Dog's beach public toilet

This is the busy, dog-centric stretch of Ocean Grove Main Beach, with public toilets and a cold rinse-off shower near the access point. Dogs run off-leash here at all times of year between the Hodgson Street (13W) and Aldebaran Road (8W) markers, on wide sandbanks that shift with the tide.

The rules. The off-leash zone sits between markers 13W and 8W, and dogs must stay under effective control, in sight and recalling on command. Dogs are banned at all times from the beach between markers 13W and 15W, and the area east of Bonnyvale Road is a wildlife protection zone where leashes are required at all times. Pick up after your dog and use the bins near the access points, or risk a fine.

What's there. Public toilets are open 24 hours near the beach access, with a cold-only shower for rinsing sandy dogs and feet. Waste bags and bins are usually stocked at the main entry points. Beachside parking is available but limited.

The water and sand. This is open ocean with real tidal movement, so the beach narrows at high tide and the off-leash strip can shrink considerably. Check a tide chart before you go if you want room to throw a ball.

Getting there. Drive in via Ocean Grove Road to Hodgson Street or Aldebaran Road and aim for the Barwon Coast carparks; the largest is near the end of Hodgson Street. V/Line buses from Geelong serve Ocean Grove, but you face a walk from the town centre to the western beach. Access from the dunes is by stairs and ramps.

When to go. Summer and weekends get very busy and parking fills fast, so come early morning or late afternoon for cooler sand, fewer crowds and a parking spot. Time it for a low or dropping tide so the off-leash zone is at its widest.

Sources

• Dogs on beaches - Barwon Coast · barwoncoast.com.au

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