Last Updated on 29 March 2026 by Ariana Svenson
The beaches in Esperance are some of the most beautiful in the world, so if you’re bringing your dog to Esperance (or considering it), it’s no wonder you’re wondering whether there are any dog-friendly beaches in Esperance and which are the best ones.
The main things to do in Esperance are indeed the beaches, and most of the best beaches in Esperance are within the national parks like Cape Arid National Park. This poses a bit of a challenge if you’re travelling with dogs, as national parks typically have strict dog regulations. So, if you take a dog to Esperance, you will want to make a plan. Feel free to read our guide on places to stay in Esperance, you will find dog-friendly accommodations as well!
Are the Beaches in Esperance Dog Friendly?
Dogs are not allowed at most Esperance beaches, especially those within the national parks. Although this can limit your options, there are plenty of beaches – including some of the most famous where dogs can run around without needing a lead.
Remember, there are people who live in Esperance with dogs, and the dogs need somewhere to play! The only rule is that dogs must be under control and not cause a nuisance. Dog poo bags are even available in some locations.
At one point, Acclaim Holiday Park had plans for a ‘doggy daycare’ for those who love to travel with their pooch but can’t leave them in their tent or accommodation.
Ask your accommodation provider for ideas and options when you book, and you might find a win-win solution for you and your dog when visiting Esperance.
Map of the Esperance Dog-Friendly Beaches
Dog-Friendly Beaches in Esperance
Most of the dog-friendly beaches in Esperance are on the western side of town along the first part of the Great Ocean Drive. These beaches include famous ones like Eleven Mile Beach, Salmon Beach, Blue Haven, Fourth Beach, and Ten Mile Lagoon. There are also plenty of hidden gems that are dog-friendly.
Some beaches have specific leash rules. Always check the signs as you enter the beach; these can change. More than anything, just sure you are a responsible pet owner and this will help other people be able to bring their dogs to Esperance.
1. West Beach
Dogs are allowed on West Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Esperance. It’s a favourite with dog walkers, and it’s no wonder! That said, dogs are only allowed off the leash between 5 AM and 8 AM and 4 PM and 8 PM. Outside these times, dogs are permitted but must be on a leash.
The vast beach has plenty of space for dogs to run freely and enjoy the waves. There is also a natural lagoon between the shore and a rock reef, meaning no sharks! The beach is also famous for surfing!
You can access this beautiful beach with white sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the surrounding coastline and islands. West Beach is close to the town centre, so it is perfect for a break when exploring.
2. Eleven Mile Beach
Eleven Mile Beach is one of the best stops on the Great Ocean Drive. Reefs and rocks protect the beach, so the water is calm, and there is almost no wind.
The sea may look picturesque, but several dogs have died in rips, and there are campaigns for better signage. Be aware of this when visiting!
3. Blue Haven
Blue Haven Beach has beautiful turquoise waters and calm seas—perfect for swimming. It’s famous for being sheltered and having a natural barrier from the wind. It is a 10-minute drive from Esperance and accessed via a steep stairway.
The beach is less crowded than other Esperance beaches and is a hidden gem – especially if you’re travelling with your dog!
4. Ten Mile Lagoon
Ten Mile Lagoon is located 17km from Esperance and is an excellent spot for walking and swimming (although no lifeguards are on duty). It’s also a popular spot for sunbathing, and the beach has an optional ‘clothes optional’ section.
The lagoon is 10 km long and 2 km wide. There are not many amenities on the beach, so make sure you bring your own food, drinks and chairs.
5. Twilight Bay
The Twilight Bay area has several dog-friendly beaches, making it the perfect place for a long beach walk. It’s often voted one of Australia’s best beaches – no wonder!
On Twilight Beach, dogs are banned from entering the WESTERN END. This is the area between the car parks and the rocks east of the Surf Life Saving Club.
There are plenty of facilities on the beach, including toilets, picnic tables, and BBQs, so you can easily spend the whole day there.
6. Salmon Beach
Salmon Beach is another huge beach with shallow waters perfect for cooling off. There are gentle waves here, so it’s the ideal place for kids to come. The beach is also surrounded by dunes.
Tips for Bringing Your Dog to The Esperance Dog Friendly Beaches
Going to dog-friendly beaches is one of the best things to do with dogs in Esperance. However, there are some hazards you need to watch out for – especially the local wildlife. You should also make sure you keep your dog hydrated and follow the specific rules of each beach. Here are our best tips:
- Snakes: Some snake species live in WA, including many that are very venomous. Beware of letting dogs in the dunes or long grass behind beaches.
- Ticks: Another reason to avoid the long grass and dunes is ticks. Ticks can infect your dog with dangerous diseases and bacteria. If you find a tick, make sure you take your dog to the vet.
- Bring Plenty of Water: The beach can get hot, and your dog will likely get thirsty after running around and playing. Bring plenty of fresh water and a bowl to keep your pet hydrated.
- Dog Poo: Make sure you always clean up after your dog and watch them, even if they like to run far ahead! In Esperance, yellow dog poo bags are often at the entrance to the beach, but make sure you also bring your own.
- Be Mindful of Wildlife: Esperance is home to diverse wildlife, including birds and marine animals. Keep an eye on your dog to prevent them from disturbing local wildlife or getting into dangerous situations. You should also keep your dog off the rocks because they can be very slippery, and your dog could even end up sliding into the water.
- Follow the Rules: If the sign says dogs on leashes, follow it. Remember that not all beachgoers will like dogs.
- Protect Your Dog from the Sun: Dogs can get sunburned, especially those with short or light-coloured fur. NEVER leave your dog in the car.
- Know Your Dog’s Limits: Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and some may not enjoy the beach as much as others. Some beaches may have strong currents or changing tides that can pose a danger to your dog.
- Avoid Crowded Times: For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting the beach during off-peak hours when it’s less crowded. This can help reduce stress for dogs that might be nervous around large groups, and they can run around without disturbing other beachgoers.
- Keep your pet off the rocks: Many granite rocks are dangerous when wet – they have a black coating that is algae and seem fine when dry, but once wet, they become hazardous for both animals and humans. In short, keep your dog – and yourself – away from the edge of rocks, especially those with black algae, and be aware that the Southern Ocean is unpredictable. Many people – and pets – have been washed off due to freak waves.
- Sea Hares & the risk to dogs: The Western Australian coast has periods when the toxic sea slugs known as sea hares are washed up on the beaches, including in Esperance. Ask the locals if they have seen any before heading to the beach.
- Slug-like and slimy, sea hares can resemble cuttlefish or blobs with rabbit ears (the animal’s water wings) when washed up on the shore. The sea hares are highly dangerous to dogs as they contain a neurotoxin that causes dogs to lick or eat the sea creature.
- Symptoms to look out for in a dog after a walk on the beach include vomiting, over-excitement and convulsions, Any dog showing these symptoms should be immediately taken to a vet.
The Great Ocean Drive With Dogs
One of the must-do experiences in Esperance is the Great Ocean Drive. You can read our full Great Ocean Drive Esperance post for more details.
The 40km loop can be driven in 1-2 hours, passing some of the most amazing Esperance beaches. You can plan a dog-friendly trip and stop at some dog-friendly beaches. You’ll find pet-friendly West Beach, Blue Haven, Salmon Beach, Fourth Beach, Ten Mile Lagoon, and Eleven Mile Beach.
It’s also worth planning a stop at The Rotary Lookout, a starting point for many dog-friendly walks. Opt for the 20-minute Rotary Loop walk or start the 1.3 km trail to Lovers Cove. Dogs should be on a leash for these walks.
Make sure you also stop at Observatory Point, where you can see whales during whale migrations!
Dog-Friendly Walks in Esperance
While you cannot take your dog to the national parks, there are plenty of dog-friendly walks in Esperance. Plenty of places allow dogs off a leash, but remember that dogs are still not allowed in national parks.
Stroll along the Esperance foreshore, as there is a 5km walkway for you and your pup. There is a shared cycle-pedestrian pathway that spans the Great Ocean Drive section from downtown Esperance all the way to Twilight Beach. You can easily do a small section with many car parks along the way.
The top walks include the 5km walkway along the Foreshore and the walking part of the Great Ocean Drive, especially from the town centre to Twilight Beach (8-12km).
From Twilight Beach, there is also a 4.5km walk to Pink Lake Lookout. The pink lake Esperance is no longer pink, but you can read about some of the best Pink Lakes in Western Australia here.
Other Places to Take Dogs in Esperance
As long as your dog is under control, there are plenty of places you can take your dog on a walk. Here are some specific dog exercise areas you could opt for:
- The Greater Sports Ground on Black Street – as long as it’s not being used for a sporting event, this is the best recognised dog exercise area in Esperance.
- The New Wildcherry Dog Park – has fenced separate areas for small and large dogs.
Dog Kennels in Esperance
If you really want to explore the national parks in Esperance and you have no other option, there are some well-rated kennels. Kennels need your dog to have up-to-date vaccinations.
Popular options in Esperance include:
- Abalee Cattery and Kennels offer dog boarding. Your dog will get a comfortable bed and blanket and a nice exercise area.
- County Land Boarding Kennels: Located on a 10-acre property. Spacious kennels.
- Doggy Wellness Esperance: A family-run business.
Pet Sitting in Esperance
Pet sitting is also a great option as a one-off or if you’re staying in a holiday cottage. Make sure you advertise before you visit so you won’t be disappointed if you can’t find someone when you arrive.
Madpaws and Wagwalking are good sites to find a pet sitter in Esperance. There’s also a good Facebook group you could reach out on.
Esperance Dog Friendly Accommodation
Not all places to stay in Esperance allow dogs, but there are some great options that do. Here are my top recommendations.
Pet Friendly Caravan Parks in Esperance
Two caravan parks in Esperance are considered dog-friendly accommodations.
Bathers Paradise Caravan Park
Bathers Paradise Caravan Park is just a short walk from the beachfront. There are dog-friendly camping sites available (you need to book a special one) and an outdoor dog wash area.
Read reviews of Bathers Paradise Caravan Park here
Pink Lake Tourist Park
This caravan park offers pet-friendly accommodations, including cabins, chalets, and powered sites for caravans and tents. It also provides a designated dog exercise area.
Book your stay on Booking.com
Read Reviews of Pink Lake Tourist Park
Dog-Friendly Holiday Parks in Esperance
Holiday parks are an excellent choice for pet-friendly accommodation. They are spacious and relaxed environments with pet-friendly facilities and easy access to walking trails and beaches.
RAC Esperance Holiday Park
Rac Esperance Holiday Park is located on the north side of town, directly across from Esperance Bay. It offers dog-friendly accommodation options, from powered tent sites to two-bed pet-friendly park cabins.
Check Booking.com for more information and current rates for Rac Esperance Holiday Park
Check Agoda.com for more information and current rates for Rac Esperance Holiday Park
Check Expedia.com for more information and current rates for Rac Esperance Holiday Park
Esperance Bay Holiday Park
The Esperance Bay Holiday Park is another pet-friendly accommodation option in Esperance. It is located just a short distance from the town centre and Taylor Street Jetty.
Check Booking.com for more information about the Esperance Bay Holiday Park
Check Agoda.com for more information about the Esperance Bay Holiday Park
Check Expedia.com for more information about the Esperance Bay Holiday Park
Other Dog-Friendly Accommodation in Esperance
As well as caravan parks and holiday parks, you could also opt for a holiday cottage or self-contained accommodation.
EcoValley Retreat
Eco Valley Retreat is located 5 km from the Esperance town centre. It is adults-only, as the site specifies it’s not suitable for children. Pets are welcome, provided they are well-socialised. Accommodation includes two self-contained units.
JJ’s Holiday Cottages
Self-contained cottages that are fully fenced with private patios.
Dog-Friendly Beaches in Esperance: Final Words
It’s true; the Esperance National Parks are off-limits to dogs.
Although you should plan a visit to them one day (especially the most famous ones like Cape Le Grand and Cape Arid), you and your dog can still visit plenty of Esperance beaches and enjoy lots of lovely walks. You can even experience the Great Ocean Drive.
You also have plenty of dog-friendly accommodation options, and may consider putting your pooch into a kennel for 1-2 days so you can comfortably visit the National parks knowing your best friend is being well cared for.
What’s your experience taking your dog to Esperance? Let us know in the comments below!
Looking for other dog friendly destinations in WA? Make sure you read our dog friendly Swan Valley guide.
Its a bit ridiculous that 65% of Australian families have a pet yet NP restrict all access to people with pets.
There should be very strict rules about dogs must be on leashes etc or certain times they can visit so that pets and their owners can also enjoy Australias NP.
It’s high time the rules change- some yuppies in govt being anal retentive.
A dog on a leash cannot harm another animal if it’s controlled.
Absolutely agree Simon. Some educated idiot thinks that the wildlife will run away and not return if they smell dog scent. Utter Rubbish.