Pet-friendly accommodation in Australia

Felix is one of the newer additions to Sydney’s hotel scene, and it’s done a lot in the way of making a name for itself. The hotel, which is situated just a short distance from Sydney Airport, has taken the idea of the ‘airport hotel’ to another level. Common areas are modern and bright while rooms come standard with rain showers, super fast Wi-Fi and blackout curtains. Self-check-in and a 24-hour mini supermarket and cafe make travelling at all hours that little bit easier.

When booking, opt for one of the pet-friendly rooms, as not all of the rooms will accommodate your dog or cat. The pet-friendly option has a terrace for your four-legged friend to grab some fresh air and come standard with a dog bed.

Byron Holiday Park is home to a number of pet-friendly accommodation options. This sprawling site on the NSW north coast has direct access to dog-friendly Tallow Beach and is just a short drive out of Byron Bay’s centre.

Cabins come in a variety of configurations and styles. The smaller cabins sleep two, while the larger villas sleep up to six. Powered and unpowered camping sites are also available. Basic rules apply when it comes to enjoying a holiday with your pet here – dogs should be on leads within the park, and there’s a policy of one dog per cabin or campsite.

Drive an hour and a half south-west of Sydney and you’ll find yourself in the picturesque Southern Highlands. The heritage-rich region is home to green gardens, gourmet food and cool climate wines.

Hillview Heritage caters to couples looking for a romantic escape, without having to leave their beloved four-legged friend at home. The private cottages here have been fitted out with claw foot baths, wood fires and heritage era furnishings. 

The property’s main house, which was constructed in the 1850s, has seen some rather regal guests walk through its doors. Archduke Franz Ferdinand, Prince Edward and the Prince of Wales are just a few of the notable guests who have stayed at Hillview Heritage.

Windmill Holiday Park in Ballarat boasts a dedicated pet-friendly cabin, aptly named ‘Dogwood’. Dogwood’s pet-friendly amenities include special pet bowls and toys, a fully-fenced backyard, as well as a separate, secure dog run. Human amenities are almost as good, with beds to sleep up to five, a kitchen and a spacious lounge area.

Park amenities are what you’d expect from the BIG4 brand – a pool complex with a heated indoor pool and spa, children’s playground (complete with a giant jumping pillow) and tennis courts. The games room is home to table tennis, pool tables and is next door to a huge, modern communal kitchen.

The staff here will also be more than happy to recommend dog-friendly cafes and parks in the heart of Ballarat. All of this makes Windmill Holiday Park the perfect destination for the whole family – furry and human.

This holiday and caravan park on The Great Ocean Road is not only pet-friendly but also child-friendly! The number of accommodation options at Henty Bay Holiday Park is huge, catering to all kinds of travellers and budgets.

Those looking for an easy family holiday where they can bring their pet should opt for the Luxury Villas. These are situated on large plots, overlooking the ocean, and can sleep between two and eight people (plus pets). Note that these villas are not secured with fences, so pet owners will need to take this into account.

Low key travellers and those on a budget can choose from a selection of camping sites in the holiday park, both powered and unpowered. Choose from campsites overlooking the ocean, caravan accessible sites, sand dune camping and private bush camping.

Finding group accommodation can be difficult enough, let alone trying to find one that will accompany your furry pals as well. Luckily, Sambar Lodge in the North East of Victoria has you covered, on both fronts.

When we say that this property is big, we mean it. Three to four families can stay here comfortably, along with pets who will be right at home in the fully fenced backyard. The double kitchen means that there are two of everything, making it easy to cater to the masses.

If you’re visiting over Winter, the wood fire and ski racks will come in handy for all of your Alpine skiing adventures. Come Summer, there are a number of rivers and streams in the area that are perfect for cooling off.

The South Australian town of Hahndorf was recently named as the third most pet-friendly place in Australia, and 21st internationally. Upon arrival, you’ll see why.

Pooches are spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a cafe to relax at, while a number of shops offer dog treats and will even allow you to bring your dog inside while you browse. If you ask nicely at the local pet-friendly restaurant and cafe, Chocolate at No. 5, staff will whip up a pet-suitable lactose-free latte!

Dogs are welcome at Hahndorf Resort, at the manager’s discretion – so if you’re camping or caravanning, make sure you call ahead and get the OK. Set on 13 hectares of bushland in the Adelaide Hills, this resort offers space to spread out and relax, all while only 20 minutes from Adelaide. The camping and caravan facilities are of a high standard, and sites vary in size depending on your needs.

Port Augusta is commonly referred to as the ‘Crossroads of Australia’, and gateway to the Flinders Ranges. It’s also a popular place for caravaners and campers to spend a night or two. At the Port Augusta Discovery Park, dogs are welcome at camping and caravan sites, and in the dedicated pet-friendly cabins.

There’s a pool to cool off, and laundry facilities which are handy if you’ve been on the road for a while. Take the dog down to Back Beach where they can have a run off the leash before 9 a.m. and after 8 p.m.

Craving a seaside holiday that your pet can enjoy too? The coastal town of Ardrossan in South Australia is known for its fishing and swimming hot spots, and is only a two-hour drive from Adelaide. While you’re there, stay at pet-friendly Sea Breeze Holiday Home, where you’ll feel truly at home

The three-bedroom house sleeps up to seven guests comfortably. A fully fenced and secure backyard gives your four-legged friend somewhere to run around when they’re not down by the beach. If it’s crabbing season, take advantage of the crab rakes, tubs and nets that are provided and have a go at catching your dinner.

Indulge in an affordable, coastal family holiday, where the pets can come too, at The Grange Resort in Hervey Bay. One, two and three bedroom villas are available, and all come with free Wi-Fi.

Opt for a cabin with its own courtyard – it’ll give your doggo some extra space. Special mention goes out to the resort’s tennis courts, heated pool and swim-up bar (sadly dogs aren’t allowed in the pool).

Less than an hour’s drive from Brisbane, North Stradbroke Island (affectionately known as Straddie) feels as though it is a world away. Sea Shanties is a property made up of seven waterfront cabins, most of which are dog-friendly.

Pristine blue waters are just a stone’s throw from each of the cabins, and amazing fishing opportunities are on your doorstep. You won’t find a clock in any of the cabins – maximum relaxation is the aim of the game here.

Keep the kids and pets entertained at the Aussie Outback Oasis Holiday Park. There’s always something going on here – from communal pancake breakfasts to a jumping pillow for all ages, and even valet parking for your caravan.

As with most Big4 holiday parks, there are a number of camping, caravan and cabin options when booking. Be sure to call ahead and let the park managers know that you’ll be arriving with a four-legged friend.