Pelican Reserve and the neighbouring Queen Victoria Reserve make up a waterside off-leash area on the St Georges Crescent foreshore in Drummoyne. Dogs can be off-leash before 9:00am and after 5:00pm, daily. There’s a wide lawn with big shade trees and a small sandy beach where dogs are allowed to swim. Look across the Parramatta River and you’ll see moored yachts, the city skyline and the Harbour Bridge.
Pelican Reserve: At a Glance
- The Vibe: A quiet foreshore lawn at the end of the street. Locals bring their dogs down for a swim before work or after it.
- Best For: Dogs who love the water, and owners who like a harbour view on their morning or evening walk.
- Off-Leash Hours: Before 9:00am and after 5:00pm, daily. On-lead at all other times.
- Fencing: Unfenced. The grass runs straight down to the seawall and the beach.
- Parking: Street parking around Queen Victoria Street and St Georges Crescent.
Dog Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Beach Access: A small sandy beach sits beside a rock seawall. The Council sign says dogs can use the beach during off-leash hours.
- Open Lawn: A wide stretch of grass runs along the foreshore across both reserves, with room for fetch and a run.
- Shade: Big trees on the lawn give patchy shade.
- Drinking Water: None on-site. Bring fresh water and a bowl, and don’t let them drink the river water.
For the Humans
- Seating: There’s a bench under the trees facing the beach and the moorings.
- Public Toilets: There are public toilets at the reserve.
- Playground: There’s a children’s playground. Keep dogs at least 10 metres away from it.
- Poo Bags: None on-site. Bring your own.
Insider Tip: Weed washes up along the waterline, so keep a towel in the car. The off-leash zones are marked on the Council sign. Clip the lead back on when you leave them, and again at 9:00am. Declared dangerous, menacing and restricted breed dogs aren’t permitted here.
The Final Verdict
Come to Pelican Reserve before 9:00am or after 5:00pm for a run on the lawn and a swim off the beach. There’s a bench, shade trees and toilets. Bring water, poo bags and a towel.
For more official information, visit the City of Canada Bay website.
Pelican Reserve: FAQ
Q: Can dogs swim at Pelican Reserve?
A: Yes. The Council sign says the off-leash area includes beach access for dogs, before 9:00am and after 5:00pm.
Q: When can dogs be off the lead at Pelican Reserve?
A: Before 9:00am and after 5:00pm, every day. Dogs must be on the lead at all other times.
Q: Is Queen Victoria Reserve off-leash too?
A: Yes. The Council sign marks off-leash zones in both Queen Victoria Reserve and Pelican Reserve, along the St Georges Crescent foreshore.
