Posted Thu 05 Jan 2023 at 08:15am
Ah, Margaret River, known for its wines and excellent eateries. Not so well-known for its dog-friendly locations and activities. But, with a little digging, there’s actually plenty to add to the itinerary, whether your pup loves the great outdoors or just lazing by your feet as you taste test the region’s finest. To take the hassle out of your next trip to WA’s most popular holiday spot, we’ve rounded up the best dog-friendly activities that will make your trip one to remember.
Dog-friendly beaches
Get out the tennis ball, the Margaret River Region is home to plenty of sandy spots perfect for doggy paddling.
Gnarabup dog beach, Prevelly
If you’re staying close to the township of Margaret River, this beautiful stretch of sand is just a hop, skip and jump away and ideal for that seaside holiday snap. There are rock pools to be explored, plenty of white sand to play and run on, and sparkling turquoise water to swim in. Dogs can roam free year-round at the northern end and near the sand dunes at Riflebutts Reserve.
Gracetown Beach, Gracetown
Drive 20 minutes north, and you’ll come to the charming village of Gracetown, which has a small curve of sand that’s dog-friendly at the south end, with rocks and low scrub to explore. The beach is best accessed via the dirt track past Percy Street on Bayview Terrace.
Other dog-friendly beaches to explore in the region include:
- Busselton
- Dunsborough Foreshore
- Yallingup Beach
- Smiths Beach
- Finders Bay
- Prevelly Beach
- Augusta
- Eagle Bay
- Bunker Bay
Dog-friendly walks
Pick up the pace with a stroll or hike along the stunning coastal fridge – one activity not to be missed.
Geographe Path, Busselton
This paved walking trail along the foreshore stretches 23 km from Busselton to Dunsborough, and dogs must be on a lead. If that sounds like an exhaustingly long trek, you can break it up with a stop along many of the dog-friendly beaches.
Bush Loop, West Busselton
This is a 4.5km hiking and biking trail, and dogs are welcome on a lead. Enter the trail from Frederick Street and follow the path as it winds around the suburban streets and ends back where you started.
Dog-friendly breweries
Good boys (and girls) are most welcome at these local watering holes – a pint for you and water for them.
Brewhouse, Margaret River
One of the most popular spots in town and easily one of the best, with plenty of grass for dogs to relax on and craft beers on tap. Come for the lively atmosphere and beer tastings, and stay for the food; the menu is an elevated take on typical pub grub and exciting fusion takes.
Beerfarm, Metricup
Just a 20-minute drive from the Margaret River township, located on 160 acres of countryside, lies this converted dairy farm where pups are literally treated like royalty. There’s ample space to run about, endlessly filled water bowls on tap, and even a special doggie beer, “Bow Wow Brau”, made from bone broth. Resident doggos Millie and Bruce are also around most days looking for playmates and a pat.
Other dog-friendly breweries to explore in the region include:
Dog-friendly wineries
Whether it’s a Chardonnay or a Cab Sav you fancy, you’re in the right place. Dogs are welcome at many wineries, though call on the day to check if that means free rein or just outside.
Passel Estate, Margaret River
If it’s a small, family-run atmosphere you’re after, this is the cellar door for you. Dogs are welcome on the lawn and tasting room deck, where they (and you) can take in the breathtaking vineyard and bushland surroundings. Because of nearby wildlife, pups are to be kept on a lead.
Swings and Roundabouts, Yallingup
This cellar door is just as known for its award-winning cab sav and chardonnay as it is for its dog-loving ways. Pups are allowed inside here, and their thirst easily quenched with a trip to the adorable drinking station. For the two-legged, there’s a locally sourced menu with pizza as the main attraction, Mediterranean-style wines, and stunning vistas over Margaret River from the expansive lawn. Enjoy a glass by the roaring fireplace in the winter, and in the summer, take in the views from the playful swing seats on the deck.
Other dog-friendly wineries to explore in the region include:
Dog-friendly cafes
Just as Perth has many dog-friendly cafes, so too does Margaret River, with locals accommodating dogs in outdoor dining areas on a lead. Call ahead to check if there will be seating available.
The White Elephant Beach Cafe, Prevelly
Located overlooking the beautiful Gnarabup Beach, this recently renovated café has ample outdoor seating and a rotating door for four-legged locals. Come for the view and stay for the breaky burger and coffee. As the beach is also dog-friendly, you’ll have little reason to venture far with your mate – which is a good thing as the lunch menu here is also not to be missed.
Goanna Café and Gallery
A 35-minute drive from Margaret River township or just 10 minutes from Dunsborough, this casual dining spot is so secluded, nestled amongst the natural bushland, you’ll feel like you’re in another world. Every meal is simple yet exciting, with a menu that changes with the seasons, featuring the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Vegan and vegetarian options are available too. Pups are allowed on a lead in the outdoor area.
Other dog-friendly cafes to explore in the region include:
