Travelling to Sardinia with a dog? The most important rule is that not every beautiful beach is open to pets. In 2026, the regional seaside ordinance restricts animals on beaches and bathing waters between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. during the summer season, from April 1 to October 31, except in specially designated areas and for specified assistance and rescue dogs.

Which Sardinian beaches ban dogs?

Rather than a single short blacklist, the rule covers ordinary beach areas across the island unless a designated dog-friendly zone or other applicable exemption exists. Do not assume that an empty beach, a leash, or an October visit makes access legal.

Where can dogs go? A practical area-by-area guide

Examples of identified dog areas include the dedicated zone at Poetto in Cagliari, the dog section at Margine Rosso in Quartu Sant’Elena, Maramura near Capoterra, the marked San Giovanni area at Santa Maria Navarrese, and designated stretches at Pollu and Iscrixedda in Lotzorai. Valledoria has an animal area at La Ciaccia. These are location leads, not guarantees that every part of the named beach accepts dogs: check current signs, exact boundaries and municipal notices before entering.

Map: how to find permitted beaches

Use the municipality and exact designated section as your map search, rather than treating a whole beach as dog-friendly. Search for “Poetto dog area Cagliari”, “Margine Rosso dog beach”, “Maramura dog beach”, “San Giovanni Santa Maria Navarrese dog area”, “Pollu Lotzorai dog beach”, “Iscrixedda Lotzorai dog beach” or “La Ciaccia dog area”. Confirm the entrance and any updated restrictions locally. The cover illustration is indicative, not a legally verified geographic map.

Can dogs visit before 8 a.m. or after 8 p.m.?

The 2026 regional ordinance specifies a daytime restriction, but unlike some earlier rules it does not explicitly grant a blanket right to bring dogs to every beach outside those hours. Local regulations and protected-area restrictions may still apply. Always verify locally.

Exceptions and responsible visits

The regional rules recognize certified guide and certain assistance dogs, as well as qualifying rescue dog teams. For ordinary pets, carry water, waste bags and a leash, avoid protected dunes and nesting areas, and never leave your dog in a hot vehicle.

Before you go

Read the 2026 Sardinia regional seaside ordinance and the municipality’s latest beach notice. Regulations can change, and the boundaries of a designated dog beach matter as much as its name.

Sources: Regione Sardegna, 2026 ordinance announcement; 2026 municipality-by-municipality beach review.