Dog Beaches

Varied coastlines, hidden coves, crystal clear waters and pleasant water temperatures from spring well into the fall - that's what makes Croatia's beaches so well-known and popular with tourists from all over the world. Not only people, however, delight in letting themselves be enchanted by the natural beauty of the Croatian Adriatic coast, even dogs take pleasure in the paradise-combination of water, beach, forests and mountain ranges close to the sea. Dog lovers who want to spend time with their four-legged friends during the best weeks of the year, will find not only dog-friendly accommodations, especially in the major tourist centers, but also many beaches where Bella, Boots and Lucky can play without worries.

Welcome to Dog Paradise: Official Dog Beaches in Croatia

The official dog beaches provide the optimal conditions for a day at the beach. The beach sections providing all that dog and owner could possibly want are often located near pet friendly accommodations. Romping in the water, swimming like a champion, jumping into the surf, rolling in the sand and running and playing to the heart's desire - officially designated beaches all explicitly permit just that. Leashes are not the rule here, in contrast to most other beaches. In most cases, dog beaches have plenty of shady spots that are perfect for a little nap before the next beach adventure. Drinking water can also be found here, so pet owners can go on discovery tours with their four-legged friend without an additional water bottle. Furthermore, well-equipped beaches even have dog showers – so that matted fur with salt water residue doesn't stand a chance. Official dog beaches are easy to spot because they are marked with  either a round shield with a dog picture in a blue ring or an official dog beach flag displaying bones on yellow-blue-red-green background. By the way: Most official dog beaches are located in the holiday destinations situated on the Kvarner bay (especially on Krk and Rab) and Istria.

Not allowed, but tolerated: Inofficial Dog Beaches in Croatia

Significantly larger than the number of official dog beaches, are the number of unofficial dog beaches. This includes basically all beaches where dogs are not expressly prohibited: mainly those little, secluded beach areas and numerous wild beaches that line the coasts of Kvarner and Istria in particular. Dalmatia also has some wild beaches where dogs are tolerated. It should also be noted that these beaches are not managed and therefore also have no utilities or infrastructure. For those who prefer secluded coves and long strolls on the wild, romantic beaches away from the bustle of official dog beaches should, therefore, always take sufficient enough water for their four-legged friends and keep shady places in mind. In order to avoid unnecessary trouble with local authorities, it is advisable not to leave marked trails and to respect prohibition signs, especially since many wild beaches lie adjacent to private land.

General Information for a Croatian Vacation with your Pet

As heavenly as all beaches in Croatia may seem - not all welcome dogs. Above all, the fantastic Blue Flag beach areas are off limits to pets. Dog owners who defy these rules should expect to be confronted with some considerable fines. These rules are less rigorously punished if the beach is empty after the tourists pilgrimage back to their hotels, apartments or to their campsites. In the evenings and in the off-season, it also may be possible to let Bella do its "business" just briefly. However, to be on the safe side, travelers should favor a holiday with their pets at the official and unofficial dog beaches which are plentiful, especially in Kvarner and Istria. Here, those who can behave, have a clear advantage. Dogs who do not mix well with other four-legged friends are better off in remote parts of the beach. Basically, dog owners should follow the local rules and always carry a leash and some water for safety. This way, a beach holiday with Bella, Boots and company will be a pleasure for everyone involved.