Pelican Foreshore Shared Path

The Pelican Foreshore Shared Path runs beside Lake Macquarie in Pelican, the suburb next to Little Pelican, with the Swansea Channel and its pelicans in view. It is flat, paved and on lead.

Lead rules

Lake Macquarie City Council allows dogs on lead along the foreshore and shared paths. Dogs are not allowed in the playground exclusion zones, so give the playground at Pelican Foreshore Park a wide berth.

The walk

The concrete and asphalt path includes the Ron Brown Way extension and links grassy reserves with picnic and barbecue areas. It is an easy, level stroll with open water on one side.

The park has mature trees and covered picnic tables, but the open waterfront path has little overhead shade.

What's there

Toilets and taps are around the main park and playground, and bins are near the picnic areas. Carry a bowl for the longer stretches. Free parking is right by the foreshore on Lakeview Parade.

The monthly Pelican Foreshore Markets on Lakeview Parade are pet-friendly, which brings plenty of dogs out.

Make a day of it

Stop at The Channel Cafe in Swansea, or head over to Dog's Leg Island.

When to go

Go early on summer days, since the path is exposed. The flat surface suits older dogs, and market days suit social ones.