Sugars Beach Walk

Sugars Beach faces the mouth of the Murray on Hindmarsh Island, a wide, flat stretch of sand and low dunes where pelicans gather. Dogs can walk the council foreshore on lead, as long as you turn back before the national park.

Leads and the seasonal rule

Alexandrina Council requires a lead in its reserves from 10am to 6pm between 1 December and 30 April. Outside those times dogs must still be under effective control, and a lead is the simple way to manage that.

The track from Sugars Beach toward Bird Island and the Murray Mouth enters Coorong National Park, where dog rules are far stricter. Keep off that section.

The walk

Expect soft sand, shoreline tracks and firm dirt, with big views over the water and dunes. There is almost no shade and no dog water, so bring plenty.

Park near the Murray Mouth lookout and walk down to the beach. Bins are limited, so pack your bags out.

When to go

Cooler months and early mornings, when the sand is kind to paws. It suits dogs that love open space and birdwatching owners.