Burleigh Heads with a Dog: Beaches, Walks and Cafes
Burleigh Heads with a dog: the three rules
Burleigh Heads is a great day out with a dog, as long as you know three rules. The beach is lead-on only and dogs must stay 200 metres from the flags. The headland is Burleigh Head National Park, where dogs aren't allowed at all. And the nearest off-leash beach is Tallebudgera Beach, a short drive south. Walk the on-lead Oceanway path through Justins Park for the views, grab a coffee in the garden at Paddock Bakery or Social Brew on James Street, then let them run at Talle. We're the dog groomers next door in Miami, so this is the Burleigh day we'd plan for our own dogs.
Beach and park rules below are checked against City of Gold Coast sources, and every venue was checked in October 2026. Council rules and venue policies change, so if a sign on the day says something different, the sign wins.
The beach: on a lead, away from the flags
Burleigh Heads Beach (Lifeguard Tower 18) and North Burleigh (Towers 19 and 20) are patrolled every day, so the 200 metre rule around the red and yellow flags applies all year. Outside that zone, dogs can walk on a lead along the sand. Early mornings are the sweet spot: the sand is cool, the flags aren't up yet and half of Burleigh's dogs are out doing the same lap.
Two spots catch people out. The Tallebudgera Creek foreshore, from the Gold Coast Highway bridge to the groyne, is a council dog prohibited area, so no dogs on that creek sand even on a lead. And the beach doesn't continue around the headland for dogs, because that's national park. Our Gold Coast dog beaches guide has the full council rules for every beach from The Spit to Currumbin.
Walks: the headland is off limits, the Oceanway isn't
The Burleigh Head National Park headland circuit is the walk everyone asks about, and it's a no for dogs. Dogs aren't permitted in Queensland national parks, and that includes the Oceanview Walk and the rainforest tracks. Save it for a dog-free morning.
The legal version is the on-lead Oceanway path along the beachfront and through Justins Park. It sits outside the national park boundary and still gives you the ocean views, the surfers at the point and a grassy patch in the park for a sit.
Where your dog can run off-leash near Burleigh
Tallebudgera Beach. The closest off-leash beach, and one of only three on the Gold Coast's ocean side. The off-leash zone runs from north of the bathing reserve at Lifeguard Tower 16 up to the training wall at the Tallebudgera Creek entrance. Tower 16 is patrolled from 8am to 5pm every day, so during patrol hours head for the northern end near the training wall. Keep weaker swimmers away from the creek mouth, where council warns about fast tidal surges.
Heads up for 2026: while council repairs the Tallebudgera Creek training wall (April to December 2026), dogs must be on a lead in the Tallebudgera off-leash area on weekdays from 7am to 5pm. Outside those hours the normal off-leash rules apply. Check council's training wall project page before you go.
Tallebudgera Dog Island, Elanora. An off-leash area on an island in the lake at Eddie Kornhauser Reserve, with agility gear, a drinking fountain, taps and toilets. It's busiest on Sundays.
Pizzey Park, Mermaid Waters. Just north. Council's register lists it at Pizzey Drive, Mermaid Waters, with the off-leash area around the lake between the tennis courts and the athletics track. It's our local, a few minutes from the studio. Our fenced and off-leash dog parks guide covers the rest of the city.
Coffee and lunch with your dog in Burleigh
Paddock Bakery, Hibiscus Haven. The old Queenslander with the wood-fired sourdough and a shady garden where dogs are welcome. It opens at 6am every day, and weekends get busy early, so go first thing if you want a garden table.
Social Brew, James Street. A small cafe with a garden dining area where dogs are welcome, right on Burleigh's main strip. James Street's wide footpaths and alfresco tables make it an easy stroll with a dog on a lead.
For a beer with the dog, Burleigh's breweries and their dog rules are in our dog-friendly pubs and bars guide.
Burleigh markets with a dog
Check before you load the car. The big Burleigh Market bans dogs under its own rules, assistance animals aside. The beachfront market at Justins Park (now The Coastal Markets, formerly Art and Craft on the Coast) runs on the last Sunday of the month and lists itself as pet friendly on enquiry, so check with the organisers first. Our dog-friendly markets guide has the markets that do welcome dogs on a lead.
Staying in Burleigh with your dog
Burleigh Beach Tourist Park doesn't take pets, which surprises plenty of people. A private holiday rental is usually the only way to stay walking distance from the sand with a dog. Get the host's okay in writing before you book. Our pet friendly accommodation guide covers the hotels and holiday parks that take dogs elsewhere on the Coast.
Dog services in and around Burleigh
Burleigh has a handy cluster of dog services within a few minutes of the beach.
- Vets: The Vet Collective in Burleigh Heads and Vetcall's Burleigh Waters clinic. For after-hours care and the full list, see our Gold Coast vets guide.
- Puppy classes: Doghouse Sessions runs puppy classes at The Vet Collective, and the International Dog Training School has classes at Burleigh. More in our puppy schools and dog trainers guide.
- Hydrotherapy: Peak Animal Physio runs an underwater treadmill at the Pet Wellness Centre on West Burleigh Road. Our dog pools and hydrotherapy guide has the details.
- Grooming: that's us, five to ten minutes up the highway in Miami. See dog grooming for Burleigh Heads.
After the beach: salt, sand and ticks
Salt dries out skin and coat, and sand left in the coat rubs. Give your dog a freshwater rinse before they dry, getting into the belly, armpits, paws and ears. The scrub behind the dunes is tick territory, including paralysis ticks, so run your hands over your dog's head, neck, ears and between the toes after every walk. Grass seeds are the other one from late spring through summer, so check paws before they get back in the car.
When the sand has packed into a thick coat or the beach smell won't shift, that's our job. A warm bath and groom at our Miami studio gets the salt and sand out properly, right down to the skin.
FAQs
Are dogs allowed on Burleigh Heads beach?
Yes, on a lead, and never within 200 metres of the flagged swimming areas. Towers 18, 19 and 20 are patrolled every day. Burleigh Heads Beach isn't an off-leash beach.
Can I take my dog on the Burleigh headland walk?
No. The headland is Burleigh Head National Park, and dogs aren't permitted in Queensland national parks. Walk the on-lead Oceanway path through Justins Park instead.
Where is the nearest off-leash beach to Burleigh Heads?
Tallebudgera Beach, a short drive south. The off-leash zone runs from north of Lifeguard Tower 16 to the training wall at the creek entrance, so stick to the northern end during patrol hours. Until the training wall works finish in December 2026, dogs must be on a lead there on weekdays from 7am to 5pm.
Can I take my dog to the Burleigh Market?
No. The Burleigh Market bans dogs, assistance animals aside. The Coastal Markets at Justins Park list themselves as pet friendly on enquiry, so check with the organisers first.
Sand in every crease? Bring them to Miami
Grooms and warm baths, five to ten minutes from Burleigh.
Book a groomBeach rules checked against City of Gold Coast sources and venues checked October 2026. We're humans, not council, so we can get things wrong. Check the signs, the venue and council's current rules before you go.
Straight from Google
Five stars from the people holding the leads
Rated 5.0 on Google (opens in a new tab)We took our two toy poodles in for grooming today and couldn’t be happier with the experience. From the moment we walked in, the team was warm, welcoming, and clearly passionate about what they do.
They took the time to listen and treated our boys with such care and patience throughout and they came out looking absolutely beautiful! Perfect cuts, soft coats, and so happy & relaxed.
It’s obvious they genuinely care about the dogs, not just the end result. The attention to detail and level of professionalism really stood out. We’ve already rebooked, will definitely be coming back regularly and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to anyone looking for a reliable, high-quality groomer.
Thanks so much guys!
Lots of love from Lenny & Boo 🐕 🐕
OBSESSED
Got my senior queen Lady (husky x GSD) groomed here when her regular groomers couldn’t fit her in (they would often cancel as well due to her size and hair type). Pets Juicy did an incredible job - Lady came back happy, smelling fresh and well de-shedded. Really happy with the service and kindness of the staff here, this will be the new go-to spot for our dogs. Thank you for being so accommodating to bigger dogs, which are often seen as a chore by many places. I can see based on reviews you have many larger regulars. Thank you team!
Excellent service and care
HIGHLY RECOMMEND FOR COCKER SPANIEL OWNERS 🤍
Had such a good experience at Pets Juicy. My dog Monty had the worst mats in his ears and I was honestly so stressed about it. The team were so patient and gentle with him, especially because he’s a bit silly and crazy They really took their time and made sure he was comfortable, and did an amazing job. I honestly wish I took before photos of how matted his ears were because the difference is crazy. So grateful for how kind they were with him. Definitely recommend!
Great job on my mini groodle Coco
Such an amazing place and team. The environment was very calming and relaxing for our dog. It was his first ever professional groom and wow, he looked fantastic. From booking to confirmation to reminder to collection was absolutely brilliant. Our dog didn’t want to leave at the end of his groom leaving with a big smile on his face and one very happy one at that. We have found our forever groomers for our large dog!!
Thanks Pets Juicy
Best haircut in 16 years for my spoodle
I’ve brought my two pups to Pet’s Juicy a few times now, and every visit has been such a positive experience. The team is incredibly gentle, caring, and clearly loves what they do! My dogs are always excited when we arrive! Their grooms are beautifully done, and they come home smelling amazing and happy every time. I feel completely at ease leaving them in such capable, loving, kind hands. Highly recommend!
Always amazing & professional a great team
Sami looked and felt absolutely fabulous after her long haired deshedding service. The team did an awesome job with my golden girl who hates her nails being trimmed. Our vet couldn’t manage trimming Sami’s nails without sedation but the team ensured she had a proper and perfect dogicure. Being a water lover, Sami had some matting which the team were able to also tidy. 10/10
Awesome open space, needed for our local area
This was our first time at Pets Juicy and we were very impressed with our visit. It’s a very friendly space and I liked how my pup was able to hang out with the day care dogs while he waited for his cut. Also the staff was very accommodating, booking was easy and prices were very reasonable. We will definitely be back!
Awesome groom - our Labradoodle looks so handsome!
Our big beautiful GSD loves this place. Hes very anxious at groomers but the whole vibe is just chill, welcoming and loving. He immediately relaxed and blended in well.
I struggle to take him in public to dog parks as he gets very unhappy, but id happily leave him here as long as needed. Well managed and run.
Love this place .
The best dog groomers on the Gold Coast .
Our 15yold Moodle has lots of bumps and lumps. Had been avoiding groomers due to fear of distress. Had been recommended Pets Juicy and couldn’t be happier. Easy to book, lovely reception on arrival and felt very comfortable. And in picking up our dog, he was happy calm and looked wonderful.
Great experience and a lovely groom for my cavoodle- I didn’t recognise him!
My little Archie seemed to instinctively love this place.
A chilled welcoming venue, very nice staff, and they did a really great job on grooming, I passed by at one point while he was being groomed & saw for myself the care and attention that was taken.
Would definitely recommend.
Pet Juicy have been amazing for our little Luna. Highly recommend their services.
The team at Pets Juicy were amazing! They did such a good job helping with our Border Collie’s matted coat and took really great care of him the whole time. He came home looking so much better and seemed super happy and comfortable. Couldn’t recommend them enough :)
Very friendly service, 100% recommended. You can really tell they love and care for animals
I took my dog for his very first grooming today and I honestly couldn’t have chosen a better salon! The staff were so lovely, everything was done really quickly, and my pup looks absolutely adorable. They did such a great job 👏🏼 highly recommend!
Love coming here. The team genuinely love what they do and always take the best care of my Baxter.
Had my dog groomed today and they did amazing job, they were gentle and made my dog comfortable before starting. Will definitely be coming back, and i recommend going as they prices are affordable and staff are so friendly.
Absolutely highly recommend.
My pup Ava looks great and the service and price was great.
Barry
Robina
Everyone at Pets Juicy is amazing. They gave our gorgeous 3 month old labradoodle Barry, his very first grooming session and we were so impressed by their patience and care. Thank you! Barry will be back.
Highly recommend absolutely amazing service thank you Teddie looks insane look forward to his next pamper 💙
Phenominal service, they took care of my queenie she looked absolutely gorgeous ❤️❤️💜💜 thank you so much for helping us out we appreciate you and we are beyond grateful ✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️
Amazing place! Staff were super friendly and caring with my dog! My dog looks happy and amazing! 100% would recommend
2nd time we send our swiss shepherd for deadheading and the results are fantastic. The team is super helpful and friendly and the location is convenient. Highly recommended.
Friendly local dog groomer, used for first time and happy with the cut and service all around. Will be back again next time
Bath time at pet Juicy is marvellous for us. We have two cavoodles and to have the care and service from Pet Juicy works a treat. It's clean, friendly and homely.
Fabulous team at Pets Juicy. Obviously love their work and customers!!!
Did a great job on our old boy he looks so handsome now.
Amazing service!! So happy with how the dogs looked I accidentally stuffed up my booking and they were so kind to still accommodate me can’t recommend enough 🙏🏻
Honestly, couldn’t be happier! The team are so lovely, kind and accommodating. They went above and beyond for our pups. Highly recommend!
A great local dog groomer that is well priced, fast and takes great care of the dogs! Our groodle always looks just as we like him when we collect him!
Shane and the team were very kind to our beautiful Zara. First time we’ve used Pets Juicy for a groom and they were great! A very happy puppy!
I so happy and appreciative of the great job your team has done to make my miniature Poodle and Cobberdog looks so gorgeous.
Thanks heaps
Claudia
Highly recommend the Pets juicy team to look after your furry babies. I was so hesitant and nervous as I’d never had my dogs previously looked after but moving interstate and trying to take our family to theme parks left me no choice but to bite the bullet and try. I’m so glad I came across these guys. They put my mind at ease. My dogs were happy to go each day (they went for 3 days). I was updated on the first day with texts and photos to put my nerves at ease. Thank you for such a pleasant experience. Can’t recommend these guys enough. Thank you.
Teddy loves pets juicy!!!
We absolutely love this place! Odin and Scooby always come home happy, relaxed, and looking amazing after their grooming sessions. The team truly cares for the dogs as if they were their own, and I feel so comfortable leaving them here for daycare knowing they’re in safe hands. Grooming is always done perfectly—clean, tidy, and they smell incredible! Most importantly, both dogs actually get excited when we arrive, which says it all. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a professional and loving groomer/daycare.
Great service and great results!
I would highly recommend Pets Juicy . I popped in this morning to see if they could possibly trim my 14 year old Boxers nail's.
I was in Awe... usually Ruby is a shaking mess and stressed in new situations.
Shane took Ruby through to the grooming room and tender to those nails while I waited.
What I witnessed was a serene/happy atmosphere in the doggy daycare area and Ruby was relaxed on the grooming table while her nails were attended to.
Extremely affordable, Kind and Professional experience.
Beautiful results, affordable for all.
My 1 year old labradoodle Bryson had his first full groom this morning and couldn't feel more comfortable and pleased with this service. Very impressed with how patient and helpful Shane was. Bryson wasn't the easiest puppy to groom but with the guidance and advice given, I have no doubt it will get essier and he will be less nervous each time. Have definitely found our new grooming service! Very happy, thank you so much! 🙂
Great service and love the free bandana
Extremely happy after collecting our Husky Sasha from his first visit. We really appreciate the extra time and care taken to de-fluff our adored fur ball and especially impressed we were not charged extra for the additional time taken. Have already started recommending you and looking forward to seeing you again next month! Thanks again from Sasha and the Spencer Family 🩷🩷🩷
Thank u Dudley looks awesome after his groom
It was our puppy’s very first grooming session and we couldn’t be happier with the experience! The staff was so gentle and patient, and made sure our little one felt safe and comfortable. He came out looking absolutely adorable — clean, fluffy, and happy! Thank you for taking such great care of him. We’ll definitely be back! 🐾💕
They did a really great job with my dog's groom
Had such a lovely experience!
My Golden Retriever can be a bit nervous, but the team at Pets Juicy looked after her so well. Such lovely, caring people.
She looks amazing and their services are very well priced.
Bonus is that they post super cute photos of your dog on Instagram ♡
We'll be back, thank you!
Amazing service and an easy and user friendly website
Amazing service! After being told by multiple groomers across the GC they weren’t taking on anymore large breed clients, I came across Pets Juicy who were more than happy to help. Both dogs groomed the next day and was better priced than I expected! Will definitely be using them from now on.
They took amazing care of my little pup will
Definitely be back !!
We take our two miniature groodles here for their grooming regularly & they do such a good job!!
We’ve had previous experiences at a large salon where our 3yr old would become anxious & distressed, but not here - both our doggies love going to Pets Juicy Miami. Definitely 5 ⭐️ from us!
Gorgeous people with my puppy she came home happy and looking and smelling great.
This was my first time here and I’m so happy with how they groomed my dog, he looks amazing and it’s perfect for his active lifestyle. I love how much everyone there cares for the dogs! It made me feel comfortable leaving him and knowing he will be well looked after. Will 100% be back!
They are amazing and very kind with my furry little baby!!! I strongly recommend!!!
I took my 16 month old Border Collie (Ziggy) to Pets Juicy in Miami today for a warm bath and deshed. The staff are so friendly. You can tell that they really care about the dogs they look after. Ziggy looks amazing after his grooming session. Stella job guys!
They have amazing staff and my dog came out smelling so clean with a fresh hair cut for spring.
My beautiful 15 year old, blind Shihtzu Stella has been here 3 times now and honestly the BEST grooming service we’ve ever experienced. Kind, caring, great grooming- very happy Shihtzu mum and most importantly an extremely happy pup. ❤️
Alfred loved his experience at Pets Juicy. We can't thank them enough for looking after our little guy.
Awesome!!! My little lady is always so happy to go for her beauty treatments. The guys always do such a fantastic job. It used to be such a stressful process but not since coming to Pets Juicy she is relaxed and happy.
Pets Juicy did a great job of grooming our Groodle. Will return for sure.
Recommend to anyone in the area
Hi guys! After a missed booking (my bad) you guys managed to fit us in anyway. Franny was loved and cared for and looks great! So happy and many thanks. We will be regulars going forward. 10/10.
Took my shih tzu cross maltese Lou Lou here for a groom, she smelt lovely. They did a great job and were very nice.
Julius absolutely loves going to Pets Juicy! They always do such an amazing job grooming him. He comes home looking and smelling incredible every time. Would definitely recommend!
Fantastic service, our wee girl was quite matted but she’s come back home feeling and looking wonderful. Highly recommend.
A fantastic new doggy grooming company and doggy day care in the heart of Miami GC. Who doesn’t love local, especially when that local loves and cares for our fur babies!?
Stumbled across these groomers online
No wait time. Excellent job and surprisingly well priced. Very happy and will be returning
Took my Border Collie for wash and deshed, my boy is looking as handsome as ever. They did an excellent job and the team was very friendly and great to deal with.
I’m really impressed, honestly have done a really good job in grooming my dog exactly what I wanted. Very nice people and worth it.
Our regular pet groomer and always a great experience with Pets juicy. Grooming of our labradoodle is always done professionally and with love and care.
This place is awesome…super kind and friendly staff and a beautiful haircut and wash given to little Crème. 100% recommend this to everyone 🙌🏼
I went to Pets Juicy yesterday and the staff there where amazingly attentive, they took such care and time with our little puppy. I couldn't be happier
We were very impressed with Milly’s first groom since moving to the area. The staff listened to what we wanted and did a fab job. We’ll be back!
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