Fremantle Groyne

The rocky groyne marks the northern end of the South Beach off-leash area, where the sand meets a grassed park looking straight out to sea. The draw is the combination: calm, shallow water for a swim and a shaded lawn to flop on after, with one of the better sunset spots in South Freo.

The rules. This is part of the City of Fremantle designated off-leash area, open year-round, running from the groyne south towards the Douro Road boundary. Dogs are off-leash on the sand and the immediate grass, but must be on-leash outside that zone and within 5 metres of any playground. You need voice control, a registered dog and bags for any mess. The main southern stretch of South Beach beyond Douro Road is leashed or restricted, so read the signs.

The water. Sheltered and shallow, which suits nervous swimmers and older dogs more than surf chasers. At low tide the sand opens up into a wide, flat run; at high tide the beach narrows and dogs get pushed up onto the grass, so it feels busier.

What's there. A dog wash with a hose and tap, plus community water bowls, grassed areas with picnic tables and shaded gazebos, and public toilets by the cafe. Free parking runs along Marine Terrace and the South Beach car park.

Getting there. Off Marine Terrace, clearly signed as the South Beach dog area. Several Transperth routes run along South Terrace a short walk away, and the coastal shared path connects from central Fremantle and North Coogee for walkers and cyclists.

Nearby with the dogs. South Beach Cafe sits right on the beach for a post-swim coffee, and the South Terrace strip has more dog-friendly tables a short walk inland.

When to go. Weekday mornings and late afternoons are quietest; weekends and summer evenings around 9am and sunset draw the crowd. Good for calm swimmers and social dogs who like company.

Sources

• Dog Exercise and Prohibited Areas Policy & Local Law Review · mysay.fremantle.wa.gov.au
• The Best Dog Beaches in Perth: Off-Leash Guide · amalfie.com.au

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