Carrum Dog Beach

Carrum Dog Beach is a long sandy off-leash stretch on the Kingston foreshore, running south of Old Post Office Lane and Keast Park. The defining feature is that it swings between 24/7 off-leash in the cooler months and a strict daytime ban over summer, so the season decides your visit.

The rules. The off-leash zone is south of Old Post Office Lane, on the City of Kingston side. In summer (1 November to 31 March) dogs are prohibited on the sand from 10:00am to 7:30pm, and off-leash is allowed only before 10:00am and after 7:30pm. In winter (1 April to 31 October) it is off-leash 24/7. Dogs off-leash must be under effective voice control, and you must carry a lead at all times. Check the signs carefully, because Frankston council rules differ north of the boundary, and fines apply for breaches.

The water and sand. The water is shallow and calm, good for a paddle and a swim rather than surf. Tide sets how much beach you get: low tide opens up the most sand for running, while high tide narrows it to a strip better suited to swimming.

What is there. Paid parking is at the Keast Park car park, with accessible bays. Public toilets are nearby at Keast Park, and dog waste bins and bag dispensers are provided along the foreshore.

Getting there. Drive via the Nepean Highway to Johnson Avenue and park at Keast Park. Carrum Station on the Frankston line is a short walk away. The Bay Trail runs along the coast for those on foot or bike.

When to go. Weekday mornings and midweek evenings are the quietest; Sunday and Saturday mornings are the busiest. In summer, aim for a run finishing just before 10:00am or a sunset walk after 7:30pm. Good for social dogs and confident paddlers.

Sources

• Carrum Beach - City of Kingston · kingston.vic.gov.au

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