Bob Cairns Reserve
Bob Cairns Reserve is a well-regarded dog-friendly park in Salamander Bay where dogs are welcome on lead. You'll find BBQs and toilets nearby.
Dog rules
All Council reserves that are not off-lead or prohibited are dog on-lead areas. Dogs must be under the effective control of a competent person by means of an adequate chain or leash at all times. You are not permitted to walk more than 4 dogs at any one time. Dog owners must remove all dog faeces — fines of $275 apply. Source: Port Stephens Council – Dog Parks (portstephens.nsw.gov.au/services/dog-parks)
At a glance
Nearby dog-friendly spots
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
Parked here to have breakfast with my husband on our way to Nelson Bay. Nice place, clean, with toilet and pretty decent shed with table and benches. Perfect for rest area.
Beautiful picnic area, with toilets, 4 bench, BBQ area and small childrens park on the side of a small beach...
Nice beach but the area is a bit small but long and there was a lot of seaweed on the beach so make sure to wear feet coverings
Beautiful area. Lots of seaweed at the time I was there but the water was so so warm, that was surprising. I only paddled, but it was joyous.
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.


