Libânia Pereira from Portugal / CC-BY
Praia da Ramalha Sul
Leash required
Year-round (see details below)
Parking available
Water fountain
Praia da Ramalha Sul is a peaceful, officially designated pet-friendly beach in the parish of Apulia, part of Esposende's pioneering Municipal Strategic Plan for Animal Welfare. Since June 2018, this quiet stretch of Atlantic coastline has welcomed...
Hours & Seasons
Year-round, dogs allowed all year on leash. Pet-friendly since June 2018.
Beach Rules
- ●Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times on the beach.
- ●Owners must clean up after their dogs — waste bag dispensers and bins are provided.
- ●Dogs must have a microchip and be legally registered; carry your DIAC or pet passport.
- ●Potentially dangerous breeds must wear a muzzle and be on a leash no longer than 1 metre.
- ●Follow the signage at the beach entrance for any additional seasonal regulations.
Local Tips
- 🐾This beach is quieter than Suave Mar — ideal for dogs that are nervous around crowds or other dogs.
- 🐾Parking spaces are limited, so arrive early on summer weekends or consider walking from Apulia village.
- 🐾Check the signage at the entrance for any seasonal updates to the rules.
- 🐾The surrounding dune paths offer additional walking routes on leash.
- 🐾Visit the distinctive espigueiros (stone granaries) in nearby Apulia village.
Nearby Attractions
Amenities
Beach day checklist
Don't forget the essentials!
🦺 Dog life jacket
💧 Fresh water + bowl
🧴 Dog sunscreen
🎾 Floating fetch toy
🧹 Poop bags
Nearby Dog Beaches in Portugal
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Praia do Esteiro
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Praia Suave Mar
Esposende, Portugal
Praia Suave Mar in Esposende is one of Portugal's best-equipped officially designated pet-friendly beaches, set within the stunning Litoral Norte Natural Park. Since July 2018, as part of Esposende's Municipal Strategic Plan for Animal Welfare, this Blue Flag and Gold Quality beach has welcomed dogs with dedicated infrastructure that sets it apart from most Portuguese beaches. The beach features purpose-built dog drinking fountains, waste bag dispensers with bins, and even a dedicated pet ambulance service in partnership with the Fao Volunteer Firefighters — a unique offering rarely seen at European dog beaches. The expansive sandy shore stretches along the natural park coastline, backed by an impressive dune system that is part of a protected coastal habitat. Suave Mar is also a popular spot for surfers, windsurfers, and kitesurfers, with consistent Atlantic swells rolling in. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times, but the wide beach provides ample space for comfortable walks along the waterline. Facilities include showers, changing rooms, foot baths, and a nearby restaurant-cafe, making it a comfortable destination for a full day out. The water temperature averages around 18 degrees Celsius in summer. Free parking is available in a dedicated car park near the beach entrance. Esposende itself is a charming coastal town with a lively market, seafood restaurants, and the beautiful Cavado River estuary just to the south.