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Dog Friendly Beaches in Hervey Bay

Hervey Bay is one of Queensland’s most relaxed and dog-friendly coastal destinations. With calm waters, long tidal flats and kilometres of foreshore pathways, it’s the perfect place to explore with your four-legged travel companion.

Unlike many coastal towns where dogs are restricted, several sections of Hervey Bay’s beaches allow dogs to run, splash and play - including large areas where dogs can be off-leash all day.

Whether your dog loves chasing waves, sniffing along the sand or simply walking beside you at sunset, Hervey Bay offers plenty of space to enjoy the beach together.

Map of Dog Friendly Beaches in Hervey Bay

The map below highlights the main sections of coastline where dogs are permitted on Hervey Bay beaches, including areas where dogs can run off-leash.

These areas are spread along the Hervey Bay foreshore, meaning visitors can usually find a dog-friendly beach within a short drive or walk.

You can also explore other places to visit with your dog in our guides to:

Off-Leash Dog Beaches in Hervey Bay

Several sections of the Hervey Bay coastline allow dogs to run freely off-leash. These areas are clearly signed and provide long stretches of sand where dogs can play safely under their owner’s supervision.

The main 24-hour off-leash beach areas currently include:

Scarness Beach

Tooan Tooan Creek to Scarness Jetty

This is one of the most popular dog-friendly beach sections in Hervey Bay. At low tide, the sand flats extend far into the bay, creating a huge open area where dogs can run and explore.

The calm waters also make this a great spot for dogs who enjoy paddling or learning to swim.

Located within this section, Shelly Beach is a well-known local favourite for dog walks. At low tide, the shoreline opens into wide sand flats scattered with small shells and tidal pools, creating an interesting environment for curious dogs.

The calm, shallow waters are also ideal for dogs that enjoy splashing in the shallows without strong surf.

Shelly Beach sits close to several foreshore parks and walking paths, making it easy to combine a beach visit with a longer coastal walk.

Urangan Beach

Margaret Street Groyne to Dayman Park (Reef World)

Urangan Beach includes one of the largest off-leash areas along the Hervey Bay foreshore. The wide tidal flats provide plenty of space for dogs to explore, particularly during low tide.

Shelly Beach

South of the Urangan Marina

Moolyyir Creek to Pulgul Creek

South of the Urangan Marina lies another quieter off-leash stretch of coastline. This area is less developed and tends to be less crowded, making it a good option for dogs that prefer wide open space.

Seasonal wildlife protections may apply here during shorebird nesting periods, so visitors should check local signage.

Dog Friendly Beach Etiquette

Hervey Bay’s beaches are shared by locals, visitors and wildlife. Following a few simple guidelines helps ensure these areas remain welcoming for dog owners.

When visiting dog-friendly beaches:

  • Keep your dog under effective control

  • Ensure your dog responds to recall in off-leash areas

  • Carry waste bags and clean up after your dog

  • Be respectful of swimmers, children and other beach users

  • Check local signage for leash requirements or seasonal restrictions

If a section of beach is not clearly marked as off-leash, dogs should remain on a leash.

Best Times to Visit Dog Friendly Beaches

While dogs are welcome throughout the day in designated areas, many locals prefer visiting the beach early morning or late afternoon.

These times often offer:

  • Cooler temperatures for dogs

  • Fewer visitors along the foreshore

  • Beautiful sunrise and sunset views across the bay

  • Large open sand areas during low tide

Hervey Bay’s calm waters mean many beaches remain safe for dogs to paddle even when the tide is higher.

Staying Near Dog Friendly Beaches

One of the advantages of visiting Hervey Bay with a dog is how close many beaches are to accommodation, parks and walking paths.

Homes like Vila Paus, located along the Urangan foreshore, sit within easy reach of several dog-friendly beach sections including the off-leash areas near Shelly Beach. This makes it easy to enjoy a morning walk along the sand or a relaxed sunset stroll with your dog.

You can explore more options in our guide to Dog Friendly Accommodation in Hervey Bay.

Explore More Dog Friendly Places in Hervey Bay

Planning a holiday with your dog? These guides highlight other pet-friendly spots around the Fraser Coast:

Together, these resources make it easier to plan a visit where dogs are welcome across beaches, parks and local businesses.

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