Just north of Ostuni's whitewashed old town, the Adriatic coast unfolds into a stretch of golden sand where the sound of barking mingles with the rhythmic crash of waves. Dog Beach Costa Merlata is one of the few truly pet-welcoming public shores along this part of the Brindisi coastline, where families and solo travelers alike can enjoy the sea without leaving their four-legged companions behind.
Sand, Paws, and Adriatic Waves
The beach itself is wide and gently sloping, making it easy for dogs of all sizes to wade into the shallow water. Unlike rockier stretches to the south, Costa Merlata's soft sand is gentle on paws and perfect for a game of fetch at the water's edge. The absence of entry fees or strict zoning means you can spread out a towel wherever you find a quiet spot, and your dog can explore freely.
Mornings are the best time to visit, when the sand is still cool and the beach uncrowded. By late afternoon, the setting sun paints the water in shades of amber and rose, and locals often stroll the shoreline with their dogs as the heat subsides.
What Makes This Shore Special
Costa Merlata stands out not for luxury amenities there are no sun-lounger concessions here but for its genuine, low-key inclusivity. Dog owners from across the region make the pilgrimage because finding a clean, accessible beach that genuinely welcomes pets is still uncommon in Puglia. The atmosphere is neighborly; strangers chat while their dogs sniff and chase each other along the tide line.
- Spacious sandy shore where dogs can run off-leash in designated areas
- Shallow, calm water perfect for cautious swimmers canine or human
- No entry fee, making it accessible for spontaneous visits
- Nearby parking along the coastal road, usually free outside peak August weeks
- Shade from umbrella pines at the back of the beach for midday breaks
Beyond the Beach: Ostuni and the Olive Groves
After a morning swim, the medieval hilltop town of Ostuni is less than ten minutes by car. Known as the Città Bianca for its gleaming white houses, it's worth exploring the narrow alleys and cathedral square though note that dogs are best left in shaded spots during the midday heat. The coastline northward toward Torre Canne is dotted with olive groves and quiet masserie (fortified farmhouses), many of which offer pet-friendly agriturismo stays.
Pack water for your dog, a portable bowl, and waste bags bins are available but can overflow during summer weekends. Early spring and late September offer the best balance of warm water and elbow room. Costa Merlata isn't polished or picture-perfect, but it's honest, generous, and refreshingly welcoming to the whole family paws included.