Dog Beaches on the Whitsundays Mainland
Enjoying the endless sandy shorelines of Whitsundays beaches and wishing your pup could stretch their legs in paradise as well? For those dog owners in the Whitsundays region and visitors bringing their furry friends along for the adventure, there are numerous local council dog off-leash beaches on the Whitsundays mainland!
Domestic animals are not permitted in the Whitsunday National Park Islands, meaning that dogs are not allowed to visit a majority of the Whitsunday Islands. For those living and working on Hamilton Island, there are a small number of dogs as pets on the island, however, a rigid approval process must be passed first.
We recommend that you check your pup into Happy Hounds Holiday Whitsundays for their own personalised getaway whilst you explore the wonders of the Whitsundays! Check out your dog-friendly accommodation options on the Whitsundays mainland here.
Top Whitsundays dog off-leash beaches
1. Shingley Beach, Airlie Beach
(Eastern end only)
For those holidaymakers in Airlie Beach, the best dog off-leash beach is Shingley Beach, which is situated adjacent to the Coral Sea Marina. Dogs are allowed on the eastern end of the beach all day long, with the beach looking out to the luxurious Coral Sea Marina and Whitsunday Islands in the distance! Shingley Beach is composed of coarse sand and rock and is easily accessed via the turn-off to the Coral Sea Marina.
2. Cannonvale Beach
(Eastern end area; Restricted times - 5am to 8am and 5pm to 8pm)
Situated 3km west of Airlie Beach is the cruisy Cannonvale Beach, which is a beloved secluded spot amongst Whitsundays locals. You and your four-legged friend can enjoy the sanded eastern area of Cannonvale Beach from 5am to 8am, and 5pm to 8pm daily. If you are up for an adventure the Bicentennial Walkway leads from Airlie Beach to Cannonvale Beach, and is dog-friendly - just make sure your pup is on a leash!
3. Hydeaway Bay
Perhaps the most stunning dog off-leash beach on the Whitsundays mainland, Hydeaway Bay offers a 1.5km long stretch of secluded sandy shorelines, with plenty of rocky outcrops to explore and beach comb amongst. Situated along the Whitsundays coastline, Hydeaway Bay is a 45-minute drive north of Airlie Beach, and perfect for those seeking a quiet, relaxed adventure!
4. Queens Beach, Bowen
Home to the legendary big mango, situated an hours drive from Airlie Beach, is the laid-back coastal town of Bowen - which beholds plenty of dog-friendly holiday options! Queens Beach boasts a serene 5km stretch of sandy shoreline, with a designated off-leash section at the northern end of The Esplanade, towards Don River. Ideal for convenient beachcombing, and enjoying an unforgettable Whitsundays sunset!
5. King Beach, Bowen
Situated next to Rose Bay is Kings Beach, home to long stretches of secluded sandy shorelines and sparkling Whitsundays waters! The northern end of Kings Beach is a designated dog off-leash area, whilst the southern end of Kings Beach is horse friendly. If you’re looking for an idyllic beach day with your furry friend, Kings Beach is for you!
Other dog off-leash locations in the Whitsundays
- Bicentennial Park, Cannonvale
- Gailbraith Park, Cannonvale
- Whisper Bay Boat Ramp, Cannonvale
- Wildlife Park, Jubilee Pocket (enclosure)
- Keith Jones Estate Park, Proserpine
- Doughty Creek Mouth, Bowen
- Denison Park, Bowen
Top Whitsundays dog-friendly walks
1. Bicentennial Walkway, Airlie Beach
Starting at the Airlie Beach Lagoon, winding through the Coral Sea Marina, and ending at the sandy Cannonvale Beach, the Bicentennial Walkway at Airlie Beach is a 4km long waterfront walk that boasts stunning views of the Whitsunday Islands! Dogs are allowed on the Bicentennial Walk on a leash - just make sure to check the temperature of the wooden boardwalk section, as it can get hot for your pup's paws!
2. Airlie Creek Track
If you’re searching for a nature escape with your four-legged friend by your side on a leash, the Airlie Creek Track is easily accessed from Waterson’s Way in the centre of Airlie Beach. The 850-metre winding, uphill track ranges from Grade 1 to Grade 4 difficulty along a gravel-lined pathway. Lay your eyes on huge intertwined fig trees, and lush native vegetation as the track progresses!
3. Cape Edgecumbe Walking Trail, Bowen
Known as one of the best ways to take in the draw dropping coastal landscapes of Bowen, the Cape Edgecumbe Walking Trail is also dog-friendly! The 2.5km walking trail begins at Horseshoe Bay and stretches to Rose Bay, boasting post-card perfect views of secluded tropical coves and the Coral Sea in the distance. Just make sure to keep your pup on the leash, bring plenty of water, and keep to the trail - remember the bays aren’t dog-friendly!
