Smiths Beach Coastal Reserve Path

On Phillip Island's south coast, the reserve path at Smiths Beach drops through coastal scrub to a surf beach of rock platforms and rock pools. Dogs are allowed on a lead, but the hours you can bring them depend on the season.

Lead rules and times

From 1 May to 30 November, dogs can visit on lead at any time. From 1 December to 30 April they are limited to 7am to 10am and 5pm to 8pm, still on lead.

Bass Coast Shire Council sets these rules, and Phillip Island Nature Parks manages nearby reserves where dogs are banned outright to protect hooded plovers and shearwaters. Keep out of the dunes.

The path

Expect sandy tracks with timber boardwalk and steps down to the foreshore. Tea tree and scrub give a little cover, but much of it is open to sun and wind off Bass Strait.

Bins are by the main parking and access points but thin out along the track, so carry bags and water for the dog. Parking near the beach fills fast in holiday periods.

Max: In summer the dog window shuts at 10am. Check your watch before you head down the boardwalk.

When to go

The cooler months give you the most freedom here. In summer, an early start fits the morning window and gets you parked before the holiday rush.