The Central Coast of New South Wales is a haven for dog lovers, offering a plethora of stunning landscapes and outdoor spaces where furry friends can roam, play, and make a splash. From expansive dog parks to sandy shores where four-legged companions can frolic in the surf, the Central Coast boasts a range of dog-friendly destinations that cater to both energetic pups and their devoted owners. We too, at Bryson Buyers Agents, love exploring our local area with our four legged friends and in this guide, we’ll explore some of the best dog parks and dog-friendly beaches on the Central Coast, providing a roadmap for memorable adventures with man’s best friend.
Dog Parks:
Peppermint Park, Kariong: On Langford Drive, Kariong is this dog friendly park which also offers a large grassed area for ball sports and athletics as well as pathways for bike riding, walking and jogging.
Kariong Recreation Reserve: Curringa Road in Kariong offers a dog friendly area also with a large grassed area for ball sports and athletics, lighting, free parking, pathways for bike riding, walking and jogging, picnic facilities, childrens’ play equipment, shower & toilet facilities and a skate park. Perfect for the entire family!
Mitchell Park, Narara: Located in Corella Crescent, Narara is this dog friendly area with a large grassed area, perfect for ball sports and athletics. It has picnic facilities and water refill stations and bubblers, as well as play equipment for children.
Dog-Friendly Beaches:
Avoca Beach and North Avoca Beach: Avoca Beach and North Avoca Beach are not just a hotspot for surfers; it’s also a welcoming destination for dogs. The off leash area stretches 600m from Avoca Beach Shark Tower to View Street at North Avoca Beach. It is designated as an off-leash area, allowing dogs to join their owners for a seaside adventure. The expansive sandy shores provide plenty of space for dogs to run and play, while the gentle waves offer a refreshing retreat for water-loving pups.
Copacabana and MacMasters Beach: The 800m off leash areas of Copacabana Beach and MacMasters Beach are gorgeous spots frequented by friendly dogs and locals. The dog area stretches from 150m south of Copacabana Beach Surf Life Saving Club to 350m north of Macmasters Beach Surf Life Saving Club. It’s an ideal stretch of sand, perfect for exercising due to its length, and there’s plenty of room for your dog to run around and swim.
North Shelly Beach: The clean and scenic shoreline is perfect for dog owners to take their pet for a long walk. Shelly Beach provides a 700m off leash space spreading from Bombora View to Swaddling Reserve at Toowoon Bay.
Lakes Beach: Lakes Beach is a quiet dog beach on the Central Coast. This hidden gem is a great spot for a long walk to ensure you and your dog get enough exercise. The 500m off leash area extends from the Ocean Street Beach Car Park in Budgewoi to the Budgewoi Beach Southern Carpark north of Lakes Beach Surf Life Saving Club.
Umina Beach: Umina Beach is known for its calm and friendly surf, perfect for dogs who enjoy their daily paddles. The 650m dog-friendly area stretches from Berrima Crescent car park to the beach access track on the other side of the road from the Umina skate park. There are poo bags available for those who’ve forgotten theirs. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the flat expanse of the beach while your dog runs around with his fluffy friends.
Ettalong Beach: Along with the calm and shallow water, Ettalong Beach is one of the most dog-friendly beaches on the Central Coast. From Kourung Street to Augusta Street is 1km off leash and well signposted.
Pearl Beach: Tucked away in a serene coastal enclave, Pearl Beach is renowned for its natural beauty. The 600m off leash area stretches from the Pearl Beach Lagoon’s entrance to the beach’s northern end, providing a peaceful retreat for dogs and their owners. With its calm waters and soft sands, Pearl Beach offers a tranquil escape for a leisurely stroll or a playful romp by the sea.
Patonga Beach: You and your dog can have a quiet stroll along the 500m off leash area, stretching along the northern side of the beach from the Boathouse Hotel. If your dog is a fan of swimming, the northern end of Patonga Beach is the ideal location for them to have a paddle in flat, calm water. Doggy bag dispensers are available at the end of Brisk Street, closest to the beach.
Most importantly, when enjoying off-leash areas, please remember that your dog must always be under control of a competent person, no more than four dogs per person can be taken to an off-leash area, while dogs are allowed on designated beaches and reserves unleashed, you must ensure your dog’s behaviour doesn’t disrupt others and if your dog poos in a public place or on someone else’s property, you are responsible for picking it up and disposing of it thoughtfully.
The Central Coast of NSW beckons dog owners with its diverse range of dog parks and dog-friendly beaches. Whether you’re seeking a lively off-leash park or a peaceful seaside escape, the region has something to offer for every canine and their human companions. Embrace the opportunity to create lasting memories with your furry friend against the backdrop of the stunning Central Coast landscape, where tails wag and waves roll in harmony.
Looking to holiday on the Central Coast with your family and want to know more about the best family friendly holiday parks? Read more here.
Considering purchasing a property here on the Central Coast? Reach out to the team to see if we can help.