Top Dog-Friendly Beaches in Torquay: Where to Take Your Pup for a Splash

Here’s a comprehensive guide to the top dog-friendly beaches in Torquay, covering exact locations, off-leash rules, seasonal restrictions, amenities, and tips to ensure both you and your pup have a safe, fun day by the ocean. Overall, Torquay offers several beaches where dogs can run free (either year-round or seasonally), with Whites Beach and a section of Surf Beach being truly off-leash at all times. Other popular spots—such as Fishermans Beach, Front Beach, Half Moon Bay, and Jan Juc Beach, allow off-leash access during specified months or times of day. Most beach entry points display signage detailing the rules, but it’s always best to check the Surf Coast Shire website or local notices before heading out. This article breaks down each key dog-friendly beach, including exact boundaries, peak times to visit, parking options, nearby facilities, and safety considerations, backed by official sources and recent beach guides. Also check out our Best Dog Friendly Cafes in Torquay.

1. Whites Beach: Year-Round Off-Leash Freedom

Whites Beach (sometimes called Winterley Road Beach) runs east from Deep Creek all the way to the Esplanade, offering dogs full off-leash access year-round 

• Exact Boundaries: From Deep Creek (just east of Whites Beach Picnic Area) to the end of the Esplanade (near the Torquay Surf Beach carpark). Signs at Aquila Avenue mark the western edge of the off-leash zone.
  

• Parking & Access: There’s a large carpark off Whites Beach Road near Deep Creek Picnic Area. From there, it’s a 2-minute walk to sand. Also accessible via the Esplanade carpark at Surf Beach.
  

• Amenities: Picnic tables, public toilets near Deep Creek, and shaded grassed areas. There are no lifeguards, so water-safety vigilance is crucial.
  

• Beach Features: Wide, sandy stretch with gentle waves, ideal for off-lead fetch. Rocks at either end discourage intense currents, but always watch for hidden rips.
  

• Why It’s Great: Since Whites Beach allows dogs off-leash at all times, it’s perfect for year-round play—even in summer when many nearby beaches impose restrictions. Because it’s a bit further from Torquay’s main township, it tends to be quieter than Surf Beach.

2. Surf Beach (Western Section): Off-Leash All Year

• Surf Beach is Torquay’s main surf-break, but a designated stretch immediately west of Rocky Point is permanently off-leash for dogs

  • Exact Boundaries: From Rocky Point (just east of the Torquay Surf Life Saving Club) to the western carpark entry on the Esplanade. Look for signage indicating “Dogs Off-Leash”

  • Parking & Access: The Surf Beach carpark (corner of The Esplanade and Geelong Road) has ample spaces and direct beach access. A second smaller lot off The Esplanade (west side) serves the off-leash zone.

  • Amenities: Public toilets are located at the Surf Life Saving Club precinct. There’s a kiosk/café nearby (Torquay Beach Pavilion) for coffee and snacks.

  • Beach Features: Stronger waves and occasional rips—ideal for energetic dogs who love to sprint but be cautious near rocky outcrops.

  • Why It’s Great: Even in peak summer, when other beaches restrict dogs, this western section remains open. The proximity to town and cafés makes it convenient for a quick morning run or a sunset stroll.

3. Fishermans Beach: Seasonal Off-Leash (Winter Months & Evenings)

Fishermans Beach sits just east of Jan Juc and is off-leash only during the quieter months (May 1 – Sept 30) or in early mornings/late afternoons throughout summer

• Exact Boundaries: From the rock wall at the western end (near Jan Juc Scout Hall) eastward to the groyne at Fishermans Beach. Check the seasonal signposted times.

• Parking & Access: Small sealed lot off Argyle Street (adjacent to the beach access stairs). Because it’s a narrower strip, park early on weekends.

• Amenities: No lifeguards during winter; public toilets are uphill in Jan Juc. Beware of occasional sand erosion in winter storms.

• Beach Features: Gentle mid-sized waves—ideal for timid dogs who prefer shallow water. In winter, the beach is virtually empty, so even shy dogs can stretch their legs.

• Why It’s Great: If you don’t mind the crisp winter air, Fishermans Beach lets dogs run free amid iconic Jan Juc rock formations. During summer, aim for before 9 am or after 5 pm to avoid crowds and enjoy off-leash time.

4. Front Beach (Torquay Foreshore): Off-Leash Before 9 AM & After 6 PM (Oct 1 – Apr 30)

Front Beach is directly opposite the Torquay Visitor Information Centre, with a posted sign detailing off-leash windows in warmer months

• Exact Boundaries: From the Torquay Visitor Centre jetty west to the end of the rock wall at the Torquay Surf Lifesaving Club. Look for the “Dogs Off-Leash” flagposts near both ends.

• Parking & Access: The main carpark (corner of The Esplanade and The Parade) is adjacent to the beach ramp. Metered parking is free before 9 am and after 6 pm.

• Amenities: Lifeguards on duty Oct 1 – Apr 30 during beach patrol hours. Toilets and showers at the surf club precinct. Small café (Beach Shack Café) nearby.

• Beach Features: Moderate surf breaks—best for water-savvy dogs. The jetty and beach promenade are great for leash walks at any time.

• Why It’s Great: In summer, early birds and late-day visitors can avoid the crowds and let dogs romp leash-free. During winter, dogs must stay on leash at all times (May 1 – Sept 30).
  

5. Half Moon Bay: Seasonal Off-Leash Access (May – Sept)

• Half Moon Bay, with its sheltered cove and rock-pool, is a picturesque spot east of Torquay township where dogs roam off-leash in the cooler months.

  • Exact Boundaries: From the breakwater at the eastern end (near Torquay Golf Course) west to the ledge at the western cliff. Look for signs at the beach entry stating “Off-Leash Novice.”.

  • Parking & Access: Small gravel lot off Cliff Street (access via Georges Road). Limited spaces—arrive before 8 am on weekends.

  • Amenities: No lifeguards in winter; toilets are at the nearby golf club. Watch for slippery rocks along the northern edge.

  • Beach Features: Calm waters, shallow sandbars, and occasional seaweed patches. Great for dogs who love exploring rock pools and chasing small waves during winter.

  • Why It’s Great: Because of its cove shape, Half Moon Bay is less windy in cooler weather, making it ideal for a brisk walk or splash session when other beaches are too choppy.

6. Jan Juc Beach: Limited Off-Leash (Sunrise & Sunset in Summer; All Day in Winter)

Often bundled with Fishermans Beach, Jan Juc Beach itself allows off-leash before 9 am and after 6 pm (Oct 1 – Apr 30), and all day from May 1 – Sept 30.

• Exact Boundaries: From the rock wall (western edge) to the creek under the Jan Juc Surf Lifesaving Club on the eastern side. Seasonal signage is posted at each entry.
  

• Parking & Access: Large sealed lot behind the Jan Juc Recreation Reserve (access via Jan Juc Road). From there, a 3-minute walk down the wooden stairs leads to the beach.
  

• Amenities: Lifeguards patrol during summer. Public toilets next to the surf club. A licensed café overlooks the dunes.
  

• Beach Features: Strong ocean swells in summer—best for athletic, water-confident dogs. In winter, the surf is calmer, and high tides rarely cover the entire sand.
  

• Why It’s Great: Jan Juc Beach is less crowded than its namesake café precinct (Jan Juc township) and offers wide, sloping sands that are perfect for off-leash sprinting outside peak summer times.
  

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  7. Front Beach (Torquay Foreshore) – Summer Morning & Evening Window

  Although already covered above, it’s worth reiterating: during the busy summer season (Oct 1 – Apr 30), you can bring dogs off-leash to Front Beach before 9 am and after 6 pm 

  • Popularity: Because it’s central, Front Beach gets busy midday. Arrive early (before sunrise) or stay for sunset to ensure off-leash time amidst fewer swimmers.

  • Pro Tip: Combine an early-morning run with a stop at Beach Shack Café for a coffee before it opens to the public.

8. Things to Know Before You Go

1. Check Seasonal Signage: Always read the posted signs at beach entrances. Many Torquay beaches switch between on-leash and off-leash depending on the time of year or day.

2. Rescue Dogs Beware: Some beaches (e.g., Fishermans, Jan Juc) allow off-leash all winter but require leashes in summer. Plan visits accordingly.

3. Watch for Rips & Rocks: Although Torquay’s surf is relatively mild compared to Bells Beach, hidden rips can form near rocky headlands (Fishermans, Jan Juc). Always keep an eye on your dog when swimming.

4. Tide Timings: During high tide, many beaches have reduced sand space. Check tide charts for Torquay to avoid getting caught in rising water—especially at Fishermans and Jan Juc.

5. Bring Fresh Water & Shade: There’s limited shade on the dunes; bring a pop-up umbrella or sun shelter. Freshwater bowls are scarce, so pack ample water for your dog.

6. Be Mindful of Wildlife: In winter, migrating whales pass the Torquay coast. Seals may also appear near rocky points—keep dogs at a safe distance.
   

   

9. Nearby Alternatives (If Torquay Beaches Are Too Crowded)

• Anglesea Main Beach (off-leash east of East End, all year) — 15 km east of Torquay; open year-round

• Aireys Inlet (Loutit Bay) — 20 km east; off-leash anytime, year-round, with rock pools and calm waters. Great option when Torquay beaches are busy.

• Ocean Grove Beach (Dog Beach Section) — 35 km north; permanent off-leash zone from Nelson Street to Barwon Heads Road. Useful for a longer day trip.
  

10. Safety & Etiquette

• Clean Up After Your Dog: Always carry biodegradable bags and dispose of waste in bins located at carparks or nearby reserves.

• Respect Other Beachgoers: Even in off-leash zones, keep control of your dog. Not everyone is comfortable with enthusiastic pups sprinting by.

• Keep Vaccinations Up to Date: Dogs can pick up worms or parasites in the sand and water—prioritize routine vet checks and deworming.

• Beware of Seasonal Algal Blooms: Although rare in Torquay, red tides can occur; check local council alerts before letting dogs swim.