Penna Dog exercise area

Penna Dog Exercise Area is a year-round off-leash beach on Penna's tidal shoreline on the eastern shores of the Derwent, about 30 to 35 minutes from Hobart. Shallow water, wide sand and a quiet setting make it one of southern Tasmania's better spots for dogs that want room to run and swim without seasonal restrictions.

The rules

Dogs can be off-lead on the sand within the council's designated off-lead zone year-round, and they must stay under effective control. The zones surrounding the beach require leads, so check the current Sorell Council map before letting your dog go, and know where the boundary sits. Elsewhere in the municipality some beach zones have seasonal hours, so do not assume those restrictions apply here without checking the map for this exercise area. Dogs are also prohibited within 10 metres of playgrounds anywhere in the council area, and you are required to carry bags and pick up under the Dog Control Act.

Max: the off-lead zone is generous, but the leash areas around it mean you need to know exactly where the boundary sits. Screenshot the council map before you drive out.

Terrain and water

Penna is a tidal beach with shallow water over mudflats, ideal for wading and swimming dogs. Low to mid tide reveals the most sand and gives a proper run; at high tide the water can reach the bank and the space tightens considerably, so check tide times before committing to the drive.

What's there

Amenities are minimal: dog waste bins at designated spots along Shark Point Road and very little natural shade. Bring water and sun protection for both of you on warm days, and expect an exposed, natural shoreline rather than a maintained park.

Getting there

Drive from Hobart via the A3 towards Sorell, turning off at Midway Point onto Penna Road and then Shark Point Road. The address is 342 Shark Point Road, Penna, with a small carpark giving direct access. Parking is informal roadside beyond that, so arrive early on sunny weekends. There is no public transport out here.

While you're out there

Penna itself has no cafes, but Sorell is a 10 to 15 minute drive with stops for the way home, including Liv Eat Sorell and Velvet. Historic Richmond is close by too, home to Footlong Dogs and the Barkly Gardens off-leash area, and Richmond Caravan & Cabin Park takes dogs if you are staying over. More options sit on the Tasmania park guide and the Penna destination page.

Pepsi: go early or late, aim for a low to mid tide, and this becomes a full-length beach sprint. That is the whole appeal.