Dogs and horses on beaches

Walking your dog and riding your horse on the beach can be a fantastic experience for both you and your animals. There are a few things you need to be aware of before bringing your pets to the beach.

Dogs

View our Environment Officers information, which includes details about the beaches you are allowed to walk your dogs.

Between 1 May and 30 September, dogs are not permitted on some beaches.

Horse Riding

Horse riding is allowed on our council-controlled beaches, but riders must comply with these rules:

  • from 1 May to 30 September, horse riding is discouraged between the hours of 10am and 6pm on all council beaches, because of the potential for conflict with other beach users
  • access to the beach for horse riders via council slipways is permitted. However, be aware of the surface structure, material and condition, and ensure that the access is not blocked and care is taken to avoid damage to the surface
  • keep all horses near the tide line and do not ride in a way to cause danger or annoyance to others. If there are other people on the beach, remain courteous and ride past them slowly and sensibly, leaving plenty of room especially for young children Remember, not all members of the public are familiar with horsemanship and the areas are open to the public at all times
  • both horse and rider must wear high–visibility gear when riding on the beach
  • keep younger and less experienced riders under close supervision
  • leave the beach area in a clean and tidy condition. Please remove droppings and any other items deposited as a direct or indirect use of the area
  • be aware of the tide times, which are available on the local beach information boards during the summer season
  • be aware of the characteristics of the beach surface (sand or shingle), especially below the low water line
  • be aware of dangerous holes in the sand – more common in the summer with children building castles, as these may be deep or cause soft deep patches in the sand
  • watch out for glass, tin and other metals, ropes, nets, general rubbish, and hidden structures, such as rusty spikes and pipes protruding from the sand.

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