Best dog-friendly beaches in Byron Bay & Brunswick Heads

Byron Shire is known for its stunning beaches and natural beauty, and there are several designated off-leash beaches and parks where dogs are welcome. Because of the region’s sensitive coastal environment, dog access is carefully managed, so it’s important to stick to signposted areas.

For current rules, maps and designated dog exercise areas, visit the Byron Shire Council website.

Byron Bay dog-friendly beaches and parks

Belongil Beach (south) – off-leash

• Location: Manfred Street towards the Main Beach car park
• Leash rules: Off-leash (clearly signposted sections only)

Belongil Beach South is one of the most popular dog-friendly beaches in Byron Bay. This designated off-leash stretch gives dogs space to run, play and swim.

Dogs must remain in the intertidal zone (on the sand) and off the dunes, but it’s otherwise a relaxed and social spot.

Tallow Beach (north of Jarman Street) – off-leash

• Location: Jarman Street access, Suffolk Park
• Leash rules: Off-leash (designated section)

Tallow Beach is one of the best off-leash beaches near Byron Bay, with a long stretch of sand perfect for energetic dogs.

As with other local beaches, dogs must stay on the sand and out of dune areas.

Beech Drive Lake Park

• Location: Beech Drive, Suffolk Park
• Leash rules: Off-leash in designated areas

Beech Drive Lake Park is a favourite with locals. This park offers a dedicated off-leash space with open grass and a peaceful lake setting

Dog-friendly cafes and restaurants nearby

• Top Shop Byron Bay – relaxed outdoor seating, very dog-friendly
• Folk Byron Bay – leafy courtyard where pups are welcome
• The Byron Bay General Store – great for breakfast with your dog

Dog-friendly accommodation nearby

• Reflections Lennox Head – an easy drive with dog-friendly cabins, tiny homes and campsites. Plus an enclosed dog-run with heaps of space to play.
• Reflections Ferry Reserve (Brunswick Heads) – great location near the freeway and river, complete with dog-friendly tiny homes, cabins and campsites.

Brunswick Heads dog-friendly parks and reserves

Brunswick Heads Main Beach (south of Surf Club) – off-leash

• Location: South Beach Road / The Terrace, Brunswick Heads NSW 2483
• Leash rules: Off-leash (designated section only)

Dogs are allowed off-leash south of the surf club for a designated stretch of Main Beach, south of the surf club. It’s a great option for a quieter walk with plenty of space to roam.

Dogs must stay within the intertidal zone and off dune areas.

New Brighton Beach – off-leash

• Location: The Esplanade, New Brighton, NSW 2483
• Leash rules: Off-leash (designated section)

New Brighton Beach offers a wide, open stretch of sand where dogs can run freely in the designated off-leash zone.

South Golden Beach – off-leash

• Location: Pacific Esplanade, South Golden Beach NSW 2483
• Leash rules: Off-leash (designated section)

Another excellent option for long beach walks, with a clearly defined off-leash area and plenty of space for dogs to explore.

Dog-friendly cafes and restaurants nearby

• The Footbridge Café – relaxed riverside dining with outdoor dog-friendly seating
• Old Maids Café – cosy spot where pups are welcome outside

Dog-friendly accommodation nearby

• Reflections Ferry Reserve – great location near the river and dog-friendly sites and cabins.

Dog-friendly Mullumbimby

Mullumbimby dog park

• Address: 152 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby
• Leash rules: Off-leash

A dedicated off-leash dog park, perfect for social dogs and a quick run around.

Heritage Park, Mullumbimby

• Locations: Mill Street, Mullumbimby NSW 2482
• Leash rules: Off-leash in designated areas; dogs must be kept away from playgrounds and shared facilities.

Offers a mix of open space and riverside walking, with designated off-leash sections. Dogs should be kept away from playgrounds and BBQ areas.

Explore Byron Shire with your dog

Whether you’re chasing long beach walks, an off-leash run or a dog-friendly spot for breakfast afterwards, Byron Bay and Brunswick Heads make it easy to include your pup in a coastal getaway.

Check local signage before you hit the sand, respect designated dog areas and sensitive dune environments, then settle in for a dog-friendly stay nearby at Reflections Lennox Head or Reflections Ferry Reserve.