From Beach Runs to Cellar Doors: Australia’s Best Pet-Friendly Aussie getaways, rated by the Real Experts (Dogs)
Need pet friendly Aussie getaways? Of course you do.
Afterall, your fur babies simply MUST be part of any adventure no matter what! Afterall, it’s not a holiday if you haven’t got your bestie beside you, eh? And what better way to get the inside scoop than from our furry friends?
Join us as we sniff out six incredible pet-friendly Aussie getaways, each paw-printed with the approval of their dog guests. From vineyard views to beach strolls, here’s what these paw-some pups had to say about their stays!
Pet Friendly Aussie Getaways: Starting with Daisy at Winmark Wines, Broke NSW – Bichon Frisé with Flair
“Oh my paws, where do I even start? Winmark Winery, darling, is just fantastisk! My humans stayed at Villa Vino, and I had the run of the place — vineyards, gardens, and the sculpture trail. I even popped into the gift shop and admired the artworks (on my best behaviour, of course). It’s lavish here with the gourmet restaurant, tennis court and pool, but everyone made me feel so welcome.
I lost a Pandora charm at the pet-friendly cellar door during a tasting — imagine my relief when one of the lovely staff found it and returned it with a wink. Plenty of pats, vineyard views, and even a couple of new dog mates.
We’re following each other on Insta now. Four decorated paws up!”
Accommodates: 2 guests at Villa Vino
Pet Policy: Dogs are not just allowed — they’re encouraged at Winmark! Pets are welcome in the accommodation and at the cellar door. A small cleaning fee applies for pets. Winmark also has larger, pet-friendly accommodation like Mio Monte, which sleeps 14, and in total, the estate can host up to 24 guests.
Rusty at Yurt by Sea, Mullaway NSW – Kelpie, Beach Lover.
“Strewth, Yurt by Sea’s a dog’s dream! I ran like the wind, made new mates, and had a blast on the leash-free, dog-friendly beach down the road. My humans even had a BBQ on the verandah, and I scored some snags. The local hamburger joint tossed me some chips — proper crispy ones! And don’t get me started on the pub. It’s the friendliest one on the East Coast, no doubt. Everyone gave me a pat and a scratch. Best part? No extra charge for dogs of any size — do they think I’m cheap? The yard’s not fenced, so I had to keep my wits about me, but with all the fresh air and freedom, I couldn’t complain.
Four sandy paws up!”
Accommodates: 5 guests
Pet Policy: Yurt by Sea is a welcoming paradise for dogs of any size, with no additional fee! Cats may also be allowed by request. And just be sure to clean up after your pet and do a bit of extra vacuuming before departure to keep it in tip-top shape for the next guests.
Mellow at Sutherland Downs Retreat, Coomba Bay – Golden Retriever, chilled ex surfer.
“Well, now, Sutherland Downs, that’s a place to chillax, my friends. With 28 acres of peaceful land, I took it all in — slow strolls under the big sky, a few bursts of excitement here and there, but mostly just taking it easy, like a true Zen master. The humans fed Blackie and Zorro, the donkeys, who are total characters. We even had a BBQ on the verandah — snags, good vibes, and even better company. It’s the sort of place where you can unwind with a sunset, listen to the crackle of the firepit, and let the world drift by at its own pace.
Now, don’t get me wrong, my humans were off doing their thing – surfing lessons at Boomerang Beach and yoga retreats. I saw a lot of Downward Dogs, but for me, I’m all about that slow life. The occasional game of fetch or a roll around on the 28 acres of lush grass kept me entertained and everyone knew I knew where the best sunning spots were. Lovin’ the chilled, relaxed vibe here.
I did think about sliding into the hot tub myself, cause, hey, how would I have got out? And as for the lily pond, well, those pads looked a bit iffy for a girl my size. But you bet I had my fill of lounging around listening to good times.
The best part? The awesome folks here made sure we had everything we wanted…to the games and great food – yep, humans organised a special celebration. It’s a place I could easily call home.
I give it four paws up…slowly”
Accommodates: Up to 21 guests (plus plenty of space for my lazy naps!)
Pet Policy: Allows 1 dog under 10 kg for an additional fee of AU$50 per stay. For larger dogs like me, there’s an extra fee, so the humans just had to fork out a bit more for my big self. Sorry, no cats.
Archie at Fishcakes, Seal Rocks NSW – Jack Russell, salty little legend.
“G’day! Archie here. I’m compact, curious, and always up for a paddle. Fishcakes was a dream. Designer but cosy, with Balinese-inspired architecture and comfy corners just made for curling up next to the sofa (I know the rules).
I kicked off every morning with a beach stroll, there’s a dog-friendly track just down the road. Sniffed the breeze, chased a wave, made some friends. At sunset, my humans lit the fire pit and grilled dinner while I kept an eye on the snacks (and the seagulls).
It’s not fenced, so I stuck close but the views, the salty air, and those luxe touches inside? Spot on.
Four sandy paws up. And yes, I’d go back tomorrow.”
Accommodates: 7 guests (3 bedrooms)
Pet Policy: One small to medium-sized, house-trained, well-behaved dog welcome for a fee of $175 per pet. Sorry, no cats.
Berrie at Coromandel Homestead, Berrima, NSW – Cockapoo, cute & spunky.
“Och aye! It’s Berrie here — a bonnie wee Cockapoo wi’ curls for days and a nose for luxury. I’ve just returned fae the stylish Coromandel Homestead in the Southern Highlands and let me tell ye, it’s the bee’s knees for pups like me.
The homestead itself is a stunner, all classy-like wi’ crackin’ fireplaces for toasty naps, soft sofas (don’t fash, I brought me own blankie), and views over rolling paddocks. There’s even a wee cottage out the back if yer bringing the clan. There’s a proper verandah for keeping watch (aka snoozing in the sun), and bonnie green grass outside was perfect for a scamper, that go on forever. I ran myself silly doing zoomies till I looked like a little grass ball, so worth it while the humans sipped their wine and nattered away.
We took the lead into historic Berrima village, just a stone’s throw away, grabbed a puppuccino at one of the cafés, and explored the walking tracks down by the river. I sniffed every stick in the Southern Highlands, did a cheeky strut past the market stalls, and gave a knowing nod to other Highlands hounds.
Now listen up – not every pup gets the VIP invite. Only small, house-trained legends like me are welcome, and only if the humans ask nicely (it’s on a request basis). Bring yer own bed, stay off the posh furnishings, and dinnae go wandering… it’s not fully fenced. But if yer a good lass (or lad), got good manners and a waggy tail, you’re golden. They’ll roll out the welcome mat and then some.
So aye, Coromandel? Stylish, scenic, and snuggle-approved. Between the fresh air, the toastie fires, open skies, and all that Highland charm, what’s not to love?
Four grassy paws up from me!”
Accommodates: 8 guests
Pet Fee: $50 per dog per stay (max 2 small dogs, by request)
George at Dryridge Estate, Megalong Valley, NSW – Groodle, resident heart-throb & Valley VIP
“Righto, listen up. I’m George, the resident Groodle, unofficial guest liaison, chief greeter, sun-lounger specialist, and yes, the fluffiest local in the Megalong Valley. My housemates? Angus the Cavoodle (bit of a show-off but love him) and Charlie the cat, who runs the joint. Don’t let the whiskers fool you… Charlie’s the boss.
Now, when pups arrive at Dryridge Estate, the first thing they notice?
The air. Fresher than a new tennis ball.
The views. Vineyards rolling into blue-hazed escarpments.
The vibe. Pure “ahhhh”. Even I get goosebumps under the curls.
My job is to stroll over casually, tails wagging, and give the newcomers the ol’ valley welcome. Humans melt instantly. Works every time.
The accommodation? Bellissimo. (I watch a lot of cooking shows, alright?) Sun-drenched patios perfect for morning sniffs, a crackling fireplace for evening snoozes, and windows so big I can supervise half the estate from one strategic napping position. The bedrooms are stylish too, not that I’m allowed on the beds, allegedly.
My favourite part?
Walkies among the vines. Long rows of grapevines just begging for a “sniff census”. Plenty of grass for tactical rolling. Kangaroos popping through like they own the place. Birds swooping about like an aerial circus.
When the humans wander down to the cellar door, I hold court on the lawn. They sip cool-climate wines (the rosé always gets that ‘oh my gosh’ reaction), soak in those Blue Mountains views, and chatter about how they’re never leaving. Meanwhile, I get pats from everyone. Honestly, it’s exhausting being this popular.
And between you and me, Dryridge hosts weddings and events, so sometimes I get to witness the odd dance move or two. Some humans should stick to slow-dancing. That’s all I’ll say.
Visitors often tell me they came for the wine, but stayed for the peace, the views, the sunsets, and the way life here just softens. I agree. The Megalong Valley works its magic on everyone.
So, if your humans want a vineyard escape with heart. and a warm welcome from yours truly, tell ’em George sent you.
Four vineyard-dusted paws up from me.”
Accommodation: Sleeps 12 in total (Homestead and Sunrise Lodge).
Pet Policy: Small dogs welcome by SEP (Special Exemption Permission). You’ll need your humans to request approval. Angus, Charlie and I will be assessing your application with great seriousness (and some tail wagging).
Final Paws…
If you ask us, as far as Pet Friendly Aussie getaways is concerned, Dryridge Estate is just the beginning. Across the Megalong and Hunter Valleys, South Australia’s Clare Valley region, and beyond, there are other brilliant stays where the vino flows, the views roll on, the waves beckon…and dogs like these are treated like family.
Winery weekends, coastal escapes, even the occasional yurt… Travellarks has sniffed out the good ones, brilliant Pet Friendly Aussie Getaways, so all you have to do is pack the treats.
Ready to roam and book your handpicked Pet Friendly accommodation?
You’ll find a beauty at Travellarks pet friendly Getaways.
