Sapphire Coast dog-friendly holidays

best tips for a pet-friendly getaway

We’re animal lovers here on the Sapphire Coast. Whilst it’s fun to plan a holiday and to get away with your nearest and dearest, it’s always a wrench having to leave the fur baby behind. But there is a better way – now you can book the kind of holiday where your best furry friend can come too! From Bermagui in the north to Eden in the south, there’s a huge range of pet friendly accommodation, eateries, beaches, parks and walks to choose from. That way you’ll all have a great time and no-one gets left behind.

 For dog walking areas on the Sapphire Coast, be sure to check the official Bega Valley Shire Council dog walking areas for exact locations and details.

Eden

A natural paradise, Eden's extraordinary attractions range from spotting humpback whales in the deep blue waters of Twofold Bay to learning about the region's whaling heritage. Stunning clifftops and coastline take centre stage in this seaside town.

Pet friendly accommodation is offered at all of the holiday parks plus several private rentals in the area. But do check with the parks in advance during the super busy Christmas / New Year period.

For great local fare and a welcoming pat, you can’t go past Florabel Cafe, or the pup-friendly courtyard at Toast Cafe in the main street. Stunning Aslings Beach is perfect for off leash running, or Bungo Beach / Keith's Pinch Beach for some splendid isolation and scenery.

Check the official Bega Valley Shire Council dog walking areas for Aslings Beach and Bungo Beach / Keith's Pinch Beach.

Pambula

Historic Pambula features cool village vibes, bespoke shops and some of the best little eateries on the coast. Head to Pambula Beach for stunning waterways, stroll-worthy streets and to spot the resident kangaroos.

Stay at Reflections Holiday Park at Pambula in the heart of town, or if you’d rather a more rural environment, try Top of the Lake at Millingandi.

Craft beer, oysters and great vibes can be found at Longstocking Brewery including doggy valet parking, plus a tasty treat on arrival. In Pambula town, pets are welcome on the cosy back deck of Toast Pambula and the public outdoor tables in front of village baking legends, Wild Ryes.

Lions Park Beach (Jiguma Beach) is leash free all year round, enclosed at both ends by natural rock formations and is a favourite with local dogs and their owners, especially those who love to swim. The 77 hectare Panboola Wetlands is a paradise for birds and for that reason, your pooch can’t access all areas but there’s some short walks and trails that are dog friendly and this is a popular place for local dog walkers.

Check the official Bega Valley Shire Council dog walking areas for Lions Park Beach.

Merimbula

Beautiful Merimbula is brimming with dog friendly accommodation, beaches and of course eateries. The heart of the Sapphire Coast, this town shines all year round and offers something for everyone.

For a comfortable pet-friendly stay in town, why not try NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort, Tween Waters Holiday Park, Beach Cabins Merimbula, or if you’d rather a more rural environment, try Top of the Lake at Millingandi.

Take Fido to Waterfront Café for the best views in town or wander across to Mor Mors where you can enjoy the passing parade and amazing coffee. If you're after cocktails and mouth-watering burgers, the cute outdoor courtyard at Dulcie's Cottage at the top of town will be just the place.

Great, flat walks can be had along Fishpen Road alongside the lake where you’ll enjoy sublime views across Merimbula Bar to the ocean beyond. Wander further down Ocean drive and you’ll come to the off leash part of Merimbula Main Beach. Other dog friendly strolls include Merimbula’s famous boardwalk, the stunning headland at Short Point, and Lake Street Shared Path. Approximately 6km north of Merimbula is the beautiful Tura Beach / Short Point Beach, a sandy dog paradise right behind the Tura Beach Golf Course.

Check the official Bega Valley Shire Council dog walking areas for Merimbula Main Beach, Short Point Reserve, and Tura Beach.

Tathra

The beautiful town of Tathra is a paradise for those that like to get outside and get active and surrounded by beautiful beaches, headlands, inlets and nature.

For pampered pooches, book into Tathra Beachfront where your pet is made as welcome as you, with dog friendly cabins and even a doggy spa to get clean after those long days on the sand. Just five minutes inland from Tathra you and your pet can enjoy serene countryside vibes at Kalaru Holiday Park.

For some of the best dog friendly places to enjoy our delicious local produce try Wild Orchid Cafe or Salt Cafe, both just metres from the beach.

Enjoy an off-leash walk along the sand at Tathra Beach until you reach on-leash Lions Park, then hang out at stunning off-leash Punt Landing at Mogareeka Inlet where you can run, paddle and swim or just sit on the banks of the river and watch pooch explore this off leash doggy paradise.

Check the official Bega Valley Shire Council dog walking areas for Tathra Beach and Mogareeka Inlet.

Bermagui

Beautiful Bermagui is a must visit on the Sapphire Coast with expansive beaches and coastal walks. Explore the pretty harbour, discover local produce and wineries, and go further afield in search of adventure.

Accommodation options are myriad and include all four caravan parks in the Bermagui area: Reflections Holiday Parks, BIG4 Wallaga Lake, Ingenia Holidays Ocean Lake, Regatta Point Holiday Park.

Bermagui is a foodie’s paradise and many of these cool eateries are happy for Fido to join you in your culinary adventures. Enjoy the views from the Sun Deck at Fishermen’s Wharf, the great food and tunes from Bermi’s Beachside Café or head out to Camel Rock Brewery for a warm, dog friendly welcome and some great craft beers.

Beares Beach and Haywards Beach are lovely off leash areas, as is Headland Reserve and Moorehead Beach.

Check the official Bega Valley Shire Council dog walking areas for Beares Beach, Haywards Beach, Headland Reserve and Moorehead Beach.