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  1. Home
  2. /Parks
  3. /Lower North Shore
  4. /Waverton
  5. /Balls Head Reserve

Balls Head Reserve

Dogs welcome — rules apply•Dog rules
Dog rating

Updated 15 Apr 2026

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Balls Head Reserve is a bushland walk on the harbour with views across to the city and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Dogs are welcome on-leash, and the trails pass through genuine bushland — natural paths with rocks and tree roots rather than paved walkways. There are BBQs, toilets, and parking, though the car parks aren't always obvious from the road. It's one of those spots that feels surprisingly secluded given how close it is to the CBD.

Dog rules

Balls Head Reserve is a bushland reserve under North Sydney Council. Under the Council’s blanket off-leash policy, dogs must be on a leash at all times in bushland areas. (Source: North Sydney Council — northsydney.nsw.gov.au/directory-record/1382/balls-head-reserve)

At a glance

On-leash onlyFrom reviews
Parking nearbyVenue website
Toilets nearbyFrom reviews
Cafe nearbyVenue website
BBQsFrom reviews
Loading map…
Balls Head Dr, Waverton NSW 2060
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Nearby dog-friendly spots

Cafes

Billi's Cafe & Restaurant
800m
Confirmed
The North Spoon
900m
Confirmed
Breadworks Cafe
750m
Likely
See all cafes in Waverton

Pubs & Bars

Blues Point Hotel
700m
Confirmed
Delicado
750m
Likely
See all pubs in Waverton

Parks

Carradah Park
400m
Confirmed
Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability
450m
Confirmed
Sawmillers Reserve
500m
Confirmed
See all parks in Waverton

Beaches

Barangaroo Harbour Pool
1.1km
Confirmed
See all beaches in Waverton
Explore Waverton

Before you go

  • 💧No confirmed drinking water — bring your own to be safe.
  • 🌳No shade confirmed — take it easy on warmer days.
  • 🗑Poo bags not confirmed — best to bring your own.

What people say

MRMap R.
Google Maps
★★★★★1 year ago

I think Balls Head Reserve is a really great bush walking track. Along the route, there are some flat roads, but the majority is actual bushland. Natural paths have been carved around the headland, though, due to the constant walking of many visitors over time. There are some stairs and narrow parts in the walk, but I found it to be a relatively mild trek. The track is well marked and easy to follow. Although a relatively popular spot for bush walking, during the times I have been here, it has never been crowded. To me, the walk is really peaceful and tranquil. There are many places along the walk that have amazing views of Sydney Harbour. The area is very well maintained. There is free street parking at the start of the route. There are also barbecue and picnic facilities. Dogs on leashes are welcome here.

LDLeah D.
Google Maps
★★★★★1 year ago

What a hidden gem. Great spot for a bath walk, picnic and incredible views of Sydney city and the harbour. There are a few car parks not shown so do the drive around the loop as there is one close to a bbq area and toilets, right near the views. This is a dog friendly walk so long as on leash.

MLMike L.
Google Maps
★★★★★1 year ago

I really enjoy bush walking with my dog through track from the Coal Loader to Balls Head Reserve. There are plenty of car park space around or short walking distance from Waverton train station. You can see stunning sunset view Sydney harbour bridge, Sydney Opera House and city skyline.highly recommended.

HPHelene P.
Google Maps
★★★★★4 months ago

The Balls Head Road wall walk, near Waverton in Sydney, is a scenic, historic, and easy trail along the harbour foreshore, offering stunning views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and city skyline. It features industrial heritage, specifically the iconic Coal Loader, a dark, atmospheric tunnel, and connects to bushland with indigenous sites. The trail provides panoramic,180-degree views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Goat Island, and Balmain. I started off from North Sydney station and back, was just abit over 10,000 steps! A half day well spent, its not crowded with clean toilets and fresh drinkable water along the way.

E1Explorer 1.
Google Maps
★★★★★5 months ago

An amazing harbour view with a clear line of sight to the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney CBD. Sunrise from the reserve is especially beautiful, with soft light spreading across the water, and sunsets are just as impressive. The walking trails around the reserve are easy to enjoy, with many nice spots to stop and breathe, take in the view, and rest along the way. There is a drinking water station to refill your bottle, and a public bathroom is available near the car park, which makes the visit even more convenient. A great place to slow down, take photos, or simply enjoy the harbour from a quieter viewpoint.

See all reviews on Google

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Balls Head Dr, Waverton NSW 2060
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