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10 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Gold Coast, Australia in 2024

Genevieve Dugal

By Genevieve Dugal

pug dog in a shirt on the beach

If you love the beach as much as you love dogs, then getting your dog to the coast is likely one of your summer goals. After all, what’s better than relaxing on the sand with views of the ocean? However, finding a dog-friendly beach may prove challenging if you don’t know where to look. If you live in or near the Gold Coast and are looking for great places to take your dog, this article is for you! We compiled a list of 10 amazing spots that will get your pup running and playing in the sand!

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Top 10 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Gold Coast, Australia

1. Palm Beach Dog Beach

🗺️ Address: 📍 Palm Beach QLD 4221, Australia
🕐 Open Times: Open 24 hours
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: Yes
  • Considered a paradise for dogs, this beautiful beach is nestled between Tallebudgera Creek and Currumbin Creek.
  • It has been crowned Queensland’s cleanest beach three times.
  • It is better to go there early in the morning or on weekdays because it gets crowded, and parking becomes a real headache.
  • Be aware that the waves can be powerful at times, so always keep an eye out for your four-legged friend.

2. Tallebudgera Dog Beach

🗺️ Address: 📍 1511 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach QLD 4221, Australia
🕐 Open Times: Open 24 hours
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: Yes
  • This beautiful beach is a terrific place for dogs and their humans; it has soft white sand and clear waters.
  • You’ll likely see dogs walking around with big smiles, especially after a swim on a hot day!
  • There are stunning views of Burleigh Head National Park.
  • The entire beach is off-leash, much to the delight of your dog!
  • Parking is hectic, though, especially on weekends.

3. Muriel Henchman Park Beach, Main Beach

🗺️ Address: 📍 Main Beach QLD 4217, Australia
🕐 Open Times: Open 24 hours
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: Yes
  • This little gem marks the start of the dog-friendly beach leading to The Spit.
  • It provides access to both the Broadwater and the beachside.
  • There’s a superb view of the harbor.
  • It’s not too crowded, so your dog can stretch their paws in peace.

4. The Spit, Southport

🗺️ Address: 📍 Seaworld Dr, Main Beach QLD 4217, Australia
🕐 Open Times: Open 24 hours
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: Yes
  • The Spit is one of the most popular places for four-legged friends on the Gold Coast.
  • There are long stretches of sand with spectacular views.
  • It’s a nice place to watch the sun go down and share your fish and chips with your furry mate.
  • There is ample parking, plenty of amenities, dog bowls, and hoses to wash away your pup’s sandy adventure!

5. Currumbin Creek

🗺️ Address: 📍 Currumbin Creek, Queensland, Australia
🕐 Open Times: Open 24 hours
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: Yes
  • It’s a golden sand paradise for small and large dogs to run and frolic in the water.
  • You can also go to the dog-friendly surf beach just steps away from Currumbin Creek.
  • It’s always clean and well-maintained; the calm water of the river is ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking.
  • The puppy-friendly Dune Café is just a few steps away, perfect if you’re looking to get a little caffeine boost!

6. Biggera Waters Beach

🗺️ Address: 📍 Biggera Waters, Queensland 4216, Australia
🕐 Open Times: Open 24 hours
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: Yes, from 5 a.m. to 8 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily
  • It’s a fabulous place to walk in the morning or evening with your energetic dog.
  • Time restrictions apply for the off-leash dog swimming area, so be sure to check the signs before letting your dog run free.
  • The area is filled with bags to clean up after your buddy.
  • Take the path along the beach for a great view of Surfers Paradise!

7. Paradise Point Beach

🗺️ Address: 📍 152 The Esplanade, Paradise Point QLD 4216, Australia
🕐 Open Times: Open 24 hours
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: Yes, in the designated off-leash area
  • It’s a fantastic place to bring your family and fur baby — it’s a small beach, but the calm waters are perfect for your dog to swim in safely.
  • There are beautiful walkways and views of the
  • The off-leash dog area is on the foreshore next to Paradise Point Parklands.

8. Miami Beach

🗺️ Address: 📍 Miami Beach, Queensland, Australia
🕐 Open Times: Open 24 hours
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: No
  • This is one of the most beautiful beaches on the Gold Coast that isn’t too busy or touristy.
  • It’s a huge stretch of beach to stroll with your best mate on a leash.
  • You can relax and unwind while watching breathtaking views.
  • Many free car park spots are facing the sea.

9. North Kirra Beach

🗺️ Address: 📍 North Kirra Beach, Queensland, Australia
🕐 Open Times: Open 24 hours
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: No
  • It’s a vast stretch of coastline with surfing and fishing, with restaurants nearby.
  • This is an amazing place where you can find peace, as it’s not too crowded.
  • There’s a fantastic city view.
  • You must keep your dog on a leash at all times.

10. Kurrawa Beach

🗺️ Address: 📍 Kurrawa Beach, Queensland, Australia
🕐 Open Times: Open 24 hours
💲 Cost: Free
🐕 Off-Leash: No
  • There’s a long sandy beach for swimming and sunbathing.
  • Dogs are permitted if they remain on a leash at all times; however, they are prohibited when the flags are raised.
  • The nice small waves and clear water allow for safe swimming.
  • It’s not too crowded, even on weekends.
  • You can take a nice walk with your pup and go all the way to Surfers Paradise.

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Conclusion

The Gold Coast is a paradise for animal lovers with its abundance of pet-friendly cafes and hotels. There are also many dog-friendly beaches. In fact, there are so many, it’s difficult to choose which one to visit. We hope that this list will help you choose the perfect place to go with your beloved dog on your next trip to the Gold Coast!

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Featured Photo Credit: 220 Selfmade Studio, Shutterstock

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