Dog Friendly Beach San Remo (Foots Beach) is a spectacular stretch of coastline on the San Remo Coastal Circuit. It offers a mix of sandy beach and ocean swimming, but visitors must navigate strict seasonal “time-share” restrictions.
San Remo Beach: At a Glance
- 🏖️ The Vibe: Clean and community-focused. The locals take pride in keeping this beach pristine.
- 🐕 Best For: Dogs who love ocean swimming and families looking for a scenic walk.
- Off-Leash Hours: Seasonal Restrictions. Dogs prohibited 10am-6pm (Dec 1 – Jan 31). Off-leash 24/7 outside these dates.
- Fencing: Unfenced.
- 🅿️ Parking: Dedicated off-street parking at Lions Park.
Dog Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Wash Down Station: While there is no water on the sand, the adjacent Lions Park features water stations and bowls to rinse off the salt and sand.
- Ocean Swimming: The water is great for swimming, but be careful of strong currents if your dog goes out deep.
For the Humans
- Steep Access: Accessing the beach requires navigating steep stairs, which may be a challenge for anyone with mobility issues.
- Amenities nearby: There are no toilets on the beach itself (nearest are a 2km walk), but Lions Park provides a good base for parking and water.
Insider Tip: Visit in the off-season (Feb – Nov) to enjoy full 24/7 off-leash freedom. If you visit in summer (Dec/Jan), you must go early (before 10am) or late (after 6pm) to legally let your dog run.
The Final Verdict
San Remo Dog Beach is consistently rated as one of the best in Victoria for its cleanliness and friendly atmosphere. It is a beautiful spot, but the steep access stairs and lack of beach-side toilets are practical hurdles to keep in mind. Plan your timing carefully in summer.
For seasonal dates, verify with the Bass Coast Shire Council website.
San Remo Beach: FAQ
Q: Are dogs allowed in summer?
A: Yes, but only before 10am and after 6pm from December 1st to January 31st.
Q: Is there water for dogs?
A: Yes, wash-down stations and bowls are available at the adjacent Lions Park.
Q: Is the beach easy to access?
A: Access is via steep stairs, which may be difficult for some owners or elderly dogs.
