The coastline of Marbella and San Pedro Alcántara has only two beaches designated for dogs, the same ones created in 2017. The council reminds of the regulations for the bathing season.
The beaches of Marbella and San Pedro Alcántara have offered only two spaces for dogs to enjoy the sea for nearly a decade. These are the beach of El Pinillo in Marbella, and Ventura del Mar in San Pedro Alcántara. Both were established in the summer of 2017, during the term of the tripartite coalition formed by PSOE, IU, and OSP, and since then, the offer has not been expanded.
Two beaches for the entire coast
The Marbella council reminded this Wednesday that the presence of dogs on the beaches is only permitted in these two designated areas during the official bathing season. The municipal regulations state that the restriction applies between 1 June and 15 October, as well as during Holy Week. Outside of this period, dogs can access the rest of the coastline, but always under the control of their owners.
According to municipal sources, the decision to maintain only two dog areas responds to the need to balance the different uses of the coast. The aim is to cater to both families visiting with their pets and those who prefer animal-free beaches. The council argues that this distribution allows for the peaceful and orderly use of the rest of the coastline.
Regulations and control
The municipal ordinance stipulates that, during the bathing season, dogs can only be in the expressly designated areas. Exempt are rescue or assistance dogs and those assisting people with disabilities or special needs. The council has announced that the Local Police will act primarily in a preventive and informative manner, although it does not rule out sanctions in case of non-compliance.
The council appeals for citizen collaboration and reminds of the importance of responsibly using the coastline: keeping the areas clean, picking up waste, and respecting the conditions of each zone. In dog-friendly beaches, owners must comply at all times with hygiene, control, and safety obligations for their animals.
A demand unanswered
Since the establishment of the two dog beaches in 2017, various community groups and animal protectors have requested the creation of more pet spaces along the Marbella coastline. However, the council has not made any expansions in nearly ten years. This decision contrasts with that of other municipalities on the Costa del Sol, such as Fuengirola or Mijas, which have been increasing their dog areas in recent years.
For dog owners in Marbella and San Pedro, the lack of alternatives poses a problem, especially on weekends and during holiday periods, when the two designated beaches tend to be very crowded. The beach of El Pinillo and that of Ventura del Mar are the only options for pets to legally bathe during the summer.
The council has not announced any plans to create new dog areas at this time. For now, dog owners will have to settle for the existing two beaches or wait until the bathing season ends to access the rest of the coastline with their animals.
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