The Marbella Town Hall reminds that the beaches of El Pinillo and Ventura del Mar are the only areas on the coast where dogs are allowed to swim during the official season, which starts on June 1.
The Marbella Town Hall has confirmed that the beaches of El Pinillo and Ventura del Mar will continue to be the only spaces on the coast where dog owners can swim with their pets during the summer season. The measure aims to balance the leisure of pet owners with the tranquillity of other bathers.
Two authorised locations for dogs
The beach of El Pinillo, in the properly marked section, and Ventura del Mar, in San Pedro Alcántara, have specific infrastructure to accommodate dogs. Both are equipped with informative signage and, in the case of Ventura del Mar, with showers for pets and additional bins. The Town Hall reminds that outside these areas, the presence of animals on the sand and in the water is prohibited during the bathing season.
The municipal ordinance establishes that the general restriction applies from June 1 to October 15, as well as during Holy Week. Exempt are rescue dogs, assistance dogs, and those for people with disabilities or special needs, who can access any beach. The Town Hall warns that owners must comply with hygiene, control, and safety obligations for their animals, under penalty of sanctions if they fail to do so.
Informative and preventive surveillance
The Town Hall has announced that it will strengthen the presence of the Local Police on the beaches to inform users and ensure compliance with the regulations. The action will be primarily preventive, although sanctions may not be ruled out in cases of repeated violations. The Town Hall appeals for citizen cooperation to keep the areas clean and respect the conditions of each zone.
For Marbella residents and tourists travelling with dogs, these two beaches are the only legal option to enjoy the sea with their pets. In the rest of the Marbella coastline, animals must stay at home or in establishments that allow them. The measure, according to municipal sources, responds to the demands of a growing group of pet owners who are calling for adapted spaces.
A model of coexistence on the coast
Marbella thus joins other municipalities on the Costa del Sol that have established dog-friendly beaches, such as Fuengirola or Mijas. The experience from previous years, according to the Town Hall, has been positive, with a high acceptance among users and a low number of incidents. The Town Hall hopes that the 2026 season will replicate this success and encourages owners to use the facilities responsibly.
Those interested can check the exact location of the dog-friendly beaches on the municipal website or on the information panels installed at the access points. It is recommended to bring water, bags to collect waste, and a leash, although dogs can swim without one in the designated area. The bathing season starts on June 1, so there is still time to plan visits.

