San Remo Dog Beach

San Remo's Back Beach, tucked near Lions Park along Marine Parade's southern end, is a relatively quiet sandy stretch with water views toward Phillip Island and the bridge. The off-leash space and relaxed setting make it a worthwhile stop for dog owners travelling the Bass Coast.

The rules: The beach is off-leash from the Back Beach Road access track through to the Lions Park and Marine Parade area, excluding the jetty. From 1 December to 31 January and over the Easter period, dogs must be on-leash between 10am and 6pm. Outside those hours in summer, the beach returns to off-leash. Keep your dog under effective voice control at all times and carry a leash.

Watch-outs: Dogs are prohibited at all times, in any season, from the main foreshore beach between the San Remo Jetty and the bridge. Do not attempt to move through that zone with your dog.

The water and terrain: The beach is sandy and generally calm in feel. At high tide the usable space narrows significantly, so plan around low to mid tide for the most running room. Early mornings and late evenings are the quietest times, particularly during the December, January and Easter peak when crowds are at their thickest.

What's there: Free parking is available along Back Beach Road and at the Lions Park car park. Lions Park itself has toilets, a playground and picnic tables, plus dog waste bins on site. A direct pathway gives straightforward access from the park down to the sand.

Getting there: From Melbourne, take the M1 and South Gippsland Highway, then the M420 and A420 into San Remo. Aim for Back Beach Road parking to reach the off-leash area directly. V/Line buses from Melbourne to Phillip Island stop in San Remo, and the beach is a short walk from the town centre.

Nearby with the dogs: Once you cross the bridge onto Phillip Island, there are solid options for extending the day. Ventnor Dog Beach is another off-leash stretch worth exploring, while Phillip Island Winery at Ventnor offers a dog-friendly alternative to the beach. If you are staying overnight, NRMA Phillip Island Beachfront Holiday Park at Cowes accepts pets.

When to go: Outside of summer, the off-leash window is wide open all day. If you are visiting in December, January or over Easter, aim for early morning before 10am to beat the crowds and the on-leash curfew. Low to mid tide gives the best sand area. Good for social dogs and owners who want a straightforward, no-fuss beach stop near the island bridge.

Sources

• Where can I walk my dog - Bass Coast Shire Council · basscoast.vic.gov.au

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