Clontarf Reserve

Dogs welcome — rules apply•Dog rules

Dog rating

Updated 30 Apr 2026

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Clontarf Reserve is a popular harbourside spot near the Spit Bridge, with a netted swimming area, a large playground and shaded picnic spots with free electric BBQs. It has a designated off-leash area, with weekday hours differing from weekends and public holidays, so check the signage — and it can get very busy on weekends. The calm water and grassy surrounds make it a comfortable place to spend a while. A well-equipped reserve with timed off-leash space.

Dog rules

Clontarf Reserve is a designated off-leash area and is unfenced. Dogs may be off leash on weekdays outside school holidays. On Saturdays, Sundays, school holidays and public holidays dogs may be off leash from 6pm to 10am outside daylight saving time, and from 8pm to 10am during daylight saving time. Dogs must be on leash at all other times. Dogs are prohibited on Clontarf Beach and in the tidal pool, and within 10 metres of the playground.

At a glance

On & off-leash zonesAdmin team verified

Shade availableAdmin team verified

Bags & binsAdmin team verified

Sandy surfaceAdmin team verified

Parking nearbyAdmin team verified

Toilets nearbyAdmin team verified

Sheltered seatingAdmin team verified

Cafe nearbyAdmin team verified

BBQsAdmin team verified

Sandy Bay Rd, Clontarf NSW 2093, Australia

Get directions 1300 434 434 Visit website

Nearby dog-friendly spots

Before you go

ℹ️Dogs allowed at certain times/areas — check official source for details.
💧No confirmed drinking water — bring your own to be safe.

What people say

John K.

★★★★★6 months ago

Clontarf beach sea pool is located at Clontarf reserve and near the spit bridge Mosman. You can see the spit bridge from here. The pool is front of the playground. Plus free BBQ facilities. Make this spot ideal for families. The water was crystal clear and I enjoyed the swim 🏊‍♀️ at the end of clontarf beach is castle Rock reserve which leads to castle rock beach. Great atmosphere. Metered Park is $10 per hour, but a little further back you can find free parking 😉Clontarf Beach and Reserve is widely considered one of Sydney’s premier family-friendly destinations. Located in Middle Harbour (technically in the suburb of Clontarf, just across from Mosman’s The Spit), it offers a more tranquil, village-like atmosphere compared to the bustling surf beaches of Bondi or Manly. The Vibe Clontarf is less about "riding waves" and more about "slow days." Because it faces the harbour, the water is exceptionally calm, making it a sanctuary for parents with toddlers and anyone who prefers a peaceful float over a surf session. The backdrop of the Spit Bridge and bobbing yachts gives it a scenic, nautical charm. Key Features The Tidal Pool: A large, netted swimming enclosure at the southern end provides a safe haven from "larger sea life" (a common concern in Middle Harbour). It features a wide wooden boardwalk that is a local-favorite jumping spot for kids at high tide. The Playground: Recently upgraded as part of a multi-million dollar project, the aquatic-themed playground is top-tier. It includes shade sails, a rope pendulum swing, and a "seahorse" sand play area. Clontarf Reserve: The beach is bordered by a massive, lush grassy park with plenty of mature trees for natural shade. It’s a popular spot for birthday parties and large family BBQs. Dining: * Bosk Kiosk: Great for a casual coffee, hot chips, or an ice block. Sandy Bar Cafe: Located near the marina, offering a more sit-down breakfast and lunch experience with water views. Practical Tips Parking: This is the only "downside." The on-site car park is metered and can be expensive (approx. $10/hour). It fills up incredibly fast on summer weekends, so aim to arrive before 9:00 AM or look for street parking on Holmes Ave. Water Quality: Like many harbour beaches, the water quality can be affected after heavy rain due to runoff. It's always a good idea to check the Beachwatch forecast if there’s been a recent storm. Dog Policy: Dogs are generally prohibited on the main beach and in the tidal pool. However, there is a designated off-leash dog beach at the end of Sandy Bay Road nearby, and the reserve allows dogs on-leash during specific hours. Walks: If you’re feeling active, the famous Spit to Manly Coastal Walk passes right through here

shady G.

★★★☆☆8 months ago

It's a nice spot, is has a large playground and netted and shaded swimming area. Plenty of Shaded picnic area with free electric BBQ close by. There's a nice little Cafe there to get some ice cream, lunch or coffee, the toilets are plenty and well maintained. The cons: it is extremely expensive to park there $40 for the whole day. The Reserve is dog friendly with a condition that they must always be on a leash, unfortunately there's always a couple people that think the rules don't apply to them. Yesterday I witnessed a dog off its leash while it barked and chased some kids in the playground while they were running in fear. Do not fear though, the Rangers will be around to make sure everyone is doing the right thing though, right? No, but they'll check you've paid your parking fees..

paul C.

★★★★☆5 years ago

Great spot for families, barbecues, parties and picnics with plenty of parking available. Has a small pool and playground which are great for kids. There is also a kiosk and restaurant . The dog friendly Sandy Bay is only a short stroll away also. There is also a popular restaurant on the nearby marina.

Delta

★★★★☆8 months ago

We've been here multiple times already. The place is only accessible by car, so there are no tourists, which makes the place less crowded. It is extremely family friendly and the people that hang around are also nice and kind. The only downside (if anything) is that the parking there is unbelievably expensive. That being said, this is not unreasonable given how nice the place is. That being said, if you don't mind a bit of a walk, you can park your car somewhere close by and then you can effectively park for 3 hours free! The cafes there are very nice but price point is very high once again

Grigori G.

★★★★★11 months ago

One of the few hidden gems in Sydney. Very quiet, very family friendly and spacious. Not popular with some destructive teenagers so all the equipment for kids is intact and in a good condition. Toilet facilities are Ok ish, definitely could have been better, but acceptable.

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Directions Call1300 434 434

How we know this

We check council regulations, official sources, and community reviews to verify dog access at every venue. Access may change — always check on-site signage. Something wrong or missing? Submit feedback. How it works.

Dog rules

At a glance

Nearby dog-friendly spots

Cafes

Parks

Beaches

Before you go

What people say

Happy Dog Guides

Best Dog Parks in NSW

Why Sniffing Matters More Than You Think

The Year Through Your Dog's Nose and Paws

How we know this

Nearby dog-friendly spots

Cafes

Parks

Beaches

What people say