Scenic Park Fenced Dog Park

Scenic Park Fenced Dog Park sits on Scenic Avenue in Benowa, a fully fenced off-leash area beside the Benowa waterway. The combination of secure fencing and a waterfront setting is the draw: room to run safely under mature shade trees, with the lake edge right there.

The dog setup

The main dog-exercise area is fenced for free off-leash play, with a few agility obstacles, dog water fountains and bowls, and shaded seating for owners. Outside the fence, dogs go back on lead, and the adjacent fenced children's playground is off-limits to dogs entirely. Bag stations and bins are provided.

City of Gold Coast rules apply: keep effective control at all times, supervise from inside the enclosure, leash up to enter and leave, and remove any dog that rushes or harasses others.

Max: entry is through single gates, so latch the gate behind you and keep an eye on escape artists. The water's edge is steep in spots, so mind dogs that launch straight in.

The vibe

Regulars rate it for the shady trees and the view over the waterway, where swans and other waterbirds put on a show along the bank. There is no public toilet on site, and the low ground near the water turns into a muddy dip after rain, so expect a wet dog either way.

Getting there

The park is reached via Ashmore Road or Benowa Road, with free street parking along Scenic Avenue that is limited at peak times. Public transport is sparse here; the nearest bus stops are on surrounding streets with a short walk in.

While you're out there

Double Barrel Kitchen and Bar at The Concourse is a few minutes away with outdoor waterfront seating for dogs, and Pooches & Pastries at Carrara is a dedicated dog cafe in the next suburb. Cabana Offleash Dog Area is the suburb's other off-lead option, and the Emerald Lakes Circuit makes a flattish on-lead walk pairing.

More options are on the Queensland dog parks guide and the Benowa destination page.