27 Best Dog Friendly Beaches, Bars, Cafes and Walks in Sunshine Coast
The sunny weather on the dog friendly Sunshine Coast is a continuous invitation to adventure outside with your four-legged friend. Many dog lovers have made this part of South East Queensland their home, and the area has responded with plenty of dog friendly cafes, bars, hikes, and beaches you can visit with your pup.
This guide will reveal you the best dog friendly places in Sunshine Coast to go with your dog and get those tails go crazy!
But before we hit the list, let’s have a look at some pawsome dog friendly accommodations to stay with your pooch!
This Travel Guide was created in Partnership with Knose Pet Insurance, Australia’s Award Winning Pet Insurance!
Dog Friendly Accommodation
A Pawfect Coastal Escape | Maroochydore
Guests 2 | Bedrooms 1 | Bathrooms 1
Enjoy easy access to everything, this recently renovated ground floor studio offers convenience, comfort and an easy lifestyle. Positioned in the heart of Maroochydore, this is a perfect pad for mid week workers, weekend travellers, couples or solo…pack your pooch and enjoy our complimentary Wine, Wi-Fi and Netflix. Just an easy stroll to get out and about visiting our popular Maroochy river, Sunshine Plaza & dining precinct. A perfect little escape to call home.
A Popular Central Studio | Maroochydore
Guests 2 | Bedrooms 1 | Bathrooms 1
Location and presentation absolutely SHINE; plus, FREE Wi-Fi, Netflix, and a bottle of wine – sound inviting? You bet. This freshly renovated, one bedroom, ground floor unit offers comfort & convenience. Positioned in the heart of Maroochydore within walking distance to Picnic Point, Cotton Tree, Ocean St dining precinct, Sunshine Plaza, Cinemas, Beach, River & Canals. Ideal Coastal escape for couples or solo travellers + dog friendly secure grassed yard. A perfect haven to escape.
This ground level 1 bedroom apartment is walking distance from dining precinct, shopping, entertainment & swimming waterways . The unit has private access via a gated side pathway, leading to the grassed backyard and entrance door. Located in a quiet street, offering an easy care relaxed stay with modern, clean finishes and the comforts that will keep you feeling satisfied your entire stay. Enjoy the air conditioned Queen sized Bedroom with hotel quality bedding & crisp white linen. The living space provides comfort & functionality.
You will have exclusive use of the ground floor space, incorporating queen sized bedroom, living area & kitchen, bathroom, an outdoor rumpus room with laundry and backyard.
Stylish Studio | Valdora
Guests 2 | Bedrooms 1 | Bathrooms 1
A very special and relaxing dog friendly Studio on a private organic country estate, perfect for long stays and extended holidays. Private and self contained. Walk into your unique space with living, dining, WIFI, kitchen, bathroom. Ridiculously comfy Queen bed. Snowy white linen, fluffy beach and bathroom towels. Enjoy the tranquillity of nature from the timber deck surrounded by bamboo. 8 minutes to beautiful Coolum beach. Sleeps 2. Cot available. Pet friendly. Enhanced Cleaning Protocol.
Orchard Cottage | Valdora
Guests 7 | Bedrooms 5 | Bathrooms 2
Gorgeous pet-friendly accommodation for families and friends, with dogs welcome. Orchard Cottage on a private organic country estate is perfect for long stays, holidays and long weekends. This special place is the essence of modern Australian country with unique touches of international travel. Perfect for a family or group of friends looking to escape the everyday. 8-10 mins’ drive to Coolum beach, waterfalls and hikes, Australia’s top restaurants, 25 mins to Noosa.
This is the ultimate dog-friendly holiday and they clean the property immaculately between stays, so whether or not you bring your pets with you, you’d never know others have stayed here. To welcome your four-legged family, they also supply:
– Bowls for food and water
– Plenty of designated towels to wipe off paws at the door
– Treats, yes treats!
– Outdoor shower to wash off the sand from the beach
– Swimming dam and woodland walks
– Extra cleaning supplies
– Pooches’ Welcome Letter with the best dog beaches, walks, trails, and dog-sitting
Dog Friendly Lodge | Lake Weyba
Guests 6 | Bedrooms 3 | Bathrooms 1
Pull up a whitewashed farmhouse chair for a leisurely breakfast at this private dog friendly accommodation nestled in extensive lawn gardens amongst the gum trees. White panelling, abundant natural light, and a soft, neutral colour palette create a Hamptons vibe. You’ll share the garden with a mob of kangaroos both morning and evening. The cottage located in the old part of Peregian Beach, set amongst the gum tree in a park-like oasis, where you will enjoy direct access to Lake Weyba (400-metre walk) while listening to an abundance of birds and a mob of kangaroos checking you out. Our guests and their dogs love the knee-deep, clear water of Lake Weyba (when it’s not windy). Due to the shallow nature of the lake, its like a huge bathtub, very human and pet friendly.
Dog Friendly Cottage | Mudjimba
Guests 2 | Bedrooms 1 | Bathrooms 1
Beautiful dog friendly accommodation just 2 minutes walk from the pet friendly Mudjimba Beach. This pet friendly retro escape offers couples’ accommodation with a large garden and a patio, in the very laid-back coastal village. This cottage is mid-century modern from the décor to the retro games & crockery, This holiday home comes with 1 bedroom, a kitchen with a microwave and a fridge, a flat-screen TV, a seating area and 1 bathroom equipped with a shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in this accommodation. This is the perfect place to relax & unwind with your furry friend.
NOOSA & NORTH SUNSHINE COAST
Dog Friendly Off Leash beaches
1. Stumers Creek Beach
Coolum Beach
This dog friendly beach is 24h off leash throughout the year. It is truly a salty sea dog paradise with waves for the more adventurous pups, or a calm creek for avid paddlers. There are picnic tables, a playground, and a family friendly dog loving atmosphere all around.
2. Sunshine Beach
Sunshine Beach
This large section of beach stretching from beach access 27 to the National Park Headland features some of the most beautiful views on the entire sunshine coast. You will see fancy homes sitting high on the steep, rainforest covered hills merging into the Noosa National Park. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed in the National Park, so you will have to keep an eye out for appropriate signage in the area.
3. Noosa Spit
Noosa Heads
Great off leash dog park & beach right next door to Noosa town centre. Go for a play & swim on the beach before heading to town for some refreshing drinks. Water is nice and calm as it is protected from the surf and major currents.
Dog Friendly Pubs & Bars
4. Matso’s Brewery
85 Memorial Drive, Eumundi
Get ready to unleash the fun at Matso’s Brewery in Eumundi! This paw-some spot brings Australia’s original alcoholic Ginger Beer to the Sunshine Coast, and your four-legged bestie is totally invited to the party. With a sprawling outdoor beer garden that’s basically doggo paradise, there’s plenty of space for tails to wag while you sip on fresh brews made right on-site.
The laid-back vibe is perfect for a sunny arvo with your pup by your side – think heritage charm meets modern chill, all wrapped up in one epic venue. From locally-inspired bites to those famous Mango Beers, it’s the kind of place where both ends of the leash can relax and enjoy. And they also have treats available for the furry customers.
Ready for your next dog-friendly adventure? Grab the lead and head to Matso’s – your pup will thank you!
5. Heads of Noosa Brewing
85 Rene Street, Noosaville
Heads of Noosa Brewing Co. is an Australian independently owned dog friendly craft brewery located in Noosa on the Sunshine Coast. With a passion for lagers and a focus on quality, we strive to produce truly enjoyable beers for everyone. Dogs are welcome to join for a drink at the partly covered front deck.
6. Boiling Pot Brewing
130 Eumundi Noosa Road, Noosaville
Boiling Pot Brewing is a dog friendly brewery in the heart of Noosaville. Drop by for a refreshing drink with your pooch at the dog friendly beer garden.
7. Land & Sea Brewery
19 Venture Drive, Noosaville
LAND & SEA is more than a dog friendly brewery. They create products that are inspired by, celebrate and compliment the area they live in, the days well spent, living and enjoying every second, from the rolling hinterland to the oceans and bays. Dogs are always welcome at the outdoor undercover areas where they can go, near grass for pee pee.
8. Peregian Beach Hotel
229 David Low Way, Peregian Beach
Enjoy a seasonal menu at this family friendly venue, where pups are very welcome in their outdoor area that is partially covered. They are asked to be kept on leash and with their owners to ensure the comfort of every visitor.
Dog Friendly Cafes
9. Rock Hop
12 Elizabeth Street, Coolum Beach
Rock Hop is a specialty dog friendly coffee shop in the friendly beach-side town of Coolum on the Sunshine Coast. Great outdoor seating for you and your furry friend to sit and relax after your morning walk. Doggies have their very own special treats on the menu.
10. Fairhill Garden Cafe
114 Fairhill Road, Ninderry
Fairhill Gardens is a truly unique dog friendly experience in the Sunshine Coast. Explore the gardens with your dog, sit down for a drink or a bite to eat at the Award Winning Garden Cafe, celebrating good food, vibrant atmosphere, and friendly service, as voted by diners who have experienced its unique charm.
The team is thrilled to receive such high praise from valued guests, reaffirming Fairhill’s commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re savouring a casual brunch or indulging in a celebratory meal, Fairhill continues to shine as a destination for food lovers.
11. The Deck
46 Duke Street, Sunshine Beach
Iconic breakfast & lunch restaurant located right across the beach entrance of Sunshine Beach. All welcome, pups and humans, in their outdoor area covered by umbrellas. Bowls of water are provided.
12. Bullitt Espresso Bar
1 Gibson Road, Noosaville
Enjoy a strong, specially roasted coffee in Noosaville in the company of your pup. They have an outdoor seating space with lots of grass, tree shade and umbrellas. Custom made dog bowls and dog blankets for cold mornings will make your furry buddy feel more than welcome.
Dog Friendly Hikes & Walks
13. Noosa Woods
Noosa Heads
Just a short walk away from the popular and ever bustling Hasting Street you will find Noosa Woods as part of the Noosa Spit Reserve. It features many bush trails, which will lead you through beautiful native shrub towards the Noosa Spit. This is the perfect spot to jump in the water with your pup, who will surely enjoy cooling off in the calm waters.
14. Coolum Beach Boardwalk
Coolum Beach
Coolum Beach Boardwalk is a 1.6 kilometer lightly trafficked out and back dog friendly trail in Coolum Beach. Enjoy the scenic views and fresh ocean air with your dog. Dogs are welcome to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Dog Friendly Activities
15. Bamboo Park Nursery
Yandina Coolum Road, Valdora
Bamboo Park is a dog friendly Nursery and Organic Farm inviting you & your furry friend to visit and experience nature at its best. Stop by the Farm Shop to pick up free-range, pasture-raised pork and eggs, as well as their delightful honey and 0f course healthy treats for your furry friend. Feed the pigs and chickens, and enjoy walking around the bamboo plantation and tropical plants with your pooch (on the lead please).
16. Noosa Ferry
Noosa Marina
Unique, custom-built classic riverboats that sail across the Noosa River, with seven stops including Noosa Sound and Noosaville. You can bring your pup with the condition that they sit on your lap!
17. O Boat Hire
222 Gympie Terrace, Noosaville
O Boat Hire offers a large range of deluxe pontoons, barbecue pontoons and boating types for self-drive hire on the Noosa River. You can go boating, fishing or simply relaxing in the company of your pup, as all their boats are pet friendly.
MAROOCHYDORE & SURROUNDS
Dog Friendly Off Leash Beaches
18. North Shore Beach
Twin Waters
This part of the coast is still rugged and wild, and features some beautifully shaded areas to sit down and watch your puppy run around. There is abundant wildlife hiding away on the riverside which will provide your pup as a fun distraction. Make sure they don’t catch themselves a brush turkey!
Dog Friendly Pubs & Bars
19. The Post Office
10 Ocean Street, Maroochydore
Set in the heart of Maroochydore’s vibrant entertainment precinct, dog friendly pub The Post Office offers a winning formula of a great steakhouse with a casual atmosphere, one of the best beer gardens on the coast & a range of the most up to date boutique beers that you will find. Dogs are welcome in the partly covered beer garden any time.
20. The Savvy Squire
123 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba
James Squire’s brings his rogue style and quenchy thirsting beer to Mooloolaba with the dog friendly pub, The Savvy Squire. The perfect spot for a drink with friends while enjoying the stunning waterfront views. Dogs are always welcome on the outdoor seating area (where else would you want to sit?)
21. Rice Boi
The Wharf, Mooloolaba
Modern Asian street food style venue based at The Wharf Mooloolaba. They welcome pups and humans in their outdoor dog friendly beer garden and dining area. There is an undercover section and one partly covered area with shade blinds that are sometimes opened. Rice boi features a ‘good boi’ wall where they display polaroids of the pooches that visit them.
22. High Tide Bar Grill & Cafe
21-23 Mudjimba Esplanade. Mudjimba Beach
Located opposite to the beautiful Mudjimba Beach, this dog friendly cafe serves coffee and breakfast as well as specialty burgers and fish tacos. They have seating out the front under a high roofline that welcomes furry visitors. Some even make it to their instagram highlight reel.
Dog Friendly Cafes
23. The Velo Project
19 Careela Street, Mooloolaba
There is a dog menu! Isn’t that all that needs to be said? This café has a scrumptious selection of human meals, but truly takes the dog biscuit with its pet friendly menu. You can order your canine a doggy donut, puppy late, pooch biscuit, or another fancy treat. All of them are made from unique pup-safe flavourings and will have your dog drooling over the shaved liver treats.
Dog Friendly Hikes & Walks
24. EJ Foote Sanctuary
Buderim
EJ Foote Sanctuary Loop is a 1.6 kilometer lightly trafficked loop trail located near Buderim. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
SOUTHERN SUNSHINE COAST
Dog Friendly Off Leash Beaches
25. Buddina Beach
Buddina
This stretch of beach typically remains quite quiet, making it the perfect spot to head out for a morning stroll with your pup to enjoy the serenity of crashing waves. The surf tends to be quite small, so your dog will surely enjoy splashing in it and getting you nice and salty.
26. Currimundi Beach
Currimundi
Another favourite dog friendly beach which allows pups to run around free without the leash every day. It is a one kilometre stretch of coastline which will surely give you and your pup enough space to run and get all your energy out!
Dog Friendly Pubs & Bars
27. Coffee Cat
8 Levuka Avenue, Kings Beach
A funky relaxed Cafe by day and Friday & Saturday nights a restaurant with Live Music overlooking the popular cove of Kings Beach. They have a dog friendly undercover outdoor area.
Dog Friendly Cafes
28. The Pocket Espresso Bar
6 Seaview Terrace, Moffat Beach
The Pocket Espresso Bar is a unique little piece of paradise where you can escape, rejuvenate & fix almost everything. Wicked Guru Coffee, awesome food! Dogs are welcome in the garden or at the footpath dining area.
Dog Friendly Hikes & Walks
29. Caloundra Foreshore
Caloundra
Home to a famous Caloundra Foreshore run, this 8km return trail starts at Bulcock Beach heading all the way to the off leash Shelly Beach. It is an easy two hour walk along the coast featuring beautiful water-front views, sections on a beach, and others on wooded platforms.
About the Partner:
Our mission at KNOSE is to make Australian pets the happiest and healthiest in the world. We simplify pet insurance, ensuring you can focus on what truly matters—your pet’s well-being.
We understand that pets are family. Our mission is to provide affordable and extensive pet insurance that caters to the unique needs of your beloved pets. With a range of coverage options for dogs and cats, we ensure that you can find the perfect plan to suit your pet’s needs and your budget. We cover accidents, illnesses, and more, so you can have peace of mind knowing that your furry friend is protected. And, with no sub-limits imposed, you get complete coverage without unexpected restrictions.
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