A Complete Guide To Brisbane's Dog Beaches
Looking for a dog beach near Brisbane where your pup can splash in the water, roam off-leash, and live their best salty-haired life? While Brisbane doesn’t have traditional beaches right in the city, it’s surrounded by some incredible coastal spots that are well worth the drive.
From Bribie Island to Deception Bay, we’ve rounded up the best dog-friendly beaches (and a few splash-worthy parks) where your pup can dig, swim, sniff, and socialise. Whether you’re after a big day out or a peaceful morning paddle, there’s a spot with your dog’s name on it.
Below you’ll find our full list of Brisbane’s best dog beaches, plus a handy interactive map to help you plan your next adventure. Each listing includes practical info like leash rules, parking, facilities, and whether there’s coffee nearby (because, priorities).
Where Are Dog Beaches Near Brisbane?
Use the interactive map below to discover Brisbane’s best dog beaches and swimming spots. Tick “Search as I move the map” to explore more options as you plan your next dog-friendly day out.
☀️ What to Bring for a Dog Beach Day
A few beach essentials for a smooth outing:
- Drinking water & portable bowl (ocean water = upset tummies)
- Towel for your pup (and one for yourself!)
- Shade if there’s none available (umbrella or beach tent)
- Lead, poop bags, treats & ID tag
- Water shoes if you’re visiting spots with tidal flats or rocky patches
The Best Dog Beaches Near Brisbane
Here are Brisbane’s best coastal spots where your dog can stretch their legs, splash around, and soak up that sweet seaside freedom.
Nudgee Beach Dog Park
A creek-side off-leash zone with agility equipment, grassy space, and water access. Includes fenced and open areas. Great spot for a splash and a play, just 20-30 mins from Brisbane.
Learn more: Nudgee Beach Dog Park
Raby Bay Dog Beach (Cleveland)
Just 30 minutes south of the CBD, this bayside beach is a local fave for off-leash fun. There’s proper sand, calm water, plenty of parking, and a dog-friendly café nearby. Heads up: it gets busy on weekends. Not fenced.
Learn more: Raby Bay Dog Beach
Ninjas Dog Beach Strip (Clontarf)
Located 30 minutes north of the city, this is an on-leash beach. Great for dogs who love a leashed walk or swim. Calm, quiet, and next to shops and toilets.
Learn more: Ninjas Dog Beach Strip
Red Beach (Bribie Island)
One of the best long-stretch off-leash beaches near Brisbane. About 90 mins north. Follow signage carefully, as some sections are on-leash or dog-prohibited. Popular, but spacious.
Learn more: Red Beach Dog Beach
Kedron Brook (Inner North Brisbane)
Not a beach, but worth a mention. This creek-side off-leash area has grassy space and water access. Perfect for a local splash-and-play if you don’t want to drive far.
Learn more: Kedron Brook Dog Park
Deception Bay Dog Beach
50 minutes from Brisbane, this beach is open and quiet with calm water and lots of space at low tide. Dogs are allowed off-leash in signed areas, and on the footpath during set hours.
Learn more: Deception Bay Dog Beach
Beachmere Off-Leash Dog Beach
About an hour north. Includes a fenced dog park, off-leash beach access, walking tracks, BBQ area, dog wash and water station. A great all-rounder with plenty of space.
Learn more: Beachmere Off-Leash Dog Beach
Woorim Beach (Bribie Island)
A surf beach with an off-leash area and scenic coastal views. Dogs must remain leashed through the bush track from the car park, but can run free once you reach the sand. Facilities nearby.
Learn more: Woorim Dog Beach (Bribie Island)
Did We Miss a Dog Beach?
We love discovering new dog-friendly places around Brisbane! If you’ve found a beach not listed here, send us the details via Instagram or via our Contact Form. Thank you! 💞🐾
FAQs About Dog Beaches Near Brisbane
Here are some of the most common questions we get about dog beaches near Brisbane.
Are there any off-leash beaches in Brisbane city?
Nope – there aren’t any ocean beaches within Brisbane’s inner suburbs, but there are some great off-leash spots within an hour or so, like Raby Bay, Red Beach, and Beachmere.
What tide is best for visiting Deception Bay or Beachmere?
Low or mid-tide is ideal! These beaches open up a lot more space when the tide is out, making them great for walking and playing.
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.