Posted Tue 14 Feb 2023 at 09:00am
Enjoy the sun, sand and surf at one of these spectacular dog-friendly beaches on the South Coast of New South Wales.
Australia has countless beaches, but not all are pup-friendly or suitable for an active, curious pet. If you’re looking for dog-friendly beaches on the South Coast of New South Wales, here’s a list of recommendations for you and Fido to enjoy all summer long.
1. McCauley’s Beach
McCauley’s Beach is a popular surfing spot that’s spacious enough to accommodate large crowds on hot days. This dog-friendly beach on the South Coast is perfect for families, young kids, and of course, dogs! Pups just learning to swim can paddle in the creek, and older dogs can dip and dive in the surf.
Amenities such as showers, water taps, and doggy bags are available.
Address:
McCauley’s Beach, Craig St, Thirroul, NSW, 2515
Off-leash hours:
Off-leash 24hrs
2. Little Austinmer Beach
With 330 metres of sandy shores and rock pools located at either end of the beach, Little Austinmer Beach is ideal for puppy parents looking for a quiet and less crowded beach. Its tall pine trees, grassy slopes and rock formations make this beach easy on the eye. This beach isn’t patrolled, so swim with caution and keep a close eye on Fido!
Address:
2 Little Austinmer Ln, Austinmer, NSW, 2515
Off-leash hours:
Off-leash 24hrs
3. Culburra Beach
If you’re looking for a dog-friendly beach on the South Coast that’s off-leash and picturesque, give Culburra Beach a try. Perched on a peninsula, this beach is situated in a little coastal town in the Shoalhaven region. With its crystal-clear waters and oyster farms, it’s no wonder why Aussies flock here every summer!
There are plenty of outdoor activities for you and Fido to take on during your beach day. From paddle boarding to surfing and kayaking, be prepared for some serious fun in the sun!
Address:
Culburra Beach, New South Wales, 2540
Off-leash hours:
1st October – 30th April: 4pm – 8am
1st May – 30th September: 3pm – 10am
4. Nelsons Beach
If you’re lucky, you may be able to spot dolphins at Nelsons Beach. This beach is known to be quieter than other beaches in Jervis Bay, so there will be plenty of room for you to swim and play a game of fetch. Its gentle waves make it the perfect spot for kids and dogs who aren’t super confident in the water.
The beach runs from Plantation Point Reserve and has barbeques, picnic tables, and grassy lawns for you to enjoy.
Address:
Nelsons Beach, 68 Plantation Point Parade, Vincentia, NSW, 2540
Off-leash hours:
1st October – 30th April: 4pm – 8am
1st May – 30th September: 3pm – 10am
5. Collers Beach
Take Fido for a day of off-leash fun at Collers Beach. Isolated and pristine, this dog-friendly beach on the South Coast is perfect if you’re looking to escape large crowds. If you’re a surfer, bring your board, as Collers Beach has excellent surf breaks. Try visiting at low tide, so you and your pup can play in the rock pools!
Address:
Coolers Beach, Mollymook, NSW, 2539
Off-leash hours:
Off-leash 24hrs
6. Cormorant Beach
Your pup will have a field day swimming at Cormorant Beach! Despite being smaller, this beach tends to be more isolated, so you won’t have to worry about Fido getting anxious with crowds. If the sand is too hot for your pup’s paws, head to the foreshore reserve nearby instead.
Tip: This beach is known to have amazing sunrises and sunsets!
Planning a trip to Sydney? Check out our list of the best dog-friendly beaches in Sydney and our favourite dog-friendly beaches in Sydney’s eastern suburbs.
Address:
Cormorant Beach, Bawley Point, NSW, 2539
Off-leash hours:
Off-leash 24hrs
7. Currarong Beach
Enter Currarong Beach from Peel St for an off-leash swim and stroll. Loads of rocks are plotted along the shore for your pup to sniff. This beach is also ideal for snorkelling and kayaking, which is music to any water baby’s ears! There’s even a sheltered swimming area if you need a break from the waves. Complete your beach day with a picnic on the grassy section of the beach.
Address:
Currarong Beach, Currarong, NSW, 2540
Off-leash hours:
1st October – 30th April: 4pm – 8am
1st May – 30th September: 3pm – 10am
8. Callala Beach
Callala Beach is a town situated in Shoalhaven. With endless white sand and crystal clear water, it’s no surprise that this is one of the best dog-friendly beaches on the South Coast. This beach also backs onto a reserve with barbeques and picnic tables that’s perfect for a family gathering.
You’ll need to keep an eye on Fido, as the middle section between Parkes Cres and Centre St is off-limits to dogs at all times.
Address:
Callala Beach, Sheaffe St, Callala Bay, NSW, 2540
Off-leash hours:
1st October – 30th April: 4pm – 8am
1st May – 30th Sept: 3pm-10am
Note: East and Western ends of the beach are off-leash
9. Jones Beach
Surfs up! Jones Beach is a dog-friendly South Coast beach known for being a surfer’s paradise. However, you’ll need to keep an eye on your dog as sometimes the currents can be strong, and the beach is not patrolled. Wash off your sandy pooch at the dog watering stations and head to the nearby shaded picnic tables for a breezy lunch.
Address:
Jones Beach, 150 North Kiama Drive, Kiama Downs, NSW, 2533
Off-leash hours:
Dogs are allowed off-leash from sunrise to sunset.
10. Bombo Beach
Dogs are only allowed off-leash in the centre of Bombo Beach, but don’t let that deter you! Bombo beach is 1200 metres long, so there’s still plenty of room for your pup to run around or relax. Forgot your doggy bags? Don’t fret, as there are on-site doggy bag dispensers for easy clean-up.
If the sun gets too much, you and Fido can seek shade at Bombo Beach Headland, which has an agility section for pups.
Address:
Bombo Beach, Princes Highway, Bombo, NSW, 2533
Off-leash hours:
Dogs are allowed off-leash from sunrise to sunset.
While you’re here, check out our list of the best off-leash dog beaches in Australia.
