Dog Beach Guide: Surf Coast, Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula
Whites Beachy Torquay
Beach days with your dog are hard to beat — sandy paws, salty air and pure, carefree fun by the water. From early morning walks to splash-filled adventures, the beach brings out the best in our four-legged mates.
We’re lucky to have so many dog-friendly beaches across the Surf Coast, Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula. This guide shares our favourite local spots, plus council links to help you plan your next outing with ease.
And if your pup lives for beach days, those joyful, water-loving moments make the most beautiful memories to look back on.
Surf Coast
Whites Beach – Off-leash at all times; perfect for sunrise or sunset walks.
Jan Juc Beach – Golden sands and gentle waves; off-leash areas clearly marked.
Bells Beach – Famous surf spot with some dog-friendly sections (on leash only).
Ocean Grove – 13th Beach - A variety of golden sand perfect for off-leash adventures.
Melbourne & Surrounds
Brighton Dog Beach – Off-leash areas for swimming and socialising; close to the city.
Altona Dog Beach – Calm waters and safe sands; great for morning walks.
St Kilda Dog Beach – Off-leash fun for dogs with bay views; popular with locals and visitors alike.
Werribee South Beach - Off-leash in the morning/evening; great for walks along the bay.
Mordialloc Beach – Off-leash before 10 am and after 4 pm; popular for walking and swimming.
Mentone Beach – Off-leash zones in early mornings and late afternoons; calm waters.
Edithvale Beach – Off-leash before 10 am and after 4 pm; quieter than other bayside beaches.
Chelsea Beach – Off-leash hours for early birds and evening walkers; great for fetch and swimming.
Council Websites:
Mornington Peninsula
Dromana Foreshore – Off-leash area ideal for fetch and morning paddles.
Safety Beach – Family-friendly with sand and surf; quieter than main tourist beaches.
Point Leo Beach – Calm waters, natural beauty, and off-leash areas.
Tassels Cove – Hidden gem with off-leash freedom and scenic surroundings.
Summer Dog Beach Tips
Go Early or Late – Many Melbourne & Kingston beaches are off-leash in the mornings and evenings.
Hydrate – Bring fresh water for your pup.
Check Rules – Always review council regulations before visiting.
Pack Waste Bags – Keep beaches dog-friendly.
Sun & Shade – Take breaks to keep your dog safe.
Year-Round Beach Fun for Dogs
The beach isn’t just a summer playground — dogs love it all year round! Cooler mornings in autumn and winter mean quieter beaches, softer sand under paws, and a chance to let your pup run free without the crowds. Even in spring, the fresh sea breeze and open space make for perfect fetch sessions and splashy adventures.
Quieter beaches are ideal for more relaxed outings, while still giving your dog plenty of room to zoom, sniff, and explore. Early mornings or late afternoons are often the sweetest times, when the sand is cool, the water inviting, and the whole beach feels like it’s just for you and your furry friend.
No matter the season, these coastal adventures create happy memories — and for us at Snappy Pet Photography, those are the moments we love capturing most.