Caleta dels Gossets (Santa Pola)
CoveTwo hundred and fifty-six metres of sand and stone on the flank of the Cabo de Santa Pola, and the reason it is one of the best-known small beaches in Alicante province has nothing to do with the view: dogs are allowed here, all year round. It was the first dog beach in the Baix Vinalopó and the second in the province, after El Campello.
What it actually is
The Caleta dels Gossets is the third of the three Calas del Cuartel, a 700-metre stretch of shoreline below the Cabo de Santa Pola. The first sits in front of the marine research centre CIMAR, in what was once a Carabineros barracks; the second lies a little north along the cape road toward Arenales; the third is this one. It is a natural beach of mixed sand and stone with basic facilities, a beach bar with a public toilet in high season, and lifeguard cover in summer. The water shelves gently, which is a large part of why it works for dogs.
Why it is protected, and what that means for you
The cove sits inside an area of high landscape and environmental value on the cape, designated for special protection. In 2024 the Calas del Cuartel were formally accredited as a bathing zone by the Generalitat Valenciana's water authority, making this Santa Pola's tenth official bathing area. The practical consequence is that the rules here are stricter than on an ordinary beach and they are enforced: fines under the local beach ordinance run to 750 euros.
The rules, plainly
A maximum of two dogs per person. Dogs must be microchipped and wormed. Owners are liable for any damage their animal causes and must pick up immediately, with bins provided. Dogs with infectious illness, females in season and unvaccinated puppies are not admitted. Breeds classified as potentially dangerous are welcome but must wear a collar, lead and muzzle throughout. Training your dog on the beach is specifically prohibited. There is a designated relief area before the sand — using it first is the thing regulars will judge you on.
Camí del Cap
Leave the N-332 Avinguda d'Elx at the Saladar road toward Camí del Cabo / Camí del Carabassí. Parking is available beside the cove and across the road.
Travelguau 2018
Santa Pola won the Destino category at the Travelguau pet-tourism awards in November 2018, largely on the strength of this beach.
The cape walks
Footpaths run over the Cabo de Santa Pola above the cove — a natural park with the lighthouse and old fossil reef at the top.
No Blue Flag, and busy
It holds no Blue Flag, the surface is stone as well as sand, and it is one of the most-used dog beaches in the province. Expect company.
Frequently asked questions
Are dogs allowed all year?
Yes. Caleta dels Gossets is authorised for dogs year-round, which is unusual — most Spanish dog beaches are seasonal.
How big is the beach?
About 256 metres long and 15 metres wide, made up of sand and stone, with gently shelving water.
Is there parking?
Yes, beside the cove and on the opposite side of the cape road. Access is from the N-332 via the Saladar road toward Camí del Cabo.
What facilities are there?
Basic natural-beach equipment, a beach bar with a public toilet in high season, and lifeguard cover in summer. No Blue Flag.
Explore more of the Costa Blanca
Caleta dels Gossets is one of many destinations on the CostaMap interactive map — browse beaches, coves, castles and viewpoints across the whole coast.