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Marbella maintains two dog-friendly beaches for the 2026 bathing season

Marbella keeps two dog-friendly beaches at El Pinillo and Ventura del Mar for the bathing season, from June 1 to October 15.

Antonio GarridoAntonio Garrido· · 3 min read

The Marbella Town Hall maintains two areas designated for dogs on the beaches of El Pinillo and Ventura del Mar during the bathing season, which starts on June 1.

Dog owners in Marbella can now plan their beach visits with their pets. The Town Hall has confirmed that the beaches of El Pinillo and Ventura del Mar (in San Pedro Alcántara) will continue to be the only points along the coast where dogs are allowed to swim during the official season, which runs from June 1 to October 15, and also during Holy Week.

Two marked areas for coexistence

The beach of El Pinillo, in the designated and signposted area for canine use, and that of Ventura del Mar, in San Pedro Alcántara, are the two prepared locations. The Council emphasizes that this distribution aims to reconcile the different uses of the coast, catering to both families with pets and those who prefer animal-free beaches.

The municipal ordinance establishes that, during the bathing season, the presence of dogs is limited to these areas. The restriction applies from June 1 to October 15, and also during Holy Week. Rescue dogs or assistance dogs for people with disabilities or special needs are exempt.

Supervision and owner responsibility

The Town Hall will enhance information and surveillance efforts across all beaches in the municipality. The Local Police will act with a mainly preventive and informative approach, although penalties may be imposed in case of non-compliance. The Council appeals for citizen collaboration and reminds everyone of the importance of responsible use of the coastline.

At the dog-friendly beaches, owners must always comply with hygiene, control, and safety obligations for their animals. It is mandatory to pick up waste and keep dogs under control, preferably on a lead, except in areas designated for controlled off-leash activities.

“We want all beach users to enjoy the coastline under suitable conditions. These areas allow for orderly coexistence,” municipal sources stated.

This measure is not new, but it is reiterated each year to avoid confusion. In 2025, the Town Hall already maintained these same beaches as the only authorized ones, and the experience has been positive, according to the Council.

A summer without surprises for pet owners

For residents of Marbella and San Pedro Alcántara with dogs, the recommendation is clear: if they want to go to the beach with their pet, they should head to El Pinillo or Ventura del Mar. In the rest of the Marbella coastline, the presence of dogs is prohibited during the bathing season, and the Local Police will monitor compliance with the rule.

The ordinance also provides for financial penalties for offenders, although the Town Hall insists that the goal is to inform, not to fine. Owners must always carry bags to pick up waste and water to keep their animals hydrated.

With the arrival of warm weather, dog-friendly beaches become a highly sought-after service. Marbella is committed to maintaining these two options so that dog lovers can enjoy the summer without giving up their company.

Antonio Garrido

Written by

Antonio Garrido

Redactor

Ciencias Políticas por la Universidad de Málaga y asiduo de los plenos más largos. Malagueño de pura cepa, cafetero y con paciencia infinita para la burocracia; lleva años contando la política y la sociedad de la provincia.