7 Best Dog Friendly Beaches in Sydney

1. Greenhills Beach, Cronulla

The only ocean-facing dog beach in Sydney.

1 Mitchell Road, Cronulla NSW 2230

Greenhills Beach stretches for around 3km along the Cronulla coastline and is the only designated off-leash dog beach in Sydney that faces the open ocean. If your dog loves surf, sand and space to sprint, this is the one.

Off-leash hours: Before 10am and after 4pm during daylight saving; before 10am and after 3pm outside daylight saving. Dogs are not permitted on the beach outside these times.

Good to know: Look for the signs near Gate 5 to find the designated off-leash area. There's ample parking and plenty of room for high-energy dogs to burn off steam.

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2. Rowland Reserve, Bayview

Calm waters and all-day off-leash access on Pittwater.

1670 Pittwater Road, Bayview NSW 2104

Rowland Reserve is one of the most popular dog beaches on the Northern Beaches. Set on the sheltered waters of Pittwater, it features a large grassy reserve and sandy shoreline where dogs can paddle and play off-leash all day, every day — no time restrictions.

Off-leash hours: All day, seven days a week.

Good to know: The calm, shallow water makes this a great choice for smaller dogs or nervous swimmers. A dog washing van often sets up nearby on weekends. Parking is available but can fill up quickly — one-hour spots are closest to the reserve.

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3. Sirius Cove, Mosman

A sheltered harbour gem near Taronga Zoo.

7 Curlew Camp Road, Mosman NSW 2088

Tucked into Mosman's waterfront just west of Taronga Zoo, Sirius Cove is a charming little beach with calm, protected water and a large grassy picnic area behind the sand. It's a popular spot with families and dog owners alike.

Off-leash hours: Weekdays — all day. Weekends and public holidays — before 9am and after 4pm.

Good to know: The shallow, sheltered water is ideal for dogs that are new to swimming. The sandstone wall that partially encloses the beach also makes it easier to keep an eye on escape-prone pups.

4. Rose Bay Foreshore

Harbour views and off-leash all day.

9 Caledonian Road, Rose Bay NSW 2029

Following Woollahra Council's decision to prohibit dogs from nearby Kutti Beach in late 2025, Rose Bay Foreshore has become the go-to dog beach in Sydney's east. Dogs are allowed off-leash at all times along the foreshore between Percival Park and Dumaresq Reserve.

Off-leash hours: All day, every day.

Good to know: The water is calm and shallow, making it suitable for dogs of all sizes. The flat foreshore path is also pram-friendly, so it works well for the whole family. Several dog-friendly cafés are within walking distance.

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5. Silver Beach, Kurnell

A spacious Botany Bay beach with all-day access.

310-312 Prince Charles Parade, Kurnell NSW 2231

Silver Beach sits on the Kurnell peninsula overlooking Botany Bay. It's a beautiful, spacious spot with a designated off-leash section at the western end of the beach, between the third and fourth jetty. Dogs are welcome off-leash all day in this area.

Off-leash hours: All day within the designated area.

Good to know: The designated section is right in front of the Bonna Point Reserve car park, making it easy to access. There's a beachside café nearby if you need a coffee while your dog dries off.

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6. Manly Lagoon (Lagoon Park), Queenscliff

Off-leash 24/7 with wide sandy flats.

Cameron Avenue, Manly NSW 2095

Manly Lagoon is one of Sydney's most consistently popular dog spots. The wide, sandy lagoon flats and shallow water are perfect for swimming, splashing, and chasing tennis balls. It's off-leash all day, every day, and surrounded by grassy areas for post-swim lounging.

Off-leash hours: 24 hours, seven days a week.

Good to know: The lagoon connects to the ocean near Queenscliff Beach, but dogs are not permitted on the ocean beach itself — stick to the lagoon and reserve area. BBQ facilities and a playground are nearby, making it a solid option for a full family day out.

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7. Mona Vale Beach South (Trial)

Sydney's newest ocean-facing dog beach.

1 Surfview Rd, Mona Vale NSW 2103

A council-approved trial running from October 2025 to October 2026 has opened up a roughly 300-metre stretch at the southern end of Mona Vale Beach for off-leash dogs — making it only the second ocean-facing dog beach in Sydney alongside Greenhills. It sits below the existing Robert Dunn Reserve off-leash area on the headland above.

Off-leash hours: 5:30am–10am and 5pm–9pm during daylight saving; 6am–10am and 4pm–7pm during standard time.

Good to know: Dogs must be kept on-leash on the access paths leading down to the beach. The trial area is clearly signposted. This is a trial — check Northern Beaches Council's website for the latest status before visiting.

Tips Before You Go

• Check the rules. Off-leash hours and designated areas can change. Always look for signage when you arrive and check your local council's website for the latest information.
• Keep your dog's rego and microchip current. If your dog bolts or gets spooked, up-to-date identification is the fastest way to be reunited.
• Bring bags. Clean up after your dog. It's the law, and rangers do issue fines.
• Pack fresh water. Salt water isn't great for dogs to drink in large quantities. Bring a portable bowl and fresh water.
• Rinse after swimming. Salt water and sand can irritate your dog's skin — a quick rinse when you get home helps.
• Know your dog's swimming ability. Ocean beaches have currents and surf. If your dog isn't a confident swimmer, stick to the calmer harbour and lagoon spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my dog to Bondi Beach?

No. Dogs are not permitted on Bondi Beach or any beach in the Waverley or Randwick council areas, including Coogee, Bronte, Clovelly and Tamarama. Your closest off-leash beach alternative in the eastern suburbs is Rose Bay Foreshore.

Are dogs allowed on Sydney ferries?

It depends on the service. On public Transport for NSW ferries, dogs must be in an enclosed carrier — they cannot travel on a lead alone. However, many private ferry operators (including Manly Fast Ferry, Cronulla Ferries to Bundeena, and Palm Beach Ferries) allow well-behaved dogs on a lead.

What's the only ocean-facing dog beach in Sydney?

Greenhills Beach in Cronulla is Sydney's only permanent ocean-facing off-leash dog beach. The Mona Vale Beach South trial has added a second ocean-facing option, though this is currently temporary and subject to time restrictions.

What are the fines for having a dog on a restricted beach in Sydney?

Fines vary by council but can be significant — typically several hundred dollars for having a dog in a prohibited area or off-leash in an on-leash zone. It's always worth checking the signage and your local council's rules before letting your dog off the lead.

When is the best time to visit a dog beach in Sydney?

Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal — the beaches are cooler, less crowded, and most timed off-leash areas are accessible during these hours. In summer, hot sand can burn your dog's paws, so avoid the middle of the day. Many of Sydney's dog beaches also have weekday-only or time-restricted off-leash rules, so weekday mornings tend to be the most relaxed option.