Skip to content
Home
About
Contact

Dog Beaches On The Gold Coast

A lot of people move to the Gold Coast to enjoy the pristine beaches and beautiful surf. But, what is the point of going to the beach if you cannot take your dog with you to enjoy the fresh air?

Sure, you can always take your dog to an off-leash dog park to run around a bit, but it is definitely more fun for everyone if you get to enjoy seeing your dog run along the beach, interact with other dog friends, and dart into the waves.

We have found some of the best dog-friendly beaches on the Gold Coast, so you don’t have to leave your furry friend at home.

 

Here Are The Best Dog Beaches On The Gold Coast

The beaches listed below are all off-leash dog beaches.

The Spit, Southport

The Spit, Southport

The Spit dog beach is one of the most popular dog beaches on the Gold Coast.

The long stretch of white sand, dunes, and greenery is the perfect environment to let your dog run wild and interact with other pups. On weekends, The Spit can get particularly bustling with families and their pets, but there is plenty of space for everyone.

The Spit has amazing views of Surfers Paradise and also plenty of facilities for you and the dogs. There are kiosks that sell dog-friendly dining options like ice cream, and pet parents can enjoy burgers, fish and chips, and several drinks.

If your dog loves interacting with other people and their pets, then going on a Saturday or Sunday morning is the best. If your dog is a bit more introverted, then going in the evenings or on weekdays would be quieter – plus, an evening stroll guarantees you a beautiful sunset!

What do dog owners think of The Spit Dog Beach?

Pros
  • Providing an excellent environment for dogs to run off-leash and socialize with other pets
  • The beach is usually quiet during the weeknights apart from weekends, so it’s perfect for introverts
  • There are plenty of facilities in terms of food and drinks options at the beach
Cons
  • During peak times, the beach can get crowded
  • The beach is not always cleaned regularly, so there is a possibility of encountering dog waste
  • Parking space near the beach can be limited at times

Palm Beach - Tallebudgera Dog Beach

Palm Beach - Tallebudgera Dog Beach

Tallebudgera Creek is a very popular swimming spot for humans, but have you heard of Tallebudgera dog beach?

To reach this semi-private beach, you can park by the Tallebudgera creek entrance and keep your dog on a leash as you walk towards the northern end of Palm Beach. From there, you can unleash your dog (literally) and revel in his joy. Just make sure that your pet does not venture too far, as this section of the beach is only pet-friendly up until the lifeguard flags.

If you go later in the evening, and the flags have been taken down, and the crowds of people have dispersed, then your dog can enjoy this entire stretch of beach.

You can also grab some free poo-baggies at the Talle Surf Club and clean up after your pooch as a responsible owner should.

What do dog owners think of Tallebudgera Dog Beach?

Pros
  • Dogs can run around in a safe beach environment, with plenty of space and no restrictions.
  • Clean-up supplies are readily available near the surf club.
  • The seaside scenery is beautiful and relaxing.
Cons
  • You need to be mindful of crowds during peak hours, as dogs must remain on leashes.
  • If flags are up, only the northern section of the beach is open to dogs.

Palm Beach - Currumbin Creek

Palm Beach - Currumbin Creek

Currumbin Creek Beach is one of the best dog-friendly beaches in the area. It starts at the Currumbin Creek entrance and goes all the way from Palm Beach Parklands and around the spit.

It is easy to spend the whole day at this beach, and once you are tired of the sand and salt, you can head inland and explore the lush forest, which is basically one of the best off-leash dog parks you can get. This section of the beach really belongs to the dogs, so it is best if you do not plan a sunset picnic with a new date here unless you want the dogs to join in the feast.

What do dog owners think of Currumbin Creek Beach?

Pros
  • It is a great spot for off-leash fun, as the huge expanse of sand and sea is perfect for any breed.
  • The shallow-sloping beach is also excellent for swimming, and it’s a great way to exercise the dog, too!
  • There are plenty of amenities available nearby, so you don’t have to worry about preparing food or water- All breeds are welcome here, as there is plenty of space for everyone to have fun
Cons
  • There can be a bit of seaweed and debris on the beach, so it’s best to bring along a bag or two just in case.
  • It gets quite busy during peak times, which means your dog may not get as much room to run around as they’d like.
  • The beach is also quite rocky in some areas, which can be tricky for dogs with softer paws.

Biggera Waters

Biggera Waters

Biggera Waters Beach has some small waves and generally calm waters, making it a great beach for your furry friends who enjoy getting in the water. You may even be able to spot a dolphin in the surf at this beach.

Marine Parade at Biggera Waters Beach gives pet owners the option to walk along the sand or on the paved walkway next to the esplanade. This section tends to get very busy in the early mornings or after work, as well as on weekends, so if you want to have this beach to yourself, it is best if you go during the weekday.

What do dog owners think of Biggera Waters Beach?

Pros
  • This beach offers an idyllic setting for your pet to swim, run and play in the sand.
  • There are plenty of places to tie up a leash, as well as benches and picnic tables to enjoy the view.
  • Marine Parade is often quiet on weekdays, so it can be a great spot for some peace and solitude with
Cons
  • Biggera Waters is not very wide, so it can get crowded quickly.
  • This beach does not offer any off-leash areas or designated play areas for dogs, which means you’ll need to keep your pup on a leash at all times.
  • The beach can also be quite rocky in some areas, so you’ll need to watch where your pup is running and playing.

Paradise Point, Parklands

Many Gold Coast locals enjoy the Paradise Point foreshore, but were you aware there is a section for your dog as well? Next to the grassy area (adjacent to the Sovereign Mile Bridge northern platform), you will find a section of beach that allows dogs to run free.

This area has calm water and is overall family-friendly, so keep an eye on your pup to make sure it does not sneak off with someone’s barbeque meat!

What do dog owners think of Paradise Point?

Pros
  • It is off the beaten track and away from the main beach crowds.
  • Your dog will be safely able to run and play on its own.
  • It’s a great spot for owners who want to relax in the sun while their furry friends explore.
Cons
  • Limited parking can make it difficult to get there if you- The beach can be muddy, so it’s best to bring a towel for your pet.
  • Since it is in a residential area, you will need to make sure that your dog doesn’t disturb the neighbours.

Beaches where dogs have to stay on a leash

Apart from all the off-leash dog areas along the beaches on the Gold Coast, there are also plenty of beaches where your dog is free to explore if you keep it leashed.

These leash beaches still make for a fun day out, as long as you stay out of the flags.

These beaches include:

  • Bilinga Beach
  • Broadbeach
  • The western portion of The Spit beach
  • Kurruwa Beach
  • Miami Beach
  • Nobby Beach
  • South Palm Beach
  • Paradise Point Beach

 

FAQs

Is Rainbow Bay dog-friendly?

Rainbow Bay does permit dogs from Rainbow Beach north towards the Inskip peninsula. This beach requires dogs to remain on a leash, as there is wildlife in the area.

Can I take my dog along to Mermaid Beach?

There is plenty of pet-friendly accommodation in Mermaid Beach, and you are guaranteed to find an off-leash dog area where you and your pup can play.

What should I take along when I go to the beach with my dog?

Here are the essentials you need to pack when you take your dog to the beach:

  • A bottle of water and a dish for drinking.
  • A towel or blanket.
  • An umbrella or some type of shade.
  • A leash and collar.
  • Poo baggies.
  • Canine sunscreen for your dog’s nose.
  • Dog treats.

 

Final Thoughts

The Gold Coast has plenty of dog-friendly beaches where you can let your dog run wild and play in the surf. The beaches listed above are all welcoming to pets, so you can start planning the perfect day at a dog-friendly beach for you and your pup.

Other helpful information

  • Dog Breed Guides
  • Dog Boarding
  • Dog Daycare
  • Dog Groomers
  • Dog Trainers
  • Dog Walkers

Other related topics​

Welcome to Pets Online, a team of pet parents, animal lovers and veterinarians devoted to providing you with everything you need to know about pets.

Facebook Instagram Linkedin
Dog Breed Guides
  • Foundation Stock Service
  • Gundogs
  • Herding
  • Hounds
  • Miscellaneous Class
  • Non-sporting
  • Sporting
  • Terriers
  • Toy
  • Unrecognized
  • Utility
  • Working
Cat Breed Guides
  • Exotic
  • Hairless
  • Hybrid
  • Long Haired
  • Natural
  • Oriental
  • Rex
  • Semi-long Haired
  • Short Haired
Adopt A Pet
Dog Adoption
  • ACT
  • NSW
  • NT
  • QLD
  • SA
  • TAS
  • VIC
  • WA
Cat Adoption
  • ACT
  • NSW
  • NT
  • QLD
  • SA
  • TAS
  • VIC
  • WA

© PetsOnline. All Rights Reserved 2025.

Privacy Policy

Terms & Conditions