Holidaying In Queensland With Your Dog

There is nothing quite like an end of year holiday, but it’s tough when you have a dog. Trying to find a holiday spot that will let you bring them along is hard, but leaving them with a pet-sitter or at a vacation care kennel is even harder!

Given the option, I think all dog owners would rather bring their furry family members along, instead of facing those big, soppy, puppy-dog-eyes as you leave them behind. So, we have done some research for you and found some pet-friendly holiday options for those pet-parents based around Brisbane.

Can I Come?

Things to Do

These days there’s no reason you can’t bring your dog along for that quintessential Aussie holiday in Queensland. Brisbane is gaining a reputation for being super dog-friendly. There are a few dog beaches in the area. Nudgee Beach is the closest off-leash beach to Brisbane, but Palm Beach on the Gold Coast is great as well. If you are happy to go for a bit of a drive, Coolum Beach is perfect for puppy playtime with a creek for doggy-paddling and dog-friendly facilities like water bowls and doggy bags.

There are tonnes of dog-friendly cafés springing up around the place, too. Our Haus is a fantastic café with a dedicated shady spot for your dog where they can be served a “puppycino” with a treat. It’s pretty cool for pet-parents as well with amazing food and a great atmosphere. Others to check out are Canine Comfort, Wishing Well Café and Vanilla Pod.

There are off-leash dog parks scattered around the place as well. Head off for a late afternoon or early evening picnic at Downfall creek reserve off leash dog park. Located only 20 min North of Brisbane CBD, it is the largest off-leash park in the area with 4 hectares of trees, shady green areas and picnic shelters. If you have more time, the Buddina Off-Leash Dog Park located at Point Cartwright (1h30 min drive from Brisbane) is great, your dog will have a ball playing fetch and exploring the park, while you can enjoy the incredible views of the Sunshine Coast.

Surfs Up!

Places to Stay

For those who love the great outdoors, there are pet-friendly camping options just outside the city. Coolum Beach Holiday Park will let you have 1 dog per site (excluding cabins). It is conveniently situated right next to the dog-friendly Coolum Beach. The town has fantastic shops, great fishing spots, and the beach is perfect for a surf. It is also close to Noosa and the Hinterland for day trips. You do need to apply in advance, though, and let them know that you will be bringing a dog.

Around 15 km south of Coolum is Mudjimba Beach Holiday Park on the Sunshine Coast. They are also happy to take dogs, with a maximum of 2 per site. There is a dog beach at Mudjimba, which also doubles as a very kid-friendly beach with calm water for children to play in.

For something a bit different, you could try a Farm Stay. Brockhurst Cabins is a great option, with lots of open space for your dog to run wild. They can swim in the dam, while you have a relaxing BBQ enjoying the company of farm animals and local wildlife. Just make sure your dog doesn’t terrorise the poor cows!

If you are hoping to be a bit closer to the city and maybe head to the theme parks, there are quite a few holiday houses that are happy for you to bring pets. You can search stayz.com.au specifically for pet-friendly accommodation in any area (and you might be surprised how many dog-lovers own these holiday houses!).

As you can see, it is getting easier and easier to find pet-friendly holiday ideas. No longer do we need to leave our favourite furry family members behind. They can come along and join in the fun! There are heaps of other places out there, so you are bound to find the perfect spot for the whole family to enjoy!

Happy Holidays!

Author Bio: Tamara Paulin is a self-proclaimed crazy dog lady and blogger on https://www.lovethatpet.com/. She has recently completed a Psychology degree with Honours, and loves nothing more than cuddles with her favourite, furry friends. Connect with her on Google+ 

Pressplay Pets a blog for the modern age pet parent interested in health & care, news, reviews & personal accounts of unconditional love & at times heartfelt pain of pet parenting!