Short Point Recreation Reserve is a spectacular off-leash headland in Merimbula, hailed by visitors as one of the best in Australia. This guide has all the details for this stunning 24/7 park in the Bega Valley, where huge grassy fields meet the ocean.
Short Point: At a Glance
- 🐾 The Vibe: A “picture perfect,” vibrant, and incredibly scenic headland that’s a major social hub for dog lovers.
- 🐕 Best For: A fantastic day out for social dogs with good recall who love both grassy fields and beach access.
- Off-Leash Hours: Unrestricted. 24/7 off-leash in the designated area.
- Fencing: Completely unfenced, with open access to the beach and cliffs.
- 🅿️ Parking: Excellent. A large, free, dedicated on-site car park is available.
Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Heads Up: Unfenced Headland. The park is not fenced and has open cliff and beach access. It is only for dogs with reliable recall.
- Huge Grassy Expanse: A massive, open grassy area on the headland is perfect for a full-speed run.
- Beach Access: The reserve provides access down to the beach for a splash and a swim.
- Poo Bags Provided: The park is equipped with poo bag dispensers.
- Bring a Bowl: Water is available, but you will need to bring a portable bowl for your dog.
For the Humans
- Excellent Facilities: The reserve is brilliantly serviced with public toilets and picnic areas.
- Coffee Van: A coffee van is often on-site, making it a perfect spot for a morning outing.
- Whale Watching: The headland is a prime location for whale watching during migration season.
Insider Tip: The off-leash area is the grassy headland to the west of the main car park. While most owners are responsible, its popularity means you should always watch your step, as missed dog waste can be an issue.
The Final Verdict
Short Point Recreation Reserve is a world-class dog-friendly destination that truly has it all. The combination of a massive grassy headland for running and beach access for swimming is a huge winner. Add in excellent facilities like a car park, toilets, and even a coffee van, and you have the perfect recipe for a fantastic day out. It’s an essential stop for any dog owner visiting the Sapphire Coast.
For more official information, visit the Bega Valley Shire Council website.
Short Point: FAQ
Q: Is Short Point Recreation Reserve fenced?
A: No, it is a completely unfenced headland with open access to the beach and cliffs. It is only suitable for dogs with perfect recall.
Q: Is the whole headland off-leash?
A: The designated off-leash area is the large, grassy section to the west of the main car park.
Q: Are there toilets and a car park?
A: Yes, it has excellent facilities, including a large on-site car park and public toilets.
