Carina Bay Dog Park

Carina Bay Dog Park sits on a riverside reserve between Como and Oyster Bay, where a sloping grass lawn runs down to a small patch of sand on the Georges River. It is off leash around the clock, and the riverfront setting is the whole drawcard. There is no fence, so the dogs that get the most out of it are the ones that come back when called.

Leash status

Dogs are allowed off leash 24/7 across the reserve, but effective control is the operative requirement, given the open water and the creek that runs through. Clip the leash back on when entering and leaving the area, clean up after your dog, and check the signage on site, because council rules can change. Part of the wider reserve is also used by horse riders, so keep your dog well clear when a horse comes through.

Water and terrain

The waterfront is more river access than a proper beach. At low to mid tide there is a wider stretch of sand for dogs to play on and paddle in; at high tide it shrinks to a narrow strip, so time your visit if swimming is the plan. The reserve mixes open lawn, pockets of bushland and a shallow tidal creek, with shaded spots and seating scattered through.

Public water taps are on site, but bring your own bowl. There are no public toilets.

Max: no fencing and open water right there, so this one is for dogs that come back every time. Watch the tide line too, it moves the usable sand around.

Getting there and parking

Drive in via Genoa Street or Tivoli Esplanade in Como to an unsealed car park that holds around 50 cars. There is also a pedestrian entrance off Oyster Bay Road, but no parking at that end. Como and Jannali stations on the Illawarra line are the closest rail options, both a decent walk or a short bus ride away.

When to go

Weekday mornings and quieter afternoons are the calmest windows. Weekends bring more owners and their dogs, particularly when the weather is good. Confident swimmers get the most from this reserve, along with owners who want river access without a formal beach setup.

While you're out there

If your dog needs a fully fenced run instead, the Olives Reserve Fenced Dog Park in Como is a short drive away. For a post swim coffee, Dose Oyster Bay serves the local crowd with dogs welcome outside.

Find more dog parks in NSW or plan around Oyster Bay.