The best pet-friendly holidays in Queensland

From Port Douglas in the Tropical North, to Coolangatta on the state’s southern edge, pet-friendly holidays of the beach variety in Queensland are something else.

Right along the coastline, golden sands, hidden watering holes and peaceful creeks are just waiting for you to dip in a toe—with your pets in tow. What can we say? The locals don’t mind sharing paradise with four-legged friends.

If Noosa on the Sunshine Coast entices, book at stay at Noosa Avalon Farm Cottages. Here, you have the best of both worlds; the hinterland on your doorstep, the coast less than a 30-minute drive away. Think you’re only into beach holidays? Your perspective might change after a weekend away here.

Adjacent to Noosa Woods Bay and just behind the town’s famous Hasting’s Street, you’ll find the off-leash (and aptly named) Doggy Beach; the perfect spot to put some sand between paws. Sunshine Beach is a local favourite for pet owners and surfers alike. Stretching all the way to Noosa National Parks southern headland, this is the ultimate stretch of sandy beach for dogs who love the beach.

Boasting over 70-kilometres of sandy beach perfection, Gold Coast holiday makers are spoilt for choice—and you better believe the pet-friendly beaches are some of the best in the world here. Head straight to The Spit, for miles of off-leash, ocean paddle play time.

If you and your dog prefer calmer waters (and more sand to yourself) head to Currumbin Creek—entering via Palm Beach Parklands and head to the Rockview Public Park section of the beach—, where the water is cool, and the atmosphere is quiet. Currumbin’s food and drink scene is bustling with beautiful spots, so once you’ve worked up an appetite, towel off and hop over the either Dust Temple for curated coffee, or to Balter Brewing Company for local beers and a bite.

Heading to the Whitsundays? With 28 acres of tropical heaven at Discovery Parks – Airlie Beach, these Bali-inspired villas and cabins are the perfect kennel to rest weary paws before discovering the 74 island wonders of the Whitsundays.

While in town, check out Dog Friendly Whitsundays to help you and your four-legged friend make the most of your escape. Combining four-legged friendly activities, pet care and services in the region, you’ll be able to create a 100% pet-friendly itinerary.

Hinterland holidays

This year plan to take a pet-friendly holiday in Queensland Country. Vastly different from the lush coastal walks and sandy beaches, this part of the world champions crisp mornings, vast mountain ranges, quaint townships and remote camping sites. And miles and miles of scenery and big skies, all to yourself.

If taking your dog out west with nothing but a swag and a tent, head to Gordon Country Campgrounds in Goomburra, just over 2 hours’ drive west of Brisbane. The region is packed with mountains, valleys and bushwalking tracks, but this special site is famous for over 4,000 acres of off-leash woods and bushland, meaning there is ample time for exploration. Head here for a wrap up of the pet-friendly camping spots throughout the region.

For wine lovers with pets as their plus one, stay at Ocean View Estate; a cellar door and vineyard just 45-minutes from Brisbane. Surrounded by rolling hills and working vineyards, The Winemakers Cottage can accommodate dogs and up to 12 of their closest humans. The property is fully fenced, so you can enjoy that glass of wine, stress-free.

Head to the breathtaking Southern Downs with your pup for an experience of regional Queensland life, resting your head at Bestbrook Mountain Farmstay. Like a choose-your-own-adventure, guests can choose to sleep under the stars, in the bunkhouse or in properties self-contained cabins (your dog, too), and brush up on skills like horse riding, cow milking, and whip cracking.

Make sure to leave a few days either side to explore the surrounding region; this is where paddock to plate got its name—so foodies, get cracking on this list of places to eat and drink.

Thrill-seekers

For the thrill seeker at heart, you may think that a pet-friendly holiday in Queensland could be cumbersome—but it doesn’t have to be. Bring your four-legged friend and a sense of adventure for your most rewarding holiday yet.

At Enviro Reefs Paddle & Surf School in Bundaberg along the Central Coast, dogs and their owners can team up to master stand-up paddle boarding and surfing together. Lessons are available for people (and pooches) at various locations along the coast.

If life on a board suits your furry friend, visit the Riverview Retreat in Burrum Heads. It offers the perfect combination of pet-friendly accommodation with stand-up paddle boards.

While along the Fraser Coast, book in at the Best Western Plus Quarterdecks Retreat in Hervey Bay. Their pet-friendly villas are set on five acres and make the perfect base if you’re in the area during whale migration season. There’s plenty of action for your pup, with an off-leash beach just 60-metres from your door.