Our Pet-friendly holiday homes welcome your furry family members to Phillip Island. Explore dog-friendly beaches, coastal walks, and open spaces together without leaving beloved pets behind.
Protecting Phillip Island's Coastal Reserves
The Nature Parks manages coastal reserves on Phillip Island (Milawul) and welcomes visitors and the community to enjoy these natural spaces responsibly. By respecting signage and following regulations, we can protect people, pets, and wildlife alike.
Understanding Seasonal Restrictions
Seasonal restrictions apply to all dog walking areas, with one exception: the Ventnor off-leash area permits dogs off-leash year-round.
Follow Beach Signage
Clear signage is displayed at beaches throughout the area to communicate current regulations. Please take a moment to read the signs carefully and follow the rules that apply at the time of your visit.
Where you can go
Ventnor Beach (between Ventnor Beach Road and Graydens Road)
Dogs permitted off-leash at all times.
Cowes Beach (50 metres east of Anderson Road boat ramp to Cowes Yacht Club access track)
Dogs permitted off-leash with seasonal restrictions:
- On-leash required: 10am–6pm during December, January, and Easter holidays
- On-leash required: 9am–6pm all other times of the year
Cleeland Bight, Cape Woolamai (between Palm Beach Avenue and Southport Avenue)
Dogs permitted off-leash with seasonal restrictions:
- On-leash required: 10am–6pm during December, January, and Easter holidays
- On-leash required: 9am–6pm all other times of the year
On-Leash Dog Areas
Beaches shown in blue on the map below (including areas at Cape Woolamai, Cowes, Newhaven, Rhyll, Silverleaves, Sunderland Bay, Smiths Beach, Surf Beach, and Ventnor):
- 1 May to 30 November: Dogs permitted on-leash at all times
- 1 December to 30 April: Dogs permitted on-leash from 7am–10am and 5pm–8pm only
Dog Prohibited Areas
Dogs are not permitted at any time on:
- Cowes main beach between Cowes Yacht Club and Dunsmore Road (including Mussel Rocks, Cowes Jetty, Erehwon Point, and Lovers Walk)
- Beaches managed by Phillip Island Nature Parks for environmental protection (refer to map below)
For more information visit - https://www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/services/pets-animals/where-can-i-walk-my-dog
Download this handy guide - Where can I walk my Dog
Map courtesy of Phillip Island Nature Parks