Your Accurate Guide to Dog Off-Leash Areas in Byron Bay & Surrounds (Updated March 2025)

This guide provides details sourced directly from the Byron Shire Council's "Guide to dog areas in the Byron Shire" (accurate as of March 2025) on the main designated off-leash beach and park areas. Always double-check current signage at access points and the Byron Shire Council website for the most up-to-date maps and regulations before heading out, as information may be updated.

Main Off-Leash Dog Beach Areas in Byron Shire

Dogs are only permitted to be off-lead in these designated beach areas. On off-lead beach areas, dogs are only permitted within the inter-tidal zone and must be kept off dunes and dune rehabilitation areas.

1. Belongil Beach (Byron Bay - South Section)

Often considered the main dog beach close to Byron town, this section of Belongil offers a vibrant atmosphere.

• Off-Leash Zone: This area runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Exact Boundaries: The off-leash area is designated from a point adjacent to Manfred Street, Belongil, extending in a south-easterly direction to a point on the western side of Main Beach car park. Note: Belongil Beach NORTH of Manfred St is Dog Prohibited. Main Beach itself is also Dog Prohibited.
• Rules Reminder: Dogs permitted in the inter-tidal zone only and must be kept off dune and dune rehabilitation areas.
• Access Points: Manfred Street, Border Street, Childe Street (Belongil). Parking can be limited.
• Characteristics: Views back towards the lighthouse. Can get busy. Prohibited in adjacent Cumbebin Swamp Nature Reserve.

2. Tallow Beach (Suffolk Park Section)

While Tallow Beach is vast, only a specific section within Suffolk Park offers 24/7 off-leash access. Note: The area SOUTH of Jarman St is Dog Prohibited. Areas near Arakwal National Park are also prohibited.

• Off-Leash Zone: This area runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Exact Boundaries: The designated off-leash area starts from a point adjacent to Jarman Street, Suffolk Park, extending in a northerly direction to the boundary of the Arakwal National Park. Always check signage at your chosen access point.
• Rules Reminder: Dogs permitted in the inter-tidal zone only and must be kept off dune and dune rehabilitation areas.
• Access Points: Primarily via Clifford Street and Alcorn Street in Suffolk Park. Street parking is available.
• Characteristics: Long stretch of sand, often less crowded than Belongil. Can have stronger surf. Great for dogs needing space to run. Prohibited in nearby Ti-Tree Lake Aboriginal Area.

3. New Brighton Beach

Located north of Brunswick Heads, this beach offers a vast and often quieter off-leash experience. Note: The beach area between Ocean Avenue (New Brighton) and Gloria Street (South Golden Beach) is Dog Prohibited.

• Off-Leash Zone: This area runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Exact Boundaries: The off-leash area extends from a point 50m north of the Brunswick Heads Nature Reserve boundary and extends northward to a line adjacent to Ocean Avenue. Signage indicates the boundaries.
• Rules Reminder: Dogs permitted in the inter-tidal zone only and must be kept off dune and dune rehabilitation areas.
• Access Points: Via 'The Strand' road in New Brighton. Parking is generally available.
• Characteristics: Wide, expansive beach, usually uncrowded. Prohibited in nearby Marshalls Creek Nature Reserve and Brunswick Heads Nature Reserve.

4. Brunswick Heads Beach (South Beach)

Just south of the Brunswick River mouth, this area provides convenient beach access for those in Brunswick Heads. Note: The beach area NORTH of the SLSC access point up to and including the breakwall is Dog Prohibited.

• Off-Leash Zone: This area runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Exact Boundaries: The off-leash area extends from a point around 50m south of the Brunswick Surf Life Saving Club area and extends for 400 metres to the south to the boundary of Tyagarah Nature Reserve. Look for signage marking the start and end points.
• Rules Reminder: Dogs permitted in the inter-tidal zone only and must be kept off dune and dune rehabilitation areas.
• Access Points: Via South Beach Road (off The Terrace) in Brunswick Heads. There is a dedicated car park at the end of South Beach Road.
• Characteristics: Can be popular, especially near the river mouth. Prohibited in Tyagarah Nature Reserve and Brunswick Heads Nature Reserve.

Nearby Favourite: Seven Mile Beach (Lennox Head / Ballina Shire)

For those venturing a little further south of Byron Bay (approx. 30 mins drive, past Lennox Head), Seven Mile Beach offers a truly spectacular coastal experience. This incredibly long stretch of sand provides ample room for energetic dogs and their owners to enjoy walks with breathtaking ocean views. It's a fantastic spot to really stretch your legs and soak up the natural beauty of the coastline.

Other Designated Off-Leash Park Areas in the Byron Shire

Looking for a change from the sand? The Shire also offers designated off-leash areas in parks.

5. Beech Drive Lake Park (Suffolk Park)

For a lovely, relaxing off-leash walk away from the beach, this park provides a great alternative in Suffolk Park.

• Off-Leash Zone: This area runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Exact Location: The off-leash dog exercise area is designated at the Beech Drive public reserve in Suffolk Park.
• Characteristics: A park setting, offering a different environment for walking and playing compared to the beaches.

6. Mullumbimby Showground

Another great park option, particularly for those near Mullumbimby.

• Off-Leash Zone: Dogs are permitted off-lead at Mullumbimby Showground.
• Note: Mullumbimby Showground is not managed or owned by Byron Shire Council and is managed by Mullumbimby Showground Trust. Rules may differ slightly or be subject to Showground events; always observe local signage and be respectful of other users.
• Characteristics: Large open space suitable for running and playing.

Essential Etiquette & Rules for Dog Owners (All Areas)

Keeping these areas dog-friendly requires everyone's cooperation. Failure to comply can result in significant fines.

1. On Lead Access: Keep your dog on a leash when walking to/from the off-leash zone.
2. Pick It Up: Always carry waste bags and immediately clean up after your dog poos. Dispose of waste properly in designated bins. Not picking up waste can result in a fine.
3. Effective Control: Even in off-leash areas, your dog must be under effective control by a competent person, typically via voice command. They should return when called and not bother other people, dogs, or wildlife. If recall isn't reliable, use a long lead. Failing to keep a dog under effective control can result in a fine.
4. Identification: Ensure your dog wears a collar and name tag with an address or phone number.
5. Maximum Dogs: A person must not be in charge of more than four dogs at a time in a public place.
6. Respect Boundaries: Strictly adhere to the designated off-leash areas and times. Keep dogs out of dune vegetation (on beaches) or other restricted zones.
7. Socialisation: Ensure your dog is well-socialised. Avoid bringing aggressive or overly boisterous dogs during busy periods. Dog owners are liable if their dog attacks.
8. Wildlife Awareness: Be mindful of shorebirds (on beaches) and other wildlife. Prevent your dog from chasing wildlife or damaging habitat.
9. Provide Water: Bring fresh water and a bowl. Discourage drinking seawater or potentially stagnant park water.

Conclusion

The Byron Shire offers fantastic opportunities for adventures with your dog in both beach and park settings. By understanding and respecting the specific off-leash area boundaries and rules provided by the Byron Shire Council, we ensure these beautiful spaces remain accessible for everyone. Remember, Council rangers regularly patrol these areas.

Always check Council signage and the Byron Shire Council website before your visit for the latest updates.

And if you need reliable, loving care for your pet while you explore other parts of beautiful Byron Bay, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Byron Bay Pet Sitting!