South Cabarita Dog Beach in Bogangar covers a 1.4-kilometre stretch of open ocean sand open 24 Hours, 7 Days. The off-leash run starts 200 metres south of Norries Headland and continues south toward Hastings Point. The entire beach is unfenced. Low tide exposes wide, firm sand flats alongside rolling open-water surf. Dogs need reliable recall to steer clear of strong ocean rips and protected frontal dunes.
South Cabarita Dog Beach: At a Glance
- The Vibe: Wide-open coastal run with steady ocean breezes. Early mornings bring local walkers doing long beach runs. The broad stretch of sand leaves plenty of room to spread out during the day.
- Best For: Water-confident dogs that stay close in the surf and have reliable recall across wide-open sand.
- Off-Leash Hours: 24 Hours, 7 Days in the designated off-leash zone.
- Fencing: Unfenced. The beach opens straight onto the Pacific Ocean with vegetated dunes along the back. Keep dogs on a leash until you reach the 200-metre marker south of Norries Headland.
- Parking: Council car park at Norries Headland reserve off Cabarita Road. Dogs must stay on a leash through the car park and down the access tracks.
Dog Beach Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Ocean Swimming: Rolling open-ocean waves provide good wading and swimming for confident dogs. Watch out for strong undertows and heavy shore dumps at high tide.
- Open Sand Run: A 1.4-kilometre beach gives energetic dogs unlimited room for long-range ball chasing. Low tide exposes wide, hard-packed sand flats.
- Sand Flats: The intertidal zone offers firm footing for running and shallow tidal wash for cooling down.
For the Humans
- Coastal Views: Unbroken views stretch south toward Hastings Point and north toward the rocky headland at Norries.
- Space to Spread Out: The wide coastline prevents crowding. Even on busy weekends, walkers can easily find an open section of sand away from other dogs.
- Public Toilets: Council amenities and outdoor rinse showers sit at the Norries Headland car park before you head down to the beach. There are no toilets on the sand.
Insider Tip: The coastal dunes are strictly off-limits to protect nesting sea turtles and endangered shorebirds, and Tweed Shire Council rangers patrol the zone regularly. Dogs must stay on a leash for the first 200 metres south of Norries Headland until you pass the official off-leash signpost. Bring your own water bottle and poo bags, as all council bins sit back at the car park.
The Final Verdict
South Cabarita Dog Beach is an open coastal run for Tweed Coast dog owners. Strong ocean swell and protected dune systems require reliable recall, but the 1.4-kilometre stretch of sand provides plenty of room for long ball throws and surf swims.
For more official information, visit the Tweed Shire Council website.
South Cabarita Dog Beach: FAQ
Q: Is South Cabarita Dog Beach fenced?
A: The beach is completely unfenced and opens directly onto the Pacific Ocean.
Q: Where exactly is the off-leash area?
A: The off-leash zone starts 200 metres south of Norries Headland and extends south toward Cudgera Creek.
Q: Are there water taps on the beach?
A: There are no water taps on the sand. Council taps and rinse showers are located back at the Norries Headland car park.
