Dog-Friendly Day Trips from Melbourne

Dog-Friendly Day Trips from Melbourne

Embarking on a dog-friendly road trip in Victoria is a delightful way to explore the state’s scenic beauty with your furry companion but knowing where they can or can’t go can make planning a chore. That’s why we’ve prepared your ultimate guide to the best dog-friendly day trips from Melbourne.

Top Dog-Friendly Road Trips in Victoria

Victoria is brimming with stunning road trip opportunities perfect for both you and your dog, most famous of which being the Great Ocean Road, and for good reason. Famous for its stunning coastal views and charming towns, what better way to spend a day with your best mate than to start in Torquay and travel to Apollo Bay, stopping at dog-friendly beaches and cafes along the way. Read the Dog friendly guide to the Great Ocean Road for more recommendations.

Dog-Friendly Activities

Nature Walks and Hikes

The Great Ocean Road boasts numerous trails where your dog can enjoy the great outdoors:

  • Surf Coast Walk, Torquay: This trail offers sections where dogs are welcome on-lead. Enjoy coastal views and fresh air.
  • Ironbark Gorge Walking Track, Anglesea: A moderate hike through beautiful bushland, perfect for you and your dog.
  • Lake Elizabeth Loop, Otways: A tranquil loop around Lake Elizabeth, offering a peaceful retreat in nature.

Ensure your dog is on a lead and check local regulations before setting off. More information can be found on the Parks Victoria website.

Beaches

There’s nothing like a day at the beach, especially for your dog:

  • Whites Beach, Torquay: A spacious beach where dogs can run off-lead. Perfect for a fun day of sun and sand.
  • Johanna Beach, Otway Coast: Known for its surf, this beach allows dogs off-lead. Check signs for seasonal rules.
  • Point Addis, Anglesea: Offers beautiful views and allows dogs off-lead at certain times of the year.

Dining with Dogs

Enjoying a meal or drink doesn’t mean leaving your dog behind. Here are some dog-friendly spots:

  • Timboon Fine Ice Cream: Top off a long walk for you and your furry friends with ice cream. There’s even a special low-lactose and sugar treat for the dogs so they don’t feel left out.
  • Aireys Pub, Aireys Inlet: A popular stop with a large outdoor area where dogs are welcome. Great for a relaxed meal with your pooch.
  • Great Ocean Road Brewhouse, Apollo Bay: Featuring a dog-friendly beer garden and even doggy beer, this is a must-visit.

Dog-Friendly Accommodations

Finding the right place to stay can make all the difference. Here are some top choices for pet friendly accommodation:

Travel Responsibly With Your Pet

When travelling with your dog, it’s essential to be a responsible pet owner. Here are a few tips:

  • Keep your dog on a lead unless in designated off-lead areas.
  • Clean up after your pet to keep the area pleasant for everyone.
  • Respect wildlife and other visitors by ensuring your dog is well-behaved.

Exploring the Great Ocean Road with your dog is a rewarding experience that combines the joy of discovery with the companionship of your furry friend.  The Great Ocean Road is filled with other dog-friendly places to eat, drink and play, so pack your bags, grab the leash, and set off on an adventure with your best mate by your side!

All Accommodation

All Things To Do

Places To Eat & Drink

Bridgewater Bay Cafe

Cape Bridgewater

Frolic

Warrnambool

Salt. Restaurant & Wine

Warrnambool

Yambuk Inn

Yambuk

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Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Great Ocean Road region the Wadawurrung, Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging. We recognise and respect their unique cultural heritage and the connection to their traditional lands. We commit to building genuine and lasting partnerships that recognise, embrace and support the spirit of reconciliation, working towards self-determination, equity of outcomes and an equal voice for Australia’s first people.