Little Austinmer Beach

Little Austinmer Beach (locally known as Little Austi) is a smaller, quieter cove just south of the main Austinmer Beach, a mix of sand and rock platform that's a designated green zone, meaning off-leash any time.

The rules. Dogs can run off-leash on the sand at all times, but must stay under effective control. The off-leash zone is signed at the access points, and it does not extend onto the rock platforms or into the ocean pools, both of which are off-limits. Main Austinmer Beach next door is a red zone (no dogs), so don't wander north. Dogs must be leashed on the paths down to the beach, and the limit is four dogs per handler.

What's there. It's an undeveloped beach: no toilets, no water fountain on the sand, so bring your own water. Access is via a short, steep ramp or steps off the coastal path.

Getting there. Street parking on Lawrence Hargrave Drive is limited and goes fast on sunny weekends. Austinmer train station is a 5-10 minute walk, and local buses run along Lawrence Hargrave Drive with stops near the beach access points.

The water. Best at low tide, when there's a proper sandbar to work with. High tide covers most of the usable sand.

Nearby with the dogs. Austi Beach Cafe and Shells Austinmer, both on Lawrence Hargrave Drive, are set up for a coffee or takeaway after a swim. Austinmer Beach House and Southview Guesthouse in nearby Bulli are pet-friendly options if you're staying over.

When to go. Weekday mornings or late afternoons are quietest, this is a popular off-leash spot and it fills up on sunny weekends. Time it to low tide for the best sand.

Sources

• Dog beaches and parks - Wollongong City Council · wollongong.nsw.gov.au

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