Dog Beach - New Brighton Beach

A wide, calmer stretch of coastline. New Brighton Dog Beach sits off The Strand in New Brighton, NSW, and operates as a 24-hour off-leash zone. The draw is simple: a flat, open inter-tidal expanse where dogs can run hard without the crowds typical of Byron Bay's main beaches.

Know your boundaries. The off-leash zone runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Access is primarily via The Strand in New Brighton. The northern boundary sits adjacent to Ocean Avenue. The southern boundary begins 50 metres north of the Brunswick Heads Nature Reserve boundary. The stretch of sand between Ocean Avenue (New Brighton) and Gloria Street (South Golden Beach) is dog-prohibited, so do not wander past Ocean Avenue with your dog. Council signage marks the entry and exit points, so always check it on the day, as official signage takes precedence over any guide.

Tides dictate the terrain. Dogs are only permitted off-leash within the inter-tidal zone, which is the sand between low and high tide. Low tide gives a wider, flatter stretch of packed sand, making it the optimal window for running. At high tide, that usable strip narrows considerably. Keep dogs off the sand dunes and any dune rehabilitation areas at all times. Even off-leash, dogs must stay under effective voice control by a competent person. Owners must pick up and dispose of dog waste, with $330 fines applying for non-compliance.

Bring your own supplies. Facilities directly on this beach are limited. Owners should bring their own water and a bowl. Do not expect showers, shade structures, or fencing here.

Getting there and timing your visit. Take the Brunswick Heads exit off the Pacific Highway (M1) and follow the signage to New Brighton. Parking clusters near the end of The Strand and Ocean Avenue. Public transport to the beach itself is very limited, so driving is the practical option. Saturday and Sunday mornings draw the biggest crowds, so aim for early morning or late afternoon if you want a quieter run.

Nearby options. If the New Brighton zone is packed or you accidentally overshoot the northern boundary, load up and head to Dog Beach - South Golden Beach for another off-leash stretch. For a post-walk coffee, drive back towards Brunswick Heads and stop in at Footbridge Cafe or drift2483.

The practical last word. Aim your visit around low tide for the best running surface, check the council signage the moment you hit the sand, and carry your own water.

Sources

• Dog Exercise Areas - Byron Shire Council · byron.nsw.gov.au
• Guide to dog areas in the Byron Shire · byron.nsw.gov.au
• Your Accurate Guide to Dog Off-Leash Areas in Byron Bay · byronbaypetsitting.com.au
• Best dog-friendly beaches, parks and cafes Byron Bay and Northern Rivers · reflectionsholidays.com.au

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