The Central Coast is home to a variety of off-leash parks, reserves, gorgeous shared roads and lovely beaches where you and your furry friend can enjoy the great outdoors. There are many dog-friendly accommodations on the Central Coast, which makes your trip with your dog even more enjoyable. The Central Coast in New South Wales is a wonderful place for a fast break or dog-friendly day trip, only an hour north of Sydney. Are you looking for places to spend time with your best mate? Check out this fantastic selection of Central Coast activities and eateries that you can enjoy with your furry friends.
Dog Friendly To-Dos
- Spot a whale: The Haven, in Terrigal, is perfect for those wanting beautiful scenery, and access to shops and eateries! The Haven is home to many cafes, restaurants, swimming areas, and even a fishing charter and dive centre. Adventure up the hill to The Skillion, to get outstanding panoramic views of the ocean, just remember to keep the leash on. Don’t worry if you’re not an avid hiker, The Skillion has stairs leading straight to the top!
- Dip those paws: Fancy a visit to our very own Vanuatu? At least that’s what Patonga Beach reminds us of. One of the most dog-friendly destinations around Sydney, take your pooch on the pet-friendly ferry across from Palm Beach. Once on the shore, enjoy the 24 hours dog-friendly beach and finish the day with some drinks and lunch at one of the many cafes!
- Four-legged forest fun: Strickland State Forest is the ideal place to start the fun and spend time in nature with your small animal friend for four-legged forest adventures. With several walking pathways that are simple to find using signage and places to stop and let your dog investigate, it’s as pet-friendly as a bushwalk gets. When it’s time to take a break and refuel, there are plenty of designated parking spaces available. The big trees and scrub in this managed forest are a great location for your dog to run around and play, but be aware that it’s also a great site for ticks, so be sure to check the season you’re visiting in and give your dog some tick protection.
Dog-friendly restaurants
On the Central Coast, there are many dog-friendly cafes and restaurants where you may eat. The majority of restaurants that have outside seating will accept well-behaved dogs on leashes. Here are some of the best dog–friendly restaurants to visit:
- The Boathouse Hotel Patonga: Day-trip by ferry to Patonga Beach and take your pick from the Fish and Chip shop, or the Hotel’s outdoor seating to wine and dine with your furry friend. Beautiful views overlooking the Hawkesbury River, this idyllic spot is a must for any dog-owner on the Central Coast.
- Pacific Garden Hotel: North of Terrigal in Wamberal lies the Pacific Garden Hotel, which has pet-friendly rooms with two queen beds, tile floors, and a completely walled and grassed courtyard. The hotel’s basketball and tennis courts may be seen in the lovely view from the courtyard. Forresters Beach is only a five-minute drive from the hotel, and is dog-friendly. There is an off-leash area at Wamberal Beach as well.
- Bamboo Buddha Café: located north of Erina in Holgate is the Bamboo Buddha Cafe and Nursery. This lovely cafe provides a vegetarian and vegan menu that includes everything from burgers to curries and is located in a tranquil Bali-style garden. It is dog friendly, therefore, you can take a vacation to this cafe any day from Wednesday to Sunday.
Travelling with your dog is a great way to enjoy your stay on the Central Coast. Adairs Bus & Van Hire will help you enjoy your journey. Get in touch with us today, to book our vans or minibuses.