Top 10 Dog-Friendly Road Trips in NSW

There's nothing quite like hitting the open road with your dog by your side. New South Wales offers some of Australia's most spectacular landscapes – from pristine beaches to rugged mountains – and many of these beautiful spots welcome dogs with open arms.

New South Wales stands out as a paradise for dog owners thanks to its diverse landscapes and growing number of pet-friendly cafes, attractions and accommodations. From coastal havens to country retreats, this state offers endless opportunities for memorable adventures with your canine companion.

With countless dog-friendly beaches, parks, walking trails and an increasing number of establishments that cater to pets, NSW makes it easy to include your furry family member in your travel plans. The state's varied geography means you can experience everything from ocean swims to mountain hikes, often within just a few hours' drive of each other.

Let's explore the top 10 dog-friendly destinations across NSW that you and the whole family will love.

1. Byron Bay

Australia's easternmost point isn't just for surfers and celebrities – Byron Bay has become increasingly welcoming to four-legged visitors. The relaxed coastal vibe extends to its pet policies, with several beaches allowing dogs to frolic in the waves.

• Belongil Beach offers a designated off-leash area where dogs can run free
• Suffolk Park Beach permits dogs off-leash in certain areas
• The Treehouse on Belongil café welcomes dogs in their outdoor seating area
• The Cheeky Monkeys holiday home and Byron Bay Holiday Park offer pet-friendly accommodation options

The best time to visit with your dog is during autumn or spring when the temperatures are mild and the beaches are less crowded. Remember to avoid schoolies week in November/December when accommodation is scarce and the town is particularly busy.

2. Jervis Bay

Known for having some of the whitest sand in Australia, Jervis Bay offers crystal clear waters and plenty of spaces for your dog to enjoy.

• Nelsons Beach allows dogs off-leash before 8am and after 4pm
• Callala Beach has a designated off-leash section all day
• Hyams Beach Café provides dog-friendly outdoor seating
• Pet-friendly accommodation at Bay & Bush Cottages and Jervis Bay Holiday Cabins

The Jervis Bay area is particularly wonderful in early summer or late spring when the water is warm enough for a shared swim with your pup, but before the peak holiday crowds arrive. Pack your Mitsubishi with beach gear for both you and your dog, and use the spacious cargo area to store sandy towels separately from your clean supplies.

3. Blue Mountains

Just a 90-minute drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer breathtaking scenery and plenty of dog-friendly walking trails outside the national park boundaries.

• South Lawson Waterfall Circuit – a 2.5km trail passing four waterfalls where dogs are allowed on lead
• Leura Cascades Road – scenic views with beautiful picnic spots
• The Conservation Hut café in Wentworth Falls has a dog-friendly outdoor area
• Fairmont Resort & Spa Blue Mountains offers pet-friendly rooms by arrangement

Autumn is magical in the Blue Mountains with dog-friendly hiking trails showcasing spectacular foliage. Winter requires proper preparation for both you and your dog, but there's nothing quite like returning to a warm cabin after a crisp mountain walk. The heat-sensitive flooring controls in Mitsubishi models make winter drives comfortable for everyone onboard.

4. Hunter Valley

Australia's oldest wine region isn't just for wine enthusiasts – many Hunter Valley wineries welcome well-behaved dogs at their cellar doors.

• Ernest Hill Wines, Mistletoe Winery and Briar Ridge all welcome dogs in outdoor areas
• Dog-friendly walking trails through the vineyards at Audrey Wilkinson
• The Smelly Cheese Shop has outdoor seating where dogs are welcome
• Voco Kirkton Park and Wine Country Villas offer pet-friendly accommodation

Visit in autumn when the vineyard foliage turns golden or spring when the vines are coming to life. Summer can be quite hot for dogs, so if visiting then, plan early morning activities and bring plenty of water. The Hunter Valley is about a 2-hour drive from Sydney, making it perfect for a weekend getaway with plenty of time to explore the region's scenic spots.

5. Central Coast Beaches

The Central Coast offers numerous dog-friendly beaches within easy reach of Sydney, making it perfect for day trips or weekend stays.

• Avoca Beach has a designated off-leash dog area at the northern end
• Forresters Beach allows dogs off-leash between the fourth and fifth lagoons
• Tuggerah Lakes offers foreshore reserves with dog-friendly areas
• The Boathouse Hotel Patonga and Long Jetty Café welcome dogs in outdoor areas
• Terrigal Beach House and Pretty Beach House offer pet-friendly accommodation

Visit during the shoulder seasons (autumn and spring) to enjoy pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Summer weekends can get busy, but weekdays remain relatively quiet. The Central Coast is roughly a 1-hour drive from Sydney, making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway with your dog. Pack plenty of water and shade options if visiting during warmer months.

6. Southern Highlands

With its charming country towns and English-inspired gardens, the Southern Highlands offers a different pace of life – and plenty of places that welcome our dogs.

• Leash-free areas in Moss Vale's Seymour Park and Bowral's Burradoo Park
• The manicured gardens at Corbett Gardens in Bowral (dogs on leash)
• The Press Shop café in Bowral and The Shaggy Cow in Mittagong have dog-friendly outdoor areas
• Links House Hotel in Bowral and Pepper's Manor House in Sutton Forest offer pet-friendly rooms

The Southern Highlands are particularly beautiful in spring when gardens are in bloom and again in autumn when the deciduous trees change colour. Winter can be chilly but the cosy cafés make up for it. The easy 90-minute drive from Sydney makes this region perfect for a day trip or relaxing weekend away with your whole family.

7. Port Stephens

This coastal paradise offers a perfect mix of beaches, bushland and calm bays – with many areas welcoming to dogs.

• Bagnalls Beach offers an expansive off-leash area all day, every day
• Little Beach in Nelson Bay allows dogs on-leash during specific hours
• The Little Nel café in Nelson Bay has a dog-friendly courtyard
• Halifax Holiday Park and Thou Walla Sunset Retreat provide pet-friendly accommodation options

Spring and autumn offer ideal weather for exploring with your dog. Summer brings warmer waters but also more crowds, while winter offers quiet beaches for peaceful walks. The drive from Sydney takes about 2.5 hours, making Port Stephens an excellent weekend destination with plenty of dog-friendly activities to fill your stay.

8. Warrumbungle Region

While dogs aren't allowed in Warrumbungle National Park itself, the surrounding region offers stunning night skies, peaceful countryside, and pet-friendly accommodation options.

Dog-Friendly Highlights:

• The township of Coonabarabran has several parks where dogs are welcome on leash
• Pilliga Forest (certain areas outside conservation zones) allows dogs on lead
• Wagon Wheel Hotel and Café welcomes dogs in outdoor areas
• Barkala Farm Stay and Coonandry Cottage offer pet-friendly accommodation

This region is spectacular in spring when wildflowers bloom or autumn when temperatures are mild. Summers can be extremely hot, so early morning and evening walks are best for dogs. The Warrumbungles are about a 6-hour drive from Sydney, so plan for an overnight stay or longer to make the most of this unique region and its remarkable night skies.

9. Coffs Harbour

This coastal city strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure, with plenty of dog-friendly spots to explore.

• Boambee Beach offers an extensive off-leash area
• Hearnes Lake Beach allows dogs off-leash
• Supply Café and The Coffs Harbour Fishermen's Co-op welcome dogs in outdoor areas
• Sawtell Beach Holiday Park and BIG4 Park Beach Holiday Park offer pet-friendly accommodation

Visit in autumn or spring for ideal weather conditions. The subtropical climate means even winter can be pleasant for beach walks. The 5.5-hour drive from Sydney is made easier with plenty of stops along the way at dog-friendly rest areas.

10. Snowy Mountains

Outside the snow season, the Snowy Mountains transform into a dog-friendly playground with breathtaking scenery and fresh mountain air.

• Lake Jindabyne foreshore offers beautiful on-leash walking tracks
• Thredbo River Trail (sections outside the national park) welcomes dogs on lead
• The Sundeck Hotel in Perisher Valley and Wildbrumby Distillery have dog-friendly outdoor areas
• Alpine Habitats and Jindabyne Holiday Park offer pet-friendly accommodation

The best time to visit with dogs is from November to April when snow has cleared from most areas. Early autumn brings spectacular colours to the region. The drive from Sydney takes about 5-6 hours, making it perfect for a long weekend getaway.

Planning Your Dog-Friendly NSW Road Trip

Before setting off on your adventure, a bit of preparation will ensure both you and your dog have a fantastic time:

Essential Packing Items:

• Collapsible water bowl and plenty of fresh water
• Dog bed or mat for accommodation stays
• Leash, harness and waste bags
• Your dog's regular food and some treats
• Familiar toys for comfort
• Canine first aid kit
• Up-to-date ID tags and vaccination records

NSW Regulations to Know:

• Dogs are generally not allowed in NSW National Parks
• Council regulations for beaches vary widely – always check local signage
• Outside designated off-leash areas, dogs must be on a lead no longer than 2 metres
• Always clean up after your dog

Seasonal Considerations: Summer (December-February) brings hot temperatures that can be challenging for dogs. Plan activities for early morning or evening, and never leave your dog in a parked vehicle.

Winter (June-August) in highlands and mountain areas can be chilly – consider a dog coat for short-haired breeds.

Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a longer adventure, having the right vehicle makes all the difference when travelling with pets. The spacious cargo area in the Mitsubishi Outlander gives your dog plenty of room to relax, while the Outlander's tri-zone climate control keeps everyone comfortable no matter the season. If your adventures take you off the beaten track, the Triton's impressive ground clearance and Super Select 4WD-II system let you and your furry friend access those special spots that other vehicles simply can't reach.

New South Wales offers an incredible array of dog-friendly destinations that allow you to create lasting memories with your four-legged family member. From coastal escapes to mountain adventures, there's something for every type of dog and owner to enjoy.

With the right preparation and a reliable vehicle like a Mitsubishi Triton or Outlander, the journey becomes as enjoyable as the destination. So pack the car, bring your furry friend, and discover the best dog-friendly wonders that New South Wales has to offer.

Remember to always respect local regulations, wildlife, and other visitors to ensure these beautiful places remain accessible to pets for years to come.

Once you’ve enjoyed the best of New South Wales, why not explore more of our own backyard? Beat the crowds and adventure through Australia’s hidden gem road trip locations.

Just a 90-minute drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer breathtaking scenery and plenty of dog-friendly walking trails outside the national park boundaries.

• South Lawson Waterfall Circuit – a 2.5km trail passing four waterfalls where dogs are allowed on lead
• Leura Cascades Road – scenic views with beautiful picnic spots
• The Conservation Hut café in Wentworth Falls has a dog-friendly outdoor area
• Fairmont Resort & Spa Blue Mountains offers pet-friendly rooms by arrangement

Autumn is magical in the Blue Mountains with dog-friendly hiking trails showcasing spectacular foliage. Winter requires proper preparation for both you and your dog, but there's nothing quite like returning to a warm cabin after a crisp mountain walk. The heat-sensitive flooring controls in Mitsubishi models make winter drives comfortable for everyone onboard.