Dog-friendly parks in Northern Beaches

Flora and Ritchie Roberts Reserve has a large grassy off-leash area that leads directly onto a sandy stretch with access to the Curl Curl lagoon. The water is shallow enough to be a good introduction for dogs new to swimming, and the whole area connects to the boardwalk through to Freshwater, making for a longer walk if you want it. It's a social spot — joggers, other dog owners, and beachgoers share the space, but there's enough room for everyone.

Lagoon Reserve is one of the Northern Beaches' standout dog spots, combining an off-leash area with direct access to sand and water. The lagoon creates sheltered pockets where smaller or less confident dogs can swim without being overwhelmed, while the open sandy stretch gives bigger dogs room to run. It's close to Manly Beach with usually easy parking. Waste bags and bins are provided.

Mona Vale Headland Park sits on the clifftop with wide ocean views that make it feel more dramatic than your average suburban park. The off-leash area is available 24/7, with a mix of grassy open space and a walking track that leads down towards the Mona Vale golf course. Parts of the park are fenced, and waste bags are provided. It's a popular spot on the Northern Beaches, and the views alone make it worth the visit even on quieter days.

Frenchs Forest Showground has a large fenced off-leash area with a separate section for small dogs — a genuine split that gives smaller breeds their own space. The enclosure has double-gated entry points, waste bags, and bins. The grass is well-maintained even through winter. Parking is plentiful with two free lots nearby, and there's a shopping centre within walking distance. It's a practical, well-designed dog park.

LM Graham Reserve is a fully fenced off-leash park surrounding a football pitch, with good shade coverage and water stations inside the enclosure. The regulars are friendly and the park has a strong community feel. One thing to be aware of — locals note that sports users occasionally leave gates open, so keep an eye on entry points if your dog is a flight risk. Waste bags are provided, with toilets and parking nearby.

Truman Reserve has a loyal local community who describe it as one of the best dog parks on the Northern Beaches for friendliness. It's a straightforward off-leash space with drinking water, waste bags, and parking. Not the most feature-rich park, but the welcoming atmosphere and responsible owner culture make it work well as an everyday spot.

Hinkler Park has a fenced off-leash area with direct access to the river, giving dogs the option to run on sand and then cool off in the water. The enclosure means even dogs with less reliable recall can enjoy off-leash time safely. There are toilets, parking, BBQ facilities, and good shade. Mulatto Coffee is just around the corner.

North Harbour Reserve has a fenced off-leash dog area with harbour views and good shade. The broader reserve includes BBQ facilities, a playground, and parking. The harbour outlook gives it a scenic edge over most suburban dog parks.

Adam Street Reserve is a local off-leash park in Curl Curl with toilets nearby. It's a simple neighbourhood space for a quick off-leash outing.

Wabash Reserve is a large off-leash park in Cromer with open space for dogs to run. The park is also used for sport. Check on-site signage for current off-leash boundaries.

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