Paws on the Road: The 6 Best Dog-Friendly Escapes in NSW
From Sapphire Coast cabins to inland dam adventures, here is how to holiday with your hound.
Australians love taking their pets on holiday, and for good reason. It’s no longer just about avoiding kennel costs; it’s about making memories with every member of the family.
According to Nick Baker, CEO of Reflections Holidays, this shift is permanent.
'Pet-friendly travel is moving from a ‘nice-to-have’ to a deciding factor in holiday planning,' he says.
Choosing pet-friendly accommodation removes that "kennel guilt" and keeps your budget intact for more important things—like local coffee and seaside fish and chips.
1. The Social Hub: Lennox Head
Location: Far North Coast
Lennox Head is the epitome of relaxed beach-town charm. Located directly across from the iconic Seven Mile Beach, this park is a haven for social pups.
The Dog Factor: Start your morning with a sandy sprint on the leash-free stretches of Seven Mile Beach (north of the Surf Club).
The "Jazz": The park features a dedicated enclosed off-leash area complete with agility equipment for high-energy breeds. After a session on the hurdles, use the professional-grade on-site dog wash to rinse off the salt and sand before heading to the trendy, dog-welcoming cafés in town.
2. The Quiet Coastal Secret: Corindi Beach
Location: 30 minutes north of Coffs Harbour
If your dog prefers birding and bushwalking over bustling crowds, Corindi Beach is the spot. Set behind rolling sand dunes and adjacent to Yuraygir National Park, it offers a peaceful "nature-first" vibe.
The Dog Factor: Enjoy the leash-free zone stretching from south of Ocean Street down to Arrawarra Headland—kilometres of pristine coastline for roaming.
The "Jazz": Keep an eye out for the local kangaroos that frequently graze near the campsites! The park also features a Bush Tucker Garden, perfect for a sensory lead-walk in the afternoon.
Stay: Spacious double-slab powered sites (perfect for larger rigs) and dedicated dog-friendly cabins.
3. The Classic Aussie Summer: Evans Head
Location: Northern Rivers
Evans Head captures the nostalgia of the classic Aussie beach holiday. Surrounded by water, you have the river on one side and the ocean on the other.
The "Jazz": For those who want a touch of luxury, Reflections Evans Head offers dog-friendly Beach Houses. These come with fully enclosed yards, elevated dog beds, and even a "welcome treat" on arrival.
Stay: Riverside or Beachside camping precincts, tiny homes, and premium beach houses.
4. The Surf & Sniff: Scotts Head
Location: One hour south of Coffs Harbour
Scotts Head is a laid-back village where life revolves around the point break. It’s the perfect spot for a low-key weekend where the dog never has to leave your side.
The "Jazz": After a day at the beach, head to The Point Café—a local institution where pups are treated like VIPs—before using the park’s dedicated warm dog bath to get your pooch "cabin-ready."
Stay: Eight "Economy" grass sites specifically for smaller setups, plus cabins and villas.
5. The Sapphire Coast Wildcard: Eden
Location: South Coast
Eden is where the wild bush meets the deep blue. Reflections Eden sits on the shores of Lake Curalo, offering a unique mix of lakeside tranquillity and beach access.
The Dog Factor: The Lake Curalo Boardwalk is a flat, easy walk perfect for older dogs, leading directly to the off-leash areas of Aslings Beach.
The "Jazz": The dog-friendly Economy Cabins here feature gated verandahs, allowing your pet to lounge safely outside. In winter, the park allows raised fire pits, perfect for a cosy night under the stars with your pup by your feet.
Stay: All campsites are dog-friendly year-round, plus selected cabins and tiny homes.
6. The Off-Grid Adventure: Grabine Lakeside
Location: Near Wyangala Dam (Inland NSW)
For dogs that prefer fresh water and wide-open spaces, Grabine Lakeside is a revelation. Set on the shores of Wyangala Dam, it’s an "adventure dog" paradise.
The Dog Factor: No salt, no sand, just hectares of bushland and calm lake water for swimming.
The "Jazz": Take your dog on the Decca Trail for panoramic views of the dam, or bring them along on the boat—Wyangala is a premier spot for dog-friendly fishing and canoeing.
 |
| A room with a view: Grabine Lakeside is the ultimate off-grid retreat for water-loving pups and their humans. Photo: Reflections NSW. |
Know Before You Go: Pro-Tips for Pet Owners
Vaccination is Key: Reflections requires all dogs to be up to date with their vaccinations (C5 level is standard). While the pet community is increasingly discussing Titre Testing as an alternative for monitoring immunity, current park policy still requires a valid vaccination certificate at check-in. Always have a digital or paper copy of your vet records ready to ensure a smooth arrival.
The "Two-Dog" Limit: Most parks allow up to two dogs per booking.
Cabin vs. Site: While sites are generally pet-friendly year-round, cabins must be booked specifically as "Dog Friendly." Look for the paw-print icon when booking online.
The Dog Traveller’s Essential Checklist
Before you put the car in drive, make sure you’ve ticked off these 2026 travel essentials:
Safety First: In NSW, it is a legal requirement that your dog is restrained and does not interfere with the driver. Use a crash-tested car harness or a secured crate. Fines for unrestrained pets (especially on a driver's lap) can exceed $450.
Coastal Protection: Paralysis ticks are a year-round threat on the NSW coast. Consult your vet to ensure your dog is on an active preventative program suited to your travel destination, and perform a "finger-touch" check of their coat every evening.
The "Scent of Home": Pack their favourite unwashed blanket. The familiar smell helps reduce "new-place anxiety" and helps them settle in a cabin or tent much faster.
Emergency Contact: Save the number of a 24-hour emergency vet at your destination before you leave home.
