A Complete Guide To Adelaide's Dog Beaches
Looking for a beach in Adelaide where your pup can sprint off-lead, splash in the surf, and make new friends? Adelaide’s coastline is packed with dog-friendly beaches perfect for wagging tails and sandy paws. Whether your dog prefers calm, shallow water for a first swim or open stretches of sand for zoomies, there’s a spot to suit every personality.
Below you’ll find an interactive map and local insights into the best dog beaches in Adelaide, including tips on parking, shaded spots, and nearby cafés.
If your pup isn’t quite ready for waves yet, check out our guide to Adelaide’s fenced dog parks — perfect for building confidence before hitting the beach.
Map: Where Are Dog Beaches in Adelaide?
Use the map below to explore dog-friendly beaches across Adelaide.
🧺 What to Bring
A few beach essentials for a smooth outing:
- Towels for both of you
- Plenty of drinking water and a portable bowl (saltwater makes dogs sick)
- Shade (umbrella or tent)
- Tennis ball or frisbee
- Poop bags — always
Top Spots for Dog-Friendly Beach Days Around Adelaide
We found a total of 9 off-lead dog beaches near Adelaide. Each has its own charm — from quiet local spots to long sandy stretches perfect for a morning run.
O’Sullivan Dog Beach
Dogs are permitted at all times off-leash between the areas of Selway Terrace and Heather Street.
Learn more: O’Sullivan Dog Beach
Christies Beach
Dogs are allowed to be off-leash at a section north of Heather Street.
Learn more: Christies Beach
Maslin Dog Beach
Maslin Beach in the City of Onkaparinga is sure to have something for everyone! It’s Australia’s first nudist beach, however, the off-leash dog section of the beach is part of the northern side of the beach, on which you can remain clothed.
Learn more: Maslin Dog Beach
Sellicks Beach
Dogs are permitted off-leash at any time between the northern side of Robert Street, Sellicks Beach, to the southern boundary of the council area, also known as Cactus Canyon.
Learn more: Sellicks Beach
Aldinga Beach
Aldinga Beach is a popular beach for divers, swimming, and surfing. Dogs are allowed to be off-leash at any time in a section on the northern side of Ocean Street.
Learn more: Aldinga Beach
Seaford Beach
Dogs are allowed off-leash anytime between Tiller Drive, Seaford to the north, and Robertson Road, Moana to the south.
Learn more: Seaford Beach
Moana Beach
Dogs are allowed to be exercised off-leash on a section of Moana Beach. Check the beach signage for detailed information.
Learn more: Moana Beach
Silver Sands
Dogs must be on-leash between 10 am – 8 pm during daylight savings.
Learn more: Silver Sands
Port Noarlunga Beach
Dogs are welcome at Port Noarlunga Beach, but must be on-leash between 10am and 8pm during daylight saving time. Outside these hours, they can enjoy the sand off-leash, provided they remain under effective control. Dogs are not permitted on the jetty between 10am and 8pm during daylight saving.
Learn more: Port Noarlunga Beach
Did We Miss a Dog Beach?
We love discovering new dog-friendly places around Adelaide! If you’ve found a beach not listed here, send us the details via Instagram or via our Contact Form. Thank you! 💞🐾
FAQs About Adelaide's Dog Beaches
Here are some of the most common questions we get about dog beaches around Adelaide.
Are dogs allowed on all beaches in Adelaide?
No. Only specific stretches of beach are dog-friendly. Most Adelaide beaches have seasonal or timed restrictions — dogs are often not allowed between 10 am and 8 pm from December to February. Outside those hours (and during winter), many beaches allow dogs off-lead or on-lead. Always check local council signs before heading out.
Which Adelaide dog beaches are best for off-lead play?
The most popular all-year off-lead area is O’Sullivan Beach Dog Beach. Other great options are Seacliff, Christies Beach, Moana, and Silver Sands, which allow off-lead access during certain times of the day.
Can I take my puppy to a dog beach?
It depends on your puppy’s age and vaccination schedule, so it’s best to talk to your vet before heading out.
Puppies are still growing, both physically and socially, and overexercising them or exposing them to rough play can lead to injuries or fear of other dogs later on. Focus on having calm, happy experiences with your puppy – that’s how you raise a confident little beach buddy for life.
Do Adelaide’s dog beaches have shade or grassy areas?
Most beaches are open with minimal cover, so it’s smart to bring your own umbrella or shade tent in summer.