Here's your guide to the best dog-friendly beaches and parks on the Gold Coast:
1- The Spit, Southport
The Spit is a popular dog-friendly beach on the Gold Coast, offering long stretches of sand, rolling dunes, and beautiful ocean views. It’s an ideal spot for an active day with your pup, featuring a spacious off-leash area where dogs can roam freely. The wide-open spaces are perfect for playing fetch, swimming, and enjoying the outdoors.
The beach also offers convenient amenities, including dog bowls, wash stations, and a flagged swimming area for both dogs and humans to enjoy.
How to Get There:
Access The Spit via Seaworld Drive, with plenty of parking available near the beach entrance.
Tip:
The Spit can get busy, especially on weekends. For a more peaceful visit, try early mornings or late afternoons when the area is quieter and less crowded. Don’t forget to keep your pup’s safety in mind—equip them with a dog life jacket so they’re easy to spot in the water and can be quickly retrieved if needed.
2. Tallebudgera Dog Beach
Tallebudgera Dog Beach, located at the northern end of Palm Beach, is a fantastic spot for your pup to enjoy some off-leash fun. The beach stretches with gorgeous views of Burleigh Head National Park, making it a great backdrop for a day out. The entire beach is off-leash from Palm Beach to the first set of lifesaver flags, allowing your dog to run, play, and swim freely. Don't forget to take a floating fetch toy for your pup to enjoy like our Kurgo Skipping Stones!
How to Get There:
Park at the Tallebudgera Surf Life Saving Club, with a short walk to the beach.
Tip:
For a peaceful visit, arrive in the morning or later in the afternoon when the area is less crowded.
3. Palm Beach/Currumbin Creek
Located near Currumbin Creek inlet, Palm Beach is ideal for water-loving dogs or those new to swimming. With shallow swimming areas, tree shade, and ample space to play, it’s a safe spot for your pup to cool off and for you to enjoy a sunny beach day. The beach also offers convenient amenities like water fountains and wash stations.
How to Get There:
Best accessed by car with parking near the dog-friendly beach.
Palm Beach is popular, especially during peak times, so expect lots of other visitors. Remember, hydration is important—make sure to pack a water bottle and bowl for your dog, as well as for yourself.
4. Biggera Waters Beach
Biggera Waters Beach, located off Marine Parade, is a peaceful dog-friendly beach with time restrictions for off-leash play. Being lesser-known, it’s quieter, providing a great spot for your dog to run, explore, dig, and splash in the surf.
How to Get There:
Parking is available along Marine Parade, with easy access to the dog-friendly beach.
Tip:
Best to visit from 5am – 8am and 4pm – 7pm. Outside these hours, dogs must be on a leash.
5. Paradise Point Parklands
Set along the Broadwater, Paradise Point Parklands offers scenic views and an off-leash area at the northern end of the park, making it a great spot for your dog to run and explore. It’s perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, or a fun day out with your dog.
How to Get There:
It’s easy to access from The Esplanade, with parking nearby.
Tip:
Popular with locals, this park can get busy, especially on weekends. Be sure to keep your dog on-leash until you reach the designated off-leash area.
6. Broadwater Parklands
Broadwater Parklands offers vast open spaces for dogs to enjoy, though they must remain on-leash. It’s perfect for walking, picnicking, and enjoying the waterfront with your furry friend. While there are no off-leash areas, the park’s beauty makes it a must-visit. We recommend investing in a 6-in-1 dog leash to keep your dog secure and prepared for all situations during your visit.
How to Get There:
Easily accessible by car, with plenty of nearby parking.
Tip:
Leash your dog as you walk through the park and enjoy the relaxing surroundings. Don't forget to bring a collapsible dog bowl for your pup to stay hydrated and fed on the go.
And don't forget, before you head out to these fun dog-friendly parks and beaches, make sure you're fully prepared with the right gear to keep your pup safe and hydrated!