Robert Dunn Reserve
A 24-hour off-leash dog area on a grassy coastal headland makes Robert Dunn Reserve a Mona Vale destination for dog walkers, with open ocean views, whale sightings and a walking track towards Avalon Beach. Also known as South Mona Vale Headland, it sits on Narrabeen Park Parade.
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About Robert Dunn Reserve
Off-Leash Dog Area at Robert Dunn Reserve
Robert Dunn Reserve has an off-leash dog area across its grassy headland, open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The reserve is only partly fenced: a safety fence follows the ocean cliff line, while the street borders on Narrabeen Park Parade and Coronation Street remain unfenced, so dogs need excellent recall. Off-leash activity is confined to the headland, and dogs are barred from the Mona Vale Beach sand, including the beach access stairs.
Coastal Walking Track at Robert Dunn Reserve
Robert Dunn Reserve has a coastal walking track to Avalon Beach, a moderate route that takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. The track opens with a fairly steep climb towards Warriewood, then levels out across a flatter area behind the hospital and beside the golf club. A shared path also runs through the reserve, and walkers are asked to be mindful of others using it.
Ocean Views and Whale Watching at Robert Dunn Reserve
Robert Dunn Reserve looks out over the ocean from an open coastal ridge, with views north across Mona Vale Beach and south to Bungan Beach. Humpback whales are often seen off the coast between May and November. The exposed headland catches sea breezes, so the ridge stays cool even on warm days.
Facilities at Robert Dunn Reserve
Visitor tips for Robert Dunn Reserve
- ✓Paragliders launch from the headland when winds blow onshore, and their descending canopies can startle dogs, so keep nervous dogs close during launches.
- ✓Allow extra time for the steep grassy slope if you enter from the top on Narrabeen Park Parade.
Getting to Robert Dunn Reserve
Robert Dunn Reserve is on Narrabeen Park Parade, Mona Vale NSW 2103, and can also be reached from Coronation Street. Free street parking is available along Narrabeen Park Parade at the top of the reserve and along Coronation Street at the bottom. Parking on Coronation Street gives an easier, flatter walk across grass at the base of the hill, while Narrabeen Park Parade gives the full climb.
Open in Google Maps →Nearby Mona Vale
- 📍Mona Vale Beach (beach, about 450 m)
- 📍Bungan Beach
Frequently asked questions about Robert Dunn Reserve
What's the dog policy at Robert Dunn Reserve in Mona Vale?
Dogs can be off-leash on the grassy headland at Robert Dunn Reserve around the clock. Dogs are not permitted on the Mona Vale Beach sand or the beach access stairs.
Is Robert Dunn Reserve fenced for dogs, or is there a separate off-leash area?
The reserve is only partly fenced, with a safety fence along the ocean cliff line. The street borders on Narrabeen Park Parade and Coronation Street are unfenced, so dogs need reliable recall.
Is there parking at Robert Dunn Reserve, and is it free?
Yes, parking is free on the street. Narrabeen Park Parade serves the top of the reserve and Coronation Street serves the bottom.
What are the opening hours for Robert Dunn Reserve?
Robert Dunn Reserve is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, all year round.
Are there walking paths or trails at Robert Dunn Reserve?
Yes, a coastal walking track runs from the reserve to Avalon Beach, a moderate route of about 2 to 2.5 hours. A shared path also runs through the reserve.