36 Best Dog Friendly Hikes & Walks, Beaches, Pubs, Cafés and Wineries in South Coast NSW
36 Best Dog Friendly Hikes & Walks, Beaches, Pubs, Cafés and Wineries in South Coast NSW
Dog owners around Sydney are blessed with great dog friendly travel destinations. Try wine tasting with your dog in the Hunter Valley, escape from the city to Southern Highlands or go hiking with your dog in the Blue Mountains. But if you are simply looking for some chillaxing time with your pup, travel south from Sydney and discover the beautiful dog friendly NSW South Coast.
We have listed 36 Best Dog Friendly Hikes & Walks, Beaches, Pubs, Cafés and Wineries to make your next visit to this beautiful NSW coastline with your dog a truly memorable experience! But before we dwell into the list, here are some pawsome dog friendly accommodations to stay with your pup in the South Coast.
Dog Friendly Accommodation in South Coast NSW
Dog Friendly Retreat
Culburra Beach
Guests 2 | Bedrooms 1 | Bathrooms 1
This private, architect-designed, absolute beachfront, dog friendly accommodation is nestled in a mature native garden by the sea. Guests have garden and beach views from every room. The house is peaceful, secluded, relaxing and perfect for two people who are welcome to bring their fur-friend for long strolls along the dog-friendly beach in front of the house. Guests have the place to themselves with a local manager available if needed. You’ll have access to the main pavilion of the house but not the sleeping pavilion. In the main pavilion you’ll have your own bedroom, dining area, kitchen, laundry, bathroom, living room, deck, car parking, outdoor dining area and all of the gardens.
Dog Friendly Beach House
Vincentia
Guests 10 | Bedrooms 4 | Bathrooms 2
A wonderfully presented dog friendly house only a short drive away from the off leash Huskisson Beach. Perfect for the family holiday or weekend getaway for 1 or 2 families. Perfectly located close to shops and restaurants of Huskisson and Vincentia and a short drive to beautiful Hyams Beach and Booderee National Park. Enjoy the 2 living areas both with large TVs. One for the adults and one for the children. Two comfortable bedrooms one queen, one king and 2 further bedrooms each with tri-bunks.
Dog Friendly Beach Shack
Culburra Beach
Guests 4 | Bedrooms 2 | Bathrooms 1
A little dog friendly beach shack located in the idyllic Culburra beach, central to main shops and just a short walk to dog friendly Culburra Beach. We encourage you to get some fresh air and walk or ride around the town. We have a passion for the environment. So where possible we supply as many eco friendly products within the home. We encourage all guests to reduce your general waste and recycle as much as possible while you stay with us. Perfect little shack to unwind and relax whilst listening to the sound of the ocean. We believe you’ll feel right at home and never want to leave. It is a Medium sized two bedroom beach shack, located one street from the beach.
Dog Friendly Couples Retreat
Kangaroo Valley
Guests 4 | Bedrooms 1 | Bathrooms 1
Broger’s End was one of the original large dairy farms in Kangaroo Valley. The milking shed, which is probably over 70 years old, has been lovingly restored and is now a luxurious dog friendly farm stay haven for a peaceful escape from the everyday world!
The three sets of French doors, which used to allow three cows in to be milked at once, now allow the living area to be opened to the alfresco dining area which is covered by an old wisteria vine. An open plan room with a luxury pillow top queen bed with quality linen ensures a restful night’s sleep. The living area includes a double sofa bed for extra guests.
Your dog is welcome, and there is a fully fenced yard next to the cottage. There is the river for swimming, and 160 acres to explore, with bushwalking tracks through the varied landscape. The village is 6 km away with its restaurants, cafes, galleries and shops.
Dog Friendly House
Lake Conjola
Guests 8 | Bedrooms 3 | Bathrooms 2
Recently renovated air-conditioned dog friendly home with a modern interior and light-filled rooms. Huge bathrooms with an extra washroom in the large laundry area, which is also a lockable storage area for your water toys. Beautiful gardens and front deck to enjoy the regular visits from the local kangaroos, parrots, and some resident bower birds under the frangipanis. It is a home where you are encouraged to feel relaxed and chilled, leave the everyday world behind, and really enjoy this beautiful environment. There is so much to do in the area, either stay close to home with beautiful walks or lazing by the lake or beach, kayaking or a SUP paddle at sunrise or sunset, fishing wherever you can drop your line or hiking further afield in the surrounding National Park.
The lake is an easy flat 120m walk away, with the beach, 3 boat ramps, and a local cafe within a 5-minute drive. The house is very comfortable, light, and bright with an open plan living with combustion wood fireplace, kitchen, and dining which flows to a spacious outdoor entertaining area. There is an outdoor lounge and table setting, a BBQ ready to use and the space is great for entertaining family and friends. For more chill time check out the many books and games for your enjoyment.
Dog Friendly Lodge
Batemans Bay
Guests 6 | Bedrooms 3 | Bathrooms 2
Wrens View Lodge is a dog & pet friendly holiday accommodation near Batemans Bay. The perfect winter or summer South Coast getaway for your entire family including your pets, only a 400m walk to Maloney’s pristine beach/dog beach. You are instantly surrounded by wild life when you arrive. You have complete access to the National park right through the back gate. There is easy level walks and isolated beaches for the family to explore.
From Shellharbour to Berry
Approximately after 2h drive south from Sydney, you will arrive to a popular travel destinations of NSW South Coast. It offers plenty to explore for you and your dog from dog friendly beaches and parks to beautiful art & craft towns and markets from Shellharbour to Kiama, Gerringong and Berry. The climate is also well suited for wine growing so make sure you visit one of the dog friendly wineries in the area.
Dog Friendly Beaches
There are plenty of dog friendly parks and beaches to choose from, thanks to a very dog friendly Shoalhaven Council. Here are Lumi the Groodle’s (our Head of PR aka Puppy Relations) favourites in the area. For the full list of all dog friendly beaches click here!
1. Jones Beach
Kiama Downs
Absolutely stunning beach for both you and your dog to relax, run and play. It is ok to go for a swim as well but keep on eye on your dog as the currents in the area can sometimes be rather strong. One of our go to places every time we are in the area!
2. Werri Beach
Gerringong
Regularly inviting families, couples, dog owners, surfers and even fishermen to share this wide beach filled with soft sand. Dogs have plenty of place to roam and sniff or have a dip into the surf.
3. Bombo Beach
Bombo
Slightly trickier to find than other beaches, which probably is the reason it is often rather quiet and hence suitable for dogs that might get overwhelmed by busy dog parks. Dog are prohibited from the northern most part of the beach, which still leaves plenty of sand to dig elsewhere 😉
Dog friendly Cafes
4. J’s on the Deck
19 Addison Street, Shellharbour
J’s on the Deck is a dog friendly cafe in the heart of Shellharbour Village. With a beautiful dog friendly outdoor seating and kangaroo treats on offer for the furry customers, J’s is a great place to visit after the morning walk with your pup. All classic dishes for brekkie and a great selection of burgers, burritos, and salads for lunch.
5. Lou’s Place
21 Addison Street, Shellharbour
Lou’s Place is a great dog friendly cafe to hang out with your pup. Most of the venue is outdoors making it a pawfect spot for a coffee / brekkie / lunch with your furry friend. Great coffee, delicious food and treats on the menu also for the furry customers.
6. Naturally Tasty
100 Cove Boulevard, Shell Cove
Naturally Tasty is a dog friendly cafe serving Shell Cove with wholesome foods, nutritious smoothies, fresh juices, and coffee. Open from 6am Monday to Friday so stop in while taking the pooch for a walk and start your day right with the best coffee in town.
If you’re around during the day pop in for lunch and a tasty fresh or cold press juice. There is no better view to enjoy your delicious food and drinks from Naturally Tasty than our very own Marina. See you by the water. Dogs are always welcome to join you at the outdoor seating area.
7. KG Cafe
42 Terralong Street, Kiama
KG is a dog friendly South African Cafe in the heart of Kiama. With one of the largest outdoor seating areas in town, it is a great spot to visit with your furry friend. Remember to grab one of the kangaroo chews for your pup while enjoying a wide list of Aussie classics as well as traditional South African dishes such as Bunny Chow, Boerewors or Koeksisters. Must visit when in the area. Fully Licensed! Dogs are always warmly welcome at the outdoor seating area.
8. Little Earth Roasters & Cafe
10 Tingira Crescent, Kiama
Little Earth Roasters is a dog friendly cafe with stunning ocean views. They’ve got everything from whole beans to espresso grind, and everything in between. After years of experimenting and perfecting the craft, they are confident you’ll love their coffee. Plus, they’ve got a soft spot for vintage coffee machines and artisanal brewing methods. So sit back, relax, and enjoy a cup of their award-winning coffee while taking in the breathtaking views. Dogs are always welcome on the outdoor seating area (where else would you sit anyway) and there are som yummy treats available for the furry customers.
9. Garden Berry
103 Queen Street, Berry
Whether you are after a healthy brekkie, lunch or maybe taste some delicious pastries with your favourite style of coffee, Garden Berry is guaranteed to satisfy you with their menu, setting and location. They are proud to be dog friendly and your pup is surely going to get heaps of attention from the friendly staff. Although dogs are only allowed outside, it offers plenty of cover from sun or rain.
10. Kiama Farmers’ Market
Coronation Park, Kiama
If you are passing by or staying in the area during the week, we highly recommend to drop by at the dog friendly Kiama Farmer’s Market. Great variety of food is on offer from various local food stands. Or maybe you get your olives, cheese and salami to take with you to enjoy with a bottle of wine at home.
Dog Friendly Pubs
11. Jamberoo Pub
12 Allowrie Street, Jamberoo
Up for a little scenic country side drive with your dog? Don’t miss Jamberoo and it’s well known locals’ and visitors’ pit stop, The Jamberoo Pub! Dogs are welcome at the partly covered beer garden or at the fully covered front of the pub, so no need to worry about the occasional drop or two (from the sky or tap!).
Dog Friendly Wineries
Wine growing in the region has flourished during the last 20 years or so to become one of the most essential wine areas in the NSW together with Hunter Valley and Mudgee. Luckily several cellar doors are also open for the four legged visitors
12. Mountain Ridge Wines
11 Coolangatta Road, Coolangatta
Located only a few minutes drive from Berry towards Shoalhaven Heads, dog friendly Mountain Ridge Winery is a great option to stop for wine tasting or some lunch before (or after) hitting the beach. Stunning views of the rolling hills and paddocks forces you to drop any city life thoughts. Dog friendly beach at River Road Reserve in Shoalhaven Heads is only a few minutes away.
13. Silos Estate
B640 Princes Highway, Jaspers Brush
Take in the fresh country side air and simply chillax. Silos Estate invites pets of ALL kinds to join their human parents for wine tasting in the beautiful premises in Jaspers Brush. They have had dogs, cats, horses and even a python visiting them in the past.
14. Cambewarra Estate
520 Illaroo Road, West Cambewarra
Dog friendly cellar door, outdoor dining, scenic views and world class wines. Combination all wine aficionados travelling with their dogs should be interested in.
15. Lyrebird Ridge Winery
270 Bugong Road, Budgong
Lyrebird Ridge is a small organic dog friendly winery situated on 40 acres of bushland only 20 minutes from Kangaroo Valley , 25 minutes to Berry and 15 minutes from Nowra. There are 2 acres under vine and 5 dams providing swimming and fishing during the warmer months. There is a natural gully on one side and the vineyard on the other makes a lovely tranquil spot to relax and read a good book. You can wander around the property and the vineyard, feed the chickens, collect the eggs, throw in a yabbie pot in the warmer months and see what you catch.
FREE V.I.POOCH TRAVEL KIT WITH EVERY BOOKING
Nowra & Jervis Bay
On the banks of beautiful Shoalhaven River, Nowra is a delightful town with full of great coffee shops, dog friendly hikes and close to gorgeous dog friendly beaches. Rich soils support farmlands and vineyards, and the river estuary is part of Australia’s Oyster Coast. For breathtaking panoramas stroll along dog friendly Bens Walk and stop at Hanging Rock (feature image above).
Drive less than an hour further south and you will arrive to the beautiful beaches of Jervis Bay. There are several stunning dog friendly beaches and coffee shops in the charming seaside towns such as Huskisson and Culburra for you to enjoy one of the most pristine waters in the NSW coast.
Dog Friendly Walks & Hikes
Along the Shoalhaven river banks you can find several dog friendly hikes and walks of different lengths and difficulty levels. We definitely recommend you to try Bens Walk and The Grotto as a unique outing opportunity for you and your dog but there are many others as well. Find other dog friendly hikes on Pupsy!
11. Bens Walk
27 West Street, Nowra
Approximately 5.5km in length (you can also walk just parts of it), Bens Walk is one of the most popular walks in the area. It provides access to the famous Hanging Rock Lookout that simply takes your breath away!
12. Bangalee Reserve
Koloona Drive, Bangalee
If you are looking for an easy grade walking tracks in the native bushland, Bangalee Reserve is a great choice. It also has picnic tables for you and your furry friend to sit and relax and have a bite to eat.
13. The Grotto
Yurunga Drive, North Nowra
Start the walk from the top of the cliff and make your way down to the riverbanks. Listen to the birds and stop around the picnic area before climbing back up to your starting point. Time just disappears and you won’t believe how close to town you actually are.
Dog Friendly Beaches
A natural wonderland, Jervis Bay on the NSW South Coast is a perfect seaside escape. From the crystal blue waters and resident dolphins to splendid beaches and fun water sports, this coastal paradise in the Shoalhaven region will delight you and your dog with many memorable experiences.
14. Culburra Beach
Culburra Beach
Long stretch of open white sand and clear waters. Culburra Beach is a relaxed small seaside town north of Jervis Bay. On your return from the beach, stop by at the dog friendly cafe The Little Snapper for a quick refreshment before hitting the road again.
15. Abrahams Bosom
Currarong Beach
In the remote seaside town of Currarong you will find one of the most amazing walks in the South Coast with your dog called Abrahams Bossom. But head first to the dog friendly Currarong Beach for a splash. Wreck Walk is 3km long and takes you to Abrahams Bosom through the famous Gosangs Tunnels.
16. Huskisson Beach
Huskisson
Dogs are allowed off leash (restricted times) south from the Caravan Park close to the town centre of Huskisson. Crystal clear waters and white sandy beach is a perfect place to have fun with your dog and meet other dog owners.
There are plenty of other dog friendly beaches in the area such as Nelsons Beach, Callala Beach and Swan Lake Beach. Click here to find all dog friendly beaches in NSW South Coast (and beyond)!
FREE V.I.POOCH TRAVEL KIT WITH EVERY BOOKING
Dog Friendly Cafes
There are probably thousands of cafes in the area and many of them allow dogs to join you for a coffee at the outside tables. We have picked the following cafes based on the level of dog friendliness (e.g. outside areas are under cover, water is provided, staff is dog friendly) and their location.
17. Flour Water Salt
13 Enterprise Avenue, South Nowra
Flour Water Salt is not just a dog friendly cafe in South Nowra but a great Deli & Bakery with delicious local produce, bread, pastries and more… Dogs are always welcome to join you at the outdoor seating area (which many local pooches already no about). If you are on your way south from Sydney, Flour Water Salt is a pawfect stop to stock your breakfast items and enjoy a coffee wiht your pooch.
18. Salty Joe’s
54 Owen Street, Huskisson
Salty Joe’s is a dog friendly cafe serving laid back brekky overlooking the bay or perhaps a cheeky burger and beer after a morning swim. Enjoy lazy afternoon with friends, your furry ones included of course. Dogs are always welcome at the outdoor undercover seating overlooking Jervis Bay. Stunning place to drop by when in Huskisson. Single Ingredient Kangaroo Chews on offer for the furry guests 🐶.
19. Providence Blue
191 Kerry Street, Sanctuary Point
Providence Blue is a dog friendly cafe in Sanctuary Point. Great outdoor garden to sit and relax with your dog while having a coffee and breakfast / lunch. Or simply grab a take-away and head down to St Georges Basin just a few minutes away. Treats available for the furry customers.
20. The Lookout Cafe
Cambewarra Lookout Road, Beaumont
A little bit out of the way but so worth the drive! Views over Nowra and the entire Jervis Bay are breathtakingly unique. There is no other spot with similar scenery. And that’s not it. Dogs are welcome on the viewing deck and remember to ask their irresistable puppycinos!
Dog Friendly Pubs & Bars
21. Jervis Bay Brewing Co
3 Duranbah Drive, Huskisson
Jervis Bay Brewing is a dog friendly brewery in Huskisson. Good beer, good people and a damn good time. All in the spirit of Jervis Bay. Brewery, beer garden and online store now open!Dogs are welcome everywhere where their two legged companions are.
22. Huskisson Hotel
Owen Street, Huskisson
Huskisson Hotel is a dog friendly pub with a large beer garden and stunning views. Dogs are always welcome on the outdoor areas of this centrally located local icon.
23. Flamin Galah Brewing Co
5 Erina Road, Huskisson
Flamin Galah Brewing Co is Jervis Bays newest hidden gem. Located in Huskisson’s industrial estate we have a wide selection of our own craft beers on tap, offering takeaways & serving local wines & cocktails. Dogs are welcome inside and outside as long as they are kept on a leash at all times for OHS reasons and owners must clean up after the pet if they go to the toilet.
24. Husky Brewing
4 Cumberland Avenue, South Nowra
The name of the dog friendly Husky Brewing says it all. Dogs are welcome both inside and out to join you for a drink at one of the most recent addition to the South Coast craft beer scene. They even have Polaroid Wall dedicated to their visiting pups.
Dog Friendly Markets
Shop fresh produce from the locals or discover your favourite arts and crafts. Jervis Bay truly offers something for everyone and you are more than welcome to bring your dog along (on the lead for obvious reasons).
25. Huskisson Market
336 Huskisson Road, Huskisson
The Huskisson Market is a monthly market with something for everyone, right in the heart of the seaside town. You’ll find live plants, unique arts and crafts, fresh produce, bric-a-brac and much more.
26. Jervis Bay Maritime Museum Market
11 Dent Street, Huskisson
Lazy Saturday afternoon, cold drink, relaxed setting with local stalls and live music. Maybe you have just finished an amazing dog friendly Mangrove Boardwalk, which starts from the Maritime Museum. Market not to be missed when you are in the area.
Milton & Mollymook
A short 45 minute drive further south takes you to the historic town of Milton and the surrounding beach destination of Mollymook. Pawfect combination to enjoy beachside activities with your pup and of course relax in the dog friendly pubs and cafes in and around Milton.
Dog Friendly Beaches in Mollymook
27. Collers Beach
Mollymook
Collers Beach is a dog friendly beach popular with surfers for the reef breaks at either end including the famous ‘Golfy’ reef. Take your dog for an off-leash walk along the sand while admiring the skills of the local surfers. The rock shelves on this beach also have some fascinating fossils to be explored and rock pools at low tide.
28. Ulladulla Harbour
Mollymook
The beach is not as long as many others around the area but it still provides plenty of space to run, play and dip into the ocean. The resident pelicans are very often at the harbour as well to keep you company.
Dog Friendly Cafes
29. Heritage Bakery
197 Princes Highway, Milton
Dog Frienldy Heritage Bakery in Milton is packed with history. The building itself is one of the oldest and the most amazing in the region. They are dog friendly (even treats for the furry customers) and with a large dedicated parking area, Heritage Bakery is a perfect pitstop for the locals and travellers passing by. Choose from amazing baked items and of course high quality roasts.
30. The Deli Mollymook
80 Tallwood Avenue, Mollymook
Great local dog friendly cafe with great coffee and delicious all time favourites. Treats available for the furry customers who are always welcome to join you at the outdoor seating in front of the cafe. Great stop as part of your morning walk routine OR when visiting a little further away.
31. Native
84 Princes Highway, Ulladulla
Native is a dog friendly cafe and bar with stunning harbour views in Ulladulla. Menu changes seasonally to reflect the most vibrant produce on offer with a specific focus on local produce. Nourishing whole foods and raw snacks are made in-house to fuel your day! Their house 808 coffee blend has a sweet floral aroma with crisp acidity and a caramel finish which makes for a delicious brew. Dogs are always welcome on the outdoor areas, which is where you really want to sit anyways. Also treats are available for the furry customers.
31. Lakeside Cafe
30 Balmoral Road, Burrill Lake
Lakeside Cafe is a dog friendly cafe in Burrill Lake serving quality coffee, breakfast and lunch. Great outdoor area to sit and relax with your pooch with plenty of water available. They also stock treats for the furry customers. Great spot to visit if you are staying or just passing by Burrill Lake and need a quick break.
32. Native
84 Princes Highway, Ulladulla
Native is a dog friendly cafe and bar with stunning harbour views in Ulladulla. Menu changes seasonally to reflect the most vibrant produce on offer with a specific focus on local produce. Nourishing whole foods and raw snacks are made in-house to fuel your day! Their house 808 coffee blend has a sweet floral aroma with crisp acidity and a caramel finish which makes for a delicious brew. Dogs are always welcome on the outdoor areas, which is where you really want to sit anyways. Also treats are available for the furry customers.
Dog Friendly Pubs & Bars
33. The Milton Hotel
74 Princes Highway, Milton
Dog friendly pub, The Milton Hotel, is located in the historic building in the centre of town. It’s a place for family & friends to get together. Dogs are always welcome at the partly covered beer garden at the back, just walk through the main bar.
34. The Altar Wine Bar
71 Croobyar Road, Milton
Located in the green grounds of The Old Church at Milton, dog friendly The Altar Bar offers a selection of Australian and International wine, small bites to enjoy and live music. Dogs are welcome at the outdoor seating areas with some shelter provided by the market umbrellas. Dogs to be kept on a lead and supervised at all times.
35. The Social Ulladulla
3/22 Wason Street, Ulladulla
Dogs are always welcome at Social. Outdoor seating area is covered with permanent umbrellas and they have a bog bowl, doggy bed and blanket available. Owners are asked to stay with their pooches at all times.
36. Cupitt’s Winery
58 Washburton Road, Ulladulla
With spectacular views of rolling green hills and vineyards Cupitt’s is a boutique dog friendly winery, microbrewery, fromagerie and restaurant located on the NSW South Coast.
Did we miss an amazing dog friendly place? Let us know about it at [email protected].
Don’t forget to leave a review of the places you visit. Reviews help other dog owners to find the best dog friendly places and the venues to know what they are doing right and what needs to be improved!
