Well despite Melbourne's best efforts to withhold Summer from us, we still find ourselves falling victim to some absolute scorchers this year! Luckily the Mornington Peninsula is abundant in beaches, but how many of them are "Fido Friendly?"
We are exceptionally fortunate to have access to beaches that are leash free, and even more so to have a few that remain unrestricted year round! Below are listed some local beaches, with their locations and restrictions, hopefully making it a bit easier for you to plan your day at the beach with pooch.
MT ELIZA BEACH
Mt Eliza Beach extends from Williams Road to Freemans Road. 
It is leash free between 7pm and 9am during daylight savings, and all the time throughout the rest of the year.
MILLS BEACH
Mills Beach is accessed via the Esplanade. It is a dog friendly beach, but all dogs are required to be on a lead at all times throughout the year.
MOTHERS BEACH
Mothers Beach is accessed via Schnappers Point. It is a dog friendly beach but all dogs are required to be on a lead at all times throughout the year.
FOSTERS BEACH
Fosters Beach is accessed via Nunns Walking Track located on The Esplanade. This beach is leash free all year round with no time restrictions.
ROYAL BEACH
Royal Beach is accessed via a walking track from Schnapper Point Drive. This beach is leash free all year round with no time restrictions.
DAVA BEACH
Dava Beach is just up from Bentons Road and is accessed via The Esplanade. It is leash free between 7pm and 9am during daylight savings, and all the time throughout the rest of the year.
BIRDROCK BEACH
Birdrock Beach is located opposite Birdrock avenue and is accessed via The Esplanade. It is leash free between 7pm and 9am during daylight savings, and all the time throughout the rest of the year.
HAWKER BEACH
Hawker Beach is just up from Craigie Road and is accessed via The Esplanade. It is leash free between 7pm and 9am during daylight savings, and all the time throughout the rest of the year.
Please remember these few simple rules when hitting the sand with your dog, abiding by these will ensure the Mornington Peninsula remains a pet friendly seaside location.
- ALWAYS clean up after your dog. Take plenty of poo bags and make sure to dispose of them responsibly
- Have plenty of FRESH water readily available for your dog
- Watch your dog at all times. There can be many potential dangers at the beach, from things they can ingest to altercations they could find themselves in, so best to always keep an eye on your dog.
- Act responsibly when letting your dog run leash free, remember their limitations and bear in mind the feelings of other dogs and people on the beach.
- ALWAYS keep control of your dog, if they become a bit too carefree or rambunctious it might be time to reign them in for a bit.
- If it's an incredibly hot day check how hot the sand is. If you can't walk on it, neither can your dog!
- NEVER leave your dog alone in the car while you go for a swim, ESPECIALLY on hot days!
NOTE:The beaches listed above are publicly listed dog friendly beaches, if you are unsure if your local beach is dog friendly check for signs displayed at the beach entrance.
