January 13, 2015
Pet-Friendly Sunshine Coast
There’s something special about the Sunshine Coast — its long sandy beaches, the whisper of eucalyptus in the hills, and the easy way the locals talk to you. I’ve been fortunate to visit the Sunshine Coast many times, either while visiting friends or during research trips up the coast.
What follows is a selection of stays that don’t just permit pets but welcome them. From Noosa’s tidal inlets to Caloundra’s breezy esplanades, these spots prove that travelling with four-legged friends can be effortless.
Riverside Burrum Heads Eco Tourist Park
With plenty of space to unwind and relax, guests will enjoy camping in this beautiful natural environment. This eco-tourist park is also a great place to stay with pets – they even have dog daycare service available on request and a sizeable off-leash dog area. Nestled in between the Burrum Coast National Park (Burrum River Section) and the Isis River, it’s recommended to have a 4wd to get here. Facilities include hot showers, fire pits, potable water, walking tracks and
fishing.
Lot 156 Unnamed, National Park Rd, Burrum Heads 4659
M 0456 588 882
Beachcomber
This riverfront 2BR cottage welcomes pets. There’s a fully fenced yard and guests enjoy a BBQ and enjoy the view. The property is in one of the best positions in town close to the shops and boat ramp. The balcony overlooks the Burrum River with a northerly aspect to catch the sea breezes or warming winter sun. From $291 per night.
Sunrise Down
This recently refurbished property offers two units – upstairs three bedrooms and downstairs two bedroom. For your complete privacy the units are not rented separately. Rent downstairs or for the large family gathering rent the whole house. Close to the shops and boat ramp. Upstairs: Sleeps 6 (1Q,4S) microwave, freezer, screens, fans, large verandah. Downstairs: Sleeps 4 (1D,2S) microwave, dishwasher, air conditioner. Outdoor BBQ area, fenced, carport, and pet friendly. **Garage not available for guest use**
Maximum 2 dogs on property as per council regulations. A $25 Pet fee will apply.
Pialba Beach House
This comfortable 2 bedroom dog-friendly beach house is only a 3-minute stroll to the swimming beach opposite, enabling you to enjoy a real beach holiday. A large grassed and fenced yard allows plenty of space for play and boat or trailer. Fully fenced. Dogs on approval. Full linen supplied.
Fitted with everything you need from a BBQ and a fully equipped kitchen. From $135 per night.
Bamboo Grove by Tiny Away
Sleeps: 2
Starting rate per night: $179
Use Promo Code to book: FOWLBWA5RU63
Take your rustic countryside retreats to Bamboo Grove by Tiny Away, Bauple. The ideal farm stay getaway nestled on a 28-acre property with three-quarters of it covered in 63 clumping bamboo varieties. What’s more, we have 30 mango trees that you can pick right off in season to pair with snacks or light meals. So, make the most of your holidays and create your special moments at our secluded hideaway!
Bamboo Grove by Tiny Away is located in the Fraser Coast Region, just 39 minutes from Gympie and just an hour’s drive to Sunshine Coast beaches. Close to Dickabram Bridge, and Mary Valley Rattler-Gympie just 42 minutes away. This cosy 139-square-foot tiny home with easy access to water, split air conditioning, a kitchenette, cooking equipment, and excellent bathroom facilities has amenities, which include an eco-friendly cassette toilet with a removable waste-holding tank, hand basin, and shower (gas-heated for hot showers) for you to use.
Nearby pet-friendly amenities (e.g. dog parks, beaches, cafes):
- Bauple National Park
- Please note that we have chickens, ducks, and goats on the property
- Please be advised that there will be farm animal noise during your stay
- Please note that this is a PET-FRIENDLY property, and pet policies will be sent prior to arrival
Bakers Rd, Bauple 4650
Melawondi Spring Retreat
With plenty of open space for your fur baby to enjoy, this retreat is surrounded by natural bushland and plenty of wildlife. People travelling with pets stay in Studio 149 (but please do not allow them on furniture & bedroom carpet), there is also an enclosed area under the house, which is great if you want to explore the region and can’t take your pet with you. Set on 30 acres and less than 2 hours from Brisbane or 30 minutes from the Amamoor State Forest, this is the perfect country escape in the Mary Valley. Pets other than dogs are welcome but please contact owners first.
149 Melawondi Road, Imbil 4570
M 0408 736 223
www.melawondispringretreat.com.au
Breeze Holiday Parks – Rainbow Beach
Dogs are permitted at the designated dog-friendly sites and cabins. These dog-friendly options are subject to availability so please ensure you enquire with the park prior to booking. Check availability first so you can bring your best friend on holiday!
308 Carlo Road, Rainbow Beach 4581
T 07 54 86 32 00
Palm Tree Lodge
Enjoy a relaxed holiday at this stylish 3-bedroom private home, which is located on a quiet street, 900m to the beach, and is dog friendly. Bookings online only.
The owners have added an extra touch of luxury to your stay with soft bed linen and bath towels from Aura Home, so your stay feels extra comfortable. When you need to hide from the sun the large outdoor space allows you to rest on the day bed so you and your family can enjoy the large backyard along with a fire pit for nighttime marshmallow cooking.
The property is fully fenced and dogs are welcome.
Rainbow Beach 4581
www.palmtreelodgerainbowbeach.com
Inskip Point Camping Ground
Camping at Inskip Point requires a valid camping permit and this can be obtained by booking online at the website below or telephoning. You can also purchase tickets in person at Rainbow Beach Office (8am-4pm daily). Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times, bring drinking water, there are no showers, but disabled toilets are available. The camping ground is located about 8 kilometres north of Rainbow Township.
Rainbow Beach 4581
T 13 13 04 or 07 5486 3160
Sunshine Valley Cottages
These secluded 4-star air-conditioned cottages are set amidst a beautiful garden and cater for anyone who is looking for private self-contained accommodation. Centrally located, this is the perfect location to enjoy all this area has to offer. Enjoy the beautiful beaches of the Sunshine Coast and visit the charming, historic towns and villages of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, all only a short drive away. Relax and enjoy the time spent on your own verandah with your pet, have a private BBQ, cool off with a dip in the crystal clear water of the saltwater pool set in natural surroundings or wander through the beautiful garden.
80 Old Palmwoods Road, West Woombye 4559
T 07 5442 3672
www.sunshinevalleycottages.com.au
Elevata Retreat
Welcome to Elevata Retreat, a newly renovated boho, Thai inspired Villa, nestled in a secluded tropical setting in Montville. This relaxing, fully private and luxe home beckons those needing a space where they can chill out and let time stand still. The Villa enjoys 3 unique bedrooms, 2 bathrooms plus 3 separate entertaining decks for lounging around, relaxing in a mineral spa or having a BBQ and a few drinks with friends under the soaring palms and bamboo.
We personally love animals. Bella, our dog, is an integral part of our house. We totally understand that you would like to bring them on holidays with you which is why we have chosen to include pet friendly as an option. Placid, well behaved dogs are welcome, no dangerous or aggressive breeds. We trust you understand that as a consideration to our premises and future guests, we do have a PET STAY POLICY in place & request that pet owners read it in full prior to booking, to ensure our Villa is right for you and your fur baby. Pets are individually assessed. Please contact to request a pet stay prior to your booking.
1-5 Marshalls Road, Montville 4560
T 07 5478 5438
Puppies & Pancakes
This 2-bedroom unit with ground-level private entry and a huge backyard for guests is known for being the friendliest dog-friendly accommodation in Coolum. The unit is a great size for one or two couples that just want to relax in a quiet neighborhood, or a single can enjoy all there is to offer. 150m to foreshore you can hear the ocean in the backyard great sea breezes, 1km flat walk, or drive to beach access. 1.5km to start of Coolum Central. Bikes are subject to availability, please mention on booking.
M 0448 567 550
Coolum Waves Pet Friendly Sunshine Coast
Paradise awaits your pet and your whole family at Coolum Waves!
This 4-bedroom house sleeps 12 with fast FREE wifi internet. The backyard is securely fenced 6 feet high with a grassed area for your loved dogs. On driving into the beautiful Coolum Waves House. You can picture your family’s fun unfolding around this stunning solar-heated pool. With areas to relax on the sun chair or in the wicker lounge setting deck area. Watching and chatting with family and friends in the magnificent pool with lots of stepping areas for small children. Cats are also welcome.
M 0419611009
22 Centenary Heights Road, Coolum Beach, Sunshine Coast 4573
https://www.petfriendlyholidayhouses.com.au/coolum-waves/
This property has a fully fenced secure and gated backgrounds and sleeps 7. While pets are allowed inside, they are not on the lounge or beds.
Securely fenced at the rear of the property and suitable for a small/medium dog.
23 Scrub Road, Coolum Beach 4573
M 0404044866
Coolum Boutique Treehouse
This 1-bedroom chalet-style accommodation has all the trimmings.
Available for your small house-trained dog – other small pets, such as cats, may be considered. Designed for a couple that wants privacy and serenity. Floor to ceiling north east facing windows ensure the ocean is the first thing you see when you wake. A dog-friendly leash-free beach is 1.6km from the house.
M 0404 044866
Saltwater Villas
Looking for that special getaway? Saltwater Villas in Mooloolaba welcomes you, your family, and your pet. Consisting of 3 x Waterfront two-bedroom Villas, Garden View Villas, and Waterfront Houses. Saltwater Villas in Mooloolaba welcomes you and your pet – all of the Villas are pet-friendly. The Waterfront Villas have beautiful private courtyards and are fully fenced to keep your dog safe. Pet Minding or Pet Walking is available. If you have an outing planned, we will look after your pet. Please contact us to confirm the day, time, and availability. Sit poolside, book a massage or facial or maybe take a kayak or Tinny for the day. All Beauty Treatments are available. *** Uspa, Thalgo & Pevonia ***
Escape from work, get away from all of the other duties of everyday life, and let us put a holiday together for you, so you really relax. Pontoons are at both properties so bring your boat or Jet Ski.
15 Goonawarra Dr, Mooloolaba 4557
M 0409 088 073
Woodlark Beach House at Sunrise Beach
This contemporary 3-bedroom home sleeps 6.
Guests are greeted with a welcome pack which includes a bottle of Prosecco, cheese, biscuits & other tempting items to set the holiday mood. Ideal for couples or families/friends looking to have a relaxing vacation – easily and comfortably in an expansive private space. With a central kitchen, 3 separate bedrooms & 3 different living spaces, the house is spacious enough for couples, friends or small families. Enjoy relaxing by the pool area or head to the beach, NBN WIFI and Foxtel are available. Just a 10-minute stroll to Sunrise Beach. One well-trained outdoor dog upon request, may be included in your stay Divine Woodlark. Please contact the owner prior to instant booking if you plan to travel with your dog. Please note that dogs do not have access to bedrooms, pool or rugs. They are not allowed up on the furniture.
The Pod Noosa – Pet Friendly
Located by the sea, this holiday home is in Peregian Beach, a neighbourhood in Sunshine Coast.
Tastefully styled with 5-bedrooms, this beach house has an outdoor alfresco zone, lagoon pool, BBQ, a front grassed area perfect for the kids or dogs and is fully fenced and secure with electric sliding gates. A car is recommended for transport to and from this property. Pet friendly – subject to approval of age/breed.
Blue Dog Beach House
This gorgeous luxury 4-bedroom beach house with 3 bathrooms overlooks dog-friendly Castaways Beach. With a fully fenced yard and pet bowls, towels, and dog beds provided – this one is not to be missed!
Castaways Beach, Sunshine Coast 4567
M 0411 049 152
T 07 5474 1964
Beachhouse on Buccleugh
An ideal home to holiday with the family and pets. The home is on two levels – ground level has 3 bedrooms. There is also a nice size grassed back garden for your dog. The second level has a big dining area and modern kitchen, lounge room with TV/DVD, the 2nd bathroom with a claw foot bath and extra toilet. The large, covered north facing deck is well furnished to enjoy al-fresco dining, where you can kick off your shoes, catch those cool summer sea breezes, or sit in the winter sun, and enjoy a good book. The house is an easy five-minute, 400m, stroll to pet-friendly Moffat Beach and a tempting selection of beachside cafes. The house is also just 1.5km to the Caloundra CBD. Pets are welcome inside and the yard is fully fenced.
8B Buccleugh Street, Moffat Beach 455
M 0477 887 844
Golden Beach Holiday Park
This is a great park with lots of amenities. Pets of all shapes and sizes are welcome to the caravan and camping sites. However, conditions apply. Located close to the beach and only 2.4 kilometres to the main street of Caloundra, and less than an hour’s drive from Brisbane.
9 Onslow Street, Golden Beach 4551
T 07 5492 4811
www.goldenbeachholidaypark.com.au
Ingenia Holidays – Rivershore Resort
This resort with fantastic facilities, set on the banks of the Maroochy River, is pet-friendly 365 days a year in the camping/caravan sites – please note that manager’s discretion will apply.
This is a fun park for people travelling with the whole family because of the activities and events held throughout the year.
99 David Low Way, Diddillibah 4559
T 07 5458 2200
Coolum Holidays
Bring your best friend with you. Coolum Holidays have a huge selection of pet-friendly properties available. So, don’t leave a member of your family at home during the holidays – check out some of their pet-friendly accommodation.
1792 David Low Way, Coolum Beach 4573
T 07 5446 3788
Marcoola House
Set in the beautiful quiet beachside residence of North Marcoola on the Sunshine Coast. Only a 1 minute walk to the dog-friendly beach, off-leash parkland and Surf Life Saving Club, convenience store, children’s playground, hairdressers, gift shop, cafe, takeaway and restaurant are all 2 minutes away. Inside and outside living to its best. 2 mountain bikes are provided for the great beach nature bike path. Cats are also welcome to stay inside.
M 0419 611009
https://www.petfriendlyholidayhouses.com.au/
Marcoola Dunes
This 3-bedroom house sleeps 7 and is located in the beautiful quiet beachside residence of North Marcoola. A 2-minute walk to the dog-friendly beach and off leash parkland. Guests can enjoy modern luxury, pool, Foxtel, aircon, heating and internet connection.
M 0419611009
https://www.petfriendlyholidayhouses.com.au/
Surf Club House
This modern 2-bedroom house with a granny flat and heated pool sleeps 8 people and is located in the beautiful quiet beachside residence of North Marcoola Beach. A 1-minute walk to the dog-friendly beach and the off-leash parkland and Surf Life Saving Club. Two mountain bikes are provided for the great beach nature bike path. Cats are also welcome.
M 0419 611009
https://www.petfriendlyholidayhouses.com.au/
Coolum House
This 4-bedroom house is a beautiful nature lover’s paradise and is located beside a large parkland with pond and even kangaroos, all this in central Coolum Beach. Guests have access to a children’s playground, trampoline, 9-meter heat pumped pool. The property is stylishly furnished and is very modern. The well known off leash Stumers Creek is not far away in Coolum. Coolum is also known for its cafes, boutiques and relaxed atmosphere.
https://www.petfriendlyholidayhouses.com.au/
Blackwattle Farm
This 20-acre sustainable hobby farm is set at the base of the Glasshouse Mountains in Beerwah. Located approximately 80 kilometres north of Brisbane, and just south of Landsborough. The property has a large modern self-contained cabin that sleeps 4 people which is pet-friendly. Breakfast is provided, and kids will love the daily feeding the farm animals tour. Dogs and birds are welcome here, and there is horse accommodation nearby. Depending on the schedule pet minding is also available, if guests wish to go out for the day. There are three resident dogs so only friendly canine guests are accepted.
123 Old Peachester Road, Beerwah 4519
M 0408 536 815
Spicers Retreat
Relish in something a little different with your pet at one of Spicers Retreat’s unique luxury getaways. Pooch Packages are available at selected Spicers locations, in allocated pet-friendly rooms. Well-behaved dogs are warmly welcomed at Spicers Retreat with just a few provisions – your pooch must weigh under 25kg, use their ‘inside voice’, and resist the temptation to cuddle up on any furniture. All dogs must remain on a leash when exploring the grounds and are restricted from the restaurant and pool area. Guests are asked to clean up after their own pets. Pooch Packages are available at Spicers Tamarind Retreat in the Orchard Villa, Spicers Hidden Vale in the Chinese Cottage, Spicers Clovelly Estate in the French Cottage, Spicers Balfour Hotel in Balfour Suites 10 and 11 and Spicers Sangoma Retreat Bush Suite.
T 13 77 42
Wild Duck Farm
Located 1 hour from Brisbane, this quality boutique accommodation in the beautiful Sunshine Coast Hinterland has a range of pet-friendly rooms to suit your needs.
172 Candle Mountain Drive, Peachester 4519
M 0447 733 329
About the Author
Carla Francis is an Australian author and pet-travel expert. She founded Pet-Friendly Accommodation and has published Travelling with Pets (7th ed.) and other titles published in multiple languages. With over a decade of experience exploring pet-friendly stays across Australia, Carla blends practical advice with a passion for mindful travel. She lives in Sydney with her rescue pets and a suitcase always half-packed.