Australia is a dog-owners paradise, with so many wonderful beaches, b&bs and breweries to enjoy with your furry friends.
Whether you’re planning a holiday or just looking for a local hang, our dog-lover’s guide to Australia has an option for you.
Beaches
Melbourne dog owners will love Sandown Street Beach, located only 11 kilometres from the CBD. This top spot is lined with dog-friendly cafes, meaning there are plenty of other furry friends to socialise with. The beach features a fenced-off area with shallow water and heaps of sand, making it perfect for confident and new swimmers alike.
For those based in Sydney, it doesn’t get much better than Rowland Reserve in Bayview. This off-leash dog beach is one of the most popular in the city, due to the lack of restrictions on when dogs can visit. While most beaches allocate certain times where dogs are welcome, Rowland Reserve is an all-day fun park featuring long stretches of water, and sand bars that emerge at low tide.
All along the 13,000 kilometres of coast in Western Australia, you will find beaches for both you and your pets to enjoy. Peaceful Bay Dog Beach can be found just off the South Coast Highway. This beautiful spot is known for its tall sand dunes, guaranteed to tire your pooch out. Visitors are also welcome to wander out onto the pier, and explore the surrounding nature reserves.
Glenelg is a charming Adelaide suburb full of historic buildings and plenty of pup-friendly cafes. Just 15 minutes from the city centre, locals are known to frequent this spot year round, meaning there are always plenty of new friends to be made on the sand. Dogs are welcome off leash, although some restrictions apply.
Of course, there are also plenty of dog-friendly beaches in Tasmania and Perth just waiting to be explored.
Hotels
South Australia is full of amazing dog-friendly accommodation options, including Coonawarra’s Glamping Bell Tents. Here, sleeping under the stars is made comfortable with fresh linen, light and power, electric blankets, a king-sized bed and free WiFi. Located in 200-acres of heritage-listed bushland, your dog will have plenty of space to run around and explore.
For another great camping option, Turon Gates in the Blue Mountains offers fun for the whole family. Dog-owners are invited to choose between log cabins, glamping tents or rugged camping options. Pups will love adventuring through over 6,000 acres of bushland, including swimming holes and hiking trails, while owners can enjoy horse riding and gold panning throughout your stay.
For those wishing to sleep in style, Mercure Hotel Canberra is a fantastic option. While their pet-friendly rooms are limited, the hotel goes above and beyond for their furry guests, even providing bedding, food bowls, an enclosed garden and pet sitting services. Opened in 1927, this heritage-listed hotel is stylish, well located and a wonderful holiday home ground.
Restaurants
No dog-lover’s guide to Australia would be complete without looking at dog-friendly dining, Australians really are spoilt for choice. On the Gold Coast, dog-owners will find everything they need a short walk from the beach. Alfred’s Diner is a perfect lunch spot to fuel up after a morning swimming at Nobby Beach. This 60s-inspired diner serves burgers, burritos and more in a retro-style atmosphere. The courtyard is an ideal place to relax with your pooch, and enjoy the escape from the summer sun.
In Melbourne, Chez Misty takes dog-friendly dining to a whole new level. This cafe and creperie is run by a passionate dog trainer, serving delicious crepes and drinks for humans and dogs alike. The venue also hosts community events for dog lovers, including dog birthday parties where you can choose to enjoy a crepe birthday cake.
Slate Cafe in Perth is run by a group of six self-proclaimed “coffee snobs” who are dedicated to delivering the best coffee each and every time. Their cafe also caters to families, with equipment and play areas for kids, as well as scheduled doggy play dates where you can meet like minded owners and their pets.
Perhaps one of the most well-known dog-friendly restaurants around, The Carrington Hotel in Sydney really has it all. This doggy institution boasts indoor and outdoor seating options, and features a menu for dogs with brown rice and veggies, beef tartare or pupcakes. Here, both you and your dog can enjoy a traditional pub meal and unwind after a long day.
While not technically a restaurant, Belle’s Barkin Good Treats is a must-try for all dog owners. Produced by a mother-daughter duo from the Central Coast of NSW, these homemade dog treats are as authentic as it gets. We recommend trying their homemade peanut butter or pupcakes, which can be shipped all around Australia.
Breweries
Flamin Galah Brewing Co is one of the best dog-friendly breweries around. Located in Sydney, this bar features 14 taps on rotation including several award-winning brews. In fact, they currently brew 130,000 litres of beer on site, as well as vodka and seltzers. Whether you’re enjoying the weekend live music or a meal from the on-site food van, there’s plenty for you and your pooch to enjoy here.
If wine is more your thing, DogRidge Winery and Cellar Door in South Australia is the spot for you. Here, you can wander the vineyards with your pup, and say hello to the resident dogs of this family-owned business. Started in 1992, this small company punches well above its weight when it comes to delicious wines, which you can sample at the popular cellar door.
Capital Brewing Co can be found in Canberra’s industrial precinct. This wonderful microbrewery is carbon neutral, and one of the largest independent craft breweries in the country. As well as serving their signature beers on tap, the menu also includes hearty meals, as well as dog beers and doggie burgers. Both humans and their pets will love the vibrant, welcoming atmosphere and the delicious drinks bound to leave you feeling satisfied.
For those hanging out in Hobart, La Sardina Loca is an amazing aperitivo bar tucked away in the CBD. The dog-friendly courtyard is a popular spot for locals, known for a buzzing atmosphere and delicious Mediterranean Menu. Each week, the bar puts on live performances and DJs for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re a human or pet. Also, make sure to check out their seasonal list of house cocktails, made with the best fresh ingredients.
Can’t get enough of this dog-lover’s guide to Australia? Head to the Rex website or check out the route map below to start planning your next holiday with your pup.
