Portugal is one of Europe’s most pet-friendly destinations, known for its relaxed coastal lifestyle and year-round sunshine. If you’re traveling with your dog, you’ll be happy to know there are many dog friendly beaches in Portugal where pets are welcome to run, swim, and play. From beaches in Porto to the sunny beaches in Algarve, this guide lists the best locations, how to reach them by public transport, and nearby pet friendly hotels Portugal.
1. Beach Pescadores
Beach Pescadores is one of the best-known dog friendly beaches in Portugal officially designated for pets. Located west of Lisbon, beach is easily reachable by public transportation — take the train from Cais do Sodré to Oeiras Station, then walk about 10 minutes to the beach.
Facilities include water fountains, dog waste bins, and soft golden sand perfect for a long walk. Several dog friendly hotels are nearby, making this an excellent weekend trip for city travelers.
2. Praia do Coral
In northern Portugal, Praia do Coral is a quiet, sandy beach where dogs are welcome year-round outside the main bathing season. It’s a peaceful spot near Porto’s beaches, popular with locals who bring their pets for long seaside walks.
You can reach it via regional train or bus from Porto, and there are several pet friendly hotels and campsites in the area. This region is also ideal for scenic drives with your dog, with plenty of natural dunes and viewpoints.
3. Praia de Brito
Just south of Porto, Praia de Brito is part of the Gaia coastline — a great area for dog owners exploring Porto’s beach locations. While rules may vary depending on the season, outside of summer this beach is known to be welcoming to dogs.
From Porto city center, take the train to Espinho or Madalena, or hop on a local bus. Nearby, you’ll find small guesthouses and dog friendly hotel options ideal for weekend stays.
4. Praia de Suave Mar
Praia de Suave Mar in Esposende is a long stretch of sand near Braga and a top pick on the Portugal beaches map for active dogs. It’s part of a municipal initiative to allow pets year-round, complete with fountains and pet cleaning stations.
This beach is accessible by public transportation — take a train from Porto Campanhã to Fão and then a short taxi or bus ride. Local pet friendly hotels often provide outdoor areas for dogs to relax after a beach day.
5. Praia da Ramalha
One of the wildest and most natural pet friendly beaches in northern Portugal, Praia da Ramalha offers dunes, open sand, and few crowds. It’s especially quiet in spring and autumn, perfect for pets who prefer space to run freely.
There are parking areas nearby, and you can reach the region by bus from Viana do Castelo or Porto. Small inns and dog friendly hotels are scattered along the coast.
6. Furnas Beach
Set at the mouth of the Mira River, Furnas Beach is one of southern Portugal’s most beautiful pet friendly beaches. The calm water and golden sand make it safe for dogs and families alike.
Accessible via public transport from Lisbon (train to Funcheira, then local bus), this area is ideal for a quiet coastal escape. The nearby town of Vila Nova de Milfontes has plenty of pet friendly hotels , boutique guesthouses, and riverside cafés.
7. Praia do Portinho da Areia
Located within Arrábida Natural Park, this small cove is among the most scenic beaches Lisbon region offers. While dogs are generally welcome outside the summer bathing season, always check for signs as regulations change with environmental protections.
You can reach Setúbal by train from Lisbon’s Campolide Station and then take a local bus to Portinho da Arrábida. There are many pet friendly hotels in nearby Sesimbra and Azeitão.
Seasonal Restrictions and Local Rules
It’s important to note that rules for pet friendly beaches can vary depending on the season.
- During the bathing season (June to mid-September), many concessioned beaches in Portugal restrict dogs to maintain cleanliness and safety for bathers.
- In the off-season (autumn to spring), most beaches — even those not officially designated — allow dogs without issue.
- Always check local signs and municipal websites; rules can differ even between neighboring beaches.
- Dogs must usually be on a leash, and some municipalities require muzzles for certain breeds.
- Bring water, bags, and ensure your dog avoids protected dune areas.
Being aware of these details helps avoid fines and ensures a pleasant day for everyone.
How to Reach Dog Friendly Beaches by Public Transport
Lisbon region:
- Many Lisbon beaches spots like Praia dos Pescadores or Costa da Caparica can be reached by train from Cais do Sodré or bus from Marquês de Pombal.
- For Arrábida or Setúbal, use the Fertagus train from Lisbon to Setúbal, then local buses to the coast.
Porto region:
- Beaches in Porto such as Praia de Brito, Praia de Suave Mar, and Praia do Coral are connected by Linha de Aveiro trains or local buses from Trindade or Campanhã stations.
- If you prefer comfort, taxis and rideshares are widely available and accept pets.
Algarve region:
- Beaches in Algarve and beaches in Faro can be reached by train or bus from Lisbon or Porto.
- Local buses connect Faro, Lagos, Portimão, and Albufeira — many stops are close to coastal paths ideal for walking dogs.
Final Tips for Pet Travelers
- Use the Dog friendly beaches in Portugal map to locate official dog friendly beaches before visiting.
- Choose pet friendly hotels in Portugal that provide outdoor areas or access to nearby trails.
- Bring a portable water bowl, towel, and extra leash.
- Always respect local wildlife and nesting zones — fines for disturbing protected areas can be steep.
- For a road trip, Portugal’s beach transportation by car offers the most flexibility for traveling between Lisbon, Porto, and Faro with your dog.
