Tanilba Bay Boardwalk

Paperbarks, swamp mahogany and wetland grasses line the Tanilba Bay Boardwalk as it follows the foreshore from Caswell Reserve in Mallabula to the Tanilba Sailing Club. The best part for dogs is at the start, where the walk meets an off-lead beach.

Leads and the off-lead area

Port Stephens Council requires dogs on a lead along the timber boardwalk and formal paths, and in Caswell Reserve itself.

The sand at Billy Beach, beside Caswell Reserve, is a designated off-lead exercise area, so the lead can come off once you reach the beach.

The walk

The route mixes elevated timber boardwalk with flat gravel path, with views over the calm water of the bay. Parts run under a thick tree canopy, while the tidal sections are open.

Caswell Reserve has parking off Bay Street and Fairlands Road, plus toilets, bins and water refill points around the reserve and beach.

Pepsi: Low tide at Billy Beach opens up wide sand flats and calm, shallow water. Save the swim for the end of the walk.

Make a day of it

Finish with a run and a splash at Billy Beach Off-Lead Dog Exercise Area.

When to go

Time it for low tide if your dog wants to swim. Flat and partly shaded, the boardwalk suits older dogs and a slower pace.