dog beach carpark

The dog beach carpark sits at the northern end of Seven Mile Beach, just north of the Lennox Head-Alstonville Surf Life Saving Club, and it is the access point for one of the better off-leash ocean stretches on the Far North Coast. The defining fact: dogs run off-leash north of the surf club, 24 hours a day, but are banned everywhere south of it and around Lake Ainsworth.

The rules. The off-leash zone is north of the surf club only. Dogs must stay under effective control, meaning they respond to voice commands. They are not allowed in the southern patrolled swimming area or near the Lake Ainsworth picnic and swimming spots. Owners must pick up after their dogs, and dogs need an adult (16+) supervising at all times. Aggressive or anti-social dogs must be removed.

The water and sand. This is a wide, exposed ocean beach with proper surf. Low to mid tide gives you the most sand for running and a gentler edge to the water. At high tide in rough conditions the beach narrows considerably. The size of the beach means you can walk well north to find space away from other groups.

Getting there. From Ballina or Byron, head to Pacific Parade in Lennox Head and aim for the surf club; the carpark is right alongside it and free. 4WD access is permitted north of the designated beach area. The coastal footpath from town connects on foot, and Ballina Buslines service the main street a short walk away.

What is there. Free parking by the surf club, direct sand access, and dog waste bins near the access points. Public toilets sit near the surf club. Bins can run out of bags, so bring your own.

Go on a weekday morning for the quietest run; weekend mornings and Friday afternoons are the busiest. Aim for low to mid tide for the most usable sand. Good for big dogs that need a long stretch to themselves.

Sources

• Seven Mile Beach Lennox Head | Ballina Shire Council · ballina.nsw.gov.au
• Walking and riding paths map · discoverballina.com.au

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