Mandrac Beach (Plaža Mandrač)

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Danče Beach is one of the oldest beaches in Dubrovnik, tucked into a rocky bay just a five-minute walk west of the famous Old Town walls. While not officially designated as a dog beach, multiple travel sources report that dogs are tolerated here, particularly in a section set apart from the main swimming area. The beach features dramatic large rocks and concrete jetties for sunbathing, with ladders providing access to the deep, crystal-clear Adriatic waters below. The rocky landscape and cliff-jumping opportunities make this a favourite among locals who prefer a quieter, more authentic beach experience away from the tourist crowds. For dog owners, the key advantage is proximity to the Old Town — you can combine sightseeing with a beach visit without a long drive. The beach has basic facilities including freshwater showers and a small local cafe-bar serving refreshments and snacks. Access requires walking through Gradac Park and descending steep stairs, so this beach is not suitable for dogs with mobility issues. Parking is limited to a few street spots on Rudimira Rotera. Visit early morning when the beach is quietest and your dog can enjoy the water with fewer people around. Keep in mind that this is a tolerated rather than officially designated dog area, so keeping your dog leashed and well-behaved is advisable.

Makarska, Croatia

Cvitacka Dog Beach is the officially designated dog-friendly beach in Makarska, located about 2-3 km southeast of the town centre along the Makarska Riviera. This is the last in a series of small pebbly beaches that stretch along the coast, and its position at the end of the row gives it a more secluded, peaceful character that dogs and owners love. The beach is naturally separated from neighbouring beaches by stones and rocks, creating a distinct space where dogs can run and play freely along the pebble shoreline and in the crystal-clear Adriatic waters. One of its best features is the surrounding pine forest that reaches right down to the beach, providing abundant natural shade - a huge advantage on hot summer days when dogs need to cool down. The sea entry is gradual with a pebble bottom, making it comfortable for dogs to wade in. While the dog section itself has limited facilities, there is a cafe and fast food stand nearby, and public showers and toilets are available approximately 100 metres away. Parking is free at the entrance, though spaces fill up quickly in summer. Makarska itself is a vibrant Riviera town backed by the dramatic Biokovo mountain range, offering excellent restaurants and a lively promenade for evening walks with your four-legged friend.

Hvar, Croatia

Zarace Dog Beach is located in a stunning bay on the south side of Hvar Island, at the foot of the tiny picturesque village of Zarace, about 6 kilometres from Hvar Town. Part of this beautiful pebble beach is officially reserved for dogs, making it one of the few designated dog-friendly spots on the island. The beach occupies one of two deep coves in the Zarace area - Velo Zarace facing east and Malo Zarace facing west - both embraced by impressive rocky cliffs that create a dramatic natural amphitheatre. The crystal-clear turquoise waters are sheltered from winds and currents by the surrounding rocky spits, creating perfectly calm conditions ideal for dogs to swim. The pebble shoreline offers plenty of room for dogs to run and play. Zarace is particularly suited for active dogs, with several walking trails winding through the area and rocky platforms to explore. The underwater landscape is also remarkable, making it a popular spot for snorkelling. A restaurant in the village offers food and refreshments, and there is natural shade available. The beach can be reached by car via a narrow, winding road from Hvar Town, or by boat - the latter being a memorable experience in itself. This combination of dog-friendliness, natural beauty, and relative seclusion makes Zarace one of the finest dog beaches in all of Croatia.