Top 5 Pet-Friendly Beaches and Parks in Sydney & NSW
Australia’s warm weather and active lifestyle make it the perfect country for outdoor adventures with your four-legged friend. But finding a spot where your dog can run, swim, and play off-leash can be a challenge.
If you’re a Sydney dog owner or planning a getaway in NSW, you’re in luck! We’ve put together a list of the top 5 pet-friendly beaches and parks where you and your best mate can enjoy some sun, sand, and open space.
1. Sirius Cove Reserve, Mosman
This hidden gem on the Lower North Shore is a favourite among locals for good reason. Tucked away in a beautiful cove, Sirius Cove offers a calm, shallow beach perfect for a paddle and a large grassy area for a game of fetch. It's a fantastic spot for a picnic, with plenty of shaded areas.
Rules: Dogs are welcome off-leash all day on weekdays. On weekends and public holidays, dogs can be off-leash before 9 am and after 4 pm.
Best For: Social dogs and families looking for a peaceful day out.
2. Manly Lagoon, Northern Beaches
Located just inland from the famous Manly Beach, the vast Manly Lagoon is a true paradise for energetic pups. This spot offers an expansive sandy and grassy area where dogs can run freely and cool off in the shallow, tranquil waters of the lagoon.
Rules: The Manly Lagoon Reserve area is an off-leash zone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Best For: Active dogs who love to run, swim, and socialize with other dogs.
3. Sydney Park, Alexandria (Inner West)
Considered one of Sydney's most iconic off-leash dog parks, Sydney Park is a sprawling urban oasis in the Inner West. With rolling green hills, winding paths, and plenty of space to roam, it's a great spot for city dogs to burn off some energy. The park also features a variety of walking trails and water stations for hydration.
Rules: Dogs are permitted off-leash in designated areas of the park.
Best For: Inner-city pups, meeting other dog owners, and extended walks.
4. Rowland Reserve, Pittwater (Northern Beaches)
If you're looking for a dog park with a beach, Rowland Reserve is the ultimate destination. This bustling spot on the shores of Pittwater is a social hub for dogs of all sizes. The large grassy park leads directly to a sandy beach and calm bay waters, making it a perfect spot for both a run and a swim.
Rules: This entire designated reserve and the adjacent tidal sand flats are a 24/7 off-leash area.
Best For: Social dogs and owners who want a true beach experience with plenty of space.
5. Silver Beach, Kurnell (Sutherland Shire)
Situated on the shores of Botany Bay in the Sutherland Shire, Silver Beach offers a wide expanse of soft sand and calm, gentle surf. It’s one of the few places in Sydney with a dedicated 24/7 off-leash beach, making it a dream for water-loving dogs.
Rules: Dogs are permitted off-leash 24/7 along a specific stretch of the beach.
Best For: First-timers and dogs who are not confident swimmers, as the water is very calm.
Remember to always check local council websites for the most up-to-date rules and regulations before visiting, as times and off-leash areas can change. Enjoy exploring these fantastic dog-friendly spots in NSW with your best mate