Posted Fri 30 Dec 2022 at 07:54am
Whether you’re taking your dog on holiday or you’re a local looking for a new stretch of sand, there’s plenty of beautiful off-leash dog beaches on the Sunshine Coast where you can run, play and take a dip. From seaside locations that will make you feel like you’ve walked into an impromptu dog party, to those so deserted you’ll feel like you and pooch are the last living beings on Earth, there’s a patch of golden sand just right for you and your mate.
1. Shelly Beach
One of the Sunshine Coast’s hidden gems, this stretch of oceanfront is unpatrolled so not ideal for swimming, but the upside of that is you’ll often have the beach to yourself. Pup will love splashing around in the ankle-deep rock pools and when it’s time to rest, there are nearby undercover tables.
Location: Russell Street to Victoria Terrace
Off-leash: At times indicated on signs *4 pm – 8 am* May to October
2. Moffat Beach
Just around the corner from Shelly Beach, you’ll find this iconic surf spot, which has earnt a reputation as one of the top dog-friendly beaches on the Sunshine Coast. It’s not as popular with tourists as some of the neighbouring beaches as it’s also unpatrolled, so stay in the shallow waters or enjoy the serenity of the sand. There are also plenty of nearby cafes to grab a coffee en route.
Location: Cooroora Street, Dicky Beach to Russell Street
Off-leash: At times indicated on signs *4 pm – 8 am*
3. Ballinger Beach
Also known by the locals as Currimundi Dog Beach, this 1km stretch of dog-friendly paradise offers the softest sand and plenty of room to swim, dig, explore, and run wild – and facilities to wash off after adventuring. Watch the surf break from the sand with a few dog treats in hand.
Location: Moondara Drive, Wurtulla to Currimundi Creek
Off-leash: at all times
4. Wurtulla Beach
A spacious, pristine paradise that’s a popular spot for the four-legged, so just be sure your pup is friendly with others. The water can get choppy too, and sections of the beach are only patrolled during holiday periods, so swimming is generally off the cards. At low tide, however, there are plenty of small rocks to discover. Toilets and shower facilities are available.
Location: Moondara Drive, Wurtulla to Currimundi Creek, Currimundi
Off-leash: At all times
5. Coolum Beach
Surf, sand and a saltwater creek for doggy paddling – what more could you want? The off-leash dog beach zone extends a whole kilometre, so there’s plenty of space for running around. Reached by a dedicated road through the beachfront reserve by the creek, there’s a car park at the end with doggie bags, a dog wash hose, toilets, picnic tables and a playground.
Location: Northern end of Coolum Caravan Park Extending 1km north of Stumers Creek
Off-leash: At all times
6. Buddina Foreshore Reserve and Buddina Beach Proper
Buddina Foreshore Reserve is a little pocket of protected sand with rock pools to explore and nearby access to the best after-hours (4 pm – 8 am) dog park with a view, Point Cartwright Reserve. Buddina Beach Proper is a longer stretch of sand with plenty of space to play fetch and sniff around.
Location: Both are accessed from Pacific Boulevard
Off-leash: At all times
7. North Shore Beach, Mudjimba
Could this be the most stunning dog beach on the Sunshine Coast? Wildly rugged thanks to the rocky headlands with plenty of open beach to let the dogs burn off some energy. There’s also access to Pincushion Island and calmer waters towards the inland river area for the dogs to have a paddle. There’s limited shade along the beach, but toilet facilities are available, located near the main car park.
Off-leash: At all times
8. Marcus Beach
Tranquil without a tourist in sight, this is the spot to go if you just want to enjoy the sound of crashing waves and a good game of stick hunting minus the crowds. Tucked behind the lush natural forest and wedged between the Sunshine and Peregian Beaches which both have a bustling café scene, you can enjoy the calm and cap it off with a cappuccino (or puppuccino for pooch, of course)
Off-leash: At all times
9. Sunshine Beach North
This picturesque, protected stretch of coastline is – in a word – breathtaking. Overlooked by exclusive beachfront homes on the hill above and with the national park as a backdrop, it’s a popular spot for local families. Come here for a moment of calm and solitude.
Off-leash: At all times
If you’re looking for more of an adrenaline kick, why not try these dog-friendly water activities in Brisbane?
