Posted Thu 15 Dec 2022 at 08:29am
There are many beaches tucked away, dotted around Sydney’s eastern suburbs but only a select few welcome dogs. From popular spots flocked to by tourists to hidden local gems, these are the coastal spots your pooch is allowed to feel the sand between their paws or, at the very least, enjoy the water views from a nearby park.
1. Rose Bay Beach
This is the most popular dog-friendly beach in the eastern suburbs, and for good reason. It overlooks the stunning harbour, so you and pup can enjoy the best of what Sydney has to offer. Between Dumaresq Reserve and Percival Park, dogs are also allowed off-leash which means they can roam freely and make new friends while you relax and soak up the sun.
Off-leash hours
Dumaresq Reserve: Between 4:30 pm – 8:30 am
Rose Bay Foreshore: Off-leash at all times
Lyne Park: Between 3:30 pm – 10:30 am
2. Kutti Beach, Vaucluse
Almost at the border of Watson’s Bay, you’ll find a little slither of golden sand. It’s tucked away down a set of stairs at the end of a residential street (Wharf Road), making it a real hidden gem. In fact, you’d be forgiven for thinking it was a privately owned beach due to the luxe homes that line it. With palm trees and sweeping harbour views, this is definitely more of a chilled, non-touristy beach though it is popular with the locals – especially local dog owners – as it’s one of the few beaches that allow pups to go in the water.
Off-leash hours
On-leash at all times.
3. Bondi Beach, Bondi
While they’re not allowed on the sand, dogs can strut their stuff on-leash along the promenade and play or enjoy the view on the adjacent grassy knolls. It’s such a popular spot, your pup will make plenty of new pals. Once done checking out the tourists, either head inland to one of Bondi’s dog-friendly cafes or go south to walk the iconic Bondi to Bronte coastal track.
Off-leash hours
On-leash at all times.
4. Marks Park, Tamarama
Watch the sun set over Bondi Bay while your pup runs freely around the large, flat grassy park. Perched atop the headland on a quiet street, there are multiple taps with doggy bowls, bushes for hide and seek, seating and a shaded area. It’s a popular spot for local dog parents, so be sure yours is up for making friends, as it can easily turn into a pup party. Just be mindful that the on-site kids’ playground is a no-go zone for dogs.
Off-leash hours
Between 4.30 pm and 8.30 am daily (suspended during Sculptures by the Sea period – around mid-October to mid-November annually).
5. Bronte Park, Bronte
Be rewarded for completing one of Sydney’s best dog walks – the Bondi to Bronte coastal track – with a stop by Bronte Park. This designated dog-friendly grassy spot is unfenced (so make sure your pup comes when called) and backs onto the sand, so it’s the perfect spot to soak up that beachside energy without ending up a wet and sandy mess. That said, it can get muddy after the rain so keep this in mind. Not all areas of this large park are off-leash, so be sure to check the signs and pop on a lead to keep the locals on side.
Off-leash hours
10 am – 3 pm daily
