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Subscribe Pawfect Getaways: The Best Dog-Friendly Destinations in Australia
The best spots to get pup, pup and away with your furry plus-one.
Pet parents, rejoice! Forget saying goodbye to your furry friend (and begging for regular “pupdates” from your dog-sitter), relax in company (and style) on your next trip away with a pet-friendly destination so your best pal can tag along.
New data from Tripadvisor and My Dog shows a major uptick in demand for pet-friendly travel in Australia, with interest in dog-friendly stays and restaurants already climbing steadily throughout 2025.
Whether it’s sipping puppuccinos at a dog cafe or checking into a boutique stay that treats your pooch like royalty, more Aussies than ever are planning trips around their paw-some, four-legged companions. From city escapes to regional retreats, the message is clear: Australians want their dogs along for the adventure.
So where is everyone going? These are the top spots where pups are not only welcome — they’re practically expected.
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Mudgee
Yes, you can do wine country with your dog. Mudgee is a rising star for pet-friendly cellar doors, charming country stays and long, lazy afternoons in vineyard gardens (with water bowls always on hand).
Pooch-friendly stay Mudgee Retreats is just a short drive from the heart of town, and features luxe rooms set on a beautiful 30-acre property surrounded by lush gardens that are perfect for morning walkies before a freshly brewed cup of coffee.
Head to Cucina di Lusso at di Lusso Estate for a luxe lunch, where the welcome mat is rolled out for well-behaved dogs, or enjoy an artisan coffee, signature cocktail or local wine at Alby + Esthers in the centre of Mudgee.
Sydney CBD
Nothing can beat a staycation in the CBD, and with more dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, pubs and parks opening their doors to our four-legged friends, there’s never been a better time to explore.
For indoor pups with a penchant for luxury, look no further than The Langham, which recently took out the top spot in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award for Best Pet-Friendly Hotel in Australia 2025. Sitting back from the main hustle and bustle of The Rocks, this is the place to relax, renew and rejuvenate without ever leaving Sydney.
The Ace Hotel, Ovolo Woolloomooloo and Pier One Sydney Harbour are all pooch-approved digs for the night.
Take your pup for a tour of Sydney’s best eats, with many cafes, restaurants and pubs welcoming — and catering to — your beloved fur babies, and end the day with a splash at one of Sydney’s many dog-friendly beaches.
North Coast
From Port Stephens up to Byron Bay, the North Coast of NSW is a sun-soaked haven for dogs and their humans. Expect off-leash beaches, dog-welcoming stays (like Bryon’s Beach Suites), and laid-back towns like Lennox Head, Scotts Head and Woolgoolga where pups are treated like VIPs.
Whether you’re strolling riverside trails, sipping coffee at pup-friendly cafes (try Bayleaf in Byron Bay or Coffs Harbour’s Urban Espresso Lounge) or splashing in the surf, this coast is made for four-legged adventurers and their beach-loving humans.
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Rye
With its serene coastal vibes and Mornington Peninsula charm, Rye is a dream for both humans and hounds. Think off-leash beaches, scenic walking trails (we love the Balcombe Estuary Boardwalk and The Briars in Mount Martha) and cafes with dog biscuits at the counter.
For a pet-friendly stay, check out Rye Beach Retreat or Riders Rest Hideout, both with easy access to the beach for early morning swims.
Hepburn Springs
Spa days aren’t just for humans — Hepburn Springs rolls out the red carpet for pups too. Just over an hour from Melbourne, this dreamy wellness town offers dog-friendly stays like Spring Creek Cottage (backyard zoomies encouraged) and cosy outdoor dining at spots like Harry’s and The Virgin Kitchen. Think bushwalks by day and fire-side cuddles by night.
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Rainbow Beach
A favourite for surf-loving pups and their people, Rainbow Beach delivers tropical weather, wide stretches of sand, and pet-friendly stays just moments from the action. Bonus points for pup-accessible kayaking and nature trails.
And, if you’re looking for other pup-friendly places on the Sunshine Coast, we’ve got a list of dog-friendly hotels to choose from.
Brisbane
Brisbane offers a plethora of dog-friendly adventures. Stroll along the scenic New Farm Riverwalk, enjoy off-leash fun at Nudgee Beach, or explore the lush trails of Mt Coot-tha Forest.
For a unique experience, hop aboard a CityCat ferry during off-peak hours — dogs are welcome on the lower-level external passenger areas. When it’s time to refuel, numerous cafes like Picnic Cafe in West End and A Cafe Called Kevin in New Farm offer dog-friendly outdoor seating.
For accommodation, Miss Midgley’s is an absolute one-of-a-kind stay, with a dreamy outdoor pool, book library, petite laundry and bottom-floor apartments that are all pet-friendly.
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Robe
A historic fishing town with plenty of salty charm, Robe is also a haven for dog-loving travellers. Wander heritage streets, sprawl out on dog-friendly Long Beach, or swing by local haunts like Mahalia Coffee and Robe Town Brewery — where pups are always welcome.
With pet-friendly stays like Lazy Sails and The Shelter B&B on offer, Robe makes it easy to turn a coastal escape into a tail-wagging holiday.
Barossa Valley
In the heart of wine country, the Barossa Valley is a top pick for dog-friendly escapes. Stay at Discovery Parks in Tanunda, where pet-friendly cabins and sites make for a relaxed, convenient base.
For a laid-back tasting experience, head to Levrier Wines, which is home to a dedicated dog park complete with toys to keep your pup entertained while you sip. And when it’s time to stretch those legs, the scenic Riesling Trail offers a picturesque stroll through vineyards and villages, perfect for you and your four-legged travel buddy.
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Dunsborough
Sitting pretty on WA’s south-west coast, Dunsborough offers nature trails, calm turquoise waters, and a string of pup-friendly eateries — making it the ultimate laid-back escape for weekenders with a four-legged copilot.
Let your pup run wild at dog-friendly stretches of Dunsborough Beach, or enjoy a leashed coastal stroll along the scenic Geographe Path. When it’s time to refuel, venues like Occy’s welcome dogs in the beer garden, so no one gets left behind.
For accommodation, check out Wintersun Retreat Cottage or Breath of Fresh Air, both with a fenced yard for your pup roam free.
Perth
Perth is a pup-friendly playground, where stylish stays and scenic strolls go paw in paw. Spoil your sidekick with QT Perth’s luxe ‘Pup Yeah!’ package — think doggy room service, designer bedding and a pooch-approved mini bar.
Prefer something low-key? Kookaburra Cottage in Perth’s charming Subiaco also rolls out the welcome mat for pets.
For brunch, hit up Slate Cafe (complete with dog playground) or The Orange Box by the beach. Trails through Kings Park and along the Swan River seal the deal and are guaranteed to result in tail wags.
Love this edit of pet-friendly destinations around Australia and want to explore more? Check out our guide to the best luxury dog boarding in Sydney, or spoil your pooch with the best gifts for pets.
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