You don't think about Queensland without thinking about beaches, and for dog owners, the good news is that some of these sandy stretches aren't just for humans. Your pup probably loves a splash in the surf or a romp on the sand, and there are plenty of dog-friendly beaches scattered across the state that will allow this (off-leash in some cases).

Sure, not all beaches in Queensland roll out the red carpet for our furry friends, but a fair few do—and they're absolute gems. We've rounded up the best dog-friendly beaches in Queensland where you and your four-legged companion can make the most of a day out together.

Our top dog-friendly beach picks in Queensland

There are plenty to choose from, so to help you hit the water quicker, we’ve selected the beach spots that are particularly catered to the canines:

The Spit, Gold Coast

The Spit can be found on the northern end of the district; it's an iconic beach area that offers a perfect mix of open ocean and broadwater, making it a go-to destination for a dog's day out. What makes The Spit even better for dog owners is the expansive off-leash area, where your pup can run wild and free. Starting at Muriel Henchman Avenue and stretching north to the sea wall, this designated space is a beach paradise for dogs.

When you arrive, you'll notice that this is a very popular spot with A LOT of dogs. If you're driving in, there's a large carpark at the northern end near the Seaway Kiosk, which tends to be a bit busier but offers some handy amenities. After a fun-filled day at the beach, you can rinse off your furry friend at the dog wash area, conveniently located near the access point. And if your pup has worked up an appetite, a doggy ice cream from the kiosk is the perfect way to end the day.

Note: For dogs that might find the ocean waves a bit too much, there's an alternative just a short walk away. On the eastern side of The Spit, the sheltered waters of the Marine Stadium offer a calmer environment, with another off-leash area where your dog can paddle and play without the crashing surf.

Deception Bay, Moreton Bay

Just 30 kilometres north of Brisbane, Deception Bay in Moreton Bay is a hidden gem in a growing residential area with easy access to both the river and the bay. Deception Bay is a place to go boating and picnicking, but what truly sets this area apart is its dog-friendly attitude, with plenty of space for your pup to roam off-leash.

Deception Bay’s off-leash area is a designated stretch that runs between Seaview Parade and Windlass Street and again between Wallin Avenue and Joseph Crescent. The area is well-maintained, and the kids can make the most of the nearby skatepark or cycleway, ensuring that everyone in the family has a great day out.

Red Beach, Bribie Island

Within the stunning Moreton Bay, Bribie Island is a short drive from Brisbane’s CBD and offers a convenient bridge connection to the mainland, making for an easy and enjoyable day trip. Here, you'll find Red Beach, one of Queensland’s most dog-friendly destinations.

Red Beach has a designated off-leash area and gentle waves along its expansive shoreline, making it an easy spot for dogs of all sizes. A delight for dogs, Red Beach is also a fantastic spot for humans who want to relax and soak in some natural, pristine beauty. Bring a good book!

Warana Beach, Sunshine Coast

Warana Beach on the Sunshine Coast stretches along a beautiful part of the coastline and has a generous off-leash area. While the beach is unpatrolled and not ideal for swimming, it’s perfect for a game of fetch. The expansive shoreline gives dogs plenty of room to roam, but it's important to note that access to Warana Beach for dogs is designated at specific points (numbered 229-238), which lead directly to the off-leash area.

Important note: Dogs are prohibited in the dunes or the Warana Foreshore Bushland Reserve to protect the local environment.

Home Beach, North Stradbroke Island

Home Beach on North Stradbroke Island is a short ferry ride from Cleveland, offering consistent surf and plenty of space for your pup to run free. Unlike many other beaches where restrictions can limit your dog’s day out, Home Beach is largely off-leash, with only specific areas of the island, like Amity Point and Flinders Beach, having restrictions in place.

Beyond the beach, North Stradbroke Island offers plenty of other activities for you and your dog to enjoy together. The island’s campgrounds are also dog-friendly, meaning you can extend your stay for the whole weekend!

Sunshine Beach, Sunshine Coast

Sunshine Beach on the Sunshine Coast is just south of Noosa National Park, with plenty of cafes and a wide, dog-friendly beach. The northern end of Sunshine Beach, stretching from Seaview Terrace North to the boundary of the national park, is a designated off-leash area. This is super close to the beachside surf club and plenty of cafes for a snack!

The beach is well-sheltered from westerly winds, providing a comfortable environment even on breezy days. However, it’s worth noting that the sea can be rough at times, so while it’s great for a run along the shore, it might not always be ideal for swimming.

Pallarenda Beach, Townsville

Pallarenda Beach in Townsville is in the northern hub and the city's only off-leash beach. Opposite the picturesque Magnetic Island, Pallarenda Beach's off-leash area is conveniently accessible between gates 9 and 10 off Cape Pallarenda Road and is super popular, especially on weekends.

The beach has ample parking and doggie bags with gentle waves and a backdrop of the natural beauty that makes up Townsville’s coastline.

Urangan Foreshore, Hervey Bay

Urangan Foreshore in Hervey Bay offers one of the area's best 24-hour off-leash beach sections. Located between the Margaret Street and Churchill Street groynes, this stretch of beach and its calm waters make it an ideal location for dogs of all sizes. For those who prefer a bit more space, Urangan Foreshore also offers a larger off-leash area between Urangan Pier and the Aquarium, available before 8 am and after 3 pm. This extended section of the beach is perfect for early risers!

Essential tips for visiting dog-friendly beaches in Queensland

When exploring Queensland's beaches (or any beaches) with your dog, it's essential to keep safety top of mind. While the sandy shores and sparkling waters might seem like a paradise for your pup, there are a few hazards that you should be aware of, particularly in the Tropical North:

• One of the most significant dangers on beaches north of Gladstone is saltwater crocodiles. These guys are more commonly found near creek mouths or in murky waters, so it's crucial to be vigilant.
• Before letting your dog near the water, always check the local signs and talk to locals about recent crocodile sightings. Beaches where crocodiles have been spotted typically have warning signs posted, but if you're ever in doubt, it's best to keep your dog on the sand and avoid the water altogether.
• Another potential threat in northern Queensland is marine stingers, which can be just as dangerous to dogs as they are to humans. While humans can seek protection from these jellyfish in stinger-netted swimming areas, dogs don't have the same luxury, so it's vital to keep them out of the water during stinger season, which peaks in the summer months but can be a concern year-round.
• Regardless of where you are along Queensland's coast, always be mindful of the temperature of the sand on hot days, as it can burn your dog's paws. To avoid this, visit the beach during cooler parts of the day or consider investing in protective booties for your pup.

Remember: Always encourage your dog to stay hydrated by drinking from the water fountains available at most dog-friendly beaches.

Getting outdoors and staying active with your dog

At Eukanuba, we love to see active dogs living their best lives, and we strongly encourage you to head out and make the most of the outdoors with your best friend - especially at the beach! However, it is important to remember that active everyday dogs' health and performance requires the right nutrition. You should also continually monitor your dog’s body condition to ensure they can stay active and happy. Check out our handy guide with tips on how to do this and keep your dog at an optimal weight for their activity level.