Top 10 off-leash dog parks in Sydney, ranked by cuteness

As all passionate pup aficionados know, you don’t have to own a dog to love a dog park, and we think Sydney has the best off-leash dog parks in the country.

Nothing brings more unfettered joy to any reasonable heart than a park full of adorable pooches, all off-leash and ready to play. But with so many options in this dog-friendly city, where do you go to find the cutest canines and the best stretch of park for them to run on?

We’ve put boots to the ground and exercised our journalism degrees to rank the best off-leash dog parks in Sydney, then ranked them by the most important metric: cuteness.

1. Rushcutters Bay Park, Rushcutters Bay

Rushcutters Bay Park isn’t just a beautiful harbourside retreat; it’s a paradise for puppies. With a great view of the city, this park attracts some of Sydney’s most photogenic pups. Expect to see oodles of Goldendoodles chasing each other in the soft grass along the waterfront. The cuteness here is unmatched, making it our top pick for cutie sightings … even though my grandfather swears his mum’s collie was eaten by a shark here in 1951. Honestly, it’s as if the entire park is holding a permanent audition for the next viral DogTok.

2. Bicentennial Park, Annandale

Bicentennial Park is a local favourite, and not just for its expansive green space. The dogs here seem like some of the happiest and most sociable in Sydney. They bound across the grass, splash around in the water, and generally look like they’re living their best lives. If you’re searching for pure, unfiltered joy, you got it.

3. Beare Park, Elizabeth Bay

Nestled in the leafy suburb of Elizabeth Bay, Beare Park is a hidden gem. The dogs here are as sophisticated as their surroundings, often sporting the latest in doggy fashion. The small but charming park is perfect if you’re after a leisurely stroll with your pup, or just looking to pat someone else’s. Beare Park is the kind of place where you expect the dogs to be sipping puppuccinos, and while the park itself might be small, the canine talent on display is anything but.

4. Hollis Park, Newtown

If you’re after quirky and cute, Hollis Park in Newtown is the place to be. Known for its ~vibe~, this park attracts an eclectic mix of dogs, each with its own unique charm. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly community make it a great place to hang out with your dog and enjoy some offbeat cuteness. If Rushcutters Bay Park is the Instagram influencer of dog parks, then Hollis Park in Newtown is the indie darling.

5. Alexandria Park, Alexandria

Alexandria Park is a popular spot for dog owners in the inner city, a spacious off-leash area that allows dogs to run freely and socialise, leading to some truly adorable interactions. There’s a camaraderie here among both the dogs and their owners that makes this park feel like a tight-knit community. And on weekends, the park is a veritable parade of cuteness, with goodest boys and girls of all shapes and sizes enjoying their time in the sun.

6. Harmony Park, Surry Hills

Harmony Park is a bustling hub for city dogs and their appreciators The park’s central location makes it a convenient spot for a quick playdate, and the dogs here are as diverse as the neighbourhood itself. From tiny terriers to majestic greyhounds, you’ll find a mix of breeds, Harmony Park is a microcosm of Surry Hills itself—diverse, lively, and a little bit chaotic.

7. Green Park, Darlinghurst

Green Park is small but mighty, and the dogs here seem to have an extra dose of charm to make up for the park’s modest size. There’s an intimacy to this place; it’s the kind of park where everyone knows everyone, and the dogs greet each other like old friends. The cuteness here is cosy and familiar and the people watching makes you want to linger just a little bit longer, even after your dog has tired itself out. Also in close proximity to many excellent coffee shops and dog-friendly cafes.

8. Edmund Resch Reserve, Redfern

Edmund Resch Reserve is one of those parks that feels like a secret—hidden away in Redfern, it’s a quiet spot where local dogs gather to let off some steam. The dogs here are full of energy, racing through the shaded areas with an enthusiasm that’s contagious. It’s also a short walk to dog-friendly wine bar Scarlet Weasel.

9. Cook + Phillip Park, Sydney

Located in the heart of the city, Cook + Phillip Park is a great spot for urban pups. The park’s open space is ideal for dogs to stretch their legs and play fetch. While the park might not be as large as some others, the dogs here are still very cute and plentiful, making it a great stop for a quick cuteness fix when on your lunch break.

10. Beaconsfield Park, Beaconsfield

Last but not least, Beaconsfield Park is a gem for those in the know. It’s quiet, unassuming, and the perfect spot for a peaceful outing with your dog. The cuteness here is subtle, the kind that sneaks up on you when you least expect it. The dogs are friendly, the park is serene, and the whole place feels like a little oasis in the middle of the city. It’s the perfect place to unwind, relax, and enjoy the simple pleasure of watching some good dogs have a great time.