Your Furry Friend Deserves A Holiday Too: Best Pet-Friendly Stays In Australia

Travelling with pets used to be complicated—long checklists, limited options, and “no pets allowed” signs at every turn. Thankfully, times have changed. Across Australia, more hotels, serviced apartments, and holiday homes are opening their doors to four-legged guests, offering spaces where pets are not just tolerated but truly welcomed.

Whether you’re exploring Melbourne’s laneways, Sydney’s coastal trails, or the sunny beaches of Queensland, there’s a growing range of pet-friendly accommodations that combine comfort, convenience, and plenty of room for paws to play. After all, your furry friend deserves a vacation just as much as you do.

Here’s a look at some of the best pet-friendly stays in Australia—and what makes them perfect for both pets and their people.

1. Melbourne: Stylish Stays for City Pups

Melbourne’s reputation for style and hospitality extends to its pet-friendly apartments and hotels. Many inner-city stays, like Corporate Keys apartments, welcome pets and offer spacious layouts perfect for longer visits. These serviced apartments often include private balconies, full kitchens, and nearby walking areas—making them ideal for both business and leisure travellers with pets.

For a morning stroll, head to Albert Park Lake, Princes Park, or the Yarra River trail, all offering open green spaces where dogs can stretch their legs. Several nearby cafes, such as The Farm Café and Doghouse Café, even cater specifically to furry visitors.

If you’re staying for an extended work trip, serviced apartments in Docklands or Southbank make it easy to maintain a balanced routine—with convenience stores, pet shops, and vet clinics just a short walk away.

2. Sydney: Seaside Comforts and Urban Adventure

Sydney’s sparkling harbour, dog-friendly beaches, and vibrant neighbourhoods make it a paradise for pet lovers. Accommodations like Ovolo Hotels and Pier One Sydney Harbour have earned reputations as some of the most pet-welcoming stays in the country.

At Ovolo, pets are treated like VIPs (Very Important Pooches), with pet beds, bowls, toys, and snacks provided on arrival. Meanwhile, Pier One’s waterfront location means morning walks along The Rocks or Barangaroo Reserve are just steps away.

For longer stays, consider residential-style apartments in Surry Hills, Balmain, or North Sydney. These neighbourhoods offer leafy streets, off-leash parks, and nearby cafes that welcome dogs. You can enjoy the city’s sights while your furry friend enjoys a comfortable, home-like space to relax.

3. Brisbane and the Gold Coast: Sunshine and Pet-Friendly Spaces

Queensland is known for its laid-back vibe, and that extends to its approach to pet travel. In Brisbane, properties near South Bank and New Farm Park provide easy access to open spaces and riverside walks. Many serviced apartments in these areas now include pet-friendly rooms with outdoor terraces or fenced courtyards.

Heading south to the Gold Coast, you’ll find beachside properties that cater perfectly to travelling pets. Several accommodations along Burleigh Heads and Broadbeach allow pets to stay and play nearby. The region also features dog-friendly beaches, including The Spit and Palm Beach, where pets can run free and enjoy the ocean breeze.

4. Adelaide: Heritage Charm and Pet Comfort

Adelaide offers a quieter pace but doesn’t compromise on pet hospitality. Many boutique hotels and serviced apartments in the East End or North Adelaide allow small and medium-sized pets. With easy access to Botanic Park and Rymill Park, daily walks are a breeze.

The city’s pet-friendly accommodation scene continues to grow, with more options providing secure outdoor areas and nearby walking trails. The combination of convenience, character, and affordability makes Adelaide a hidden gem for travellers with pets.

5. Perth: Coastal Escapes and Open Air

Perth’s coastal setting makes it a dream destination for travellers who love the outdoors. Many of the city’s serviced apartments and Airbnb rentals are open to pets, especially around Scarborough, Cottesloe, and Fremantle.

These neighbourhoods offer pet-friendly beaches, open parks, and outdoor dining where you and your furry friend can enjoy Western Australia’s sunshine. For longer corporate stays, look for apartments with private courtyards or nearby coastal trails—perfect for early morning runs or evening strolls with your pet.

6. Canberra: Green Spaces and Cozy Retreats

Australia’s capital may be known for politics, but it’s also one of the most pet-friendly cities in the country. Surrounded by nature reserves, Canberra’s hotels and serviced apartments often feature direct access to walking trails and lakeside parks.

The Kingston Foreshore area is particularly popular among pet owners, offering dog-friendly cafes and nearby open spaces. Many serviced apartments here provide spacious living areas, balconies, and easy parking—ideal for travellers who bring their pets along for work or leisure.

7. Tips for Stress-Free Pet Travel

Before booking your stay, always check each property’s pet policy—some may have restrictions on size, breed, or number of animals. Here are a few extra tips to make your trip smoother:

• Pack the essentials: Bring your pet’s favourite toys, food, leash, and bed to help them feel at home.
• Check nearby services: Know where the closest vet clinic, grooming salon, and pet store are located.
• Plan for downtime: Just like humans, pets need rest after travel. Schedule quiet time in your apartment after a day of adventure.
• Be courteous: Keep common areas clean, and always respect other guests and hotel staff.

The Joy of Travelling Together

Australia’s hospitality industry is embracing a new era where pets are part of the travel experience—not an afterthought. With more serviced apartments, boutique hotels, and resorts offering pet-friendly options, travelling with your furry companion has never been easier or more enjoyable.

Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an extended work trip, you can now explore Australia’s cities and coastlines without leaving your best friend behind. Because every great holiday is even better when shared—with wagging tails and happy paws along the way.