Dog-friendly beaches in South Coast

Collers Beach is a small, tucked-away bay south of Mollymook with 24-hour off-leash access. What makes it distinctive are the rock ledges and tidal pools — depending on the tide, there are sheltered pockets for dogs to explore and wade through. The water is generally calmer than the open beach, and you can walk along the waterline through to Mollymook Beach. Parking is limited to a small car park, so it tends to stay quieter than bigger beaches.

MM Beach is an off-leash dog beach where families with kids and dogs regularly share the sand without issue. The water is calm and sheltered enough for dogs to swim comfortably, and there's a walking path that extends along the coast. Bins and bags are provided, and there's parking nearby. Visitors often mention it as one of their dogs' favourite spots, with the combination of open sand and gentle water making it easy for dogs to burn energy.

Coniston Dog Beach is a dedicated off-leash beach that's accessible via a short walk up a paved path. The beach itself is well-maintained and has a community feel — regulars describe it as a place where dogs and families share the space comfortably. The water access is straightforward, and the smaller scale of the beach keeps things manageable. It's a reliable everyday option for Wollongong dog owners.

McCauley's Beach is an off-leash dog beach with a walking track that passes through land with Aboriginal historical significance. The beach is sandy with good swimming access, and the off-leash freedom extends the full length of the beach at all times. It connects to Sandon Point further along the coast, so you can extend the walk if your dog has more energy to burn. Parking is available nearby.

Bengello Beach is a quiet off-leash beach with 24-hour access. The setting feels remote and uncrowded — this isn't a busy suburban beach. There's drinking water, parking, and bins available. It's a peaceful spot for a relaxed beach outing with your dog.

Jones Beach has a designated off-leash section at the southern end, with the rest of the beach on-leash. The dog-friendly stretch gives dogs access to sand and water, and the Kiama Downs setting is scenic. Dogs must be on-leash when entering and exiting the off-leash area. Stacks Eatery is a short walk away if you're after a coffee.

Puckey's Beach is an off-leash green zone beach with good parking, toilets, and space to spread out. It's close to the lifesavers' patrol area, so human swimmers can enjoy the water too. Check signage for current zone boundaries.

Washerwomans Beach is an off-leash dog beach with calm water and a sheltered lagoon at one end. The gentle waves and family-friendly atmosphere make it a relaxed spot. Toilets are near the car park, and there's good parking.

Dog-friendly beach in Huskisson with an off-leash stretch where your pup can…

Bombo Beach is a larger, open stretch of coastline with wide views out to the surrounding headland. It offers plenty of space for dogs to move, but conditions can be rough at times, with stronger waves than more sheltered beaches.

Dog-friendly beach in Bulli with on-leash walking areas and plenty of shade.

Dog-friendly beach in Primbee with an off-leash stretch where your pup can run…

Dog-friendly beach in Jervis Bay with space for your dog to explore off lead…

Dog-friendly beach in East Corrimal.

Dog-friendly beach in Port Kembla.

Dog-friendly beach in Bulli.