Dog friendly holidays in Australia

When you go on holiday, think of all the plans you need to make for your dog. It’s a lot on top of all the preparation for your trip, and if you need pet boarding it can be an additional expense.

Why not take your dog on a holiday?

There are so many perks when you travel with a pooch.

You’ll have company on your adventure. There’s an incentive to explore together and get exercise when you go for walks. Your dog will get to see a world outside their suburb and experience new sights and smells. And the pictures! Think of all the great holiday snaps and memories you’ll make with your furry best mate; it could be the start of something special.

Luckily, Australia has plenty of dog-friendly accommodation options and beautiful places to visit.

Surf’s pup

Tallow Beach, Byron Bay, New South Wales

Only a few minutes’ drive from central Byron Bay, Tallow Beach has an off-leash stretch that’s perfect for a walk. There’s plenty of open beach to explore and it’s quieter than most spots in Byron.

Flinders Beach, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria

Enjoy stunning views of the Victorian coastline at this off-leash beach. The best time to visit is at low tide where you can explore the rock pools while your dog splashes around.   

Sunshine Beach, Noosa, Queensland

Make the most of a trip to the Sunshine Coast at this stunning location where your dog can run free and explore. A popular spot for dog lovers that’s near local cafes for a post-walk nibble. 

Cottesloe Beach, Perth, Western Australia

Not only is this one of Australia’s most iconic beaches but it’s pro-dog, too. Parts of the beach have a dedicated off-leash section. Spend the day at the beach and stick around for an unforgettable ocean sunset.

O'Sullivan Beach, Adelaide, South Australia

Over a kilometre of beach awaits you in Adelaide.  A popular spot for dog walkers means it’s a great chance for your dog to frolic and be social.

Kingston Beach, Hobart, Tasmania

One of the most popular dog beaches in Tasmania that’s only a 15-minute drive from the CBD. The dedicated off-leash area is great for exploration. 

Gunn Point Peninsula, Northern Territory

A beach so good you’ll want to stay the night! Thankfully, Gunn Point Peninsula is a popular destination for campers and dog owners due to its pup-friendly vibe and beautiful natural scenery.

Dog parks worth the drive

A round up of the best dog parks in each major Australian city.

Yarralumla Dog Park, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

Nestled in one of Canberra’s oldest suburbs is a huge off-leash outdoor space.

Observatory Hill Park, Sydney, New South Wales

A dog park with one of the best views of Sydney Harbour. Win-win!

Ngampa Yarta, Adelaide, South Australia

A large, fenced space where dogs can run free, try out dog-sized obstacles and play structures.

Marlowe Lagoon Pet Park, Darwin, Northern Territory

31,000 square meters of parkland for dogs to explore off-leash, an obstacle course and water play.

Albert Park Reserve, Albert Park, Victoria

Dedicated off-leash areas close to the heart of Melbourne.

Queens Domain, Hobart, Tasmania

A gigantic space with plenty of spaces to roam both on and off-leash.

Colmslie Recreation Reserve, Morningside, Queensland

Just off the Brisbane River sits Colmslie Recreation Reserve, Part beach, part off-leash dog park with a spacious grassy area and agility equipment.