The Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Tasmania

If you live in or have visited Tasmania, you'll agree that this beautiful island state is brimming with natural wonders and scenic landscapes at every turn. From stunning beaches to lush rainforests, Tasmania has something for everyone.

If we dive into the beaches, we find that Tasmania has some great pet-friendly options with over 4,882 kilometres of coastline. So to help you and your furry friend get outside and enjoy them, we've compiled the best dog-friendly beaches so you can bask in the sun, play fetch, and swim in the crystal-clear waters with your four-legged friend.

The Benefits of Taking Your Dog to the Beach

A trip to the beach is a fun and rewarding experience for you and your furry friend. You'll enjoy a great bonding experience while improving their physical and mental health. Dogs need regular exercise to maintain their physical health and prevent obesity, and running, playing, and swimming at the beach creates the perfect opportunity to burn off excess energy and stay in shape.

In some cases, the beach also provides an excellent opportunity for socialisation. Dogs are social animals, and they really enjoy spending time with other dogs and people. If your dog is good with other dogs, they can interact and learn necessary social skills at the beach while receiving positive mental stimulation. The beach offers a new and exciting environment for your dog to explore, which can help to prevent boredom and stimulate their senses. Digging in the sand, chasing waves, and playing fetch can all stimulate your dog and help keep them engaged and entertained.

Finally, if your dog likes the water, swimming is a great form of exercise. This low-impact activity can help to improve your dog's cardiovascular health, build muscle strength, and improve joint mobility. Just be sure to supervise your dog while in the water and keep them away from dangerous currents or waves.

The Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Tasmania

Primrose Sands

Primrose Sands is a hidden gem that is just waiting to be discovered by beach lovers and pet owners alike. Nestled on the east coast of Tasmania, this charming seaside town boasts a pristine beach surrounded by eclectic beachside shacks and offers glorious sunsets over the sea.

Primrose Sands is a pet-friendly beach that always has plenty of people walking their dogs along the sand. However, it's important to note that time restrictions are in place, and during most of the day, dogs must be kept on a leash. However, during the off-peak hours, the beach becomes an off-leash paradise where your dog can run and play to their heart's content.

The soft sand and gentle waves make Primrose Sands a perfect place for your dog to exercise, play, and explore. If you're in Hobart, Primrose Sands is just a 45-minute drive, so make a day trip out of it, bring a picnic and soak up the sun with your furry friend.

Location: Primrose Sands

Sayers beach

Cockle Creek sits at the southernmost tip of Tasmania, making it the most southerly location accessible by vehicle in Australia. The beach at Cockle Creek offers stunning views of the Tasmanian wilderness and the Southern Ocean.

The creek that runs through the area separates the pet-friendly Sayers Beach from the Southwest National Park, which happens to be home to the elusive Tasmanian devil. Sayers Beach is an entirely pet-friendly, off-leash beach with a range of attractions, activities, and historical sites to see while you are there (be sure to check out the whale sculpture).

If you and your dog also like to hike, Cockle Creek offers an easy four-hour walk to Australia's most southerly point, South Cape Bay. Camping is free and pet-friendly, but you'll need to be entirely self-sufficient as the nearest supermarket and fuel are located in Dover, approximately 40 minutes drive away.

Location: Sayers Beach

Couta Rocks

The stunning Couta Rocks on Tasmania's unspoiled West Coast is nestled away from the well-beaten tourist trail. This spot boasts long stretches of sandy beaches, surrounded by striking elongated rock formations and breathtaking sunsets over the ocean. This combination creates a truly picturesque and unforgettable experience for anyone who visits.

The area offers boating, camping, snorkelling, diving, and 4WDing, and you may be lucky enough to see a wild Tasmanian devil in the evenings. Couta Rocks is a great way to hit the beach with your furry friend, immerse yourselves in nature, and enjoy a little peace and tranquillity.

Location: Couta Rocks

Bay of Fires

Tucked away in the North East Region of Tasmania lies the stunning and highly sought-after Bay of Fires. The conservation reserve boasts an impressive 40 beaches, each with their own unique beauty and charm.

This region has something for everyone, from serene lagoons to sprawling bays and pristine white sand. Bay of Fires earned a spot in the Top 10 Best Beaches in Australia for 2018, and there are plenty of pet-friendly campgrounds in the southern section of the conservation reserve area if you want to turn your beach trip into an extended holiday.

The pet-friendly beaches to explore within this area include Swimcart Beach, Cosy Corner North and South and Sloop Reef (just be aware that no toilet facilities are available at this beach). So whether you're a seasoned camper, beachgoer, or just looking to explore the beauty of Tasmania, Bay of Fires has something for every person and their dog.

Location: Bay of Fires

Clarks Beach

Clarks Beach, located in Coningham, is an excellent choice if you are looking for a quiet and peaceful spot to let your furry friend run free. Accessible via Coningham Road, the beach is well-marked by a sign just 200 metres past Old Station Road. You'll see a well-maintained gravel track that leads 200 metres down the slope to the sandy shore. However, the last 20 metres of the trail can be a bit rough, so it is advisable to take care while walking.

Dogs can run and play without a leash, and the beach is relatively small, making it easy to watch your pet while they enjoy themselves. It is important to note that plastic bags are not provided, so be sure to bring your own. Clarks Beach is a great spot for dog owners looking for a secluded and peaceful place to enjoy a day out.

Location: Clarks Beach

Seven Mile Beach

Seven Mile Beach, located on the southeastern coast of Tasmania, is a stunning stretch of coastline approximately 20 minutes drive from Hobart. A popular spot for swimming and surfing, dogs are permitted on the beach under effective control.

You can walk along the sandy shoreline, which stretches for seven miles (hence its name.) and takes you across Sandy Point and back along the sand flats of Five Mile Beach. We recommend ending the walk at the timber steps positioned at the western end of Five Mile Beach to the picnic area and car park to take in the views of the Tasman Sea.

Location: Seven Mile Beach

Beach Safety Tips for Dogs

Heading to the beach with your dog is a lot of fun, but it's important to keep them safe from potential hazards. To ensure this, consider the following:

1. Keep your dog on a leash when necessary: Some beaches require dogs to be on a leash, so check the rules before you go. Even if it's not needed, keeping your dog on a leash can prevent them from running off, getting lost, or getting into dangerous situations.


2. Provide fresh water and shade: Dogs can quickly dehydrate and overheat at the beach. Bring plenty of fresh water and a shaded area to rest in.


3. Watch for signs of overheating or exhaustion: Especially on hot days, watch for signs of panting, drooling, or lethargy, and take breaks in the shade or in a cool, air-conditioned area as needed.


4. Be aware of potential hazards: The beach can pose some dangers for dogs, such as strong currents, waves, and wildlife. Keep your dog away from dangerous areas and watch for signs of distress. If your dog gets stung by a jellyfish or encounters other wildlife, seek veterinary care immediately.


5. Pick up after your dog and dispose of waste properly: It's essential to pick up after your dog and dispose of waste properly to keep the beach clean and safe for everyone. Bring bags to pick up the smelly stuff and dispose of them in the trash cans provided.

Get ready for some fun in the sun

You now have the ultimate list of dog-friendly beaches in Tasmania, so get ready for some fun in the sun and a great day (or days) out with your best friend. Eukanuba is here to help assist your dog's ultimate performance with the power of nutritional science. We love seeing happy, healthy and active dogs enjoying the natural beauty of Australia!