Lilley's Beach

Lilley's Beach is a seven kilometre stretch of 4WD-only coastline in Boyne Island, near Gladstone, and it doubles as one of the area's few beach camping spots. It is a working beach, used for fishing, driving and exercising dogs on a sensitive stretch of foreshore, not a manicured picnic spot.

The pet policy. The beach is a designated dog off-leash area, but effective voice control is required given the vehicle traffic on the sand. Overnight camping is permitted only within the fenced area at the northern end of the beach, and dogs are allowed there too, though they need to stay under control given the shared space with other campers and vehicles. There is a maximum stay of 72 hours for camping. A paid vehicle access permit from Gladstone Regional Council is required to drive onto the beach, entering via Handley Drive near the Boyne Island Sewerage Treatment Plant.

The place. This is an undeveloped natural beach: no toilets, showers or water fountains, so bring everything you need including water for the dog. Small campfires are allowed in the designated camping area with your own firewood, but beach fires elsewhere are strictly banned. Generators are permitted between 7am and 7pm, and motorbikes are prohibited.

Location & nearby. Vehicle access is via the end of Handley Drive, Boyne Island. Walkers without a 4WD can reach the beach on foot from the end of Wyndham Avenue or Olunda Avenue. There is no public transport to the beach. Boyne Island Caravan Park and Tannum Sands Holiday Park both offer pet-friendly stays nearby if the beach camping area is full or not your style.

Before you book. Buy the vehicle permit ahead of time through Gladstone Regional Council, and check tides before driving out. The beach is best driven at low tide, and the sand narrows and gets dangerous at high tide. Early morning or late afternoon avoids both the heat and the busiest school-holiday and weekend crowds.

Sources

• Camping and Beaches | Gladstone Regional Council · gladstone.qld.gov.au
• Regional Parks Guide · gladstone.qld.gov.au
• Dogs in Public Places - Gladstone Regional Council · gladstone.qld.gov.au
• Lilleys Beach - Car permit required - WikiCamps Australia · wikicamps.com.au
• Lilley's Beach · queensland.com

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