A

OUR PICK FOR DOG FRIENDLY BEACH/PARK LOCATIONS!

If you're a dog owner, you know how important it is to find a great spot for your furry friend to run and play. The south coast is full of fantastic dog-friendly beaches and parks that both you and your pup will love. From sandy shores to rocky coves, here's our guide to some of the best dog-friendly beaches in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven.

Don't forget to check out our other pages for dog friendly eateries and places to stay!

SHELLHARBOUR DOG BEACH

With its stunning coastal views and vast expanses of sandy shores, Shellharbour Dog Beach provides the perfect location for a fun-filled day out. Let your pup run free and frolic in the water as you soak up the sun and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere. Whether your furry friend loves to chase balls, dig in the sand, or make a few new furry acquaintances, this beach paradise has it all.

But the fun doesn't stop there! Shellharbour Dog Beach also boasts convenient amenities, including leash-free zones, water fountains for both humans and dogs, and ample parking for quick and easy access. 

Upon arriving at Shellharbour Dog Beach, visitors will find ample parking facilities that can accommodate a variety of vehicles, including cars and larger family vans. Furthermore, the parking area is conveniently located near the beach entrance, providing easy access to the beach for both you and your dog.

For those relying on public transport, Shellharbour is well-connected by bus services that run regularly throughout the day. BWhether you choose to drive or take public transport, the accessibility of Shellharbour Dog Beach ensures that it remains an attractive destination for dog lovers.

So grab your beach essentials, pack some treats for your four-legged companion, and get ready to embrace the joy and laughter that awaits you at Shellharbour Dog Beach. Located Just south of Wollongong!

Shellharbour Dog friendly beaches and parks - Click here for Shellharbour Council Map and info

Photo: Left to right : Council green zone for Shellharbour dog friendly  beach / Charlie the Flying Dog enjoying some exploring on the rocks / Charlie and Honey checking out the bass point gravel loader while running on the off leash area

A

KIAMA/BOMBO BEACH SOUTH

Bombo Beach is a 1200-metre stretch of sand that links central Kiama with Kiama Downs. Bombo Beach is predominantly a surfing beach, with strong rips, these rips and sandbars help to produce the consistent surf for which this beach is famous.

There are two dog friendly areas around Bombo Beach, firstly Bombo Headland which is found at the northern end of the beach, this gives your four-legged friends the chance to let loose and test their skills with some dog agility obstacles set up by council.

Off-leash dogs are also welcome to enjoy the surf and sand in the centre of Bombo Beach between sunrise and sunset. You can park on gipps road and walk through under the train tracks. 

Find out more by visiting Kiama Council website

Photo: The Flying Dog n Co

WERRI BEACH / GERRINGONG DOG PARK

Gerringong is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, and it's also a great spot for dogs!

With its long stretch of sand and clear blue waters Werri beach is the perfect place for your furry friend to run and play. Just be sure to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them to keep the beach clean and safe for everyone. There are also some nearby cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat after a day in the sun with your pup.

Gerringong Dog park is what we beleive the most pictureque dog park in the NSW!  Don't take our word for it, check it out yourself!

A large off-leash area with spectacular views of the ocean and coastline, and a whale watching platform.

Accessed from Tasman Drive, Werri Beach Rock Pool is located to the north, and Gerringong Cemetery and Boat Harbour to the south.

Location Werri Beach Dog friendly section. Photo: The Flying Dog n Co

A

HUSKISSON BEACH / SHOALHAVEN

Huskisson won gold in the tiny and small town categories of the NSW Top Town Awards in 2023!  This gorgeous town is a comfortable drive from Sydney taking just over 2.5 hours and has so many dog friendly beach huskisson

The dog friendly beach huskisson and foreshore reserve is between Tapalla Point (corner of Nowra Street) and Tapalla Avenue is off leash from 4.00 pm to 8.00 am each day.

Dogs are permitted on leash from 8.00 am to 4.00 pm throughout the week.

Whether you like to swim, surf or snorkel, you can’t visit Jervis Bay without spending time on and in the water. The turquoise water is crystal clear, the sand is some of the whitest in the world and the lush bush vegetation provides a picturesque, natural background. A great visit for everyone.

Find more on the dog friendly beach huskisson by visiting Shoalhaven Council website

1. Hyams Beach

Is hyams beach dog friendly? Renowned for its pristine white sands and clear waters, Hyams Beach allows dogs on-leash at all times. It's an ideal spot for a scenic walk with your pet, letting them enjoy the beauty of the coastline alongside you.
👉 More about dog-friendly Hyams Beach

2. Huskisson Beach

Located between Nowra Street and Tapalla Avenue, Huskisson Beach permits dogs on-leash throughout the day. During specific hours, dogs are allowed off-leash, giving them the freedom to run and play.
👉 Learn more about Huskisson Beach

3. Nelsons Beach, Vincentia

A hidden gem near Hyams Beach, Nelsons Beach offers stunning white sands and turquoise waters. Dogs are welcome on-leash and can enjoy off-leash play during designated hours. This peaceful spot is often less crowded.
👉 Explore Nelsons Beach

4. Callala Beach

Stretching along the bay, Callala Beach allows dogs off-leash during specific times, providing ample space for them to explore and enjoy the shoreline. Calm waters make it perfect for a relaxed day out with your pup.
👉 Find out more about Callala Beach

5. Currarong Beach

From the creek to Peel Street, Currarong Beach permits dogs off-leash during designated hours. The gentle, ocean-facing beach provides a safe and enjoyable environment for dogs to run freely and socialize.
👉 Details about Currarong Beach

6. Culburra Beach

Extending from Park Row to Tilbury Cove, Culburra Beach offers off-leash access during certain times. Its open spaces and refreshing sea breeze make it an excellent destination for dogs and their owners.
👉 Learn about Culburra Beach

Dog Friendly Beaches Sydney

For up-to-date details about dog-friendly areas, check our these council zoned dog friendly maps

Kiama/Gerringong Dog Friendly Beaches and Park - Click here for Kiama Council map and info

Shellharbour Dog friendly beaches and parks - Click here for Shellharbour Council Map and info

Shoalhaven Dog Friendly beaches and parks - Click here for  Shoalhaven Council Map Info