Top 5 Dog-Friendly Walks in Ocean Grove

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Ocean Grove on the Bellarine Peninsula has a great variety of walking tracks, suitable for exercise or for those just wanting to go for a leisurely stroll and take in the scenery.

Unfortunately, dog restrictions apply in some of the areas, so to avoid accidentally getting in trouble with the ranger, here are five walks that are dog-friendly:

[U]1. Ocean Grove Beach[/U]
This is one of the most popular spots in Ocean Grove for dog walking. It's perfect for dogs who love swimming, digging and socialising with other dogs.

If you'd prefer walking on a track instead of sand, or if it's too windy down on the beach, there's also a track that runs along behind the beach. Dog waste bags and bins are located near the beach entrances, and dogs are required to be kept under effective control at all times.

Please note that while the Hodgson Street - Lockyer Court part of the beach allows dogs all year round, restrictions do apply for other sections of the beach (see below for details).





Restrictions: Dogs are permitted on the beach all year round (off-lead but under effective control) on the sections of beach between Hodgson Street and Lockyer Court.

For the rest of the beach, restrictions apply during certain times of the year. Please see the Geelong Council Dog Control Map for more information.

Best for: Social dogs - Ocean Grove is the place to be for dogs (and owners) that like to socialise. I'd also recommend it for water-loving dogs.

Dog Waste Bags and Bins Provided: Yes

Parking: There are small carparks located at some of the beach entrances, otherwise free street parking is available.


[U]2. Kingston Park[/U]
Kingston park is a peaceful bushland and park located between Shell Road and Adco Grove. There is a large grass area at the Adco Grove entrance for those who like to give their dogs some off-leash exercise. It's a popular place for dogs and there's even a small dog drinking bowl attached to one of the water fountains. A playground, picnic facilities and a public toilet block are also located in this recreation area.

Adjacent to the grass reserve, there's a fenced 'bush' area that contains a number of walking trails. Access is via a number of unlocked gates, and dogs are required to be kept on the lead in this area, to protect the wildlife.



Restrictions: Dogs are permitted off-lead in all sections, except for the fenced bush area (where they are required to be on a lead)

Best for: Those who like to have a picnic or take the kids for a play at a playground, and exercise the dog at the same time.
The bush tracks are also perfect for those who prefer a quiet, secluded walk, away from the main road.

Dog Waste Bags and Bins Provided: Yes, at the Adco Grove entrance.

[U]3. Blue Waters Lake Reserve[/U]
Blue Waters Lake Reserve is located between Cuthbertson Drive and Blue Waters drive, in the 'old' Ocean Grove area. The track is a loop track around the lake and is around 1.2km in distance.

The lake is well-known for its bird population - something to keep in mind if your dog likes to chase ducks. The track itself is unsealed, and fairly flat, except for a section of around 150m on the north-east side, where it gets a bit steeper.

If your dog still has energy left after the walk and likes to chase the ball, there's also an open grass area just across the road, at Lake Avenue Reserve.





Restrictions: Dogs are permitted all year round.

Best for: Those who prefer a quieter walking track.

Dog Waste Bags and Bins Provided: Yes, they are located at the Blue Waters Drive entrance.

Parking: Limited parking is available at the Blue Waters Drive entrance. Otherwise, free street parking is available on surrounding streets.

[U]4. Barwon River Estuary[/U]
This is a lovely walking track along the banks of the Barwon River. It is a flat track, with both sealed and unsealed sections and offers a beautiful view of the foreshore and river. There are dog waste bags and a rubbish bin on the track near Dare street, and a sign reminding dog owners that dogs must be kept on the leash. It's perfect for those looking for an easy, flat walk.



Restrictions: Dogs are permitted all year round, but are required to be kept on a leash.

They are not permitted down on the river bank or in the river south of Lelean street , as it is a protected area.

Best for: Those who prefer a shorter walk, on a flat track.

Dog Waste Bags and Bins Provided: Yes, near the Dare Street entrance to the track.

Parking: There is a small area for parking at the Dare Street end, and a larger number of car spaces at the Golf Club, near the jetty. Free street parking is also available.

[U]5. Begola Wetlands[/U]
Begola Wetlands is located between Ocean Throughway and Emperor Drive. It is a recognised as an important wetland area and is home to a variety of birds and frogs. The wetlands are fenced off, with an unsealed walking track around the outside (the distance of the track is just under 1km). Dogs are welcome but are required to be kept on a lead to preserve the environment and protect the wildlife.



Restrictions: Dogs are welcome all year round, but are required to be kept on a lead.

Best for: Dogs who are happy to stay on the lead while they walk.

Parking: Free street parking is available.

And finally...

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