10 Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Northern Beaches, Sydney, for Sun, Sand, and Paws

This article is by Loan Market Select.
If you need home, car or business loan help, just get in touch 
here.

November 21, 2024

Finding dog-friendly beaches in Northern Beaches, Sydney, is like striking gold for pet owners who love spending time by the water with their furry friends. With stunning stretches of sand, calm waters, and plenty of off-leash areas, Northern Beaches is a slice of paradise for pups and their humans. 


For those dreaming of living near these beautiful shores, local mortgage brokers can help make it happen by guiding you through the home loan process with ease. Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, these beaches offer the perfect escape. 


Let’s dive into the top 10 dog-friendly beaches you need to explore!



🏡 Need Home Loan help?

We've helped thousands of locals.

Just get in touch here!


Why Visit Dog-Friendly Beaches in Northern Beaches?


Northern Beaches is the ultimate spot for dog owners who want to let their dogs roam free. With designated off-leash areas, scenic ocean views, and plenty of amenities, these salt water beaches are designed for both humans and pups. 


Many of these Northern Beaches’ shores offer ample space, calm waters, and grassy reserves where you can relax with your 4-legged friends. From sandy beaches with blue water to rock pools for adventurous dogs, Northern Beaches has it all.


Top 10 Northern Beaches’ Dog-Friendly Beach Spots


Ready to explore the best spots for your furry friends? Here’s our list of 10 Northern Beaches’ dog-friendly beach spots that both you and your pup will love!


#1  Manly Beach


Manly Beach, located in the heart of Manly and surrounded by suburbs like Fairlight, Queenscliff, and Balgowlah, offers a spacious off-leash area with clean waters and plenty of room, making it a popular spot for dog owners.


The beach has soft sand, calm water, and shallow areas, making it an excellent spot for safe splashing. Nearby grassy reserves and picnic tables provide swimming spots to relax. Best visited during warmer months for the full beach vibe, though it’s great year-round.


#2  Curl Curl Lagoon


Curl Curl Lagoon is a popular swimming spot with its large off-leash area and abundance of sand, perfect for dogs to roam. This beach features calm, clean water and a broad expanse of sand stretch, ideal for wading and play.


With ample parking and grassy reserves, it’s well-equipped for a longer stay. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a quieter experience.


#3  Rowland Reserve


Rowland Reserve, located in Bayview and near the surrounding suburbs of Mona Vale, Newport, and Warriewood, features a 24-hour off-leash dog beach, making it one of the most accessible spots in the Northern Beaches.


With azure waters and a wide sandy area for dogs to swim and play, it’s perfect for a fun day out. Ample parking and shaded picnic tables add to its appeal, making it a family-friendly destination, especially during the warmer months.


#4  Flora and Ritchie Roberts Reserve


Flora and Ritchie Roberts Reserve, located in Curl Curl and near the surrounding suburbs of Dee Why, Freshwater, and Brookvale, is a local favourite for dog owners. It features an off-leash area with calm waters and ample space for dogs to run and play.


The adjacent beach is perfect for pups, while nearby picnic shelters and grassy reserves make it an excellent spot for a day trip. Flora and Ritchie Roberts Reserve shines during summer, offering plenty of space even during peak times.


#5  Palm Beach


Palm Beach is a perfect destination with a designated dog-friendly area featuring calm waters and soft sand. 

Its blue waters and sandy stretch offer a peaceful offleash beach day out for you and your pet.


Nearby picnic tables and grassy reserves add convenience. Warmer months provide scenic ocean views and an ideal beach atmosphere.


#6  Sandy Bay


Sandy Bay, located in Clontarf and near the surrounding suburbs of Balgowlah, Mosman, and Seaforth, is a quiet, dog-friendly gem with a relaxed atmosphere. It boasts white sand, shallow waters, and an abundance of sand perfect for digging.


With plenty of shade and nearby grassy reserves, it’s a comfortable and serene spot for both pets and their owners. While it’s quieter in the winter months, Sandy Bay remains a beautiful destination all year round.


#7  Clifton Gardens Reserve


Clifton Gardens Reserve is family-friendly, with grassy areas and an off-leash beach zone for dogs. Rock pools and adjacent waters provide extra fun for curious pups. Picnic shelters, ample parking, and a nearby beach make it great for a full day. Weekdays are less crowded, perfect for a more relaxed visit.


#8  Sirius Cove Reserve


Sirius Cove Reserve, located in Mosman and near the surrounding suburbs of Cremorne, Neutral Bay, and Balmoral, provides a relaxed off-leash environment with a beautiful stretch of sand and calm waters.


The reserve offers plenty of shade, making it perfect for dogs to roam and rest. With parking and picnic tables within walking distance, it’s a convenient and enjoyable spot, especially during the summer months.


#9  Shelly Beach


Shelly Beach features salty waters and off-leash areas perfect for adventurous pets. This popular beach access point has stunning views of Sydney Harbour and a mix of sandy and rocky areas.


Nearby grassy reserves, abundant parking, and cafes make it convenient, especially in the early morning or late offleash beach afternoon.


#10  Narrabeen Lagoon


Narrabeen Lagoon, located in Narrabeen and near the surrounding suburbs of Warriewood, Mona Vale, and Collaroy, is renowned for its calm waters and spacious off-leash play areas. With scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a dog-friendly off-leash beach outing.


Nearby picnic areas and walking trails enhance its appeal, making it an ideal destination, especially during the warmer months, for a relaxing day out with your furry companion.


Essential Tips for Visiting Dog-Friendly Beaches


Northern Beaches, Sydney, is a paradise for dog lovers. This stunning coastal region offers plenty of dog-friendly beaches, each with unique features perfect for a fun day out. 


  • Rules for Dogs: Follow all beach access rules for dogs, including any time restrictions for off-leash areas.
  • Amenities: Look out for picnic tables, grassy reserves, and plenty of parking to make the trip comfortable.
  • Seasonal Advice: In warmer months, arrive early as popular beaches get busy. Keep in mind that heavy rain can impact beach access.



🏡 Need Home Loan help?

We've helped thousands of locals.

Just get in touch here!



FAQs


What are the best dog-friendly beaches in Northern Beaches?


Some of the best dog-friendly beaches in Northern Beaches include Manly Beach, Curl Curl Lagoon, Sandy Bay, Rowland Reserve in Bayview, and Sirius Cove Reserve in Mosman.


Are there off-leash dog beaches in Northern Beaches?


Yes, many beaches in Northern Beaches have designated off-leash areas, such as Rowland Reserve and Flora and Ritchie Roberts Reserve in Curl Curl.


Are dogs allowed on all beaches in Northern Beaches?


No, not all beaches allow dogs. Specific beaches have dog-friendly areas, while others may have restrictions or time limits. Always check local council rules.


What facilities are available at dog-friendly beaches in Northern Beaches?


Facilities often include grassy reserves, picnic tables, nearby parking, and walking trails. Some beaches, like Rowland Reserve, also have 24-hour off-leash areas.


When is the best time to visit dog-friendly beaches in Northern Beaches?


Warmer months are ideal for enjoying the calm waters and scenic views, but quieter times, such as early mornings or winter months, are also great for a peaceful outing.


Do I need to keep my dog on a leash at all times?


It depends on the beach. Some have designated off-leash areas, while others may require dogs to be on a leash outside specified times or zones.


Are there shaded areas at dog-friendly beaches in Northern Beaches?


Yes, many dog-friendly beaches, like Sandy Bay and Sirius Cove Reserve, offer shaded spots for pets and owners to relax comfortably.



Takeaway


Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Northern Beaches, Sydney, offers some of Australia’s best dog-friendly beaches. Moreover, the property market around here allows any interested buyers to avail themselves of affordable homeownership, too!


Each beach has its own charm, with features that make it perfect for a day out with your furry companion. Check beach-specific rules, bring the essentials, and enjoy a memorable day by the beach with plenty of water.


If you want to settle and build your first home in the beautiful Northern Beaches area, let our team at Mortgage Brokers Northern Beaches make it easy for you. From loans to refinancing, we’ve got you covered. Contact us here or call 0403 316 686.

Chat to our team today!

Our services are 100% free, so please just get in touch if you need home or commercial loan help - it's what we do!

Contact Us


Phone: 📞 0403 316 686
Email:
damian.wallace@loanmarket.com.au

Office Address:

1303/213 Miller St,

North Sydney, NSW, 2060

a couple sitting on the floor, both holding out house keys.
October 15, 2025
Home loan declined in Northern Beaches? Learn 7 reasons why and how Northern Beaches mortgage brokers can help you get back on track.
3 women hugging on a couch.
October 15, 2025
Family guarantee loans help families buy homes in the Northern Beaches, Sydney. Learn how these home loans work and how brokers can simplify the process.
Aerial image of houses.
October 15, 2025
Best North Sydney suburbs for first home buyers in 2025. Explore growth areas with lifestyle perks. Get expert loan help from local North Sydney brokers.
View of Sydney harbor from the river.
October 15, 2025
Explore the fastest-growing suburbs in North Sydney for 2025. Learn where to buy and how local North Sydney brokers can help with home and investment loans.
Aerial view of houses in a suburban area.
October 15, 2025
Explore 10 affordable suburbs in North Sydney under $800K in 2025—ideal for first-home buyers. Get expert loan help from local North Sydney brokers.
aerial view of burraneer sydney_sydney property market update
September 16, 2025
Explore the latest Sydney property market update, including forecasts and suburb insights. Get expert loan support from Mortgage Brokers Northern Beaches.
couple looking at a document with a male broker
September 10, 2025
Buying your first home? Get clear answers to 12 common first-home buyer questions covering home loans, deposits, and more. Get insights from expert Sydney brokers.
A smiling doctor standing outside a modern home.
August 27, 2025
Learn home loan application tips for doctors. MB Northern Beaches helps medical professionals apply faster with confidence.
A professional self-employed person working on a laptop at home or in a café.
August 25, 2025
Struggling with a self-employed home loan? These 7 tips from MB Northern Beaches help improve your approval chances and loan options.
A “For Sale” sign in front of a modest Sydney home
August 20, 2025
Finding the cheapest North Sydney suburbs is easier with MB Northern Beaches. Our mortgage brokers help first home buyers secure affordable loan options.