Sandown Street Beach, Brighton
LOCATION GUIDESandown Street Beach, Brighton
LOCATION GUIDESandown Street Beach is a beautiful spot, with little dunes, grasses and a city skyline backdrop for photos. It's dog-friendly too (more on that below). We love it, and I'm sure you will too.
We've put this guide together to help you find the beach, feel at home and really enjoy your family portrait experience.
Below, you'll find a map, weather forecast, suggestions in the area and lots more. We're constantly adding to these guides too, so if you have a question it doesn't cover, let us know.
Costs and Access Restrictions
This location is free, and there are no photography permits required for this type of photography.
There are permits required for Commercial photography here though, so it's possible we could be asked whether it's a commercial shoot or even that a council staff member gets confused about the definition. To be clear, the definition in the Victorian Filming Approval Act 2014 is that the images must be “intended for broadcast or public exhibition for commercial purposes” so no permit is required.
The dog-friendly beach area does have a gate, but is never locked.
What to bring
These pictures should be all about your family relationships, so there's no need to bring props or additional clothing changes.
Here are a few things we suggest you bring:
- Water
- Snacks (TIP: try to choose substantial foods rather than grazing at small things like sultanas. That way each kid can take a break, fill their tummy and then rejoin the family)
- Any medicines your family might need
- Mosquito repellant (not usually required, but they can be a problem occasionally)
Will it rain?
You might prefer to keep an eye on the weather yourself too though, so we've put together a few resources for you.
“What a great morning it was! The photos turned out beautifully and the grandparents were very, very happy with their Christmas present. Thanks Hugster for making our first family photo shoot something we’ll cherish for many years to come”
Can we bring our dog?
Yes, but you'll need to keep your dog on a lead until you're inside the fenced-off dog-friendly area. Outside the fence, there are signs warning that dogs must be on-lead and it's not uncommon for people to forget and end up with a fine, so please be careful.
As with any natural environment, we can't guarantee that there won't be snakes, other dogs or other dangers for your dog, so please take good care of your fur-baby. Please also ensure that your dog isn't a danger to other visitors or their dogs.
Can we bring our dog?
Yes, but you'll need to keep your dog on a lead until you're inside the fenced-off dog-friendly area. Outside the fence, there are signs warning that dogs must be on-lead and it's not uncommon for people to forget and end up with a fine, so please be careful.
As with any natural environment, we can't guarantee that there won't be snakes, other dogs or other dangers for your dog, so please take good care of your fur-baby. Please also ensure that your dog isn't a danger to other visitors or their dogs.
What to wear
For lots of tips and ideas, check out our what-to-wear guide here.
If it helps, email a photo of some outfit ideas to hello@hugster.com.au or call us on 0489 912 602 and we'll help you.
Family-friendly food nearby
The Middle Brighton shops are very nearby if you need something before or after your session. Here are a few of our favourite options for kid-friendly food in the area.
For a snack
If you’re just looking for something quick to fill little tummies, Bakers Delight in Middle Brighton is a great option. Our kids recommend the mini hot-dog rolls. Here’s a map link.
For coffee, head to The Pantry cafe, which is at 1 Church Street (on the corner of St Andrews Street).
For everything else
There's a Woolworths and Coles in Middle Brighton shops, quite close to Sandown Street beach with lots of parking at both. The Woolworths is our pick. Here’s a map link.



