The best places in Australia to take a holiday with your pet
The best part of taking a domestic holiday is that you can bring your beloved furry friends along for the trip.
Whether you're taking your pooch on a coastal road trip or inland to explore some beautiful walking trails, holidays are better when your pet can come along.
In the last few years, there has been a big increase in dog-friendly locations and travel spots around Australia, including restaurants, cafes, hotels, and pubs.
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No one wants to leave their dog at home while taking a holiday. Getty
New data from Tripadvisor shows listings labelled 'pets allowed' for accommodation increased 22 per cent in the early months of 2025, while searches for pet-friendly accommodation and dog-friendly restaurants have increased this year compared to last.
And now, it's even easier for you to hit the road with your pooch.
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My Dog and Tripadvisor have teamed up to help pet owners discover and plan pet-friendly travel experiences.
They have launched a new digital hub featuring guides, AI itinerary tools, and curated listings of dog-friendly destinations across Australia.
Family holidays are better when you can bring your pet. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Best place to travel with pets in Australia
So, where in Australia is the best place to travel with pets? 9Travel asked Tripadvisor's Director of Sales, Scott Wegener, to share his expert thoughts, and he's given us five top spots.
Rye, Victoria
"With its wide, sandy beaches and relaxed coastal vibe, Rye is a haven for dog lovers. The off-leash areas along Rye Foreshore let pets run free while their humans enjoy the calm waters of Port Phillip Bay. It's also close to the Mornington Peninsula's many pet-welcoming wineries and cafés, making it ideal for a day out or a weekend away with your furry friend."
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The Mornington Peninsula is a great dog-friendly spot just sounth Getty
Rainbow Beach, Queensland
"Rainbow Beach is a slice of paradise for pets and their owners. With several dog-friendly accommodation options and a number of local cafés offering outdoor seating for pets, it's easy to explore the area together. Dogs are welcome on leash along the stunning beach, and nearby walking trails like the Carlo Sand Blow track are perfect for shared adventures."
Mudgee, NSW
"Mudgee blends country charm with pet-friendly hospitality. Many local wineries, like Lowe Family Wine Co, welcome dogs on-leash, so owners can enjoy a long lunch without leaving their pup behind. Scenic walking trails, like the Lawson Park path along the Cudgegong River, offer relaxed outings in nature."
Mudgee has dog-friendly wineries. Getty
Robe, South Australia
"Robe is a charming seaside town that's known for being incredibly welcoming to pets. Long Beach allows dogs off-leash at certain times of day, and many of the town's historic cottages and holiday rentals are pet-friendly. With a walkable main street lined with dog-friendly cafés, Robe makes it easy to explore with your four-legged travel buddy."
Dunsborough, WA
"Nestled along the coast of WA's Margaret River region, Dunsborough is packed with pet-friendly options. Popular spots like Meelup Beach Trail offer scenic walks with ocean views, and many local cafés, such as Wild & Woods or Silver Bullet Espresso, have water bowls and outdoor seating for dogs. With its welcoming community and natural beauty, it's a top pick for pet parents seeking a coastal getaway."
If there's one thing dogs love, it's the beach. Getty
Tips for travelling with pets
The new My Dog and Tripadvisor advice hub is available online or through the Tripadvisor app, offering a one-stop shop for pet-friendly travel.
It includes city guides with pet-friendly locations and attractions, an AI-powered trip builder to help you build a personalised itinerary in minutes, and curated lists of travel spots where your doggy will be welcomed.
" Aussies love two things: travel and their pets," Tripadvisor's Director of Sales, Scott Wegener, told Today.
"Pet travel is booming. It's been the biggest trend in travel for years now, and more and more Australian businesses are classifying themselves as pet-friendly."
Wegener says that the AI tool in particular is "a game changer in terms of planning your pet holiday".
