Dutchmans Beach Reserve

Dogs welcome — rules applyDog rules

Updated 12 May 2026

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Dutchmans Beach Reserve is a dog-friendly park in Nelson Bay with plenty of shade. Just 500m away, Bagnalls Beach is a great nearby beach to visit with your dog.

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

Shade availableFrom reviews
BinsFrom reviews
Sandy surfaceFrom reviews
Parking nearbyFrom reviews
Toilets nearbyFrom reviews
On-leash onlyAdmin team verified
1 Burbong St, Nelson Bay NSW 2315

Before you go

  • 💧No confirmed drinking water — bring your own to be safe.
  • 🗑Poo bags not confirmed — best to bring your own.

What people say

★★★★★9 months ago

Fantastic playground. Two swings, two slides, small flying fox, tunnel, balance course and small bridge. We'll maintained. Includes two BBQs, four tables + chairs, one of which is sheltered. Includes bins, benches and some natural shade. The playground is right on the walking path between Nelson Bay and Soldiers Point. Plus it has the most amazing view of Dutchies Beach. It's right next to an adult work out station. Only negative is that toilets are a decent walk, over at Bagnalls Beach.

★★★★★2 years ago

Hidden paradise :). We’ve been visiting Port Stephens for 25 years and never been to this oasis. We stumbled across it yesterday. Crystal clear water and plenty of shady spots under a tree plus dozens of picnic tables. Public toilets and a small car park make this a spot we’re sure to revisit on our next trip to Nelson Bay.

★★★★★2 years ago

Wonderful small paradise beach! Parking right above the beach, playground, trees to hide. Just amazing!

★★★★★9 months ago

We love this place, but PLEASE be careful of the kookaburras, they have been very cheeky/naughty. They literally took the food out of my hand, which was near my mouth, and hit my cheek with their wing, that's how close it was. Not once, but twice, and you can't shoo them away, they will stand their ground and won't move. I'm more concerned about parents with young children eating.

★★★★★2 years ago

One of our favourite beaches. Private, crystal clear water and plenty of shady spots on the beach if you need it. The narrow strip of sand allows you to almost have your feet in the water while sunbathing and it’s lovely to be so close to the sound of the gentle lap of the waves.

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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.