Great Mackerel Beach
No photos yet
Be the first to share a photo of this spot.
Great Mackerel Beach is a quiet, ferry-access beach on Pittwater with calm water and a sheltered feel. Dogs are off-leash in the designated strip — from the public wharf north towards the national park — from sunrise to 9:30am and from 5pm to sunset, and on-leash by the shortest route between boats and the grass at other times. Dogs are not permitted south of the wharf or in the adjoining Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. A peaceful spot for a timed off-leash visit by the water.
Dog rules
Dogs are permitted off-leash in the off-leash area at set times. Seasonal rules apply.
Off-leash times
–Sunrise to 9:30am
–5pm to sunset
Conditions
–At all other times dogs are prohibited in the off-leash area except if they are on-leash using the shortest direct route between boats and the grassed strip
Restrictions
–Dogs are prohibited at all times on Mackerel Beach south of the public wharf
–Dogs are prohibited at all times from the adjoining Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
Notes
–Please be mindful of local residents, other users of the off-leash area and users of the wharf
–Dogs permitted off-leash and on-leash at set times on Mackerel Beach from the public wharf north to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Dogs prohibited on beach south of wharf.
At a glance
On & off-leash zonesAdmin team verified
Calm, shallow water — good for dogsAdmin team verified
Water accessAdmin team verified
Parking nearbyAdmin team verified
Toilets nearbyAdmin team verified
Great Mackerel Beach, New South Wales, Australia
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.
- 🌳No shade confirmed — take it easy on warmer days.
- 🗑Poo bags not confirmed — best to bring your own.
What people say
★★★☆☆1 year ago
Great Mackerel Beach takes some serious time, planning and $$$. First, drive to Palm Beach wharf, early enough to get an overpriced parking spot nearer the wharf ($10 per hour, 4 hours max), then pay $9.70 per person one-way for the super cute little ferry to get to Great Mackerel, the last stop on a milk run that leaves on the hour. Once there, you’ll appreciate the fact that you’ve brought any drinks and snacks you’ll need during your visit, as there’s no shop, no roads or cars, or any other facilities, including toilets. The ferry is your last chance to dance. But when you get there, it feels like you’re away somewhere that isn’t Sydney anymore. It’s surprising and kinda cute. Do note it does have houses along it, so it isn’t quite an unspoilt natural wilderness, and it’s also heavily frequented by boats. The ferry back to Palm Beach leaves on the half hour, costs the same but it’s a quick, direct trip, and you’ll return feeling intrepid and is if you’ve travelled.
★★★★★1 year ago
Great spot — very peaceful and relaxing. Perfect for unwinding and enjoying nature.
★★★★★4 years ago
Beautiful little beach, Perfect for family celebrations and a relaxing picnic. Lots of shallow water around for children and no big waves. Boat and ferry access to this spot, No public restrooms or facilities here.
★★★★☆7 years ago
Nice beach. Shallow parts. Great for kids. Best accessed via ferry (or bushwalk if you have the energy. No food places etc so more just for relaxation.
Happy Dog Guides
View all guides 
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.