Dog-friendly parks in Sutherland Shire

Kurnell Dog Beach is the only permitted off-leash area in Kurnell, and it draws a loyal crowd. On a clear day you get views across to the city skyline, and the flight path overhead means planes pass low on approach — dogs and owners both seem to enjoy the spectacle. The water is accessible and calm enough for most dogs, and there are regular breed meetups including a Border Collie gathering on the first Sunday of each month. Parking is easy, and there are toilets and shaded areas nearby. Dogs must be on-leash when entering and leaving the beach area.

Burnum Burnum Sanctuary is an on-leash park on the Woronora River with a mix of open grassed areas and bushland walking tracks. It's a popular meetup spot — the Hobbit Hounds rescued greyhound group walks here every Sunday, and the atmosphere is consistently friendly. There's fishing access, BBQ facilities, a playground, and clean toilet facilities. The scenery along the river is genuinely pleasant, making it a good option for a longer on-leash walk rather than just a quick visit.

Carina Bay Reserve is an off-leash area with no time restrictions, set among bush and waterside tracks near Como. The surrounding bushland and water views give it a more scenic feel than a typical suburban park. From here you can walk over the bridge to the Como Pleasure Grounds and nearby cafes, extending the outing if you want. Dogs must be on-leash when entering and leaving the off-leash area.

Helena Street Park has separate fenced areas for large and small dogs, with auto-refill water bowls and good shade from established trees. The park operates between 4:30am and 10:30pm, with gates locked overnight. It's a well-structured park with clear separation between dog sizes.

Silver Beach has a designated off-leash section between the 3rd and 4th rock groynes, available at all times. There's drinking water, waste bags, toilets, and parking. Dogs must be on-leash when walking to and from the off-leash zone. Kurnell Dog Beach is just next door.

Darook Park in Cronulla allows dogs on-leash on the constructed paths and grassy areas. Dogs are not permitted on the beach or in the swimming area. There's shade, toilets, parking, and nearby shallow water. It's a pleasant on-leash walk with a sheltered coastal setting.

Greenhills Beach is a long, open stretch of coastline with wide sand and strong ocean conditions. Waves can be rough much of the time, making it better suited to dogs that are comfortable around surf.

Dog-friendly park in Como with plenty of shade.

Dog-friendly park in Woronora.

Dog-friendly park in Cronulla with plenty of shade.

Dog-friendly park in Engadine.

Dog-friendly park in Heathcote with a fenced area where dogs can roam off lead…

Dog-friendly park in Cronulla with plenty of shade.

Dog-friendly park in Cronulla with plenty of shade.

Dog-friendly park in Cronulla with plenty of shade…

Dog-friendly park in Como.