City of Port Phillip
City of Port Phillip Off-Leash Dog Parks & Beaches
Port Phillip Dog Parks and beaches are the social heart of Melbourne’s dog scene. From the “Golden Ticket” 24/7 access at St Kilda West Beach to the secure fortress of Mo Moran Reserve, this council area offers incredible variety. However, strict seasonal rules apply to most beaches during summer. Our 2026 guide breaks down exactly where you can go, when you can go, and which parks are fully fenced.
Port Phillip Guide
Port Phillip Dog Beaches
Understanding the difference between “Seasonal” and “24/7” beaches is critical in Port Phillip to avoid fines.
St Kilda West Dog Beach (The “Golden Ticket”): Unlike the main beach, this specific section remains off-leash 24/7 year-round. It features protected shallow sandbars perfect for puppies and socialising.
- Port Melbourne Dog Beach: A premier social spot with clean sand and nearby cafes. Warning: Seasonal restrictions apply (Nov-Mar: Off-leash 7:30pm-10am only). View Rules.
- Sandridge Beach: A locals’ secret near the docks with rock groynes and showers. Seasonal restrictions apply. Check Details.
- St Kilda Main Beach: Iconic and chaotic. Great for social dogs, but strictly timed in summer. Read Review.
Fenced Dog Parks in Port Phillip
Fully fenced parks are rare in this council area, but these two spots offer security for escape artists.
Mo Moran Reserve (Elwood): The gold standard for security. Fully fenced with double-gated entries and agility equipment. It’s a high-energy “fortress of fun” near the beach.
- Eastern Reserve (South Melbourne): A compact, high-security gravel run. Ideal for apartment dogs needing a quick zoom. Note: Timed lock (7am-8pm). View Eastern Reserve.
Iconic Parks & Social Hubs
These parks define the local lifestyle: coffee, community, and open space (mostly unfenced).
- Gasworks Arts Park (Albert Park): A vibrant arts precinct with grassy mounds and an on-site cafe. Partially fenced by brick walls. Explore Gasworks.
- Alma Park West (St Kilda East): A lush “enchanted forest” vibe. Partially fenced along Alma Road and great for sniffari walks. View Alma West.
- Peanut Farm Reserve (St Kilda): A lively sports oval next to Luna Park. Great for flat runs when sports aren’t on. Check Peanut Farm.
- Garden City Reserve (Port Melbourne): A relaxed, spacious grassy alternative to the windy beaches. See Garden City.
Port Phillip Dog Parks: FAQ
Q: Which beach allows dogs off-leash all day in summer?
A: St Kilda West Dog Beach is the only beach in the area that remains 24/7 off-leash year-round. All others have time restrictions between November and March.
Q: Where are the fully fenced dog parks?
A: The main fully fenced parks are Mo Moran Reserve in Elwood and Eastern Reserve in South Melbourne. Most other parks are open or only partially fenced.
Q: Can dogs go to Gasworks Arts Park?
A: Yes! The park is off-leash 24 hours a day. It is famous for its grassy mounds and community atmosphere, though it is not fully enclosed (gates are open).
