The Queensland border was opened last week. As soon as I heard the Premiers announcement, I cancelled all appointments and plans, packed up the car and drove down to Coffs Harbour.

We were only there for just over a week, but it was fabulous, as always.

My time in Coffs always includes time at the beach at the beginning of each and every day. And, although Diggers Beach is our closest beach, the one we always go to is Charlesworth Beach. Our main reason for choosing this beach is because it is dog friendly. Dogs on leashes are permitted. Also, Charlesworth just happens to be my favourite beach for many lovely reasons. Charlesworth Beach is actually a very short drive up the road from Diggers beach and where my Mum lives so it is an easy decision for us to go there.

Charlesworth, although not a patrolled swimming beach, is a relatively protected north east facing beach and only about 500mts long. The Bay is protected from the south by 40 m high Diggers Head with smaller Fowlers Head to the north. This secluded bay and its backing valley are now largely occupied by Pacific Bay Resort. The road which we drive down to get to the beach, past the resort and golf course, is a beautifully tree lined avenue which is always postcard pretty.

A road runs to the southern end of the beach where there is an old boat shed where the local fishermen stow their small fishing boat which can be easily launched into the ocean via the boat ramp.

The beach is relatively safe under normal low waves so often we see people swimming although it is not a designated swimming beach. I often just pop in to the shallows for a refreshing dip and of course Buddy just loves to run in, but only about tummy deep.

During this past week, on several occasions there were plenty of stand-up paddle boards and just some regular surf board riders out there enjoying fabulous conditions and weather.

Most times when we are there, we often see folks fishing from the rocks, usually at the southern end of the beach.

And, the highlight for us, well, mostly for Buddy is all the little doggies about his size who freely run up and down the beach and in to the water.

At the Pacific Bay Resort you will find poolside refreshments or you can check out the Solitary Islands Aquarium at the National Marine Science Centre. There is littoral rainforest to explore, grassed areas to relax, toilets and showers, picnic tables with benches plus gas bbq’s that are supplied by the local council and are free to the public. The entire area is cleaned and maintained by the resort and it is always neat and clean.

This is a great little beach with gorgeous rock pools to enjoy. And, a wonderful place for inquisitive kids, young and old.