This article is contributed by our friends at Pawtripper – helping you plan fabulous dog-friendly holidays.
There’s nothing more special than saying “I do” with your toes in the sand and your dog by your side. If you’ve been dreaming of a dog friendly beach wedding in Australia, you’re in luck! Our coastline is dotted with stunning spots where your pup is not just allowed, but truly welcome. From secluded shores to picture-perfect venues that embrace pets as part of the family, here’s your guide to unforgettable dog friendly wedding locations by the sea.
How to Choose a Dog Friendly Beach Wedding Location
Picking the perfect dog friendly beach wedding spot means finding a place that’s not only beautiful but also welcoming to your furry family member. Beaches offer a naturally stunning backdrop with calming ocean views and sunset skies that make every moment magical and perfect for photos.
For pet owners, the ideal location balances romance with comfort and safety, allowing your dog to roam or relax without stress. Choosing a beach location without strict dog policies ensures your pup feels included and happy throughout your special day.
🐾 Pawfect Tip: Make sure you check the local council’s website for regulations around dog access and leash restrictions.
Top Dog Friendly Beach Wedding Venues in Australia
We’ve done the digging for you and discovered some of the most secluded and convenient beaches and reception venues across Australia where you can host your pet friendly wedding:
Fairhaven Beach, Great Ocean Road, Victoria
Situated along the iconic Great Ocean Road, Fairhaven Beach offers soft sands, gentle waves, and spectacular coastal views, providing an idyllic location for a dog-friendly beach ceremony. Dogs are welcome on-leash, so your pup can be part of your vows with the ocean as your backdrop.
For the reception, head to the nearby Fairhaven Surf Life Saving Club. While dogs aren’t allowed inside, this stunning architecturally designed space perched on the dunes features floor-to-ceiling windows and magical sunset views, perfect for celebrating into the night. To keep things stress-free, consider arranging a local dog sitter and booking nearby pet-friendly accommodation so your pup is never far away.
Dog Friendly Stays Nearby Fairhaven Beach
- Aireys Cliff-Top Gem is a luxurious, architecturally acclaimed, pet-friendly retreat perched above the Great Ocean Road in Aireys Inlet, offering panoramic ocean views. This double-storey home features three bedrooms, including a master suite with a private balcony, and two bathrooms, providing ample space for you, your guests, and your furry companions. The expansive lawned garden is perfect for outdoor gatherings, and the property’s proximity to Sandy Gully Beach, just 100 meters away. Embrace the charm of a beachside wedding while enjoying the comforts of this exquisite, pet-friendly accommodation.
Palm Cove Beach, Tropical North Queensland
This tropical paradise near Cairns offers calm waters and picturesque palm-lined shores. Many venues nearby welcome dogs, and the beach itself is perfect for a joyful pet friendly beach wedding with a relaxed, resort-style vibe.
At the far left end of the esplanade, there’s a small off-leash beach area next to the jetty, perfect for a ceremony with your dog included. Although not pet friendly, Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort and Spa Offers multiple reception venues. Peppers Beach Club & Spa offers a waterfront venue with direct views of the palm-lined beach and Coral Sea.
Dog Friendly Accommodation Nearby Palm Cove
- Sweet Creek Cottage is a beautifully restored 1920s beachside home that warmly welcomes pets with a pet basket and other amenities making it an ideal retreat for dog-loving travelers. Just a short walk from the beach, this charming cottage offers a heated pool, tropical gardens, and a relaxed atmosphere suited for families or small groups. The property’s thoughtful touches and proximity to the beach make it a favourite among those seeking a memorable, pet-inclusive getaway.
- Cove Retreat is a charming tropical home offering plenty of room for your wedding party, featuring three comfortable bedrooms and a private pool. Fully air-conditioned and just minutes from Palm Cove’s pristine beach, cafes, and spas, Cove Retreat combines convenience with comfort. Whether you’re hosting out-of-town family or want a relaxing spot to unwind with your dog after your ceremony, this retreat provides the perfect pet-friendly haven close to the stunning coastal wedding venues of Palm Cove.
Crescent Head, Mid North Coast New South Wales
Crescent Head on the NSW Mid North Coast ticks all the boxes for a pet friendly ceremony. This laid-back coastal town offers a mix of leash and off-leash dog friendly beaches perfect for a barefoot ceremony with your furry friend by your side.
Delicate Nobby Beach and Big Hill Beach, both in Goolawah Regional Park, are off-leash locations with plenty of space and natural beauty. For couples wanting a quieter vibe, the northern end of Back Beach is also dog-friendly. Just be sure to access it via the vehicle track and stay below the high tide mark.
Dog-friendly Stays around Crescent Head
- After the vows, head to Goolawah Retreat for a relaxed and private reception. Surrounded by bushland and just minutes from the beach, this pet-friendly venue offers rustic cabins, a spacious hall, and plenty of room for dogs to roam. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a full celebration, Crescent Head is one of those rare dog friendly places to say “I do.”
- If you’re travelling via Sydney, PawTripper has a fantastic guide to Sydney’s dog-friendly hotels to complement your pet friendly stay in NSW.
Palms Pavilion, Mid North Coast New South Wales
Palms Pavilion offers a stunning lakeside setting between the white sands of Seven Mile Beach and the palm-studded shores of Wallis Lake. While the beach itself may not permit dogs, the venue’s pretty lakefront and surrounding natural beauty provide ample opportunities for memorable photos with your dog included.
The venue boasts unobstructed views of Wallis Lake, allowing you to witness one of the few sunsets over water on Australia’s east coast . Adjacent to the iconic Green Cathedral, a natural ceremony site within a palm forest, Palms Pavilion offers a unique and serene backdrop for your special day.
Palms Pavilion is renowned for its warm hospitality and has received glowing reviews for its exceptional service and dog friendly vibes.
Dog Friendly Accommodation in Palms Pavilion
- Palms Pavilion offers convenient accommodation options through its close association with Tiona Holiday Park, located adjacent to the venue. This proximity means no need to find transport after the wedding celebrations with a range of accommodation options including villas, beachside cabins, treehouse glamping tents and nearby holiday homes.
Planning Tips for Your Pet Friendly Beach Wedding
- Check local regulations: Always confirm leash laws and pet policies with the local council or beach management. PawTripper has comprehensive guides to dog friendly beaches in Australia.
- Consider guest comfort: Provide shaded areas and water for pets and guests alike.
- Decide on what role will work best with your pet’s personality and the location: If you’re looking for unique ways to incorporate your pup in the special day, check out our guide.
- Book a wedding pet sitter: A dedicated pet handler can be a game-changer on your big day, making sure your pup is picture-perfect for the beach ceremony, cared for during the reception, and kept calm throughout. It’s a great way to enjoy a stress-free celebration knowing your pup is in good hands. Find out how a wedding pet sitter can make your day purrfect.
- Cleanup: Bring waste bags and keep the beach clean to ensure the area remains welcoming for all visitors.
Our final paw-spective
Whether you prefer a quiet beach with panoramic ocean views or a lively coastal spot near amenities, Australia offers countless options to celebrate love with your furry family member by your side. There’s an undeniable wow factor in saying “I do” by the beach, creating a moment that’s not only breathtaking, but deeply personal. With a bit of preparation and local knowledge, your wedding will be a beautiful, inclusive event to remember.
With many years in the tourism industry, Michelle Hatch knows a good adventure, especially with her four-legged co-pilot, Eliza. As the founder of Pawtripper, she blends travel expertise and a love of animals to help dog lovers discover Australia’s best dog-friendly destinations. Michelle is on a mission to make pet-inclusive travel easier and more inspiring.
Start planning your next dog-friendly holiday in Australia with PawTripper.
