27 Best Dog Friendly Beaches, Bars & Walks in Central Coast (NSW)
NSW Central Coast is evidently one of the best dog friendly beach destinations in the country. Plenty of off leash beaches to choose from, dog friendly cafes and bars and stunning dog friendly hikes and walks to explore.
Take a lead and plenty of water and let’s go and explore the 27 Best Dog Friendly Beaches, Bars and Walks in Central Coast.
Dog Friendly Accommodation
Before we start our journey, here are some ideas where to stay in Central Coast with your dog.
Dog Friendly Bush Retreat | Pretty Beach
Guests 6 | Bedrooms 3 | Bathrooms 3
Dog friendly accommodation tucked away in the trees and just a stone’s throw from Pretty Beach. This bush and bay retreat will get those holiday vibes humming. With easy access to many of the secluded beaches of the Bouddi/Killcare Peninsula, you will not be short of activities. Enjoy the waterfront at Pretty Beach, grab a burger from the General Store, catch the Palm Beach Ferry or have a hit of tennis. After a day of adventure exploring hidden beaches and beautiful bush walks, including the famous Bouddi Coastal Walk to Maitland Bay, retreat to your tranquil home in the trees where you’ll find everything you need for a relaxing stay right at your fingertips.
Dog Friendly House | Wagstaffe
Guests 4 | Bedrooms 2 | Bathrooms 1
Dog friendly accommodation nestled into the bush on a quiet cul-der-sac that backs onto the Bouddi National Park, this is a nature lovers paradise. With only the birds to listen to as you sit on the NE sun drenched balcony with bay views, you can easily access the national park walking trails to Lobster Beach, Tallow Beach and Box Head. Walk, surf, abseil, mountain bike or just relax this neat and tidy two bedroom house with level access will delight!
Dog Friendly Cottage | Macmasters Beach
Guests 3 | Bedrooms 2 | Bathrooms 1
Simplistic and cosy! This dog friendly beach accommodation has all you need and nothing you don’t. The cottage is perfect for those who want to recharge their battery or those who would like a romantic hideaway. It is a cute little stand alone cottage within walking distance to our fantastic surf beach. Take a leisurely stroll through the bush track for a great coffee at out local beach kiosk Barefoot, or a slightly longer walk to Loos Loos coffee shack where you can also purchase the morning paper. Local shops at Kincumber are a 15min drive or main shopping centre at Erina is 30 min drive. Or……just close the gate, chill on the deck and read a book whilst sipping a beverage in your own world. Fully fenced yard makes it a pawfect getaway with your furry friend.
Dog Friendly Beach House | North Avoca
Guests 8 | Bedrooms 4 | Bathrooms 3
You will feel a million miles away in this elegant and impressive Mediterranean inspired pet friendly beach retreat. This beautiful home radiates an abundance of good energy and warm hospitality. With an absolute beach front position, Philotimo is the perfect place to relax and unwind away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Beautifully appointed and cleverly designed you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips. Spend your days wandering between this beautiful abode and the golden sands of dog friendly North Avoca beach.
After a day of sandy toes and sun kissed skin, take a refreshing rinse under one of the beautiful outdoor showers before retiring to one of the many outdoor terraces. The rear terrace and lawn are perfect for casual cocktails while the kids play a game of Finska on the lush lawn.
For a more Mediterranean vibe, venture up to the rooftop terrace and soak up the evening sun over some antipasto and an Aperol Spritz. During the cooler months you’ll find ample space to cosy up inside, enjoying the underfloor heating and enjoy the beautiful beach vista through the floor to ceiling windows. The designer kitchen and dining room is the perfect place to gather for those fabulous family feasts and festivities. For those that prefer a little peace the generous bedrooms, as well as multiple living areas, will mean everyone can find a quiet corner where you can get lost in that book you’ve been meaning to read all year.
Dog Friendly Cottage | Buff Point
Guests 4 | Bedrooms 2 | Bathrooms 1
Enjoy some well deserved R&R at this dog friendly retreat in the relaxed family friendly Central Coast. You will find yourself in this private, secure, personally renovated and decorated two bedroom cutie with all the comforts of home. Lake front walks only mins away, with the nearest life guard beach 6min drive. All that the Central Coast has to offer only finger tips away. Dog friendly beaches, miles of walk ways & bike tracks, Light House to explore, Wineries, Fishing, Shopping centers, Lakes & Beaches.
>> Find more Dog Friendly Accommodations in Central Coast <<
Dog Friendly Beaches
1. Patonga Beach
Patonga
Dogs are allowed to run on this gorgeous dog beach between Brisk Street and Jacaranda Ave. Great spot for a swim and play and afterwards having a drink at The Boathouse Hotel Patonga.
2. Avoca Beach
North Avoca
Stunning off leash beach to go for a run or play with your pooch. Tails are guaranteed to go crazy when your pup gets his/her paws on the soft sand.
3. Wamberal Beach
Wamberal
Probably one of the best off leash beaches in the Central Coast to go with your dog. This 24h off leash beach in Wamberal is a great spot to play, run, swim and meet new friends.
4. North Shelly Beach
Toowoon Bay
North Shelly Beach is a gorgeous dog friendly beach for your pooch to run along and have a swim. Afterwards head to a dog friendly cafe, Muncha’s for breakfast, lunch or coffee.
5. Hams Beach
Caves Beach
If you are travelling to the northern parts of the Central Coast, Hams Beach is a great stop to make with your pup. Access to this 24h dog friendly beach is off Mawson Close, covering that part of the reserve between the Hams Beach car park and the ocean.
6. Blacksmiths Beach
Blacksmiths
Blacksmiths dog off leash beach is part of Nine Mile Beach extending from the beach car park off Awabakal Avenue, northerly to the Belmont Golf Club boundary. Leash free at all times.
Dog Friendly Pubs & Bars
7. Terrigal Hotel
176 Terrigal Drive, Terrigal
Terrigal Hotel has a proud history as the hub of the local community. The Hotel as something for everyone – from delicious food offerings with the ocean views in the Lagoon Bistro to the fantastic cocktails made fresh by the friendly staff. Dogs are allowed to join owners for a bevvy or two in the front bar area or there is plenty of shaded seating outdoors with magnificent water views.
8. Block ‘n’ Tackle Brewery
11/13 Cochrone Street, Kincumber
This dog friendly Central Coast brewery and cellar door at Kincumber is the ideal spot to meet with friends and chill with your canine companion while enjoying a tasting sample of the fresh beers available – either by the glass, or by grabbing a tasting paddle to sample the range. Dogs are allowed inside but they have to be kept on a leash and preferably sit with owners near the door.
9. Fires Creek Winery
192 Wattle Tree Road, Holgate
The vegan-friendly & dog-friendly winery opened its cellar doors in December 2003 to offer a seasonal variety of boutique fruit flower and herb wines on the Central Coast. There is limited cover in the outside area but dogs are welcome to join owners for a tasting in the Cellar Door as long as they are kept on a lead.
10. Bay Road Brewing
89 Donnison Road, Gosford
Located in the centre of Gosford, this dog friendly brewery is all about good times and good beer. Try a tasting of their craft beers inside with your pup or head outside. The seating area out the front has sun/rain cover and a water bowl can be brought over for your thirsty pup.
11. The Boathouse Hotel Patonga
Patonga
Dog friendly pub, The Boathouse Hotel Patonga is located in the idyllic coastal town of Patonga on the NSW Central Coast, surrounded by the Hawkesbury and Brisbane Waters National Park. This newly renovated pub is a great place to relax after swimming and playing with your dog at the dog friendly Patonga Beach.
12. Wyong Milk Factory
141 Alison Road, Wyong
Come by and enjoy exciting food, an eclectic mix of old favourites, local and craft beers or perhaps one of their many fine wines. Dog friendly cafe / bar Wyong Milk Factory have superb menus and a daily choice of black board specials, all offering local produce. Head to the shaded front outdoor area with your dog and laze away a sunny afternoon.
13. The Sunken Monkey Hotel
207 The Entrance Road, Erina
Dog friendly cafe / bar The Sunken Monkey Hotel in Erina is a fresh, contemporary venue dedicated to creating memorable experiences for the people of the Central Coast and beyond. Dogs can sit with owners outside on the waterfront as long as they are well-behaved and kept on a lead at all times.
Dog Friendly Cafes
14. Jasmine Green Park Kiosk
Sydney Avenue, Umina
Located in a serene park setting right next to the Dog Beach, dog friendly cafe Jasmine Greens is a relaxing dining destination boasting a kiosk and party venue. We use the very best ingredients with a strong focus on using locally sourced, chemical free & free-range ingredients. We’re the perfect destination for a convivial meal with family and friends.
Our venue is also available to hire for private functions and we can provide off-site licensed catering services. Don’t forget to get one of the delicious Kangaroo Chews for your furry friend from the bar.
15. Lords of Pour
199a Ocean View Road, Ettalong Beach
Beautiful dog friendly cafe just a block from the beach. Popular with locals and visitor with their furry friends. Great coffee and selection of brekkie favourites and even Roo Chews for the furry customers.
16. Gnostic Mana
31 The Boulevard, Woy Woy
Lovely shaded courtyard with water bowls and free organic dog treats is waiting for furry friends at dog friendly Gnostic Mana. The staff is trained in belly rubs too! Even an occasional complimentary piece of bacon might be offered if parents allow. After lunch, you can enjoy a beautiful walk along the water on The Boulevarde to Lions Park.
17. Macs Beach Cafe
100 Marine Parade, MacMasters Beach
Macs Beach Cafe is a pawfect dog friendly cafe at MacMasters Surf Life Saving Club House. Stunning views, friendly staff and great coffee makes Macs Beach Cafe an ideal place to relax with your pooch after a morning walk on the beach (look for the signs for off leash areas on MacMasters Beach as the part in front of the SLSC is not off leash but you need to make your way further north). Treats also available for the furry customers.
18. Avoca Sands Cafe
85 Avoca Drive, Avoca Beach
Avoca Sands is a beachfront dog friendly cafe in the beautiful Central Coast location. Whether it is coffee, breakfast, lunch or drinks you are after, this licensed cafe has it all sorted for you, including treats for the furry customers. Dogs are always warmly welcome on the outdoor seating areas with plenty of shade available during the warm summer days.
19. Like Minds
352 The Round Drive, Avoca Beach
Like Minds is an old corner store turned into a vibrant dog friendly cafe. With beautiful wholesome food and great community vibes, Like Minds has become a locals favourite cafe in Avoca. Dogs are always welcome on the outdoor seating area and they also have some yummy Kangaroo treats available for the furry customers.
20. Bellyfish Cafe
112 Terrigal Esplanade, Terrigal
Bellyfish is a family run dog friendly cafe which has evolved from small beginnings and grown into a bustling, beachside eatery where you will find quality coffee by Sydney’s finest Single O, all day brunch & takeaway options. Bellyfish was established in 2008 by father and son team Steve and Mitch Jury, in 2023, Mitch handed the reins to his Head Chef, Max Lukeman who now owns and runs the cafe with his wife, Naomi. You can still find Steve behind the coffee machine most mornings! Dogs are always welcome at the beautiful outdoor seating area and they also have treats available for the furry customers.
21. Green Tangerine
393 The Entrance Road, Long Jetty
Green Tangerine is a retail & Wholesale Bakery / Cafe & specialty grocery shop located in Long Jetty NSW. High quality Meals, and the best coffee sourced from The Little Marionette in Sydney. Freshly baked specialty breads including Sourdough, Gluten Free, & French Traditional baguettes, Rustic Bread and of course our amazing Croissants & pastry range – all produced onsite, daily. Dogs are welcome on the covered outdoor outdoor seating area and they also have some treats available for the furry customers.
22. The Estate Eatery
3 Tumbi Creek Road, Berkeley Vale
The Estate Eatery is a dog friendly cafe in Berkeley Vale. Great selection of breakfast and lunch classics and of course coffee, smoothies and shakes. Worth dropping by with your furry friend (treats available for the furry customers). There is also a grooming salon right next door in case your pooch is in need of a tidy up. Brenden and the team are always happy to see the pups visiting them before or after the haircut.
23. Lou’s Cafe
309 Main Road, Toukley
Lou’s Cafe is a dog friendly cafe in the heart of Toukley. Great outdoor seating area at the front of the cafe is a pawfect spot to enjoy a coffee, breakfast or lunch with your pooch. Menu has all your brekkie & lunch classics from burgers and wraps to salads and fritters. Dogs are always warmly welcome (be ready for heaps of pats) and they also have treats available for the furry customers.
24. The Island Cafe
69 Bungary Road, Norah Head
Beautiful dog friendly cafe in a picturesque small town of Norah Head. Great coffee, delicious meals and of course treats for the furry customers who are always welcome on the outdoor seating area (the best spot in the house if you ask us).
FREE V.I.POOCH TRAVEL KIT WITH EVERY BOOKING!
Dog Friendly Hikes & Walks
25. Strickland State Forest
Strickland
There are several dog friendly walks in the Strickland Forest to choose from. Strickland Falls Track from the Banksia picnic area to the Strickland Falls includes a fantastic variety of forest scenery.
Cabbage Tree Trail is a 1.7km loop walk that starts in the dry eucalyptus forest and descends to areas of lush forest, filled with cabbage tree palms and ferns.
Arboretum Track goes past some of the oldest and most beautiful trees on the Central Coast including 150-year-old Australian Red Cedars, Bunyas and Hoop Pines.
26. Hunter Lookout
Olney
This 5.6km loop track starts from the Hunter Lookout picnic area and follows the Great North Walk around the edge of the ridge via the Macleans Lookout, Rocky Creek gully and the cliffs around the eastern edge of the ridge. You and your pup will love the great views across the valley and much of the Hunter to the north.
27. Abbotts Falls
Martinsville
This 7km stretch of path kicks off at the Pines Picnic Area and winds its way down through gullies of blue gums and rainforests to Abbotts Falls Lookout before looping back up. This is a great place to cool off with your pup on a hot Summer’s day.
If you are after a shorter walk with your dog The Pines Walking Track is an excellent alternative. Set under beautiful tall pine trees, this 1km loop walks alongside Dora Creek through beautiful greenery and foliage, and past a small rock pool.