Things to do with your dog in Queensland

Queensland has something for everyone; tropical islands, lush rainforest, a dazzling coastline and bona fide Aussie outback.

It’s no wonder it’s a tourist hotspot, but the good news is there is plenty of dog-friendly activities on offer too, so now you pack up the whole family for the trip of a lifetime.

Sun, sand, sea and loads of dog-friendly things to do await!

Things to do with your pet in Far North Queensland

It wouldn’t be fair to pass by all that stunning coastline and then deny your four-legged companion their beach time.

One of the hottest destinations in the area is Airlie Beach, offering white sand and access to the Great Barrier Reef. It is dog-friendly, as is the nearby town centre with an off-leash park and several pooch-friendly cafes and restaurants.

Further along the coast in Ayr is Plantation Park, which welcomes dogs and their families to their nature playground. Fire up the BBQ and have a feast before taking a stroll through the trees and relaxing in the garden at the back of the park.

MacKay is a mecca for off-leash dog parks. What better way to burn some energy for an hour or two before dinner?

Another dog-friendly base for exploring the barrier reef and rainforest is Townsville. There is a great selection of local pet-friendly eateries. A Touch of Salt stands out as an award-winning restaurant offering dog-friendly dining on the terrace.

Pet-friendly accommodation in Far North Queensland

Discovery Parks - Airlie Beach is a tropical haven sandwiched between the Great Barrier Reef and lush rainforest. There’s no shortage of fun onsite activities for kids and adults alike. Dogs are welcome on sites only.

Discovery Parks - Ayr lies among the greenery and grassland for which the area is renowned. This is an excellent spot for a family getaway in nature, not far from pristine beaches, with its own saltwater pool, bouncing pillow, and playground. Dogs are welcome on sites and in some cabins.

Discovery Parks - MacKay is a dream location, surrounded by crystal clear waters and white sand, no matter which direction you go, you can’t go wrong. For the kids, there is a splash park and pool, plus a mini-golf course to master. Dogs are welcome on sites and in some cabins.

Discovery Parks - Townsville is set among the palms of the dry tropics and leaves you with no end of options for an adventure holiday. Explore the trails on horseback, try some wreck-diving or check out nearby Magnetic Island. Dogs are welcome onsite only.

Things to do with your pet in Banana Shire

Banana Shire has become a tourist hotspot in recent years, no longer a hidden gem but still a fantastic and tranquil destination for a family getaway. Fishing, camping and river tours await along the River Dawson or on the idyllic banks of Lake Callide.

A trip to the region wouldn’t be complete without visiting the town of Biloela. There’s a charming, laidback country feel to the place but no shortage of culture and good old-fashioned family fun. The town hosts a selection of festivals throughout the year and has a vibrant arts scene.

Pet-friendly accommodation in Banana Shire

Discovery Parks - Biloela - A perfect slice of rural Australia. Explore the surrounding nature and wildlife before firing up the BBQ in the evening to round off a day in the outdoors. Dogs are allowed on sites only. Dogs are allowed on sites only.

Things to do with your pet on the Capricorn Coast

One of the biggest treats in store in Yeppoon and along the Capricorn Coast are the stunning beaches between Yeppoon and Emu Park to the south.

Fortunately, dogs are allowed on most beaches if kept on a leash and can go off-leash before 8 am and after 4 pm. So there is an amazing selection of sandy beaches for you to explore without having to deal with puppy-dog eyes as you leave your pet behind.

There are some top-notch, pet-friendly dining options in nearby Rockhampton. The Coffee Society’s dishes taste just as good as they look and the wonderfully named Giddy Goat Cafe and Bar is another spot well worth a visit.

Another must when visiting Yeppoon is a trip to Great Keppel Island. It’s a guaranteed winner for the whole family, with sun, sea, sand and snorkelling. And yes, dogs are welcome too!

Pet-friendly accommodation on the Capricorn Coast

Discovery Parks - Rockhampton - Surrounded by natural beauty and just 30 minutes from the Capricorn Coast, this campsite is a comfortable base for exploring the bush, beach or local wildlife. Dogs are permitted on sites only.

Discovery Parks - Coolwaters, Yeppoon - With a peaceful lake, stunning beachfront and the Great Barrier reef on your doorstep, this is an ideal spot for an escape for the whole family. Dogs are welcome too on sites only.

Things to do with your pet in Gladstone

We all like to run free at times and for dogs, there’s not much better than racing across the sand and through the water on open sands. Make a splash and some lasting memories at Canoe Point Beach!

Dogs can also walk in the parklands if kept on a leash. Pack a picnic, your thongs and some snacks and drinks for the doggo.

Kick back with a glass of wine in the evening at Rose Garden Cafe, the cellar door for Gecko Valley Winery. It also houses some splendid local art and cool trails to explore the botanical gardens.

Pet-friendly accommodation in Gladstone

Discover Parks - Tannum Sands - Mountains, beaches and year-round sunshine are available at Tannum Sands. Pets are welcome on selected sites and cabins.

Things to do with your pet on the Fraser Coast

The Fraser Coast offers a little piece of paradise to the tourists who flock there each year. The good news for your pooch is that it’s a pet-friendly region and there are even some 24-hr off-leash beaches at Urangan Foreshore and Serenia Beach.

Nearby doggy dining options are plentiful, as are wine and cocktail options for their parents. Goody’s On The Beach is one such option, offering bowls of water, a cracking selection of food and wine, and a breathtaking view of the Coral Sea.

Coffee or bunch lovers, whether two or four-legged, will love Vinvero’s Cafe and their selection of breakfast fare, sweet treats and tasty smoothies.

Pet-friendly accommodation on the Fraser Coast

Discovery Parks - Fraser Street, Hervey Bay - From whale watching, fishing and lush botanical gardens to an onsite bouncing pillow and tennis court, there is something for everyone here. Dogs are welcome on sites only.

Things to do with your pet in Central/Outback Queensland

National Parks may be a no-go for your doggo, but the outback in Queensland is a big place and with a bit of planning, you and your pup will have a trip to remember.

Chinaman Creek Dam in Cloncurry is a serene spot to fish, swim, bird watch or take in the sunset view that lights up the unique colours surrounding the creek. Dogs are indeed welcome by your side.

For coffee or a bite to eat, there is a community-initiative cafe nearby that is well worth checking out. The Red Door Cafe trains unemployed local youths and helps bridge gaps in education and social inequalities. They serve tasty food and fresh coffee while supporting the local community.

There are dog parks and watering holes dotted around the outback towns, but it’s a good idea to research first to see where the locals go with their dogs, as they will know the best spots where you can let your pooch run free safely.

Pet-friendly accommodation in Central/Outback Queensland

Discovery Parks - Argylla offers a relaxing setting after a day of adventuring in the outback. Nearby Lake Moondarra provides fishing, swimming and canoeing fun for the whole family. Dogs are welcome on sites only.

Discovery Parks - Cloncurry is a fine base to explore Cloncurry’s rich cultural heritage and natural, rugged beauty. Dogs are permitted on sites only.

Discovery Parks - Mount Isa lies in the true Aussie outback. The rodeo capital of Australia and a mining heartland, there is much to learn and plenty to keep the kids entertained. Dogs are allowed on sites only.