We are lucky enough to care for pets on the stunning Mornington Peninsula. Among its many highlights are some fantastic dog-friendly walks, where both dogs and their owners can enjoy the natural beauty of the region. We'll guide you through our favourite spots, detailing how each place stands out and what makes it special for dogs and their humans alike.
1. Mount Martha Beach North
- Dog-Friendly: Yes (off-leash during designated times)
- Distance from Mornington: Approximately 4.5 km from Mornington's centre
- Advantages: Stunning sandy beach, clear waters, great for swimming
Mount Martha Beach North is known for its soft, golden sand and clear, turquoise waters. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors, offering a perfect setting for a relaxing beach day. The beach is dog-friendly during designated times, allowing your dog to enjoy the sand and surf while avoiding the crowds.
Dog-Friendly Features:
- You can easily walk through four designated off-leash areas and beaches: Hawker Beach, Birdrock Beach, Fossil Beach, and Dava Beach.
- Dogs are allowed off-leash at specific times, usually in the early morning and late evening. This allows for a more relaxed experience when the beach is quieter.
- The beach’s gentle slope and clear waters make it an ideal spot for dogs that enjoy swimming or playing in the water
2. Fossil Beach
- Dog-Friendly: Yes (off-leash area)
- Distance from Mornington: Approximately 2.5 km from Mornington's centre
- Advantages: Historical significance, unique geological features, quiet environment
Fossil Beach is a hidden gem located just 2.5 kilometers from the heart of Mornington. This beach is not only a great spot for a quiet walk with your dog, but it also holds significant historical and geological value if that’s your interest! The beach gets its name from the abundance of fossils found in the cliffs, which date back millions of years. As you walk along the shore, you can see evidence of this ancient history embedded in the rocks.
Dog-Friendly Features:
- Fossil Beach is an off-leash area, allowing your dog the freedom to explore the sandy shore and rock pools.
- The beach is relatively secluded, meaning fewer distractions and other dogs, making it perfect for a quiet, relaxed walk.
Why Choose This Location?
- Historical Appeal: For history buffs, Fossil Beach offers an opportunity to combine a dog walk with a bit of learning. The beach was once a clay mining site in the 19th century, and you can still find remnants of this history along the cliffs.
- Peaceful Environment: Compared to the more popular beaches in Mornington, Fossil Beach is much quieter and less crowded. It’s ideal for dogs that prefer a more tranquil setting or for owners who want a peaceful stroll without the hustle and bustle.
- Unique Scenery: The geological formations at Fossil Beach are unlike any other in the area. The exposed layers of rock tell a story of the earth’s history, and the beach itself offers a raw, natural beauty that’s different from the manicured sands of more touristy spots.
3. Mornington Park
- Dog-Friendly: on-leash and off-leash areas
- Distance from Mornington: Located in the centre of Mornington
- Advantages: Central location, social atmosphere, open spaces
Mornington Park is a well-loved green space in the heart of Mornington. Its central location makes it easily accessible, whether you’re a local resident or just visiting. The park is a popular spot for families, joggers, and dog walkers alike, thanks to its large grassy areas, playgrounds, and stunning views of Port Phillip Bay.
The historical significance of the park adds to its charm, with monuments such as the Mornington Football Disaster memorial, which commemorates the 1892 tragedy in which 15 members of the local football team perished at sea. Visitors can also explore the nearby Schnapper Point, a historic lookout offering stunning views of the bay and the surrounding beaches.
In addition to its recreational and historical appeal, the park provides access to nearby walking trails and bathing boxes, giving visitors the opportunity to explore Mornington's natural beauty. The park's convenient location, adjacent to Main Street, means that shops, cafes, and restaurants are easily accessible, enhancing the overall experience.
Dog-Friendly Features:
- Dogs are welcome on-leash throughout the park, which is great for social dogs that enjoy being around people and other pets.
- The park’s expansive lawns provide plenty of space for your dog to explore while staying on-leash.
- Nearby is Royal Beach, which is an off-leash zone.
Why Choose This Location?
- Central Convenience: Mornington Park’s central location makes it a perfect spot for a quick walk during the day. You can easily stop by for a short stroll or make it a part of a longer walk through the town.
- Socializing Opportunities: This park is popular among locals, so it’s a great place for your dog to meet other dogs and for you to connect with fellow dog owners. The friendly atmosphere makes it a welcoming space for everyone.
- Scenic Views: The park offers stunning views of the bay, especially at sunset. It’s an ideal spot to sit and relax after your walk, enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
- Nearby Amenities: Being in the town center, Mornington Park is close to cafes, shops, and other amenities, making it convenient to grab a coffee or lunch before or after your walk.
4. Mills Beach
- Dog-Friendly: Yes (off-leash during designated times)
- Distance from Mornington: Approximately 1.5 km from Mornington's centre
- Advantages: Calm waters, stunning sunsets, family-friendly
Mills Beach is known for its calm, shallow waters and colorful beach boxes, which add a charming, vibrant touch to the shoreline. Mills Beach is a favorite among locals, especially families, thanks to its safe swimming conditions and relaxed atmosphere.
Dog-Friendly Features:
- Dogs are allowed off-leash at designated times, typically early in the morning and late in the evening. This allows your dog to enjoy the freedom of the beach without disturbing other visitors.
- The beach’s gentle slope and calm waters make it a great spot for dogs that enjoy playing in the water.
Why Choose This Location?
- Safe Environment: The calm, shallow waters of Mills Beach are ideal for dogs that enjoy a swim. The gentle waves make it safe even for smaller or older dogs who might not be strong swimmers.
- Beautiful Scenery: The colorful beach boxes lining the shore are a distinctive feature of Mills Beach. They add a unique aesthetic that makes this beach stand out from others in the area. The beach is also known for its spectacular sunsets, offering a stunning backdrop for your evening walks.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Mills Beach is a popular spot for families, making it a lively and friendly environment. It’s a great place to bring your dog if they enjoy being around children and other people.
- Proximity to Town: Being so close to the town center, Mills Beach is convenient for a quick walk or a longer outing. You can easily combine your beach walk with a visit to one of the nearby cafes or shops.
5. The Briars
- Dog-Friendly: Yes (on-leash only)
- Distance from Mornington: Approximately 6 km from Mornington's centre
- Advantages: Conservation focus, educational opportunities, varied landscapes
The Briars is a large conservation park located about 6 kilometers from Mornington’s city center. This historic park is not only a beautiful place to walk your dog, but it also offers a rich cultural and ecological experience. The Briars is home to a visitor center, a historic homestead, and extensive walking trails that wind through wetlands, woodlands, and open fields.
You can walk your dog on-leash along the picturesque Balcombe Creek Trail, which offers a blend of nature and serenity. For those looking to let their dogs roam freely, there are nearby designated off-leash zones where they can explore and play safely.
Dog-Friendly Features:
- Dogs are welcome on-leash throughout the park, which helps protect the local wildlife and ensures a safe environment for everyone.
- The park’s varied landscapes provide plenty of sensory stimulation for your dog, from the smells of the wetlands to the open fields where they can run and explore.
Why Choose This Location?
- Conservation Focus: The Briars is a haven for native wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, and a variety of bird species. Walking your dog here allows you to enjoy nature while also supporting the park’s conservation efforts. The on-leash policy helps protect the wildlife, ensuring that this beautiful environment remains undisturbed.
- Educational Opportunities: The Briars offers more than just a place to walk; it’s also an educational experience. The visitor center provides information about the local flora and fauna, and you can learn about the history of the area through exhibits at the historic homestead. It’s a great place to combine exercise with learning.
- Varied Landscapes: The walking trails at The Briars offer a diverse range of environments to explore. You can walk through dense woodlands, stroll around serene wetlands, or enjoy the open spaces of the park’s grasslands. This variety keeps the walk interesting for both you and your dog.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite its popularity, The Briars offers a peaceful, tranquil environment, especially if you visit during the quieter hours. It’s a great place to escape the bus.
6. Esplanade Walk (Mornington to Mt. Martha)
- Dog-Friendly: Yes (on-leash only)
- Distance from Mornington: Starts in the centre of Mornington
- Advantages: Stunning coastal views, long-distance walk, well-maintained path
The Esplanade Walk is a scenic coastal path that stretches from Mornington to Mt. Martha, offering breathtaking views of Port Phillip Bay. Starting right from the centre of Mornington, this walk is perfect for those who enjoy longer, more invigorating walks. The well-maintained path is popular among walkers, joggers, and cyclists, and is a favorite spot for dog walkers due to the beautiful scenery and fresh sea air.
Along the trail, you'll find several beaches where dogs are welcome for a stroll. At Birdrock Beach, dogs are prohibited between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM during the summer months, but outside of these hours, they are free to roam off-leash, allowing them to enjoy the sandy shores and cool ocean breeze.
Dog-Friendly Features:
- The path is dog-friendly, with dogs required to be on-leash. This ensures a safe and controlled environment for your walk.
- The walk offers plenty of opportunities for dogs to take in new smells and sights, with the coastal breeze providing a refreshing atmosphere.
Why Choose This Location?
- Stunning Coastal Views: The Esplanade Walk is renowned for its stunning views of the bay. As you walk along the path, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of the water, with sailboats dotting the horizon and the Melbourne skyline visible in the distance on clear days. The combination of ocean views and the sound of waves makes this walk particularly invigorating.
- Long-Distance Option: If you’re looking for a longer walk, the Esplanade offers the perfect solution. The path stretches for several kilometers, allowing you to enjoy a more extended outing. It’s ideal for active dogs that need a lot of exercise, and the well-paved path makes it easy to maintain a good pace.
- Well-Maintained Path: The Esplanade is well-maintained, with smooth pavements and clear signage, making it accessible for walkers of all abilities. The path is also lined with benches and lookout points, where you can take a break and enjoy the view.
- Access to Other Beaches: Along the walk, you’ll pass by several access points to smaller, less crowded beaches. If your dog enjoys a swim, these spots offer a great opportunity to take a break from walking and let your dog splash around in the water.
7. Citation Reserve
- Dog-Friendly: Yes (off-leash area)
- Distance from Mornington: Approximately 5 km from Mornington's centre
- Advantages: Designated off-leash zone, large open space, popular dog park
Citation Reserve is a large open space located about 5 kilometers from Mornington’s town centre. This reserve is one of the most popular spots for dog owners in the area, thanks to its dedicated off-leash zone where dogs can run freely and socialize with other dogs. The reserve is well-maintained and offers a variety of facilities, making it a great place for both dogs and their owners.
Dog-Friendly Features:
- The reserve includes a designated off-leash area, giving your dog plenty of space to run, play, and burn off energy.
- The open space is surrounded by trees, providing shade and a sense of enclosure, making it a safe environment for dogs.
Why Choose This Location?
- Off-Leash Freedom: The main advantage of Citation Reserve is its large, open off-leash area. Unlike other parks where dogs must remain on-leash, this reserve allows your dog to enjoy the freedom of running and playing without restrictions. It’s perfect for dogs that need a lot of exercise or enjoy socializing with other dogs.
- Community Atmosphere: Citation Reserve is a popular spot among local dog owners, so it’s a great place to meet fellow dog-lovers. The social atmosphere makes it an enjoyable outing for both you and your pet.
- Well-Maintained Facilities: The reserve is well-kept, with clean grounds and good facilities, including seating areas, water fountains, and waste disposal bins. The grassy area is regularly mowed, providing a comfortable surface for dogs to run on.
- Convenient Location: Citation Reserve is easily accessible for a quick visit or a longer play session. The surrounding area is also pleasant, with tree-lined paths that are perfect for a warm-up walk before entering the off-leash area.
8. Dava Beach
- Dog-Friendly: Yes (off-leash area)
- Distance from Mornington: Approximately 3 km from Mornington's centre
- Advantages: Quiet environment, secluded beach, off-leash freedom
Dava Beach is a quieter, more secluded beach located about 3 kilometers from the centre of Mornington. This beach is a hidden gem, offering a peaceful retreat from the busier, more crowded beaches in the area. Dava Beach is an off-leash area, allowing your dog to roam freely along the sandy shore and explore the surrounding dunes.
Dog-Friendly Features:
- The beach is designated as an off-leash area, providing ample space for your dog to run, play, and swim without the restrictions of a leash.
- The beach is relatively quiet and less frequented by tourists, making it an ideal spot for dogs that might be overwhelmed by busier environments.
Why Choose This Location?
- Secluded and Peaceful: The quiet environment is perfect for dogs that might be nervous or reactive in busier settings. It’s also a great spot for a relaxed, uninterrupted walk along the shore.
- Natural Beauty: The beach is surrounded by natural dunes and native vegetation, creating a scenic and serene environment. The absence of large crowds means you can fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area without distractions.
- Off-Leash Freedom: The off-leash policy at Dava Beach allows your dog to enjoy the full freedom of the beach. Whether they love to run along the shore, splash in the waves, or explore the dunes, Dava Beach provides the perfect environment for your dog to enjoy themselves.
- Accessibility: Despite its secluded feel, Dava Beach is still conveniently located just a short drive from Mornington’s center. It’s easy to access for a quick visit, but feels like a world away from the busier parts of town.
9. Civic Reserve
- Dog-Friendly: Yes (off-leash and on-leash areas)
- Distance from City Center: 3km from Mornington’s centre
- Advantages: proximity to Mornington centre, lake
The Civic Reserve is a spacious and versatile park that offers various walking trails and open areas. With wide, grassy areas and shady spots, it’s a favorite for locals and their pets looking for both a leisurely stroll and playtime. Civic Reserve is only about 3 minutes from the center of Mornington, making it an incredibly convenient spot for a quick visit or an extended day out with your dog.
Dog-Friendly Features:
Civic Reserve has specific off-leash zones where dogs are free to roam, run, and play. However, outside of these designated areas, dogs must remain on-leash to maintain the safety of the park's wildlife and other park visitors.
Why Choose This Location?
One of the standout features of Civic Reserve is its versatility. In addition to dog-friendly areas, it houses a range of amenities such as sporting facilities, walking paths, and a serene lake that adds to the park's overall appeal. The reserve’s large off-leash areas give dogs plenty of room to exercise, and the nearby walking trails provide a mix of natural beauty and recreational space. Civic Reserve’s central location also means you can combine your dog walk with a visit to other nearby attractions or shops.
10. Beleura Cliff Path
- Dog-Friendly: Yes (on-leash area)
- Distance from Mornington: 5 minutes from Mornington's centre
- Advantages: proximity to Mornington centre, less busy
The Beleura Cliff Path is a serene and visually striking coastal walk that connects Mills Beach to Mornington Golf Club. This trail offers a blend of scenic beauty, native vegetation, and a quiet atmosphere that appeals to dog owners looking for a peaceful and refreshing escape from busier locations. NB. The path is relatively narrow and elevated along the cliffs.
Dog-Friendly Features
- On-leash walking: For safety reasons, dogs must remain on-leash at all times. The path's narrowness and proximity to the cliffs make this essential.
- Quiet and less crowded: While some coastal paths attract heavy foot traffic, Beleura Cliff Path remains quieter, providing a calm and relaxed experience for dog owners who prefer solitude during their walks.
- Scenic rest spots: The trail offers a few lookout points where you and your dog can take a break while enjoying breathtaking ocean views.
Why Choose Beleura Cliff Path?
- Stunning coastal views: This path’s biggest advantage is its elevated position along the cliffs, which provides unparalleled views of the bay. Whether during sunrise or sunset, the vistas are simply unforgettable.
- Less foot traffic: The Beleura Cliff Path offers a more tranquil and private walking experience. It’s perfect for dogs that might get anxious in crowds or for owners who want a peaceful outing.
- Natural beauty: The trail is surrounded by native vegetation, such as eucalyptus trees and coastal shrubs, which create a sense of immersion in nature. The quiet rustling of leaves and distant sounds of the ocean make for a meditative walk.
- Convenience: Its proximity to Mornington's city center means you don’t have to venture far to enjoy a scenic walk. Whether you’re a local or visiting, it’s easy to incorporate this walk into your day.
