Birubi Beach dog beach

Birubi Beach is the dog beach at Anna Bay, part of the 32-kilometre Stockton Bight system, with the biggest single draw being genuine off-leash hours right on the sand rather than a token grass strip nearby.

The rules. Off-leash is allowed at all times from May to September. From October to April, dogs must be on-leash between 9am and 5pm, with off-leash permitted only from 5pm to 9am. Dogs must stay at least 100 metres clear of any flagged, patrolled surf lifesaving area regardless of season. Fines for breaches start at $330, so check current signage at the Ocean Avenue entrance before you let the lead go.

What's there. A large free car park sits at the end of Ocean Avenue with direct beach access. Public toilets are near the entrance. There's no dog-specific wash-down or water station, so bring your own water and a bowl.

Getting there. From Nelson Bay, follow Nelson Bay Road/B63 into Anna Bay, then Gan Gan Road, left onto James Paterson Street, then onto Ocean Avenue to the car park. Local buses from Nelson Bay stop in the Anna Bay town centre, leaving a short walk down to the beach.

The water and terrain. Wide, flat white sand backed by dunes. Low tide opens up a large hard-packed running strip that's ideal for off-leash play. High tide narrows the usable sand considerably and pushes walkers and dogs closer to the patrolled zone buffer, so keep a closer eye on recall at high tide.

Nearby with the dogs. The Crest Birubi Beach sits right at the beach entrance with dog-friendly outdoor seating and beach views. Birubi Beach Holiday Park is adjacent to the beach and takes dogs for camping, caravan and cabin stays. Several pet-friendly holiday rentals are within walking distance.

Go early morning or after 5pm for the most space and the coolest sand, and always confirm the season's off-leash window against the noticeboard signage before you unclip the lead.

Sources

• Birubi and Boat Harbour beach dogs off-leash reminder - Port Stephens Council · portstephens.nsw.gov.au

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.