Somers Beach Dog Off Leash East Area

Somers Beach Dog Off Leash East Area is a designated off-leash stretch at the eastern end of Somers Beach on the Mornington Peninsula, accessed via the 100 Steps staircase on Miramar Road. The wide sand, shallow waters, and panoramic views toward Phillip Island make it worth the drive for owners who want a quieter alternative to the central peninsula beaches.

The rules. The designated off-leash zone covers a 200 to 300 metre sandy stretch running east from the bottom of the staircase. Dogs must be under effective voice control at all times while off-leash. Keep your dog leashed on the staircase itself and anywhere outside the marked zone, including the rocky sections and cliff tops. Leash-free access is generally permitted year-round, but during daylight savings over the summer months from October to March, off-leash hours are limited to 7:00pm through to 9:00am. Restrictions can change, so always check the on-site signage. The area is governed by Mornington Peninsula Shire.

The water and terrain. The off-leash area is a wide, sandy beach with shallow waters ideal for swimming. Rocky sections and coastal cliffs border the sand on either side, and submerged rocks become a hazard for swimming dogs at high tide, so check the water level before letting your dog in. The beach is at its widest and quietest at low tide.

What is there. Off-street parking is available at the top of the 100 Steps on Miramar Road. Facilities are limited to a bin and clean-up bags provided at the top of the staircase. There are no public toilets or fresh water taps at this entrance. The beach is mostly open, with some natural shade against the cliff bank.

Getting there. The drive from Melbourne CBD takes roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes. From Hastings, take Frankston-Flinders Road and turn onto Somers Road, then Miramar Road. The nearest train station is Hastings on the Stony Point Line. There is no direct train to Somers, so you will need a taxi or bus connection to cover the final leg.

When to go. Early morning or late evening is best, when the sand is cooler underfoot and the summer time restrictions do not apply. Aim for a low tide window for the safest swimming conditions and the most sand.

Sources

• Dogs on the Peninsula - Mornington Peninsula Shire · mornpen.vic.gov.au

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