Exploring the best leash-free Mornington Peninsula Dog Beaches

Disclaimer: Affiliate links are used within Pawtal. All 3rd party companies added are well researched to provide honest, unbiased opinions. Pawtal does receive a small commission that assists with our service, so please factor that into your purchase decision.

Follow to share the love of pets and travel!

updated: December 4, 2023

Region: Mornington Peninsula

 /5

Pets welcomed:

Dogs of all sizes

Destination type: beach

Social:

Price range:

free

Recommended time at location: 1.5 hours

Highlights: lots of open spaces, a new adventure every time we visit, my dog can swim and play

Comments: leash-free and accessible beaches; leash-free beaches available during Daylight Savings are included.

Need to Know:

Leash rules: Dogs are allowed on leash, except for during daylight savings time, when they are prohibited between 9am and 7pm from the sand.
Prohibited areas: Make sure to keep an eye out for signs indicating whether it is a leash-free or prohibited area
Parking: Parking near some beaches can be difficult, so plan accordingly.
Etiquette: Always clean up after your dog and dispose of waste properly.

The Mornington Peninsula, located just an hour’s drive south of Melbourne, is a stunning region that boasts some of Victoria’s most beautiful beaches and walking trails. What’s even better is that many of these beaches are dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for a day of fun in the sun.

There are only six beaches that are off-leash year-round, and another 12 beaches that are restricted leash-free beaches, meaning dogs are only allowed off-leash before 9 am or after 7 pm during daylight savings time, and are prohibited during the day.

It’s important to note that the standard rule for beaches on the Mornington Peninsula is that dogs are allowed on leash on the beaches, except for during daylight savings time, when they are prohibited between 9am and 7pm from the sand.

Off-leash beaches on the Mornington Peninsula

Fosters Beach: Located on The Esplanade, Fosters Beach is leash-free all year round with no time restrictions.
Tassels Cove: This small sandy beach is located between Marina Cove and Bruce Road and is one of the most popular off-leash dog beaches on the Mornington Peninsula.
Flinders Dog Beach: Located between Dodds Creek and Manton Creek, Flinders Dog Beach is leash-free.
Fossil Beach: Situated in Mornington, Fossil Beach is a leash-free beach.
Royal Beach: Royal Beach is a leash-free beach hemmed in by cliffs in Mornington.
Hawker Beach: Located in Mornington, Hawker Beach is also a leash-free beach.

These beaches provide dog owners with the opportunity to let their dogs roam and play off-leash.

Find out more about off-leash beaches on the Mornington Peninsula;

Flinders Dog Beach: Mornington Peninsula

Address: Flinders Beach Dog Off Leash Area, The Esplanade, Flinders VIC, Australia

Need to Know:

Type: Leash Free
Recommended time to visit: Morning or Late Afternoon
Restricted hours: None
Onsite parking: No
Access: Challenging due to the steep track

This is a long sandy beach located between Dodds Creek & Manton Creek. Access to the beach can be challenging due to the steep access track, but once you’re there, you’ll be rewarded with a picturesque view of the coastline.

To read more about Flinders Dog Beach: Mornington Peninsula click;

Fosters Beach: Dog-friendly Mornington Peninsula

Address: Fosters Beach Dog Off Leash Area, Esplanade, Mornington VIC, Australia

Need to Know:

Type: Leash Free
Recommended time to visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds
Restricted hours: None
Onsite parking: Limited
Access: Walking track

Access to Fosters Beach is via a walking track located opposite #630 The Esplanade in Mornington. This beach is known for its serene atmosphere and limited off-street parking, making it an ideal spot for those looking for a quiet day by the water.

To read more about Fosters Beach: Dog-friendly Mornington Peninsula click;

Royal Beach: Dog-friendly Mornington Peninsula

Address: Royal Beach Dog Off Leash Area, Esplanade, Mornington VIC, Australia

Need to Know:

Type: Leash Free
Recommended time to visit: Anytime
Restricted hours: None
Onsite parking: Yes, near Royal Hotel
Access: Steep stairs

Royal Beach is located in Mornington and can be accessed via steep stairs that lead down to the pebble and sand beach opposite the Royal Hotel. Dogs are allowed off-leash on the beach at all times, making it a great spot for a day of fun in the sun.

To read more about Royal Beach: Dog-friendly Mornington Peninsula click;

Hawker Beach: Dog-friendly Mornington Peninsula

Address: Hawker Beach Dog Friendly Off Leash Area, Esplanade, Mount Martha VIC, Australia

Need to Know:

Type: Leash Free
Recommended time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for less heat
Restricted hours: None
Onsite parking: No
Access: Steep fire access track

Located in Mount Martha, Hawker Beach is leash-free all year round and features a large, open stretch of sand where your dog can run and play. The beach is accessed via a steep fire access track opposite Helena St.

To read more about Hawker Beach: Dog-friendly Mornington Peninsula click;

Dog-Friendly Beach Tassells Cove: A Hidden Gem in Safety Beach

Address: Dog Friendly Beach – Tassells Cove, Marine Drive, Safety Beach VIC, Australia

Need to Know:

Leash-free beach fun all year round.
Shallow waters for safe dog swims.
Scenic walks along rustic paths.
Nearby dog-friendly cafes and eateries.
Martha Cove boardwalk for extended strolls.

Dog-Friendly Beach Tassells Cove in Safety Beach is a perfect blend of fun, relaxation, and scenic beauty. It’s a place where your dogs can roam freely and safely, and where you can enjoy the sun, sea, and sand alongside them.

The nearby attractions and amenities add to the convenience, making it an ideal destination for pet owners.

To read more about Dog-Friendly Beach Tassells Cove: A Hidden Gem in Safety Beach click;

By visiting one of these dog-friendly beaches on the Mornington Peninsula, you can enjoy a day of sun, sand, and surf with your furry friend by your side.

Other Leash-Free Beaches during Daylight Savings

In addition to the pet-friendly beaches on the Mornington Peninsula, there are also several leash-free beaches available for dog owners to enjoy.

These beaches allow dogs to roam freely without a leash, but it’s important to note that this only applies during Daylight Savings hours, from 7 pm to 9 am.

Here are some of the restricted leash-free beaches available on the Mornington Peninsula;

Location	Description
McCrae	McCrae Beach – 300 metres of sandy beach to the east of a point 25 metres east of the car park opposite Margaret St
Mt Eliza	Daveys Bay – Sandy Beach accessed from the end of Daveys Bay Road
	Half Moon Bay – Sandy Beach accessed from Canadian Bay Road car park
	Mt Eliza Beach – Sandy Beach between Freemans Rd & Williams Rd
Mt Martha	Birdrock Beach – Access via Dava Beach and steep stairway
	Dava Beach – Sandy Beach access via a steep stairway, between Shanns Ave and Birdrock Ave
Portsea	Shelley Beach – Sandy Beach between Franklin Road & Hemston Avenue
Rosebud	Rosebud Beach – Sandy Beach from 100 metres west and 200 metres east of the car park opposite Murray Anderson Drive
Rye	Rye Beach – Sandy Beach between Daly Avenue & Shirlow Ave
Safety Beach/Dromana	Safety Beach – Sandy Beach opposite B.P. petrol station, corner of Nepean Hwy (limited parking)
Somers	Somers Beach – Sandy Beach 300 metres of sandy beach, west from the bottom of ‘hundred steps
Sorrento	Sorrento Beach – Sandy Beach 100 metres east of Sorrento Sailing Club to the ‘Western Sister’

These beaches have restrictions on dogs. This may require them to be on a leash or allow off-leash access only before 9 am or after 7 pm during daylight savings time.

Looking for a pet adventure nearby or beyond?

Click here for custom designed pet adventures..!

Tips for Visiting Pet-Friendly Beaches on the Mornington Peninsula

If you’re planning a trip to one of the pet-friendly beaches in Mornington Peninsula, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for you and your furry friend. Some other tips to keep in mind are;

leash-free and leashed beaches

While some beaches on the Mornington Peninsula are leash-free, others require dogs to be on a leash at all times. Make sure you check the regulations before you go, and be prepared to keep your pet on a leash if required.

time restrictions

During daylight savings time, some beaches have restricted hours when dogs are allowed.

Make sure you check the signs and adhere to any time restrictions to avoid any issues with local authorities.

bring plenty of water

It’s important to keep your pet hydrated, especially on hot summer days. Make sure you bring plenty of water and a bowl for your dog to drink from.

clean up after your pet

Be sure to bring bags to clean up after your dog, and dispose of waste properly in the designated bins.

respect others

Not everyone at the beach will be a dog lover, so be considerate of others and keep your pet under control. Avoid letting your dog approach strangers without permission, and be mindful of other people’s space.

By following these tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your furry friend at the beautiful pet-friendly beaches of Mornington Peninsula.

dog-friendly cafes near the off-leash beaches on the Mornington Peninsula

There are several dog-friendly cafes near the off-leash beaches on the Mornington Peninsula. Here are some popular options;

Miss Drew’s Dog Cafe: Located in Tyabb, Miss Drew’s Dog Cafe is the Peninsula’s first dog-only cafe. They offer freshly baked treats for dogs and a range of human food options.
Portsea Hotel: This hotel is located on Point Nepean Road in Portsea and is a dog-friendly pub. They have a large outdoor area where dogs are welcome.
Mr Paul’s Beer & Wine: Located in Sorrento, Mr Paul’s Beer & Wine is a dog-friendly bar that serves craft beer and wine. They have a large outdoor area where dogs are welcome.
Bass & Flinders Distillery: This distillery is located in Red Hill and is dog-friendly. They offer gin tastings and have a large outdoor area where dogs are welcome.
Pig and Whistle Tavern: An English-style tavern serving Beers on Tap, and British cuisine including ploughman’s platters.

Cant find what you need? Click here to see the full list of restaurants on the Mornington Peninsula. Check with the establishment prior to arrival for its pet-friendly policies

It’s important to note that while these cafes and restaurants are dog-friendly, they may have restrictions on where dogs are allowed within the premises. It’s always a good idea to check with the establishment before bringing your dog inside.

dog-friendly walks and Accommodations

The Mornington Peninsula is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, with its stunning natural beauty, delicious food and wine, and a range of pet-friendly walks. And the best part? You don’t need to leave your pet behind making it the perfect destination for owners.

Take a look at some of our recommended walks;

	The Briars Mount Martha: Dog-friendly Mornington Peninsula
	Balcombe Estuary Boardwalk: Dog-friendly Mornington Peninsula
	Dog-friendly walks on the Mornington Peninsula
	Millionaires Walk: Dog-friendly Mornington Peninsula
	Red Hill Rail Trail: Dog-friendly Mornington Peninsula

Looking for nearby pet-friendly accommodations? I recommend using booking.com to find great accommodation on the Mornington Peninsula. They have a “pets allowed” filter to easily search availability and options to suit your needs and budget.

For more information and options, check out pet-friendly Mornington Peninsula. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious getaway or a budget-friendly stay, there’s something for everyone in this stunning region.

Save 10% on all pet harnesses by using the code SAVE10now

what else can I do on the Mornington Peninsula?

Enhance your Mornington Peninsula experience by visiting one of the local farmers or community markets or perhaps enjoy a mystery picnic. Start with an empty basket and solve clues to collect gourmet food from local artisans as you discover your picturesque picnic spot. Click here to learn more, check availability, and book.

Looking for something else?

Enhance your experience with some of the region’s famous activities. Please note, some may not be pet-friendly so plan ahead and check with the activity prior to booking.

Leave your pup behind with a pet sitter, pet border, or dog walker, and enjoy some of the amazing experiences the region has to offer.

The Mornington Peninsula is a fantastic destination for pet owners looking to spend quality time with their furry friends, thanks to its numerous pet-friendly beaches. Whether you’re looking for a leash-free area or a quiet, small beach, the Mornington Peninsula has something to offer.

It’s important to remember to be a responsible pet owner and clean up after your pet to ensure these beaches remain pet-friendly for years to come.

Discover Mornington peninsula dog beaches and other pet-friendly attractions

If you’re interested in exploring pet-friendly destinations in Victoria, including the Mornington Peninsula, visit Pawtal’s website at pet-friendly Mornington Peninsula.

There, you’ll find helpful resources and tips for traveling with your furry friend in Victoria. So pack up your sunscreen, grab your pup, and head to the Mornington Peninsula for a day of fun in the sun!

Want to know the best beaches in Melbourne?

Make sure to explore our post, The best dog beach Melbourne locations.

other beaches you may enjoy in Victoria

If you found this post helpful, here are a few other posts:

How Pawtal can help you

Pawtal can help you find a wide range of other pet-friendly services. Whether you need pet sitting, grooming, or something else, we can connect you with the best providers in your area. Request a pet service today and let us help you take care of your furry friend.

Want more content like this? Then I recommend joining my pet travel-focused email list here and receive a FREE Pet Travel within Australia guide filled with tips and advice on how to plan your next pet adventure!

Questions? Join our FREE Facebook group, Pet Travel Adventures. Receive advice about pet care, dog training tips, and anything else to help you to travel with pets.

If you want to stay up-to-date on posts from Pawtal, I recommend joining me on your favourite social media platform (Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest or Twitter).

Pet Travel Planning Guide

Want help planning a pet adventure or need assistance finding a pet service? Request a pet service and we will reach out to our pet community to find you suitable options that meet your pet’s needs.

Download your Free Checklist

Enter your name and email below to have our FREE pet travel checklist sent to your inbox.
Never have to turn back again knowing you have forgotten a pet essential.

Pet and House Sitting

Mad Paws: The #1 pet-sitting company in Australia, offering a platform to browse from over 40,000 trusted and fully insured Pet Sitters across the nation. A $30.00 credit is offered on your first booking. Claim your $30.00 credit here

Trusted Housesitters: Discover free & unique homestays around the world, in exchange for caring for adorable pets. Trusted Housesitters is my #1 choice for house-sitting and free accommodations. Read more here

Oz House Sitters: Recommended as your pets can stay in the comfort of their familiar surroundings without the need for expensive boarding fees. Read more here

Pet Cloud Pet Sitters: Finding someone to care for your furry friend can be a challenge. Pet Cloud offers a range of pet-sitting services to ensure that your pet receives the best care possible in your absence. Use code MAKEPAWMEMORIES and get $10.00 off your 1st booking. Discover more here

Best pet-friendly Accommodation and restaurants

Booking.com: Every hotel you’ve ever thought of is on booking.com. Easy filtering option for “pet-friendly” to help find hidden gems! I use Booking.com when I know where I want to stay and need the cheapest price with Murray and Murphy.

Tripadvisor.com.au: Find restaurants, attractions, and other things to do. They even have a dog-friendly filter so I can easily locate somewhere to eat when I explore new places with my two goldies.

Dog Walking

Pet Cloud Dog Walking: A hassle-free way to book a dog walker as they offer flexible scheduling options. Book a walk at a time that works for you and your pet. Simply use the code MAKEPAWMEMORIES to get $10.00 off your first booking. Find out more by clicking here

Pet-friendly Rental Cars

Europcar: Offers both car and van rentals across various locations, including scenic Cairns. They pride themselves on being a pet-friendly service. Discover more here

Jucy Car Rentals: Perfect for pet adventures as all vehicles are equipped with the latest technology, including GPS navigation and Bluetooth connectivity. A range of extra features are available, such as child seats and bike racks. Ensure you mention you a bringing a pet prior to booking. Learn more here