The Gold Coast isn’t just a paradise for surfers and sunbathers—it’s a dream destination for dogs too! With plenty of dog-friendly cafes, restaurants, and scenic walking trails, this pet-loving city makes sure your furry friend never misses out on the fun. In this guide, we’ll explore the best pet-friendly spots across the Gold Coast, Queensland.
Plus, if you're looking for house sitting opportunities in Gold Coast or need a reliable Gold Coast pet sitter, read on to find out more!
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Best dog parks in Gold Coast
Let’s kick off this dog-friendly guide to Gold Coast with the top fenced dog park options and off-leash areas where your pooches can run wild and free while you relax and enjoy the outdoors:
Gold Coast Regional Botanic Gardens
Located in Benowa, this park is a panoramic escape featuring an off-leash dog-friendly walk around the lake. Locally marked as the green oasis in the heart of the city, it’s perfect for a morning adventure.
Location: Benowa, Queensland
Musgrave Park
This pet friendly Gold Coast park in Southport is ideal for social pups, with a large off-leash area, agility equipment, and shaded seating. Plus, there are water stations always available.
Location: Musgrave Ave, Southport Queensland
Doug Jennings Park
Positioned at The Spit, this fenced dog park features wide-open spaces and is a short stroll from Spit Dog Beach, making it a great two-in-one outing. With plenty of open green areas, it’s fantastic for dogs that love to run or chase a ball.
Location: Seaworld Dr, Main Beach Queensland
Dog-friendly restaurants in Gold Coast
The Gold Coast is a pet-loving city, and many restaurants here are dog-friendly. If you’re dining out with your pups, these Gold Coast dog-friendly restaurants are ready to welcome you both:
Alfred’s Diner
This Miami hotspot is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and tasty meals, with a wide outdoor section and water bowls to keep your dogs hydrated while you sip coffee.
Location: Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach Queensland
Custard Canteen
A beachfront delight at Tallebudgera Creek, serving flaky pastries and top-tier coffee with dog-friendly picnic areas. Their signature Portuguese tarts are a must-try while your pups enjoy the fresh ocean breeze.
Location: Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach Queensland
Blackboard Varsity
Known for their specialty coffee and delicious brunch, Blackboard Varsity is one of the popular dog-friendly restaurants in Gold Coast because of its spacious welcoming outdoor area for furry guests.
Location: Varsity Parade, Varsity Lakes Queensland
Fun dog-friendly activities in Gold Coast
Apart from parks and beaches, there are plenty of dog-friendly Gold Coast activities that you and your dogs can do together with joy!
Strolling through Tambourine Mountain
As one of the symbols of Gold Coast, Tamborine Mountain is an oasis that welcomes dogs. In this hinterland, you can feel free to walk around the charming streets of Tamborine Mountain, filled with dog-friendly cafes and boutique stores.
Cost: Free
Date and time: Open daily
Location: Queensland
Boat Rental at Duffy Down Under Boat
Cruise the waterways with your floofs on pet-friendly pontoon boats for an unforgettable aquatic Gold Coast experience. With various routes and tour options, you can choose a laid-back sunset cruise or an adventurous day trip on the water.
Cost: Varies by tour & durations
Date and time: Open daily, 7.00 am–10.00 pm (booking required)
Location: Seaworld Dr, Main Beach Queensland
Swimming & Outing at Currumbin Rock Pools
Ever wished your pup could cool off in a natural pool with you? At Currumbin Rock Pools, they can! This must-visit spot offers refreshing, clear waters for you to enjoy while your furry friend explores the surrounding bushland. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal summer outing for both of you.
Cost: Free
Date and time: Open daily
Best dog-friendly walking trails in Gold Coast
If you and your fluffy companion love bonding over a good walk, these dog-friendly trails in Gold Coast offer the perfect mix of exercise, stunning views, and exciting adventures. Not only are they great for your health, but they also provide plenty of new sights and smells for your pup to explore!
Willow Vale Recreational Trail
A beautiful countryside trail offering a mix of open fields and shaded forest paths. The trail’s gentle terrain makes it accessible for all fitness levels.
Location: Ruffles Rd, Willow Vale Queensland
Length: 6.8 km
Mitchell Park to Federation Walk Coastal Reserve
A scenic coastal trail that runs along the Broadwater, superb for a morning stroll. This trail offers plenty of open space, stunning ocean views, and a relaxing breeze; no wonder you’ll often spot other dog walkers at this calming spot.
Location: Mitchell Park to Federation Walk Coastal Reserve
Length: 16 km
Marine Parade Foreshore Walk
A lively beachfront path stretching through the heart of Surfers Paradise. This is the ideal Gold Coast dog-friendly walk spot for a sunset stroll while your pups take in all the sights and smells.
Location: Len Fox Park to Harley Park
Length: 3.5 km
The best dog-friendly cafes in Gold Coast
Looking for a dog friendly cafe in Gold Coast? Here are some spots that serve great coffee and a warm welcome for pups:
BSKT Cafe
Known for its nutritious menu and ocean-side location, this cafe is the Mermaid Beach favorite. BSKT Cafe serves healthy eats with a spacious dog-friendly outdoor area, water bowls, and friendly staff.
Location: Lavarack Rd, Mermaid Beach Queensland
Daark Espresso
This Labrador café is a must-visit for specialty coffee lovers and their four-legged companions. It’s a local gem that always has a warm spot for dogs.
Location: Musgrave Ave, Labrador Queensland
Paddock Bakery
Paddock Bakery serves delicious baked goods and relaxed pet-friendly garden seating. Claimed as the most awarded cafe in the area, it’s known as one of the icons in Gold Coast, Burleigh Heads.
Annual dog events in Gold Coast
Mark your calendars for these events in Queensland where dogs can socialise and even take center stage:
Paws at the Park
First established in 2016, Paws at the Park has grown to become Australia's largest dog event. This mega event features stalls, food trucks, and doggy fashion shows.
Cost: Free
Date and time: Annually in August or October
Location: Mudgeeraba Rd, Worongary Queensland
Main Beach’s Next Top Dogel
Taking inspiration from the popular program “Next Top Model”, this is a hilarious dog costume competition at Main Beach with prizes and dog-friendly stalls.
Cost: Free
Date and time: Annually in August
Location: Main Beach, Gold Coast Queensland
Dogs on the Green
A social marketplace for pet parents featuring pet products, adoption stalls, and live entertainment. It’s the perfect event for discovering new pet-friendly brands, meeting like-minded dog lovers, and supporting local pet charities.
Cost: Free
Date and time: Quarterly
Location: Benowa State School or Ashmore
The best dog-friendly bars in Gold Coast
Gold Coast’s bars welcome our furry friends with open arms. From craft breweries to cozy cocktail venues, these dog-friendly pubs in Gold Coast ensure your pups are just as welcome as you are.
Burleigh Brewing Co.
With a huge outdoor beer garden, friendly staff, and a great selection of craft beers, Burleigh Brewing is a top spot to enjoy a laid-back afternoon with your dogs.
Location: Ern Harley Dr, Burleigh Heads Queensland
Rosella’s
A Palm Beach bar serving Australian-inspired cocktails, with plenty of pet-friendly outdoor seating. This quirky spot embraces all things Aussie, guaranteeing a fun atmosphere where you and your pups can chill together.
Location: Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads Queensland
Precinct Brewing Co.
Located in Miami, with great food trucks, a rotating selection of beers, and open-air beer garden; this lively brewery is one of the “must-visit” dog-friendly pubs in Gold Coast, especially for social dogs and their owners.
Location: Christine Ave, Miami Queensland
Dog-friendly beaches in Gold Coast
No dog-friendly guide to Gold Coast is complete without covering the best Gold Coast dog-friendly beaches! If your dogs love the sand and sea, you should definitely check out these breath-taking spots:
Tallebudgera Creek
This serene beach offers calm waters and a dedicated leash beach for your pup to splash around safely. The crystal-clear water and peaceful setting make it one of the popular dog-friendly beaches in Gold Coast for pet parents who seek a more relaxed beach experience.
Location: Queensland
The Spit Dog Beach
A famous off-leash dog beach, ideal for energetic pups who love the sand and surf. With plenty of space to run, play, and meet other friendly dogs, it’s a paradise for beach-loving pooches.
Location: Queensland
Palm Beach
This stunning beach provides off-leash access during specific hours, making it a must-visit for beach-loving hounds. You can enjoy golden sands, breathtaking ocean views, and plenty of friendly furry faces enjoying the waves.
Location: Queensland
Dog-friendly accommodation in Gold Coast
If you’re preparing a trip to Gold Coast with your dogs, you can be reassured there are numerous options of dog-friendly accommodation in Gold Coast.
Maybe you're visiting for work or a holiday—either way, TrustedHousesitters has you covered. This trusted service connects pet owners with responsible sitters, and is the perfect solution for those looking to explore the Gold Coast while enjoying the comfort of a home away from home—with a built-in pet companion to keep you company!
Tips for pet parents
Exploring the Gold Coast with a four-legged companion can be an unforgettable experience, with plenty of dog-friendly beaches, parks, and cafés to enjoy. However, it's important to be prepared for the city’s regulations as well as the needs of your furry friends.
Tip 1. Know the local rules & areas
Before you hit the sandy shores or lush hinterland trails, familiarise yourself with local pet rules and regulations. The Gold Coast has designated off-leash areas, including fenced dog parks and specific off-leash beaches; but some other areas still require dogs to be on a leash. Always check signage at the spots, or check the detailed information on the city council’s website, as regulations can vary.
Tip 2. Check the weather
Always look at the forecast before heading out. In the wet season, Gold Coast is prone to sudden storms. On the other paw, during the summer, make sure your pups stay hydrated and avoid walks during the hottest parts of the day. Be mindful of hot grounds in outdoor areas that can burn your dogs’ paws and always have a shaded spot available to prevent overheating.
Tip 3. Prioritise safety & health
If you're planning long beach days or walks, bring plenty of fresh water, a cooling mat, and portable bowls. Be aware of local wildlife such as snakes in bushland areas and marine creatures like jellyfish at the beach.
Plan ahead for vacations
If you’re traveling without your pet, leaving them at home in familiar surroundings with a trusted sitter is the best stress-free option.
In fact, many vets recommend this approach, as it allows pets to stay relaxed in their environment without the anxiety of a boarding kennel. This is why TrustedHousesitters connects pet parents with experienced sitters to take care of your dogs.
Learn more about connecting with a trusted sitter in Gold Coast.
Tips for pet sitters
Being a pet sitter in Gold Coast won’t be a daunting or boring task with the many dog-friendly activities and spots in the city. But still, being a responsible sitter means knowing the best places that are dog-friendly in Gold Coast to visit, keeping routines consistent, and ensuring every outing is safe and enjoyable.
Tip 1. Know the dog-friendly hotspots
Before going out on adventures, make sure you’re in the know of locations that are dog-friendly in Gold Coast. Take time to research the many exciting spots in the city that can keep the dogs active and entertained such as the ones that are recommended in this dog-friendly guide to Gold Coast.
Tip 2. Understand the dog’s routine
Whether it’s mealtime, daily walks, or playtime; maintaining a schedule will keep the pups calm and comfortable in your care. If they have any special needs, it’s crucial to follow the owner’s instructions closely. A good sitter also pays attention to the pet’s signs of stress or discomfort, which often occurs in new environments.
Tip 3. Always prepare the basic necessities
Preparation is key to a smooth pet-sitting experience. Always have the essentials on hand, including a leash, water, collapsible bowls, waste bags, and a towel for beach outings. Understanding the dogs’ preferences will help you create a more enjoyable petting session.
