
🐕 Practical Guide: What to Bring to a Dog Beach
🎒 Complete Checklist for Dog Beaches
Essentials:
💧 Plenty of fresh water (at least 2 litres)
🥣 Collapsible or portable bowl
🧴 Absorbent towel for dogs
💩 Poop bags (extra)
📋 Dog's documentation
🦺 Lead (for entry/exit)
Recommended:
☂️ Parasol or small shade tent
🧴 Dog sunscreen (snout, ears, belly)
🎾 Floating toys
🧊 Small cool box with ice
🩹 Basic first aid kit (gauze, disinfectant)
👕 UV protection shirt (for short-haired dogs)
Optional but useful:
📸 Camera to capture the moment
🧺 Waterproof blanket for resting
🍖 Snacks or treats
👟 Protective boots (if sand is very hot)
Shared happiness
🌊 Expert Tips for Enjoying Dog Beaches
Before you go:
🔍 Check the beach is open:
Some close temporarily for maintenance
Check our updated map
Look at the weather forecast
🌡️ Check the weather:
Avoid the hottest hours in summer (12:00–17:00)
Best to go early (8:00–11:00) or late (18:00–21:00)
In summer, sand can burn their paw pads
📱 Plan your visit:
Calculate travel time
Arrive early to find parking
Have nearby veterinary clinics located
At the beach:
💧 Constant hydration:
Offer water every 15–20 minutes
Dogs dehydrate quickly when playing at the beach
Bring more water than you think you'll need
🌊 Watch out for seawater:
Don't let them drink saltwater
It can cause vomiting and diarrhoea
Always carry fresh water
☀️ Seek shade:
Dogs don't regulate temperature well
Rest in shaded areas every 20–30 minutes
Heatstroke symptoms: excessive panting, staggering, very red gums
🚿 Rinse your dog:
Use the dog showers after swimming
Remove salt and sand from the coat
Pay special attention to ears and paws
🐾 Respect space:
Not all dogs are sociable
Keep your distance if another dog seems uncomfortable
Watch your dog's body language
🎾 Safe play:
Avoid running on very hot sand
Don't play too much under intense sun
Take frequent breaks
After the beach:
🛁 Full clean-up at home:
Bath with dog-specific shampoo
Rinse well to remove all salt
Dry completely to prevent fungal infections
👂 Check paws and ears:
Sand can cause irritation
Clean thoroughly between the paw pads
Dry ears to prevent ear infections
👀 Observe their behaviour:
Some dogs may have digestive discomfort
Watch for vomiting or diarrhoea
Drinking lots of water afterwards is normal
😴 Rest:
Dogs get very tired at the beach
Let them rest well afterwards
Avoid intense exercise for the rest of the day
Surfing dog
❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Dog Beaches in Málaga
How many dog beaches are there in Málaga in 2026?
In 2026 there are 8 official dog beaches in the province of Málaga: Arroyo Totalán (Málaga city), Castillo de Sohail (Fuengirola), Torre del Mar (Vélez-Málaga), Piedra Paloma (Casares), El Pinillo (Marbella), Ventura del Mar (Marbella), Torrox Costa and the new Las Arenas Beach (Manilva). This number is expected to increase in the coming years due to the growing demand for pet-friendly spaces.
Which is the best dog beach near Málaga city?
Arroyo Totalán Beach is undoubtedly the best option near Málaga city. With 650 metres of length and excellent facilities (dog showers, bag dispensers, shade areas), it's just 15 minutes by car from the centre. It's perfect for large, active dogs that need space to run. You can see its exact location on our interactive map.
Are dog beaches in Málaga open all year round?
Yes, most dog beaches in Málaga are open all year round. However, some may have time restrictions during the summer high season (June–September), limiting access during peak hours. We recommend checking our updated map or contacting the relevant town council to confirm specific opening hours.
Do I need to use a lead on dog beaches?
In the water and on the sand, a lead is generally not required if your dog is under full control. However, in access areas, car parks and seafront promenades, it is mandatory. If your dog doesn't obey basic commands, it's advisable to keep it on a lead for safety. Each municipality may have specific regulations, so check local signage.
Are there veterinary services near the dog beaches?
Yes, the main dog beaches (Arroyo Totalán, Castillo de Sohail in Fuengirola, and Torre del Mar) have veterinary clinics within 10 minutes by car. For emergencies, we recommend locating the nearest 24-hour veterinary emergency services before your visit. You can check our veterinary guide in Málaga for more information.
Can I bring food and have a picnic at dog beaches?
Yes, you can bring food and drink for yourself and your dog. However:
Don't leave food scraps on the sand
Use the available waste bins
Be careful with food that might attract other dogs
Some human foods are toxic to dogs (chocolate, grapes, onions)
Keep the area clean for everyone to enjoy
Do I need to bathe my dog after the beach?
Yes, it's highly recommended. Sea salt can:
Irritate the skin and cause itching
Dry out the coat
Cause problems if it builds up in ears or paws
Use the dog showers available at the beach for an initial rinse, and when you get home, give them a full bath with dog-specific shampoo. This will prevent skin problems and keep their coat healthy.
🔄 Stay Updated
Dog beaches, their facilities and regulations can change. Our interactive map is constantly updated with:
✨ New dog beaches as they open
🔧 Changes in facilities and services
📅 Schedule and regulation updates
🚨 Temporary closure or maintenance notices
🎯 Pet-Friendly Málaga: Beyond the Beaches
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