Sydney is an incredible city, there are so many great things to see and do, but not a lot of them are dog-friendly. We’ve spent a lot of time in
Sydney Dog Walks
There are a lot of beautiful bush walks in and around Sydney, but most are located in National Parks so are off limits to dogs. But don’t despair, we’ve found some great alternatives that both you and your pup will love.
Waverton Park
Located north of the city, Waverton Park is an off-leash dog park where you can take in magnificent views while your dog lets off some steam. From the bottom of the park, an easy trail takes you down through the bush and over walkways with some of the best views of the Harbour Bridge in Sydney. The trail leads you through the old BP site, where oil was stored in giant tankers from 1922 to 1993. It was opened as a park in 2005 and the best thing for fur families is that all the paths and trails are off-leash. There are public toilets here, easy parking and lots of great spots for a picnic too. If you have more time to enjoy the area, you can follow the trail down the steps and through to Balls Head Reserve and the Coal Loader sites (see below).
Balls Head Bushland Reserve & the Coal Loader
Magnificent views, beautiful bushland and historic sites make this one of the best of the Sydney dog walks. All areas are on-leash but it connects to several off leash areas, and there are spots along the way you can access small beaches for a quick doggy dip. The Coal Loader tunnels, platform and centre are all on-leash friendly and there is a lovely cafe there too.
Berry Island Reserve – Wollstonecroft
Once one of Sydney’s islands, Berry Island is now a
Centennial Park Sydney
The largest dog-friendly park in Sydney, almost half of this huge park in Sydney is off-leash. You can find more info on their website and download a map of the doggy designated areas here.
Sydney Park
One of Sydney’s best dog parks just got even better, with a brand new doggy only swimming pool opening this year.
North Harbour Reserve
The walk from North Harbour Reserve to Forty Baskets Beach is dog-friendly, at low tide you can walk along and explore the rocks or you can take the path. In North Harbour Reserve itself there is a huge off-leash dog field plus a beach for play and swimming.
Kurnell Beach
Kurnell in the south has some great dog-friendly areas, if it’s a beach walk you’re looking for in particular here’s a great list of the top 10 doggy beaches in Sydney.
Flora and Ritchie Roberts Reserve, Curl Curl
Off-leash fun through sand dunes, past a lagoon and along the beach – a beautiful spot for an ocean walk with the whole family.
Manly Dam Trails
The Manly Dam trails are all dog on-leash friendly. The circuit track is 7.3kms long but you can choose to do smaller sections of it. You can find more info on the trails here – also check this site before heading down as baiting sometimes takes place in the area, closing it to dogs.
Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
The 6km iconic walk with magnificent views is dog on-leash friendly, with off-leash parks to stop off at along the way. Dogs are not allowed on any of the beaches along the walk.
Cafe Bones – Leichhardt
Sydney’s best doggy hang out, this cafe is in the middle of an off-leash doggy park. You can relax while your pup plays, and you can then treat your best mate to their very own ‘puppacino’ or some home made doggy treats.
Sydney for Dogs
If you’re a local, or plan on spending lots of time in Sydney, then this book by Cathy Proctor is the ultimate guide on Sydney for Dogs.
With over 200 pages and now in its 4th edition, this book is packed with walks,
Sydney Dog-Friendly Accommodation
Some of Sydney’s best hotels are now pet-friendly, with doggy room service, pet minding and grooming all on offer. We’ve listed some top hotels below but you can find a great list of dog-friendly hotels in Sydney here.
Medusa Hotel, Darlinghurst
You can share a courtyard room with your pet in the Medusa Hotel, and it’s perfect for dogs with an off leash park just a few blocks away. Click here to read more.
Sydney Harbour Bed and Breakfast, The Rocks
Located in the historic Rocks area of Sydney, some rooms have spectacular views of the Harbour. Read more here.
Pier One Sydney
Pet-friendly rooms at Pier One open straight onto the Pier at Walsh Bay, making walking your four-legged friend a breeze. The rooms have doggy beds, water bowls and even a canine room service menu! Find out more here.
The Hughenden, Woollahra
Right across the road from Centennial Parkland (listed above) this spot is perfect for pet-friendly accommodation. Your dog can even dine with you in the restaurant. Find rates here.
Glenferrie Lodge, Kirribilli
Courtyard rooms are pet-friendly, this is a great budget option with great views and historic setting. Read more here.
The Langham, Sydney
Luxury for you and your dog! The Langham takes pet-friendly accommodation to the next level, offering 5 star service. There is a dog room service menu, plush beds and pet sitting services. Treat yourself and your best mate here!
Hopefully we’ve given you some inspiration for some of your next Sydney dog walks, we’d love to hear in the comments if you’ve enjoyed any of these or if there are any we should add.
If you’re heading to Cairns don’t miss our post on the best dog-friendly spots in Cairns.
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