Travelling by motorhome with a dog is wonderful, but there's one detail that catches many owners out: most beaches don't allow dogs during the swimming season, with fines if you break the rule. The good news is that more and more dog-friendly beaches are being set up. Knowing how to find them saves you a headache and lets you both enjoy the sea together. Here's the guide. (This complements our general guide to travelling with a dog.)
Why you can't just go to any beach
During peak season (usually from spring/summer into autumn), most local councils ban dogs from beaches for hygiene and public-order reasons, with fines for breaking the rule. Out of season, many relax the restriction and allow access. The key is checking the rules for each beach and season before heading down.
Dog-friendly beaches
More and more councils are setting up dog beaches (or dog-friendly stretches of beach) where they can swim and run around freely, sometimes with pet-specific facilities. There are maps and apps that gather dog-friendly beaches along the whole coastline. Search for them before your trip: they're the solution for enjoying the sea with your dog without breaking any rules.
Tips for enjoying them
- Fresh water and shade: essential; dogs dehydrate and suffer in the heat (see protecting your pet from the heat).
- Rinse your dog with fresh water after swimming (salt and sand cause irritation).
- Always pick up after them: responsible behaviour is what keeps dog beaches open.
- Watch what they swallow (sand, seawater, fishing hooks) and mind the midday sun.
Out of season, more freedom
In late spring, autumn and winter, many more beaches allow dogs. Travelling in the low season with your furry friend not only avoids crowds and heat: it opens up far more beaches to you both (see high vs. low season).
In short
Most beaches ban dogs during the swimming season, but dog-friendly beaches and off-season travel let you both enjoy the sea without any problems. The step you can take today: before your coastal trip, check a dog-friendly beach map for the area, bring water and shade for your dog, and always pick up after them; that way you'll enjoy the sea without a fine. Pair it with the guide to travelling with a dog.