Greenhills Beach in the Sutherland Shire is a big ocean beach, and the seasonal hours are the detail to check before you go. Read our updated 2026 dog owners guide to Greenhills Beach.
Greenhills Beach: At a Glance
- The Vibe: An open ocean beach with wide sand and dunes along the back.
- Best For: Dogs that like a long run and a swim. It suits confident swimmers and dogs with plenty of energy.
- Off-Leash Hours: Seasonal. Summer (Sept-Apr): before 10am & after 4pm. Winter (May-Aug): 24 Hours, 7 Days.
- Fencing: Unfenced, with open access to the ocean and sand dunes.
- Parking: A free on-site car park at the end of Greenhills Street. It fills quickly on sunny weekends.
Beach Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Seasonal Off-Leash Hours: During summer (September to April), dogs are off-leash only before 10am and after 4pm. In winter (May to August), the beach is off-leash 24 Hours, 7 Days.
- Calm, Shallow Water: Waves break along much of the shore, so check conditions before a swim. The shallow edges suit dogs of many sizes.
- Endless Sandy Space: A 3km stretch of sand gives dogs room to run, dig and play.
- Bring Your Own Bags: You must bring your own poo bags to keep the beach clean.
For the Humans
- Rinse-Off Showers: Freshwater taps and showers are near the car park, so you can rinse a sandy dog before the drive home.
- Public Toilets Available: Toilets are near the main access point.
- No Night Lighting: There is no lighting on the beach for after-dark use.
Insider Tip: Check the tide chart and visit at low tide if you can. The water pulls back a long way, leaving wide flat sand to run on.
The Final Verdict
Greenhills Beach suits dogs that love the water, but the seasonal hours are the main thing to get right. The car park can be packed on a sunny summer day, so plan to arrive early.
For more official information, visit the Sutherland Shire Council website.
Greenhills Beach: FAQ
Q: What are the off-leash hours at Greenhills Beach?
A: The hours are seasonal. During summer (1 September to 30 April), dogs are off-leash only before 10am and after 4pm. During winter (1 May to 31 August), the beach is off-leash 24 Hours, 7 Days.
Q: Is the water at Greenhills Beach safe for small dogs to swim?
A: Many dogs swim here, and the shallow edges suit many sizes. Waves break along the shore, so check the surf before you go in.
