If you have ever turned up to a beach with the dog and found a sign telling you to turn around, you know how it goes on the coast. The rules change from beach to beach, and getting it wrong can mean a fine or a ruined morning. We live here, so here is the honest local rundown of the dog friendly beaches on the South Coast near us, and where your dog can actually go.
Cudmirrah Beach: dog friendly, on lead, right at our door
The easiest one first. Cudmirrah Beach is dog friendly on lead, and it is the beach our park backs straight onto. Walk through Surfside, onto the sand, and you are away. It means the morning walk starts at your front door, and there is plenty of quiet beach to share. Every one of our cabins, caravans and campsites is pet friendly, so wherever you stay with us, the beach is a short stroll away.
Swan Lake: the off leash favourite
When your dog wants a proper run, Swan Lake is the spot. There is an off leash area here, and it is a favourite with our guests. The water is calm and shallow in parts, so it is a gentle place for a dog to have a paddle. Pack a towel, they will use it. It is also a lovely base for a longer walk, and you will find more ideas in our guide to pet friendly bushwalks in the Shoalhaven.
Berrara Beach: keep this one for a day off
Just so you know before you walk down there, Berrara Beach does not allow dogs. It is a lovely beach and worth a visit yourself, but leave it for a day when the dog is happy back at the cabin.
A few more dog friendly beaches in the Shoalhaven
If you are exploring a little further afield, the Shoalhaven is one of the more dog friendly corners of NSW. A few our guests enjoy:
- Huskisson Beach at Huskisson
- Palm Beach at Sanctuary Point
- Basin View Boat Ramp at Basin View
Rules and off leash times do vary from spot to spot, so it is always worth a quick check of the Shoalhaven Council signage when you arrive. When it is time to refuel, plenty of local cafes welcome dogs too, and we have rounded up the best in our guide to pet friendly food destinations on the South Coast.
Please mind the nesting birds
One thing that matters on our shoreline. Between August and April, endangered beach nesting birds like the little tern and the pied oystercatcher raise their chicks along parts of the coast. During those months, please keep your dog on lead and clear of any marked nesting zones. It keeps the chicks safe, and it keeps dogs welcome on the beach for everyone who comes after you. You can read the full rules on our pet policy page.
Stay right on a dog friendly beach
The best part of a beach holiday with your dog is not having to drive anywhere to start it. At Surfside Cudmirrah Beach, every cabin, caravan and campsite is pet friendly, and the dog friendly sand is a short walk from your door. It is quieter and lovelier than ever in the cooler months, which is why we think winter is the best time to visit with your dog.
Book your stay online and check rates and availability, or get in touch with us on 02 4441 2182 and we will help you find the right spot for you and your dog.