Dog-Friendly Things to Do on the Mornington Peninsula
The Mornington Peninsula is one of Victoria's most dog-friendly destinations — if you know where to go. With off-leash beaches, wide coastal walks, pet-welcoming wineries, and accommodation options that actually mean it when they say pets are welcome, it's a genuinely brilliant destination for a trip with your dog.
We host all sorts of pets at Nantucket Cottage in Flinders all year round, and we've put this guide together from personal experience and local knowledge.
Dog-Friendly Beaches on the Mornington Peninsula
Flinders Beach (Off-Leash All Year)
The northern end of Flinders Beach is off-leash for dogs all year round — one of the few beaches on the Peninsula with no seasonal restrictions. At low tide the rock pools are excellent for exploration, and the beach is rarely crowded outside summer weekends. For guests staying at Nantucket Cottage, the private beach path from the property leads directly here.
Tassells Cove, Safety Beach
One of the most popular off-leash beaches on the Peninsula — sheltered water, sandy shore, and reliable year-round access. Good for dogs who prefer calmer water.
Somers Beach
A wide, open stretch of sand with a designated off-leash area. Well suited to energetic dogs who need room to run.
Fossil Beach, Mornington
A hidden gem with off-leash access, rock pools and fossils embedded in the cliffs. The walk down from the carpark is part of the experience.
Hawker Beach
A broad beach well suited to athletic dogs — great for fetch and running. Check local signage on arrival for current leash times.
💡 Always check the Mornington Peninsula Shire website for the latest rules before visiting a new beach — restrictions can change seasonally and at specific times of day.
Dog-Friendly Walks
The Flinders Cliff Walk
From the village of Flinders, a coastal path follows the clifftop with views over Bass Strait. Dogs on leads are welcome on most sections of this walk. Allow 45–60 minutes return.
Briars Community Forest, Mount Martha
An entirely fenced bushland reserve with multiple off-leash walking tracks and a creek swimming spot. One of the best dog walks on the Peninsula — your dog can roam freely across a large tract of native bushland. Can get muddy after rain, so boots are recommended.
Point Nepean National Park Trails
Dogs on leads are welcome on many of the walking tracks through Point Nepean National Park. The historical fortifications, coastal scrub, and bay views make this a genuinely spectacular walk.
Dog-Friendly Wineries
Several Peninsula wineries welcome dogs in their outdoor areas. Our recommendations near Flinders:
Pt. Leo Estate, Merricks — outdoor sculpture park and garden areas; dogs on leads welcome in grounds
Montalto, Red Hill South — picnic vineyard experiences available in warmer months; check ahead regarding dogs
Nazaaray Estate, Flinders — the Peninsula's southernmost vineyard, just minutes from Nantucket Cottage
Always call ahead to confirm current dog policy before visiting a winery, as this can vary by season and day.
Where to Stay with Your Dog in Flinders
Finding accommodation that genuinely welcomes dogs — not just tolerates them with a long list of restrictions — is harder than it should be on the Peninsula.
Nantucket Cottage in Flinders is pet-friendly in the real sense. Your dog gets the run of a secluded property at the end of a quiet no-through road, with wildlife to investigate (koalas, rabbits, and birds are regular visitors), a private track directly to Flinders Beach off-leash area, and warm welcome at no extra charge.
The yard is not fully fenced, so we recommend a lead for dogs with wandering tendencies. And if you're a dog owner, we'll leave a small treat to make sure they feel as welcome as you do.