Welcome to Geelong, Victoria’s second largest city, teeming with a rich heritage and a vibrant culture. Located on Corio Bay and the Barwon River, Geelong boasts an urban landscape blended seamlessly with stunning waterfront views, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture. It’s not just an urban oasis for people, though; it’s also a pet lover’s paradise!
Geelong has a welcoming and inclusive attitude towards our furry friends. The city is dotted with numerous pet-friendly parks and outdoor spaces where your beloved pet can roam freely. Many businesses, including cafes, restaurants, and shops, extend their hospitality to pets, making it a delightful city to explore with your four-legged companion.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Geelong’s pet-friendly culture ensures that your pet can join in on your adventures. In Geelong, your pet is not just a pet; they’re part of the community!
Geelong’s Pet-Friendly Attractions and Activities
As an urban oasis, Geelong is brimming with a wealth of pet-friendly attractions and activities. The city’s stunning parks and open spaces offer a multitude of opportunities for dogs to frolic and play. Eastern Park and Johnstone Park are two of the popular green spaces where leashed dogs are welcomed.
If your furry friend is a water lover, Geelong has that covered too! The city is home to several dog-friendly beaches, with the most popular being the Dog Beach in Ocean Grove. It’s an off-leash area where dogs can enjoy splashing in the waves.
Additionally, Geelong’s waterfront and scenic trails provide ideal spots for leisurely strolls or energetic walks with your pet. The Bayside Bollard Trail, for instance, offers a fascinating walk alongside more than 100 painted bollards depicting the city’s history. It’s a great way to take in the sights while getting some exercise for you and your pet.
Top 10 Pet-Friendly Accommodations in Geelong
1. Geelong Bay Escapes
Established in 2001, Geelong Bay Escapes specializes in premium short-stay accommodations with a wide range of options. Their pet-friendly properties are typically furnished with enclosed yards, providing a safe play area for your pets. Convenient locations near Eastern Beach, Geelong Botanic Gardens, and the city center mean your pet will have plenty of sightseeing opportunities.
2. Riverside Ocean Grove
Overlooking the tranquil Barwon River, Riverside Ocean Grove offers a unique blend of comfort, relaxation, and adventure for you and your pet. It’s situated near the dog-friendly Ocean Grove Beach, making it a fantastic choice for pet owners who love beach outings. The property offers cabins with private decks, where your furry friend can enjoy the fresh ocean breeze.
3. Discovery Parks – Geelong
Nestled in the heart of Geelong’s scenic parkland, Discovery Parks provides a relaxed atmosphere for you and your pets. Their designated pet-friendly cabins and powered sites are surrounded by sprawling green spaces for your pet to frolic. The park’s proximity to Bellarine Rail Trail and Geelong Adventure Park offers an array of outdoor adventures for you and your pet.
4. Aberdeen Motor Inn
This pet-friendly motor inn is strategically located in Geelong’s vibrant city center. Pets are welcome in selected rooms that feature a comfortable setup for both you and your furry friend. The inn is a stone’s throw away from Eastern Beach, where dogs are allowed off-leash during certain times, and the beautiful Johnstone Park, a perfect spot for a leisurely walk with your pet.
5. Novotel Geelong
Novotel Geelong extends its world-class service to pets in selected rooms. Located on the waterfront, the hotel offers incredible views and easy access to Eastern Beach and the city’s coastal walking trails. Besides, the hotel’s close proximity to Geelong’s Botanic Gardens provides a serene and lush environment for your pet to explore.
6. Barwon Valley Lodge
Nestled on the banks of the Barwon River, this lodge is surrounded by beautiful gardens, providing a tranquil environment for both you and your pet. It offers well-appointed pet-friendly apartments with private patios and spacious gardens. With its proximity to the river and the Barwon Valley Park, it’s an ideal location for leisurely strolls and playtime with your pet.
7. Bellarine Bayside Holiday Parks – Portarlington
Situated along the beautiful Bellarine Peninsula, this holiday park welcomes pets in their powered sites and selected cabins. With direct access to the dog-friendly Portarlington Beach and a dedicated dog play area within the park, your four-legged companion will have plenty of space to roam and play.
8. Golden Palms Motel
This family-owned motel in Grovedale offers selected pet-friendly rooms that provide all the comforts for your pet. With its ideal location, you’re never far from dog parks and beaches, including the popular Torquay Dog Beach, making it a great base for your Geelong adventure.
9. Gateway Hotel
This iconic hotel in Corio offers a small selection of pet-friendly rooms so you can enjoy your stay in Geelong without leaving your pet behind. It’s close to the picturesque Stead Park, a great place for a walk or a quick game of fetch.
10. Rydges Geelong
This modern hotel offers a limited number of pet-friendly rooms, so it’s recommended to book in advance. Its prime location in the city centre means you’re within easy reach of several parks and walking trails. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Geelong with your pet, from Eastern Beach to the vibrant waterfront precinct.
Please note, it’s always recommended to call ahead and confirm the pet policy when booking.
Choosing Your Pet-Friendly Accommodation in Geelong
Finding the right accommodation for you and your pet in Geelong is an important part of planning your trip. Here are a few things to consider:
- Pet Policy: Every accommodation has its own pet policy. Some might welcome pets with open arms, while others might have specific restrictions. Make sure you fully understand the pet policy of any accommodation before booking.
- Amenities: Look for accommodations that offer pet-friendly amenities. These could include a secure garden, pet beds, food bowls, and even pet sitting services.
- Location: An accommodation close to pet-friendly parks or beaches can make your stay more enjoyable. It would give easy access to places where you can take your pet for walks or play.
Remember, respecting the accommodation’s pet policy is crucial. This includes keeping your pet under control, cleaning up after them, and preventing them from causing any damage. By following the rules, you help ensure that these accommodations continue to welcome pets in the future.
Preparing Your Pet for the Geelong Adventure
Proper preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip for both you and your furry friend.
- Start with a visit to the vet. Make sure your pet is up-to-date with vaccinations and is healthy for travel.
- Pack essential items such as food, water, a leash, waste bags, toys, and a comfortable pet bed or blanket.
- Research the area beforehand to find local vets, pet shops, and pet-friendly restaurants or cafes.
- Always have your pet’s ID tags and any necessary documentation readily available.
In Geelong, the local etiquette and regulations for pets are quite straightforward:
- Pets must be on a leash in public areas unless in a designated off-leash area.
- Owners are required to clean up after their pets.
- It’s important to respect the comfort and safety of others by ensuring your pet is well-behaved in public spaces.
Conclusion: Your Pet-Friendly Geelong Adventure Awaits
From exploring the vibrant city life to experiencing the natural beauty of parks and beaches, Geelong offers a unique blend of attractions for every pet lover. Remember to carefully consider your accommodation options and respect their pet policies. With the right preparation, you and your pet are ready for an unforgettable Geelong adventure.
Join Our Pet-Traveler’s Community
We invite you to share your pet travel experiences in Geelong with our pet-traveler’s community. Your stories can provide valuable insights and inspiration to other pet owners planning their journey. If you found this guide helpful, please feel free to share it with other pet-friendly travel enthusiasts. Together, we can make travelling with pets a joy, not a hassle!
