Love getting away? Can’t bear the thought of sending your long boi or lengthy girl to boarding kennels while you head off for a much needed break? With a bit of forward planning a dog friendly holiday can be hugely rewarding for both you and your much loved pooch. There’s a whole world of new smells and sights to explore together.
Here are some of our top holiday ideas to consider when holidaying with your dog.
1. Rent a beach house.
They say life’s a beach! There are plenty of surfside rental options up and down the NSW coast. Search “dog friendly accommodation” in your chosen area and you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Check the local council websites for a comprehensive list of dog friendly beaches, many have off leash areas while others are on leash. Off leash hours often apply, usually before 8 or 9 am and after 3 or 4pm, so always check and download the relevant maps to be certain.
The south coast boasts countless dog friendly beaches, from Thirroul all the way to Merimbula and beyond. In addition there are coastal walks perfect for working up an appetite at the local cafes and pubs. You even might get lucky and spot a whale or two in the winter months! See the Eurobadalla Shire and Shoalhaven Council websites for more info. For a day trip from Sydney, these dog friendly beaches near Wollongong come recommended: East Corrimal, Fairy Meadow, Macaulays and Coniston.
Why not try: “ Winter Warmers At Cocamo” at Narrawallee Beach, owned by dog loving Sydneysider Sam. She offers a 10% discount for houndies and their pawrents when booked through here.
North of Sydney, the Forster and Great Lakes area are awash with dog friendly beaches and accommodation. Why not try kayaking or stand up paddleboarding with your furry friend on Wallis Lake? Cellito, Boomerang and Blueys beaches all have off leash areas. Bluey’s beach also boasts the dog friendly Kembali café and Hueys at Blueys pizzeria. Check MidCoast Council website for maps and times.
Take a look at this dog friendly beach house at Blueys Beach.
The far north coast offers a dazzling array of beaches, rivers and lakes. Some beaches north of Coffs Harbour are so remote it will be just you and your dog, perfect for zoomies or a spot of Frisbee throwing.
2. Go camping
Love getting away from it all? Why not pitch a tent! While dogs are a no-no in National Parks, there are plenty of beautiful campgrounds where you can set up a tent and get back to nature. Imagine enjoying a bushwalk followed by a splash in the river, then sitting under the stars by a campfire with your best friend. Remember to leave your campsite as you found it, and observe good camping etiquette.
Many operators offer cabins as well as tent sites but it’s best to phone beforehand to confirm dogs are welcome. Find a comprehensive list of pet-friendly camping grounds in NSW here, or narrow it down to these top12 recommendations for dog friendly campsites.
Camping requires more planning as facilities may be limited in more remote areas. See this handy checklist for help in planning your ultimate camping adventure!
3. Visit a dog-friendly winery. The Hunter Valley offers a great selection of wineries where dogs are welcome. A few have restaurants and even local produce for sale with picnic areas where you can settle down on a rug for lunch. If you’re planning on lunch after wine tasting, it’s best to phone ahead to reserve the best dog friendly table.
Tastings are usually indoor but the wineries will have a designated area outside to secure your dog, his bed and water bowl.
Gourmet Pawprints offers dog-friendly bus tours of wineries in Victoria (and other dog-friendly bus outings too), check them out here.
4. Check into a hotel
Fancy seeing the bright city lights with your furry friend? How does a night in a 5 star hotel sound? From out and out luxury, to boutique, to trendy, there’s something for every pooch. Pier One at Walsh Bay offers convenience and tranquillity, while Ovolo Woolloomooloo and Pyrmont both offer a luxurious stay for up to two dogs per person (bliss!). The Langham Sydney will set tails wagging (for doggos under 20kg). If the eastern suburbs vibe is more your dog’s thing, the Hughenden at Woollahra is handy to Centennial Park and its multitude of dog friendly areas.
No city stay is complete without a stroll through the Domain or Hyde Park. Then plunder the mini bar treats, order room service and snuggle up to watch A Dog’s Journey or Secret Life of Pets. Perfect!
Check out recommendations for pawsome inner city accommodation options here.
5. Hit the slopes
While taking your pooch into ski resorts to experience snow is not an option in NSW, Dinner Plain in Victoria is a dog friendly village above the snowline where your hound can frolic in the white stuff to their heart’s content. There are limited off leash options but plenty of on-leash walking trails in the village and surrounds. See accommodation options here, and don’t forget to pack your hound’s warmest gear!