Mudjimba Off leash beach

Mudjimba Beach is a long, open stretch of white sand on the northern Sunshine Coast, looking out to Mudjimba Island (Old Woman Island). Its draw for dog owners is the off-leash zone along the foreshore, backed by hard-packed sand at low tide that is ideal for running and paddling.

The rules. The off-leash area runs along a signed section of the foreshore between the beach access points near the Surf Life Saving Club. Keep your dog on-leash through the car parks and pathways, and stay on-leash until you are well onto the beach, at least 10 metres past the carpark. Dogs must stay under effective voice control and close to you at all times. Sunshine Coast Council updated its dog rules in July, so check the on-site signage at the access point you use before letting your dog off-leash, as the exact boundaries and any time windows can change.

Off-limits. Dogs are prohibited at all times in the sand dunes, conservation reserves, children's playgrounds, and picnic and barbecue areas. The dunes are revegetation zones, so keep well clear even when the beach is quiet.

What's there. Dog waste bag dispensers and bins sit near the main access points, and beach showers at the carpark entrances are handy for rinsing sandy paws before the drive home. There is no dog wash, so bring your own towel.

Getting there. Mudjimba is a 10 to 15 minute drive north of Maroochydore via David Low Way, then onto Mudjimba Esplanade. Free parking runs along the Esplanade and in the beach carparks near the Surf Club. TransLink bus route 615 stops along Mudjimba Esplanade, a short walk from the sand.

The water. Low tide is the best time to visit. The receding water leaves firm, wide sand for running and shallow pools for dogs that like to paddle. This is a patrolled surf beach, so watch the swell and keep strong swimmers within reach. Check tide times via the Bureau of Meteorology before you head out.

When to go. Weekend mornings and mid-afternoons draw the biggest crowds of surfers and dog walkers. For a quieter run, aim for early morning or late afternoon on a falling tide. Good for big runners who want room to move.

Sources

• Dogs - Sunshine Coast Council · sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au
• New dog rules start 3 July - Sunshine Coast Council · facebook.com
• Dog Beach, Mudjimba: Pet-Friendly Guide · kupi.com

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