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Let me help you plan your Great Ocean Road trip

I am here to help you explore the Great Ocean Road region, but I’m still learning and can make mistakes. For the best local advice, visit a visitor information centre. This is a large region, so plan for travel distances and your length of stay.

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Dog-Friendly Foodie Stops on the Great Ocean Road

Eat, sip and explore without leaving your four-legged friend behind.

From casual cafés to wineries and breweries, there are stops throughout the Great Ocean Road region that combine delicious food, local produce, and outdoor spaces perfect for dogs. Whether you’re looking for a morning coffee, a sweet treat, or a leisurely lunch, these destinations make it easy to include your four-legged friend in your Great Ocean Road itinerary.

Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery

Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery, Bellbrae

Set on expansive grounds in Bellbrae which is just on the edge of Torquay, the Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery offers handcrafted chocolates, premium ice cream made on site, and a café menu featuring house-made desserts and light meals. Visitors can watch chocolatiers at work, browse the chocolate showroom, or settle in outdoors with a coffee while their dog relaxes by their side. The spacious lawns make it an easy and enjoyable stop when travelling with pets, giving both humans and dogs room to stretch their legs.

Great Ocean Road Brewhouse

Great Ocean Road Brewhouse, Apollo Bay

Located right in Apollo Bay, the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse is a must-visit for craft beer lovers and dog owners alike. Its outdoor seating area allows pups to relax in the sunshine while you sample a range of local beers (there are over 100 craft beers to choose from) and hearty meals.

Otway Estate – Brewery, Distillery, and Cidery

Otway Estate Cellar Door, Barongarook

Set in the pristine natural environment of the Otways in south-western Victoria, Otway Estate is home to the Otway Estate Cellar Door, the main Prickly Moses brewing facility and Redwood Distillery. Dogs can relax by your side while you sample beers, wines, or spirits, making Otway Estate a perfect stop for pet-friendly food and drink experiences in the Otways.

The Timboon Ice Creamery

Timboon Ice Creamery, Timboon

A must-visit for both humans and pups, Timboon Ice Cream serves small-batch ice cream made from local ingredients and they also make ice cream just for dogs! Bring your four-legged friend into the Timboon shop for a scoop, or grab a 500ml tub to take home for a cool treat. Everyone in the family, including your dog, gets to enjoy a sweet treat.

Apollo Bay Hotel

Apollo Bay Hotel

Right in the heart of town, the Apollo Bay Hotel welcomes both you and your furry companion. With a spacious outdoor area, dogs can relax by your side while you enjoy classic pub meals and fresh local produce. Whether you’re stopping in after a stroll along the foreshore or a day exploring the Great Otway coastline, the hotel’s dog-friendly seating makes it easy to unwind with your four-legged friend.

Merrijig Kitchen

Merrijig Kitchen, Port Fairy

If your travels take you further west, the Merrijig Kitchen offers outdoor dining where dogs are welcome. Set in a historic stone building near the Moyne River, the Merrijig Kitchen focuses on seasonal produce and thoughtful, contemporary dishes. Its outdoor seating provides a comfortable space to enjoy a long lunch with your dog by your side.

Pavilion Cafe & Bar

The Pavilion, Warrnambool

For ocean views alongside your meal, The Pavilion delivers relaxed coastal dining with dog-friendly outdoor seating. Overlooking the beach, it’s an ideal stop after a coastal walk. The open setting allows you to enjoy fresh sea air while your dog settles in comfortably at your table.

Tips for Dog-Friendly Dining on the Great Ocean Road

  • Keep your dog on a leash in outdoor dining areas.
  • Bring a collapsible water bowl, especially during warmer months.
  • Check each venue’s current dog policy before visiting, as guidelines can change.

 

Looking for places to stay? Explore our guide to dog friendly accommodation.

Dog Friendly Accommodation

Explore recommended dog friendly accommodation options throughout the Great Ocean Road Region

Dog Friendly Travel Planning