SUMMER plans should be made with the entire family, including the dog.
As of 2025, Spanish households are estimated to have a registered dog population exceeding seven million.
Dog owners shouldn’t have to make the difficult decision of leaving their four-legged friends behind when planning a summer getaway.
Thankfully, Spain’s pro-dog stance has resulted in a growing number of public spaces allowing pets.
Campervan rental platform CamperDays has highlighted four pet-friendly trips perfect for exploring Spain this summer.
1. Hit the beach in Alicante and Tarragona
Cool off at dog-friendly stretches across the Mediterranean coast.
Playa Agua Amarga and Punta del Riu in Alicante, or Tarragona’s Bon Caponet and Cala de la Torrota permit dogs to swim and play.
Both beaches are open to pups on a year-round basis, with amenities like leash hooks, showers and additional park areas made for dogs.
Playa de Agua Amarga sets up specialty kiosks called chiringuitos during summer months to offer disposable feeders and even a ‘doggy menu.’
The summer heat makes dog beaches attractive to pet owners, for providing an open space for mutts to run around and socialise while being able to cool off in the ocean.
2. Go hiking in Valencia and Alicante
Nature-loving owners can take their dog along easy routes to explore trails through Valencia’s Albufera Natural Park.
While dogs are permitted along the hiking trails, dunes and nearby Platja de Pinedo beach, there are some spots where they aren’t allowed.
Make sure to avoid taking the dogs to the Raco de ‘’Olla, the biological reserve aimed at protecting birdlife.
Panoramic mountain views are offered along trails by the Guadalest reservoir in Alicante.
Both regions state that dogs must be kept on a lead.
Early morning walks are recommended during summer heat to make sure dogs don’t get overheated.
It’s important to bring along enough water and stop for frequent stops.
3. Make a splash at dog water parks in Barcelona and Alicante
Some areas have designated spaces for dogs to splash around at a doggy water park.
Barcelona’s Perros al Agua in La Roca del Vallès is Spain’s first water park specifically made for dogs.
The water park features swimming pools, canoes, water slides, a jumping ramp, sand dunes, spaces for smaller dogs, and grass areas to run.
Prices start at €7 for entrance, with the park scheduled to be open from June 1 to August 31.
Another option is the Trust Resort Canino in Ondara, Alicante.
Part boarding, part training school, the dog-designed space has its own Aqua Can pool open throughout the summer season from June 15 to September 13.
Camping will soon be provided at Trust, where owners can end their trip at the dog grooming salon.
4. Take a city break in Valencia or Barcelona’s urban parks
Summer vacation routes typically include visiting bigger cities.
But pet owners will still likely want an open space to let their dog walk around and get fresh air.
City parks like Valencia’s Turia Gardens and Central Park have designated sections for canines, with agility circuits and off-leash enclosures.
Barcelona’s Joan Miró Park and Nou Barris Central Park offer spacious green areas for exercise and rest during urban stopovers.
Know the rules before you go
Taking pets along for a summer holiday is made easy with pet-friendly spaces.
But it’s important to follow Spain’s regulations if summer includes your furry family member.
Spain’s Ministerio de Agricultura outlines that dogs must be compliant with a 15-digit microchip, as well as up to date on their rabies vaccine.
EU residents should carry their Pet Passport with them, while non-EU travellers must obtain an official animal health certificate.
Campsites are required to state if they allow pets. Dogs are only allowed to stay at grounds that allow them there, which typically costs around €5–€10 in pet fees.
While staying at a pet-friendly campground, dogs must be supervised and kept on their lead.
Local beach regulations may vary, so always confirm whether dogs are permitted before visiting.
Dogs travelling in vehicles must not become a distraction to the driver.
Four-legged friends should be secured in the car by using a harness, carrier or vehicle restraint.
Tips for pet owners travelling with their dogs this summer
Spain’s summer weather can get extremely hot, with temperatures pushing towards 40C.
Pet owners should plan their trips accordingly and take their dogs’ wellbeing into account.
Preparing a kit with hygienic supplies, food and first aid is advised.
Maintaining the animal’s hydration is extremely important, along with taking frequent breaks to avoid pushing a dog to heat exhaustion.
Try to avoid travelling outside of peak hours and check the ground temperature before walking a dog on potentially hot gravel.
The ‘pavement rule’ is where owners are suggested to test the temperature by placing the back of their hand on the pavement for seven seconds.
If it’s too hot for you, it’s definitely too hot for a dog’s paws.
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