Welcome to South Coast, New South Wales, a tranquil retreat that gracefully sprawls along the dazzling Pacific. A place where vibrant blue waters gently kiss the golden sands, the South Coast is more than just a picturesque coastal stretch. It’s a soothing symphony of rolling hills, flourishing national parks, historical towns, and pristine beaches, designed to capture hearts and liberate the spirit.
And the best part? This beautiful, sprawling stretch of the NSW coastline loves your four-legged mates as much as you do! There’s a strong pet-friendly culture here, embraced by locals and businesses alike, making the South Coast a paw-fect holiday destination for pet lovers.
With a treasure trove of pet-friendly accommodations, beaches, parks, and eateries, the South Coast ensures that your furry family members don’t just come along for the trip, but they have the time of their lives as well. So, whether you and your pet are adventurers at heart, or just love to chill and soak up the sun, the South Coast’s welcoming, laid-back vibe makes it a paw-some destination for every pet and pet-parent. So, pack your bags, leash up, and come join us on a spectacular South Coast journey!
South Coast’s Pet-Friendly Attractions and Activities
The South Coast of NSW is a treasure trove for pet lovers! Head to Mollymook Beach, where leashes are optional, or Callala Beach for a tranquil walk with your furry friend. Conjola National Park welcomes pets in certain zones, offering scenic walking trails. In the historic town of Berry, you’ll find pet-friendly streets, parks, and cafes. Looking for more action? The Shoalhaven Heads Dog Exercise Area is a safe, fenced spot for dogs to run free. From beaches to dog parks, South Coast’s pet-friendly sites make it the perfect spot for a getaway with your beloved pet.
Top 10 Pet-Friendly Accommodations on South Coast
1. The Sebel Harbourside Kiama
This boutique hotel has a rich history dating back to the 1870s. Today, it has transformed into a stylish pet-friendly accommodation that offers spacious rooms with private balconies and direct access to Kiama’s picturesque harbour. One of the standout features is their pet welcome pack which includes doggie treats, waste bags and a list of nearby pet-friendly locations. Its on-site restaurant, Yves, also allows pets on its outdoor dining area, making it an absolute dream for pet lovers.
2. Holiday Haven Ulladulla
Situated on the scenic Ulladulla Headland, this holiday park boasts stunning ocean views, direct beach access, and a variety of accommodation options. It’s a favourite among families due to its outdoor facilities that include a playground, tennis court, and BBQ area. For pets, there’s plenty of open space to roam, and they’re welcome in all camping and caravan sites.
3. Kendalls on the Beach Holiday Park
This holiday park offers a direct route to the waves of Kendalls Beach, making it a prime location for beach-loving pets and their owners. It features modern beach cabins that are pet-friendly outside of peak season, giving you the chance to enjoy a beach holiday with your furry friend. There’s also a dedicated off-leash area nearby where your pet can let loose and make new friends.
4. Mollymook Caravan Park
Set in the heart of Mollymook, this caravan park is a tranquil and spacious haven that your pet will love. The pet-friendly park offers easy access to Mollymook Beach and a short drive to the historic town of Milton. They offer a selection of pet-friendly sites for caravans, camping and even a few cabin options. It’s a great spot for pets to enjoy nature, with numerous walking trails and parks nearby.
5. Ingenia Holidays Lake Conjola
Located on the stunning Lake Conjola, this holiday park offers a great variety of activities for everyone, including boating, fishing, and kayaking. The park provides pet-friendly cabin options during the off-peak season, and pets are always welcome on caravan and camping sites. With plenty of walking trails around the lake and a dog-friendly beach, it’s a haven for your pet’s adventure.
6. Discovery Parks – Gerroa
Positioned at the mouth of the Crooked River, with the stunning Seven Mile Beach nearby, this park is a pet lover’s paradise. It offers a range of pet-friendly cabin and site options, and your furry friends can enjoy the numerous nearby dog-friendly beaches and parks. Its perfect setting offers the chance for beautiful sunsets and beach strolls with your pet.
7. Huskisson Beach Tourist Resort
This resort is perfectly located on the shores of the spectacular Jervis Bay, offering clear turquoise waters and some of the whitest sands in the world. It boasts pet-friendly cabins and powered sites where you can enjoy a beachfront stay with your pet. Huskisson town centre is just a short walk away, offering numerous pet-friendly cafés.
8. Murramarang Beachfront Nature Resort
This resort provides a unique blend of luxury, relaxation and adventure in the heart of Murramarang National Park. Offering a selection of pet-friendly powered sites, this resort also has a nearby dog-friendly beach. The surrounding national park also provides countless bushwalking tracks perfect for exploring with your pet.
9. BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park Kiama
This award-winning holiday park offers direct access to a beautiful sandy beach, landscaped gardens and a range of top-quality amenities. It provides select pet-friendly cabins with private courtyards, and also allows pets at their camping and caravan sites during the off-peak season.
10. Lake Tabourie Tourist Park
Sitting between the crystal clear waters of Lake Tabourie and the blue waves of the Pacific Ocean, this park is a serene getaway. Pets are welcome on camping and caravan sites during low and mid seasons, offering plenty of opportunities for walks around the lake, beach strolls, and bird watching.
Choosing Your Pet-Friendly Accommodation on South Coast
Deciding where to stay on your pet-friendly adventure to the South Coast doesn’t have to be a chore. Here are some key considerations to guide your decision:
- Location: Be sure to choose a place that’s close to pet-friendly beaches, parks, or trails, especially if your furry companion loves exploring the great outdoors.
- Amenities: Look for accommodations that offer specific pet-friendly amenities, like secure fencing, pet beds, or doggy doors.
- Pet Policies: Each place will have its own rules regarding pets. Some might only allow small dogs, while others might welcome pets of all shapes and sizes. Make sure to check these policies before making your reservation to avoid any hiccups. It’s crucial to understand and respect these policies for the sake of all guests and pets.
Preparing Your Pet for the South Coast Adventure
Your pet’s comfort and safety should be a top priority during your South Coast getaway. Here are some tips for a stress-free adventure:
- Pack Essentials: Pack all necessary supplies, including food, water, pet beds, leashes, toys, and waste bags. A familiar blanket or toy can help ease your pet into the new environment.
- Health Checks: Make sure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and is fit to travel. It might be a good idea to bring along your vet’s contact details just in case.
- Get To Know Local Rules: Each region will have its own regulations regarding pets. On the South Coast, most beaches allow dogs but they must be on a leash. Some beaches might have off-leash areas or times. Always follow signage and respect local pet etiquette to ensure a great experience for everyone.
Conclusion: Your Pet-Friendly South Coast Adventure Awaits
And there you have it, mate! You’ve got the ins and outs of planning a stellar pet-friendly adventure to the South Coast. From exploring our handpicked accommodations to understanding local pet etiquette, we’ve covered all bases. Now, it’s your turn to turn these tips into reality. Pack your bags (and your pet’s, too), and get ready to create lasting memories amidst the breathtaking vistas of the South Coast.
Join Our Pet-Traveler’s Community
Before you set off, why not join our ever-growing community of pet travellers? We’d love to hear about your experiences, and your insights could help other pet parents plan their journey. Plus, it’s always heartwarming to see your fur babies having the time of their lives!
And don’t forget, if you found this guide useful, feel free to share it with your mates and fellow pet-lovers. The more the merrier in our pursuit of creating an all-inclusive, pet-friendly travel environment in Australia! Safe travels, and we can’t wait to hear about your adventures on the South Coast.