Dog Beach off lead

Queens Beach North on Flinders Parade, Scarborough, is one of the Redcliffe Peninsula's designated off-leash dog beach zones. The off-leash area covers the sand and water between the northern rock groyne and the southern access stairs, giving dogs a clear stretch of coastline to run and swim along the calm, shallow waters of Moreton Bay.

The rules. Off-leash access applies on the sand and in the water only, between the northern rock groyne and the access stairs to the south. Dogs must be on-leash everywhere else, including the grassed foreshore, footpaths, car park, and all areas south of the access stairs. No dogs are permitted on the sand at Queens Beach South near the boat ramp or on designated swimming beaches. Owners must keep dogs under effective control at all times, meaning supervised and responsive to voice commands. Pick up all waste and use the bins near the beach access points.

The water and terrain. The bay water here is calm and shallow, making it suitable for dogs of most sizes and confidence levels. The available sand area changes significantly with the tide. At lower to mid tide the sand stretches out wide, giving plenty of room. At high tide the off-leash sand narrows considerably, so timing your visit around the tide chart makes a real difference to how much space you get.

What's there. Free street parking runs along Flinders Parade, with waste bins positioned near the beach access points. Picnic tables and walking paths sit on the foreshore, but remember these are on-leash areas only. Shade is limited to the foreshore trees on the grassed side. There is no shade on the off-leash sand itself, so bring water and plan around sun exposure.

Getting there. The address area is Flinders Parade, Scarborough QLD 4020. From Redcliffe, follow Margate Parade north until it becomes Flinders Parade. Street parking is abundant on weekdays but fills quickly on weekend mornings. Translink bus services run to the Redcliffe and Scarborough Road area, followed by a short walk to the beach.

Nearby with the dogs. The Scarborough area has several dog-friendly cafe options for a post-walk coffee or breakfast. Try Drift Coffee Company or Bazil&Co. for a takeaway or outdoor sit-down, or head to Miss Sprinkles Gelato if you want something cold after a hot morning on the sand.

When to go. Aim for a weekday morning at lower to mid tide for the widest sand area and the fewest other dogs. Weekend mornings between roughly 8am and 11am are the busiest period. The exposed sand can be wind-affected, so check the forecast and bring fresh water, as there is no shade on the beach itself.

Sources

• Queens Beach North dog off-leash beach area - Moreton Bay · moretonbay.qld.gov.au

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