Pet-friendly coastal holidays draw dog owners to Italy's Salento region

Families are increasingly choosing destinations that accommodate their dogs, turning pet-friendly travel into a growing market. In southern Italy, the stretch of coast between Torre Mozza and Marina di Ugento in the Salento area offers extensive natural spaces, low‑density beaches and facilities such as Bau Beach, which provides showers, water fountains and designated swimming zones for dogs. The nearby Ugento Natural Reserve adds trails for walking and cycling, making the region attractive for off‑season visits when beaches are less crowded.

Across Europe, hotels and camps are adapting by opening private beaches to pets and adding services like waterproof sunscreen, canine life‑vests and dedicated dog‑surfing activities. Operators advise owners to keep dogs on leash, clean up after them and protect them from sun and heat, encouraging safe and enjoyable seaside experiences for both pets and their owners.