Located between Hastings River and the Pacific Ocean, the beautiful coastal town of Port Macquarie in New South Wales is known for its picture-perfect beaches and lush green forests. With a pleasant year-round climate and a diverse range of attractions, Port Macquarie is one of Australia's best pet-friendly holiday destinations.
The city offers plenty to do and see with your pet. With a pet-friendly accommodation in Port Macquarie, you’ll have the perfect base to explore the area with your furry friend.
There are several pet-friendly beaches in and around Port Macquarie. Nobby's Beach is located between Nobby Head and the Flynns Beach. This popular, pet-friendly beach offers a 400m stretch of long white sand. Calm and sheltered, the beach makes for great swimming, whilst fishers like to sit on the rocks near the beach. Alternatively, head to Lighthouse Beach, a surfing hot spot that also provides space for long walks, beach fishing, and camel safari rides. Dogs must be kept on a leash on most parts of this beach, but there is a section down by Watonga Rocks where you can unleash your pets and let them play with the waves. There are still more pet-friendly beaches in the area, such as North Shore Beach and Washhouse Beach.
Located on Park Street, the Seasalt Cafe & Restaurant allows you to enjoy the company of your four-legged friends while enjoying delicious meals. Dogs are allowed on-leash in the restaurant. Take in the stunning view over the marina while savouring tasty dishes like grilled barramundi and zucchini fritters. The ingredients are seasonal and locally produced. Head to Gordon Street to discover another pet-friendly cafe. Social Grounds is a trendy place where dogs are allowed on-leash. The eye-catching decor features richly textured wooden and monochrome tones. Enjoy classic toasted sandwiches or beef burgers in this laid-back, cosmopolitan setting. Other pet-friendly cafes in the city include Blackfish Coffee and Beantree Cafe.
The Henry Kendall Reserve in Laurieton includes a dog-friendly area where pets can play and frolic together. Home to a large variety of bird and animal species, the reserve is a nature lover’s paradise. And dogs enjoy themselves too, thanks to the leash-free exercise area, which includes dog games such as hurdle poles, scaling ramps, and jump hoops. You will also find shaded parking and picnic tables here. Alternatively, visit Mount Boss State Forest. The Cobrabald visitor area in the forest offers barbecue facilities, as well as a deep waterhole where humans and dogs can enjoy a cooling swim. Walking through this forest, visitors encounter numerous swimming holes and unique rock formations, perfect for a relaxing time in nature.