Lighthouse Reserve
Lighthouse Reserve is a 24-hour, unfenced off-leash dog park on the Vaucluse clifftop beside Macquarie Lighthouse. The whole reserve allows dogs off-leash at all times, and a coastal walking path runs along the cliffs with Pacific Ocean and Sydney Harbour views.
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About Lighthouse Reserve
Off-Leash Dog Area at Lighthouse Reserve
Lighthouse Reserve operates as a 24/7 off-leash dog area across the entire reserve, so dogs can run unleashed at any hour. The off-leash area has no fencing, which means dogs are not physically contained within the reserve. Because of this, the reserve suits only dogs with excellent recall. Owners who bring dogs here rely on voice control rather than barriers to keep them within the grounds, and the open clifftop layout gives dogs plenty of room to run.
Coastal Walking Path at Lighthouse Reserve
Lighthouse Reserve has a coastal walking path that follows the clifftop through the reserve. Solar-powered lighting runs along the path, and park benches are placed beside it for resting. Walkers on the path get views of the Pacific Ocean and Sydney Harbour, and the cliffs make the reserve a spot for whale watching. The path winds through plenty of green space, giving the walk a natural setting close to the lighthouse.
Facilities at Lighthouse Reserve
Visitor tips for Lighthouse Reserve
- ✓Keep dogs on lead once you head past the reserve toward Watson Bay, as the off-leash rule ends at the reserve boundary.
- ✓Check current leash rules with Woollahra Council before visiting, as changes to off- and on-leash dog areas are planned for 2026.
Getting to Lighthouse Reserve
Lighthouse Reserve is at 15 Old South Head Road, Vaucluse NSW 2030, on the clifftop beside Macquarie Lighthouse. Parking is on the surrounding streets, mainly Old South Head Road.
Open in Google Maps →Nearby Vaucluse
- 📍Macquarie Lighthouse
- 📍Watsons Bay
- 📍Christison Park
- 📍Signal Hill Reserve
Frequently asked questions about Lighthouse Reserve
Is Lighthouse Reserve in Vaucluse dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome across the whole reserve, which is an off-leash area open at all times. Because it is unfenced, it suits dogs with reliable recall.
Can I take my dog off-leash at Lighthouse Reserve in Vaucluse?
Yes, dogs can be off-leash throughout the reserve at any hour. Once you walk beyond the reserve toward Watson Bay, dogs must be kept on lead.
Are there fenced off-leash areas for dogs at Lighthouse Reserve?
No, the off-leash area at Lighthouse Reserve is unfenced. Owners need good recall because nothing physically keeps dogs inside the grounds.
Are there good walking paths around Lighthouse Reserve?
Yes, a coastal walking path follows the clifftop through the reserve, with solar-powered lighting along it. Walkers get views of the Pacific Ocean and Sydney Harbour.
What are the opening hours for Lighthouse Reserve in Vaucluse?
Lighthouse Reserve is open 24 hours a day, all year round. Its off-leash access is also available 24/7.