The Best Dog Friendly Beaches and Swimming Holes in Melbourne

If you are wondering "Where can I take my dog to swim in Melbourne?", read on because there are lots of places for dogs to have a swim across Melbourne.

Best Dog Friendly Beaches

An obvious place to take the dogs for a swim is a beach. Melbourne has some fantastic beaches where dogs can frolic off-leash in the water and along the beach. Our dog loves skimming through the shallow water and then shaking off the excess water while standing right beside us. Dogs and their owners can happily play, exercise and socialise at these places.

However, many beaches have restrictions on where and when dogs can be allowed off-leash and generally have more restrictive hours during the summer daylight savings times.



Use these resources below to find a suitable beach for your dog

11 Best Off-Leash Dog Beaches in Melbourne

Year Round Beach Off-leash areas for Dogs

Best Dog Friendly Swimming Holes

In addition to beaches there are rivers, creeks and ponds where dogs can enjoy the water.

Darebin Parklands Dog Off Leash Area (Alphington)


The off leash area which is located in the north east corner of the large park has a creek which forms a deep pool which is a nice area for dogs to have a swim in.

Packer Park Dog Off Leash Area (Carnegie)


Packer Park has two off-leash areas and there is a creek / ponds beside one of these areas. A lot of dogs were taking the opportunity to have a dip in the water when we visited.

Griffith Park Dog Off Leash Area (Eltham)


A lovely area next to the Yarra River which has an area of pine trees near the car park and gum trees closer to the river. There is a spot where dogs can have a swim in the river.

Deep Rock at Yarra Bend Park (Fairfield)


On the trail between the Studley Park Boathouse and Dights Falls, there is the former location of the Deep Rock Swimming & Life Saving Club which was established at the site in 1906 operated until the 1940s. This area has an embankment of flat boulders to provide access to the river from the river bank. These stone steps are used by lots of dogs to go for a dip in the river.

Fairpark Reserve Dog Off Leash Area (Ferntree Gully)


Blind Creek runs around the side of the reserve with rock steps across the creek in a number of places. This is a place where dogs can have a little dip in the creek.

Nettleton Park Dog Off Leash Area (Glen Iris)


In the south west corner of the park, a path leads down to a small sandy area beside the creek where dogs can have a swim.

Fairview Park Dog Off Leash Area (Hawthorn)

There is a gravel bank at one point down to the river where confident dogs can swim in the Yarra River.

Lillydale Lake North West Dog Off Leash Area (Lilydale)


A lovely off-leash area bordered by Olinda Creek with a rock crossing and places for a swim.

Warrandyte River Reserve Dog Off Leash Area (Warrandyte)


The walk along the Yarra River is about 1.5 km long in one direction and offers plenty of opportunities for both people and dogs to have a dip. Care needs to be taken since the river can be fast and strong at times.

Presidents Park Dog Off Leash Area (Wyndham Vale)


A highlight of the huge park is a large lake where dogs can have a swim or paddle in the shallower water along the edge or a longer swim in the deeper water.

Tips for Taking Your Dog Swimming

Some extra precautions need to be taken when dogs go for a swim, especially in a river or lake. Consider these tips to keep your dog healthy.

• Bring some fresh water (with a bowl) along for your dog, it will be a lot healthier than drinking from a river or lake.
  
• One of the dangers around water during summer are snakes. Keep a lookout but if your dog is bitten, keep your dog still and calm, carry it to your car if possible - the least blood circulation the better and go to a vet with a supply of anti-venom.
  
• Stay clear of stagnant water which can contain dangerous organisms.
  
• Keep an eye out for blue-green algae which can bloom on lakes and rivers. Generally there will be a sign advising not to swim in such areas. This also includes swimming by dogs for which the algae can be toxic.
  
• Time in water makes dog paws softer and more susceptible to cuts. Watch out for glass or sharp metal.
  
• If possible, rinse your dog off in fresh water and dry them before coming home. Make sure your dog's ears are also dried.

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The Best Dog Friendly Beaches and Swimming Holes in Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000