Dog-Friendly Beaches on the Sunshine Coast: Off-Leash Guide

The Sunshine Coast has a strong run of dog-friendly beaches, but off-leash access is set by Sunshine Coast Council and varies by exact location and time of day — worth knowing before you drive out expecting a free run for your dog.

Which Sunshine Coast beaches allow off-leash access?

Off-leash access varies by beach and section, and Council's updated dog rules took effect on 3 July 2026. According to Council's summary of the new rules:

Point Cartwright: in parts of Point Cartwright Reserve, dogs are allowed off-leash at all times between Beach Access 198 and 201. The rocky foreshore at Point Cartwright is now off-limits to dogs.
Moffat Beach: off-leash between 4pm and 8am from Beach Access 296 to 100m east of Access 275. Moffat Headland itself (the rocky foreshore) is now dog-free. A seasonal off-leash area (4pm–8am, May to October) is south of the Moffat rockshelf at Shelly Beach.
Stumers Creek, Coolum: the off-leash beach area remains, with dogs on-leash between the car park and the designated area.
Currimundi: the off-leash area north of the lake (Beach Access 253) is unchanged.

Rocky foreshores at Point Perry, Point Arkwright, Point Cartwright, Moffat Headland and Caloundra Headland are now dog-free. For exact boundaries, use Council's live map at pets.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au before every visit.

Which beaches suit families vs quieter walks?

Busier beaches near facilities suit families wanting parking and easy access, but they also mean more dogs, people and distractions. Quieter stretches suit a dog still building off-leash confidence or one that's easily overstimulated.

What local conditions should you plan around?

Sub-tropical heat makes sand temperature a bigger issue — test with the back of your hand before a midday walk. Check tide times if your dog will swim, and watch conditions on ocean-facing beaches, which can change quickly.

What should you bring for a full day at a dog beach?

Fresh water (seawater can upset a dog's stomach), shade, a secure collar with visible ID, and a way to locate your dog if they wander off in a crowd. An AirTag in a waterproof holder covers that last one without adding bulk. Watch for washed-up fish too — see pufferfish poisoning in dogs.

How does a Sunshine Coast beach day differ from a Sydney one?

Expect warmer water and air for more of the year, so shade, water breaks and sand checks matter on more days than in Sydney.

Frequently asked questions

Are Sunshine Coast dog beaches off-leash all day?

Not uniformly. Parts of Point Cartwright Reserve (Beach Access 198–201) are off-leash at all times, while Moffat Beach is 4pm–8am only. Check Council's live map for the beach you're visiting.