Dog-friendly beaches in Lower North Shore

Sirius Cove is widely regarded as one of Sydney's best dog-friendly beaches, and it earns the reputation. Tucked into a quiet corner of Mosman's harbour foreshore, the sheltered cove has calm, shallow water that deepens gradually — making it as good for nervous first-time swimmers as it is for dogs that charge straight in. The large grassy reserve behind the sand is shaded by mature trees, with BBQs, picnic tables, a playground, drinking water, and toilets — the kind of setup that lets you stay for hours rather than just a quick dip. Off-leash access runs all day on weekdays, and before 9am and after 4pm on weekends and public holidays. The walking track heading east connects to Taronga Zoo Wharf and Bradleys Head, adding a scenic on-leash extension if you want it. It can get busy on weekends, so arriving early is worth it.

Clifton Gardens Reserve is a sheltered harbour spot in Mosman with a grassy reserve, calm water and a beach beside the jetty. The grassy reserve is off-leash all day. The beach east of the jetty is off-leash on weekdays only — before 9am and after 4pm from April to September, and before 9am and after 6pm from October to March — and on-leash on weekends and public holidays. The calm, protected water suits a gentle paddle, with BBQs and shade for a longer stay.

Hayes Street Beach, also known as Neutral Bay Beach, is a small, secret harbour beach at Neutral Bay with a designated off-leash area. Dogs are allowed off-leash on the sand under effective control. It is a quiet, local spot that does not get too busy, with a ferry back to the harbour nearby. A charming little off-leash beach.

Spit West Reserve is a harbourside reserve at Mosman with a grassed area, an easy trail and lovely water views. Dogs are allowed off-leash here under effective control, with toilets, BBQ facilities and cafes close by. It is a relaxed spot for an evening walk and a play by the water, with paid parking at the Spit. A pleasant off-leash reserve on the harbour.

Balmoral Beach is a calm, sheltered harbour beach in Mosman. Dogs are not permitted on the sand or in the swimming enclosure, but you can walk your dog on-leash along the grassed foreshore reserve and promenade. Mosman's designated off-leash areas are elsewhere — Sirius Cove, Spit West, Spit East and Clifton Gardens Reserves.

Beach in Cremorne Point where dog access has not yet been confirmed…

Beach in Mosman. Dogs are not currently allowed at this beach.

Beach in Mosman. Dogs are not currently allowed at this beach.

Beach in Mosman. Dogs are not currently allowed at this beach.

Beach in Mosman. Dogs are not currently allowed at this beach.

Beach in Mosman. Dogs are not currently allowed at this beach.

Beach in Mosman. Dogs are not currently allowed at this beach.

Beach in Mosman. Dogs are not currently allowed at this beach.

Beach in Mosman. Dogs are not currently allowed at this beach.