Dogs on Holiday
YAMBA
LOCALS’ GUIDE
Travelling with your dog should feel easy, relaxed, and part of the holiday. Yamba is one of the most dog-friendly towns on the NSW North Coast, with long beaches, scenic coastal walks and even a ferry where dogs can travel on board. If you are staying at Sea Notes and planning a break with your four-legged companion, this guide covers the best beaches, walks and practical tips for enjoying the town together.
OFF-LEASH BEACHES
Pippi Beach (South end)
Pippi Beach is Yamba’s longest stretch of sand, and the southern end, past Dolphin Park, is a designated off-leash zone. Ideal for dogs who love a long, free run or a gentle paddle. The beach is wide and open, which helps with good sightlines if your dog prefers space away from others. Early morning is best for cool sand / calm conditions
Flat Rock
The stretch between southern Pippi Beach and Dump Beach is a beautiful dog-friendly point, popular with surfers and locals. With rock shelves, tide pools, dunes and ocean views, it is a favourite sunrise route for locals and gives dogs plenty of space to explore.
Dump Beach
Dump Beach, also known as Barri Beach, is one of Yamba’s lesser-known gems and is leash-free. It tends to be much quieter than the town beaches. The waves can be powerful, so keep water-loving dogs safe if they are not strong swimmers.
ON-LEASH BEACHES
Green Point / Green Cove
Dogs are welcome on a lead at Green Point and the adjacent cove. This part of the Angourie reserve is quiet, scenic and ideal for a gentle walk. The rock shelves can be slippery; take care underfoot.
Whiting Beach (Hickey Island)
Whiting Beach is a calm, sheltered river beach facing the Clarence River channel. It is an on-leash area and a good option if you prefer gentler water and fewer waves. Tidal movement can be strong in deeper sections, so keep your dog close.
DOG-FREE BEACHES
To protect wildlife and ensure safe spaces for all beach users, these beaches do not allow dogs at any time;
Turners Beach
Main Beach
Convent Beach
North Pippi Beach
DOG-FRIENDLY DAY TRIP
Yamba to Iluka on the Ferry
Dogs are permitted on the Yamba–Iluka Ferry as long as they remain on a lead. It is a lovely way to spend a day exploring Iluka’s beaches, riverfront and rainforest walk.
Tips for travelling with your dog:
• Keep your dog close while boarding.
• Bring a towel for wet or sandy paws.
• Iluka has quiet bays and shady walking tracks perfect for on-leash exploring.
SUMMER SAFETY
Roads, paths and asphalt heat up rapidly and become dangerously hot to your dog’s feet, resulting in burns or blistered paws.
A simple rule used by animal welfare groups is the seven-second test: place the back of your hand on the ground for seven seconds. If it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your dog to walk on.
Walk early/late when surfaces are cool.
Walk on grass, shaded routes or near the tideline, and avoid black asphalt.
Carry water and a collapsible bowl.
Flat Rock Tide Pools
Pet-Friendly Stay
For the dog-lovers, your well-behaved furry friend is welcome. You can have it both ways at Sea Notes Yamba – a pet-welcoming AND luxury stay. For more information on the Sea Notes Yamba Pet Package, please click here.
“We had a wonderful stay at Sea Notes and loved everything about the property, the attention to detail and great amenities were very thoughtful. Our dog Paco also loved his treats!”
