Riverside Gardens Dog Beach

Riverside Gardens Dog Beach sits on the Swan River in Bayswater, off King William Street, and it is one of the most complete dog spots in the area: a sandy off-leash beach for swimming, wide grassy flats for running, and a fenced exercise zone next door for dogs that need a boundary.

The rules. Dogs can run off-leash on the beach and through the main Riverside Gardens East area, but must stay on-lead west of the toilet block, near the playground, and around the coffee van and food truck area. Effective voice control applies everywhere, even off-lead, and dogs are not permitted in the children's playground. Carry a lead at all times and pick up waste immediately, bins are provided.

The water. Sandy, gently sloping access straight into the Swan River makes this an easy swim for most dogs. It is river water rather than ocean, so tides matter less than rainfall and season, and the beach is generally accessible all day. On hot days the shallows can warm up and irritate sensitive skin, so rinse your dog off after a swim.

What's there. Public toilets, BBQs and picnic shelters, drinking fountains with dog bowls, waste bag dispensers and bins, and plenty of mature trees for shade over the grass.

Getting there. The address is King William St, Bayswater WA 6053. There is extensive free parking, 50-plus bays including ACROD, though it fills up on weekend mornings. Bayswater train station is a 10 to 15 minute walk or a short drive.

Nearby with the dogs. The Oarhouse on Milne Street is a short walk away and welcomes dogs in its riverfront outdoor area. Peninsula Farm Cafe in nearby Maylands has dog-friendly outdoor seating under gum trees.

Saturday and Sunday mornings are the busiest, with Tuesday afternoons also reported busy. For a quieter run, aim for weekdays or late afternoon.

Sources

• Riverside Gardens - City of Bayswater · bayswater.wa.gov.au
• Bayswater Riverside Gardens - Buggy Buddys · buggybuddys.com.au
• Riverside Gardens - Tripadvisor · tripadvisor.com.au

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