Summer is barreling toward us at full speed, so keep these sunny coastal spots in mind for the next time you treat your pup to a day at the beach.
If you’re lucky enough to live near the coast or are keen to jump in the car and head for the sea, these awesome dog beaches in Victoria will make your pooch a happy (and very sandy) camper.
Best dog friendly beaches near Melbourne
Sandown Street Beach, Brighton
Only 11 kilometres from the CBD and lined with dog friendly cafes, Sandown Street Beach is the place to be if you’re a sun-loving social dog. Commonly referred to as Brighton Dog Beach, it’s got a huge fenced-off area with shallow waters and plenty of sand for those who want to stay dry.
© Belle Property
St Kilda West Beach, St Kilda
St Kilda has always drawn a crowd. The iconic pier, outdoor markets, music festivals and bustling promenade make it a hotspot for Melbournites in-the-know. Even dogs have a long stretch of sand to show off their new collars, freshly clipped nails and shiny coats. St Kilda West Beach is leash year round, but will need to steer clear of nearby Middle Park Beach from November 1st to March 31st from 10am to 7:30pm.
© Pupsy
Port Melbourne Dog Beach, Port Melbourne
Located between Station Pier and Lagoon Pier, Port Melbourne Dog Beach is a must-visit for Melbourne locals. With sand bars, shallow lagoons and plenty of open space to fetch, you’ll be dragging them back to the car by their tails (figuratively speaking, of course). The south end of the beach is an off-leash zone all day every day, while the northern section is open to free-roaming dogs during the cooler months.
More dog friendly beaches in Victoria
© Torquay Sports Medicine Centre
Whites Beach, Torquay
The most popular place for beach-loving pups in the area, Whites Beach has an excellent off-leash area to the east of the W57 beach marker. You may want to keep a close eye on your wandering dogs though as there’s a nudist beach that begins closer towards Point Impossible Surf Beach.
© Visit Victoria
Forster’s Beach, Mornington
It may be a little tricky to get to, but the secluded 80 metre stretch of sand is a fabulous place to let your dog run free. Take the windy track down the cliff to the crescent shaped beach where dogs are allowed off-leash year-round. Continue walking along the track and you’ll discover Fossil Beach, another quiet gem that often goes unnoticed.
Inverloch Dog Beach, Inverloch
Adjacent to The Esplanade, this dog friendly stretch of beach is perfect for pups learning to paddle. Dogs are permitted off-leash year round between the Anderson Inlet and Grandview Grove, as well as a few other spots along the coast but restrictions regarding time of day and year vary.
Want more dog-friendly travel inspo? We’re working on a series of dog-friendly holiday ideas. Keep checking back in for more!
While you’re here, check out these other holiday guides throughout Victoria:
Seaside escape in Flinders, Victoria
