Things to do with your dog in SA

Other-worldly outback, adorable animals and mouth-watering food and drink make South Australia a world-class tourist destination. 

Fortunately, it is also chock-full of dog-friendly activities, pet-friendly places to stay and family adventures, making it the perfect place for a getaway everyone can enjoy.

Things to do with your dog in Clare Valley

What better place to start your South Aussie tour in a region renowned for its wine than at its oldest winery? Sevenhills Cellars lies just off the Reisling Trail and is within walking distance of barbecue-friendly, family-fun at Richardson Park and Playspace.

Give your kids a taste of life on the farm as they mix with some woolly friends while you sample some world-class wine at Sussex Squire Wine. There are also ducks to feed for animal lovers, a short drive up the road to Hill River Clare Estate.

For a break from the wineries, head up to the uniquely beautiful Lake Bumbunga and stroll across the pink sands before grabbing a bite at one of the local cafes. But watch out for the Loch Eel Monster!

Start the day with a gourmet breakfast or early lunch at Just Julie’s, which has a fun play area for the kids. Reward yourself after a long day of trekking and wine tours with an evening meal at Ragu and co. Both of which are dog and family-friendly.

Things to do with your dog in Barossa Valley

There’s nothing dogs love more than meeting other pups, so bring yours to Levrier Wines to meet the famous winery dogs, local duo George and Daphne. This winery stands out due to its dedicated dog park, full of fun toys to entertain its four-legged visitors and a delicious selection of wines for the parents.

You are very much spoiled for choice for dog-friendly wineries in the area; Fernfield Winery, Kellermeister and Taste Eden are popular choices, but you can’t go wrong anywhere

For some nourishment before or after a wine tour, take in the scenic surroundings at The Table Cafe with vegan and gluten-free options available or grab a shaded seat at the outdoor area overlooking the lake at Maggie’s Beer Shop. Gourmet food for you and water bowls for the pup.

Dogs must be kept on a leash in public areas in Barossa, except in council parks, which are plentiful in the area. Check out Williamstown Dog Park just down the road from Tanunda to get some exercise in.

Things to do with your dog at Adelaide Beachfront

Getting around the 20-minute city is as easy as its nickname suggests. Adelaide has the perfect mix of fresh air and city bustle. There’s always something going on and if you like to wander, it’s a fine place to stroll around with your dog or little ones in tow.

For beach lovers, Glenelg is a buzzing, action-packed option for a day in the sun as is Henley Beach, a slightly more mellow alternative. Both have fairly relaxed rules for dogs and a host of restaurants that are more than happy to cater for you and your pet.

For a memorable photo-op, take your pup down to the Rundle Mall Pigs, you’ll have to avoid the shops themselves, but you can wander through the mall  and get some some window-shopping done.

Dog-friendly parks are abundant in Adelaide too. You can find them in the green areas around the CBD or have some off-leash exercise time at Himeji Park and Pityarilla Park.  

Round off the day with some seafood at Oceanique at  Adelaide Sailing Club or some modern Australian cuisine at The Banksia Tree Cafe in Port Adelaide. Two of many of the city’s canine-friendly eateries.

Things to do with your dog in the Adelaide Hills

For good reason, The Adelaide Hills is famous for its fantastic wineries, but there is much more to discover. Walking trails, farm visits, sumptuous food and stunning scenery allawait you, your family and your canine companion.

Many parks are dog-friendly, Belair National Park and Blackwood’s Forest Recreation Park are two popular choices, but far from the only options.

At Mount George, you will find a bushwalker and birdwatching hotspot. Grab your binoculars and see what wildlife you and the kids can spot! Dogs are allowed in the recreation zone between Mount George and Cox Creek.

Apart from the scenery, there are delicious dining options and much more in nearby Hahndorf. The historic German town has several traditional restaurants like Guten Appetit or The German Inn that provide an authentic taste of Germany and a warm welcome for you and your doggo.

Four-legged fashionistas can get a new custom collar at the Leathersmith and Bush Gallery or hang out at the pet-loving Blue Belle Boutique while mama shops.

Things to do with your dog in the Riverland

The Riverland is a classic spot for a family adventure holiday in the great outdoors. Idle by the river, sample some delicious local fruit or explore  local conservation parks. This is your chance to escape into nature in an area steeped in culture and teeming with wildlife. Make some memories that will last a lifetime along the banks of the picturesque River Murray.

It’s hard to beat catching the sunrise or sunset on holidays. Waikerie Dog Park is open from morning to night, seven days a week. With shaded picnic areas and a play park, it’s a great spot to watch the sun come up and spend a few hours with the kids and the dog tossing a ball about on the grassy park.

The town of Renmark is another fine choice for an early morning walk; check out the local park or stretch your legs down by the waterfront. Take the gang 15 minutes north to the Murray River Lookout for a stunning river view.

Get your vitamin C fix at one of the roadside fruit stalls; the chilled fruit is a perfect reward after a long walk along the river.

For a taste of local art, take a trip to nearby Paringa or Waikerie; both have murals depicting life on the Murray River pained on enormous silos, well worth a look and both dog-friendly.

Things to do with your dog on The Fleurieu Peninsula

For adventurous dogs that love to get off the leash and open up their legs, Fleurieu Peninsula is home to dozens of sandy beaches and lush farmland, plus plenty of vineyards for their parents to explore. 

Mount Jagged Wines near Victor Harbour is a quaint, stylish setting with an excellent wine selection. Dogs are allowed to join at the tables inside, plus there is an outside play area for them to burn some energy. Snacks are available for any especially good boys or girls.

Wirra Wirra Vineyards is a great spot to enjoy a glass of red overlooking the vineyards. Plop yourself down alongside your pup and enjoy a taster plate or two on one of the many grassy areas. Alpha Box & Dice is another charming alternative, offering wines from A to Z in their rustic courtyard and handmade biscuits for discerning dogs seeking artisanal treats.

Off-leash fun on golden sands is available all year round at nearby Goolwa Beach. A little further up the road, the pristine Sellicks Beach is another all-year-round off-leash haven.

To spoil your pooch rotten, grab a dogachino at The Boulevard Cafe on the lake or share some fish and chips on the deck at The Flying Fish Cafe in Port Elliot.

Things to do with your dog on The Limestone Coast & Eyre Peninsula

Hundreds of miles of coastline, dotted with stunning beaches and delicious seafood at every turn. Lots of cool wildlife and fun-filled days in crystal waters. Visiting the Eyre Peninsula with your dog is a trip to remember and one where there is plenty to keep everyone entertained.

The peninsula has lots of dog-friendly beaches. Whyalla Beach is the latest to allow dogs off-leash before 8 am and after 9 pm. Keep everyone happy with picnic areas, a swimming enclosure in the marina and some great fishing spots.

Whyalla also has some fascinating museums for any history buffs in your family. The town is famous for its cuttlefish population that hangs out in the cool waters between May and August. Join them for a swim, but leave your dog on shore for this one!

Murphy’s Haystacks, on the way to Streaky Bay, stand out for their uniqueness in a region full of natural beauty. There’s a short walk through the ‘haystacks that you can take the dog on. A great photo op and a chance to take in the fresh air.