Northern Beaches Off-Leash Dog Parks: A Local's Guide
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Why we're writing this
Pawfetchers started right here on the Northern Beaches — the idea came from watching dogs slip their leads near the water in Freshwater, and from our own groodle, Indie, going missing at Freshwater Beach. So here's a local guide to where Northern Beaches dog owners can let their dogs run, and what to know before you go.
Quick answer: Northern Beaches Council runs about 30 dog off-leash areas, from shared sportsgrounds to fenced dog parks and foreshore reserves. Some have time restrictions. Always check Council's off-leash page and the signs on the day, because hours and zones can change.
Off-leash areas with water access
- Rowland Reserve, Bayview — grassy reserve on Pittwater with a sandy shore.
- Sandy Bay, Clontarf — small harbour beach; off-leash area covers the sand flats and part of the lawn.
- Clontarf Reserve — harbour beach; time restrictions apply.
- Mona Vale Beach dog off-leash area — an ocean-facing section; time restrictions apply.
- Flora and Ritchie Roberts Reserve, Curl Curl and Lagoon Park, Queenscliff — lagoon-side reserves.
More detail in our guide to dog-friendly beaches on the Northern Beaches.
Off-leash parks and reserves
- Avalon Beach Reserve fenced dog park — fully fenced, good for dogs still learning recall.
- Beacon Hill Reserve — time restrictions apply.
- North Harbour Reserve, Balgowlah — harbourside, handy after a Manly walk.
- McCarrs Creek Reserve, Church Point — off-leash area on weekdays; on-leash on weekends and public holidays.
- Griffith Park, Collaroy, Hinkler Park, North Manly and Seaforth Oval — popular local options.
This isn't the full list, and some reserves sit next to wildlife protection areas where dogs are banned. Check Northern Beaches Council's website for every off-leash area, current hours and facilities.
Before you head out
- Bring water for your dog, especially over summer.
- Check your dog's ID tag and collar fit before off-leash time — this is when dogs slip collars or wander further than usual.
- An AirTag in a waterproof AirTag holder on the collar means that if your dog bolts after a bird or another dog, Find My can show where they were last detected by nearby iPhones. It isn't live GPS, but at busy parks updates are usually frequent. AirTag sold separately.
Prefer a lead walk? See dog-friendly walks on the Northern Beaches.
FAQ
Are Northern Beaches dog parks patrolled?
Council rangers patrol off-leash and on-leash areas, and dogs off-leash where they shouldn't be can attract a fine.
What's the best time of day for off-leash walks in summer?
Early morning or evening avoids the worst of the heat on paws and reduces the risk of heat stress.
Does my dog need to be registered?
Yes. In NSW, dogs must be microchipped by 12 weeks of age and registered on the NSW Pet Registry by 6 months of age.
