Elsternwick Park, Lakeside Green, Dog Off Leash Area

Lakeside Green is the off-leash run at the southern end of Elsternwick Park, a wide stretch of open grass beside the park lake. It is off-leash 24/7 and very social, but it is not fenced and sits near busy roads, so it rewards dogs with reliable recall over bolters.

The rules. Off-leash applies on the green 24 hours a day. There is no fence, and the park backs onto busy roads, so effective voice control is the line between a good run and a dash for traffic. Dogs must be on-leash within 20 metres of playgrounds, picnic and barbecue areas, and during organised sport, and they must stay out of the fenced lake. Four dogs per handler maximum, and pick up after them.

What's there. On-site parking off Bent Avenue, a water tap and bowl near the south-east corner of the lake, picnic tables and benches nearby, bins, and toilets by the main playground.

Getting there. Access via Bent Avenue off St Kilda Street or Head Street. Elsternwick and Gardenvale stations on the Sandringham line are both a short walk, and the Route 67 tram stops nearby on Glen Huntly Road.

When to go. Busiest on weekends and on weekday mornings and late afternoons; quietest in the middle of the day. Good for confident, social dogs that already have their recall.

Sources

• Walking your dog in Bayside · bayside.vic.gov.au

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.