Taking the kids to the beach is one thing, but what about the four-legged member of the family? The good news is our region has some brilliant off-leash beaches where your dog can swim, splash and run free while you soak up the coastal views.
We’ve rounded up the best dog-friendly beaches across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Port Stephens, from calm harbour beaches to wide open ocean stretches. Just remember to always check the signage when you arrive, as council rules can change and some areas have time restrictions.
Newcastle
Horseshoe Beach
Tucked just inside Nobbys Head on the harbour side, Horseshoe Beach is Newcastle’s only fully off-leash beach and it’s a firm local favourite. The water is calm and sheltered, which makes it a great swim for dogs of all confidence levels, and the sand dunes behind the beach keep things contained so you don’t need to worry about your dog wandering onto a road.
There’s a large car park at the western end, and it’s an easy walk to cafes around Queens Wharf if you want to grab a coffee afterwards. It does get busy with dogs on weekends and sunny mornings, so head early if your dog prefers a quieter swim.
Ballast Ground & Pitt Street Reserve, Stockton
Dogs aren’t permitted on the main patrolled stretch of Stockton Beach, but there are two off-leash reserves close by on the calm harbour side of the peninsula. Ballast Ground is near the Stockton Ferry Terminal, and Pitt Street Reserve is on the eastern side of Stockton, across the water from Nobbys Lighthouse. Both are confirmed leash-free areas on City of Newcastle’s official list, with grassy space and water access, and both are popular with locals looking for a quieter alternative to Horseshoe Beach.
Lake Macquarie
Redhead Beach
Redhead Beach offers one of the largest off-leash stretches of coastline in the region, with dogs allowed off-leash south of Second Creek at all times. Park at the Cain Street car park and follow the bush path down to the beach.
Since November 2023, dogs have been prohibited (not just on-lead) on the stretch between First and Second Creek, so keep to the area south of Second Creek to stay on the right side of the rules. Council rangers do patrol and issue fines for dogs in the prohibited zone, so it pays to know the boundary before you arrive.
Blacksmiths Beach
Part of the long Nine Mile Beach, the off-leash section at Blacksmiths runs from the car park off Awabakal Avenue north to the Belmont Golf Club boundary, and it’s leash-free at all times. It’s a wide, open stretch with plenty of room to run.
One thing to watch for: this section of beach also permits 4WDs with a permit, so keep an eye out for vehicles while your dog is off-leash.
Hams Beach, Caves Beach
Access Hams Beach via the car park off Mawson Close. The off-leash area was expanded in 2024 and now stretches around 860 metres north from the car park, giving dogs plenty of room to swim and run. It’s leash-free at all times.
Dogs aren’t permitted further south on the patrolled section of Caves Beach near the sea caves, so stick to the northern end.
Pendlebury Park, Bonnells Bay
If you’re after a quieter, lake-side option, Pendlebury Park is a lovely leash-free spot bounded by Grand Parade and the water’s edge. It’s calm and picturesque, with a boat ramp and playground nearby, making it a nice change of pace from the ocean beaches if you’re after a gentle paddle rather than waves.
Port Stephens
Bagnalls Beach, Corlette
Bagnalls Beach is often described as dog heaven, and it’s easy to see why. It’s leash-free 24 hours a day, with shallow, calm water that’s perfect for dogs (and puppies) getting used to the beach. There’s plenty of parking, shade and lovely views across the bay, plus a picnic area and playground nearby if the humans want to make a day of it.
Billy Beach, Mallabula
A peaceful harbour beach with shallow water, Billy Beach is leash-free all day. Park at the Caswell Reserve car park off Fairlands Road and take the boardwalk down to the beach (dogs need to stay on-lead along the boardwalk itself). Once you’re on the sand, your dog is free to run, swim and mingle with other pups.
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