Cowes Main Beach and Esplanade Walk

The Esplanade at Cowes follows the main beach on Phillip Island, past the Cowes Jetty, rock pools and a strip of beachside cafes, with Western Port Bay in view the whole way. On the paths, dogs walk on a lead.

Leads and the sand

Bass Coast Shire Council requires dogs on a lead along much of the foreshore and its tracks. In summer, dogs are kept off certain sections of sand during peak daytime hours.

For an off-lead run, the designated area is on the beach west of the yacht club at Cowes West, under its own local rules.

Max: Summer rules on the sand change with the time of day. Read the sign at each beach access before stepping off the path.

The walk

It is flat, with concrete footpaths along the Esplanade and sand or rock once you drop onto the beach.

Water and shade

Drinking fountains sit along the foreshore and near picnic spots like Mussel Rocks Point, and bins line The Esplanade. Mature trees shade the lawns behind the beach and around Erehwon Point.

Free and paid street parking runs beside The Esplanade and near the shops.

Make a day of it

Blue Gum Reserve has open grass for a bigger run, and Ventnor Dog Beach is the pick for a proper beach session.

Outside summer the beach is easier with a dog. In the warm months, stick to the shaded lawns and grassy banks.