Posted Fri 24 Feb 2023 at 09:00am
Explore NSW like never before with our list of the best dog-friendly road trips from Sydney.
If you want to spend some time solo travelling around NSW with Fido, you’ve come to the right place. From coastal escapes to bustling cities and alpine towns – we’ve dug out the best dog-friendly road trips from Sydney, so you don’t have to!
1. Kiama
Picturesque and tranquil, Kiama makes for a great dog-friendly road trip from Sydney. This popular coastal escape is home to pristine beaches and one of the world’s biggest blowholes, known as the Kiama Blowhole. The blowhole can be seen from multiple vantage points, and dogs can witness the incredible experience as long as they’re on a leash.
Like most beach towns, coastal walks and beach hopping are among the top activities. Jones Beach is known for being a surfer’s paradise; just keep an eye on Fido, as the beach isn’t patrolled.
Bombo Beach is another off-leash beach to add to your list. The beach is 1200 metres long, but dogs are only allowed in the centre of the beach between sunrise and sunset.
2. Jindabyne
Situated at the edge of the Snowy Mountains, Jindabyne is an alpine town close to popular ski resorts such as Thredbo and Perisher Valley. This bustling mountain town is best visited during Australia’s cooler months.
There are a few scenic dog-friendly walks you can explore. Banjo Patterson Park is a good one to add to your list as it has a paved path and is 3.5km long.
Jindabyne isn’t just popular for its snow play, it’s also a renowned trout fishing destination, so you may want to hire some fishing gear from one of the nearby stores!
3. Port Macquarie
If sun, sand and surf are your things, then you can’t go wrong with a road trip to Port Macquarie. With dog-friendly beaches at your doorstep, interesting cafes and plenty of water activities in the region, your pup certainly won’t be bored!
Let the sea set you free at the breathtaking Nobby’s Beach. Your pooch will have a field day running and digging through 400 meters of sand. For some more off-leash fun, head to Lighthouse Beach.
Refuel after your beach day at the Botanic Wine Garden. Its dog-friendly outdoor area is paw-fect for catching the sunset and filling up on the freshest produce.
Looking for more things to do in Port Macquarie with your pup? Check out our dog-friendly guide to Port Macquarie.
4. Hunter Valley
Wine down with Fido at the Hunter Valley – one of Australia’s major wine regions. Ignite your palette with the finest varietals, such as Semillon and Shiraz. The best part? This dog-friendly road trip from Sydney is just a 3-hour drive away!
Briar Ridge Vineyard is renowned for being super dog-friendly. Pups can chow down a ‘Pooch Platter’, which features an assortment of Jollie Dog Treats, all while you enjoy your wine tasting.
Carillion Wines is another winery worth checking out. Witness beautiful views of Tallevera Grove Vineyard with a glass of the finest Sauvignon Blanc in hand.
Discover more dog-friendly wineries in NSW where you can sip the day away.
5. Jervis Bay
With crystal-clear water, white sand, and marine life, it’s safe to say that a dog-friendly road trip from Sydney to Jervis Bay is good for the soul.
Hop on the Jervis Bay Wild Cruise with Fido (small pets are allowed only) and witness Dolphins, Whales and Seals frolicking in and out of the ocean – make sure you have your camera ready to go!
If your pup is a water baby, they’ll get a real kick from all the water activities available. Rent a kayak or a SUP-paddle board and watch Fido have the time of their life! Immerse yourself in some of Australia’s best dog-friendly beaches, like Currarong Beach or Callala Beach.
See what other dog-friendly beaches on the South Coast you can visit during your getaway.
6. Blue Mountains
Best known for its captivating rock formations, such as the Three Sisters, the Blue Mountains is a great dog-friendly road trip from Sydney that can be done all year round.
While dogs are permitted from entering the Blue Mountains National Park, plenty of dog-friendly walks with fantastic views remain. The South Lawson Circut Walk has not just one but four stunning waterfalls. Visit after a period of rain as that’s when the falls will be running freely. Planning on going on a few walks with Fido? Check out our complete list of dog-friendly walks in the Blue Mountains.
After your walk, pop into Cafe Leura for breakfast or lunch and order a puppuccino for your little mate.
7. Ulladulla
Fill up the tank and venture to Ulladulla. Situated in Shoalhaven, this coastal town is about a 3-hour drive from Sydney, giving you plenty of time for your pup to lap up the car ride.
One does not simply travel to Ulladulla without swimming at one of the beaches! Up north is the gorgeous Collers Beach in Mollymook. Isolated and pristine, this dog-friendly beach is perfect for some off-leash fun in the sun. Towards the centre of Ulladulla is Ulladulla Harbour North Beach. Despite its small size, this beach is located next to a fish cleaning station, so Fido will have a field day sniffing new smells.
Take a break from the water, and hit up Cupitt’s Estate for some wines and brews. Tuck into your meal while overlooking the vineyard with your pooch.
8. Canberra
You may be wondering if there’s much for dogs to do in Canberra, but the capital city of Australia is, in fact, very dog-friendly. While dogs may not be allowed in Parliament house (bummer), four-legged friends can zoom through off-leash parks, take on scenic walks, and dine out with their human at various cafes, bars and restaurants.
Kick off your adventure with a visit to the “best dog park in Canberra.” Yarralumla Dog Park has two off-leash sections for small and big pups and backs onto a lake.
In terms of eating out, Teddy Pickers Cafe is our top pick. There’s a ‘Dog Bar’ where pups can help themselves to some refreshments, and they serve all-day breakfast for the two-legged folks! While you’re out and about, check out one of these dog-friendly cafes in Canberra.
Unsure where to stay? Our list of the best dog-friendly accommodation in Canberra has got you covered.
9. Forster
Home to isolated beaches and the best Sydney Rock Oysters in Australia, a dog-friendly road trip from Sydney to Forster is worth the drive.
While you’re there, you’ll want to make a stop at One Mile Beach. Popular amongst families and surfers, this beach allows pups off-leash at the northern end. There’s also a giant sandhill for Fido to sink their paws into.
As for accommodation, you and Fido can treat yourself to a stay at a luxury beach house, comfy motel or dog-friendly caravan park.
10. Byron Bay
If you’re up for the 8-hour drive, Byron Bay is one of the best dog-friendly road trips from Sydney that you could do! Situated on the far-north coast of NSW, this coastal town is known for its captivating beaches, scenic walks, shops and relaxed nightlife.
Start your day with a trip to Belongil Beach. This off-leash dog beach has ample space, so your furbaby is likely to be worn out at the end of the day! Other dog-friendly beaches worth visiting include Tallow Beach and Brunswick Heads Beach.
Take Fido for a day at The Farm, there are plenty of animals for your pup to watch, and you can expect that only the freshest food reaches your plate.
