Long Reef Beach: Is It Dog Friendly?

Dog Access at Long Reef Beach and Headland

Long Reef Beach is managed by Northern Beaches Council, which prohibits dogs on all its ocean beaches year-round. The beach restriction applies to the full length of sand.

Long Reef Headland adds an additional layer. The headland and its surrounding waters form part of an aquatic reserve — similar to Shelly Beach in Manly — and dogs are not permitted in the reserve area. The headland is also a significant bird nesting site, and the restrictions help protect the shearwater and little penguin colonies that nest there seasonally.

The combination of beach ban and aquatic reserve protection makes Long Reef one of the more firmly restricted coastal areas on the northern beaches.

Last verified: Northern Beaches Council, 2025. Always check your local councils website for current rules before visiting.

Where to Take Your Dog Near Long Reef

Curl Curl Lagoon at Flora and Ritchie Roberts Reserve is the most practical option from Long Reef — 2km south, off-leash all day, with natural lagoon swimming and good facilities. It sits between Dee Why and Freshwater and is one of the most consistently excellent dog areas on the northern beaches.

Dee Why Beach's nearby streets and beachfront promenade are fine for an on-leash walk if you want to stay in the area. For off-leash access, Manly Lagoon (5km south) is the other direction — equally unrestricted and well worth the short drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dogs allowed at Long Reef Beach?

No. Dogs are banned from Long Reef Beach under Northern Beaches Council's by-laws. The Long Reef Headland and aquatic reserve area also prohibit dogs — the headland's ecological significance as a bird nesting site and aquatic reserve means the restrictions extend beyond the standard beach ban.

Can I walk my dog near Long Reef Beach?

On-leash walking is possible on the streets and footpaths around Long Reef and Collaroy. The headland reserve and beach foreshore are off-limits. The flat streets between Long Reef and Dee Why are a reasonable on-leash option, but there are no particularly scenic dog-walking routes in the immediate area.

What is the closest dog-friendly beach to Long Reef Beach?

Curl Curl Lagoon at Flora and Ritchie Roberts Reserve is the closest at approximately 2km south. It's off-leash 24 hours a day with natural lagoon swimming and good facilities. Manly Lagoon in Queenscliff (5km south) is the next option — equally unrestricted and excellent.

Will I be fined for bringing my dog to Long Reef Beach?

Yes. Dogs on Long Reef Beach breach Northern Beaches Council's local orders and fines apply under the NSW Companion Animals Act 1998. Dogs in the headland reserve may also attract penalties under aquatic reserve and wildlife protection legislation.

Can my dog swim at a beach near Long Reef?

Yes. Curl Curl Lagoon (2km south) allows off-leash swimming in natural lagoon water all day. Manly Lagoon in Queenscliff (5km) is a second all-day option. Both are lagoon environments rather than ocean — calmer and safer for dogs than the open surf conditions at Long Reef.

What should I bring when taking my dog to the beach in Sydney?

Bring fresh water and a collapsible bowl — dogs shouldn't drink saltwater or harbour water in large quantities. A long-line lead is worth having at beaches with time restrictions so your dog can still move freely when required. Pack poo bags, a dry towel, and reef-safe sunscreen for light-coated dogs on hot days. Most Sydney dog beaches have limited shade, so early morning or late afternoon visits are better in summer.