Byron Bay is one of the most popular places on Australia’s East Coast, but how does it fare for our furry friends? In this guide to dog-friendly Byron Bay, we’ll explore everything from pup-approved patios to the dog-friendly beaches Byron Bay boasts. We’ll also take a look at how house sitting in Byron Bay works, and for pet parents, how to find a Byron Bay sitter for your furry family member while you’re away.
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Tallow Beach, Byron Bay
Unmissable dog-friendly beaches, Byron Bay
First stop – the dog beach! Byron Bay has plenty of sandy areas where pooch pals are free to roam.
Tallow Beach Dog Exercise Area
Located just south of Cape Byron, this 6.5km beach includes a designated 1.5km dog-friendly section. Here, furry friends are free to explore the sand and surf from the southern edge of Arakwal National Park up to Jarman Street in Suffolk Park. It’s clean and a little wild, and is often shared with surfers and other dog lovers.
Location: Alcorn St, Suffolk Park NSW 2481, Australia
Belongil Beach South - Dog Exercise Area
Belongil Beach South welcomes four-legged friends west of the Main Beach car park to Manfred Street, as well as the area next to Cavanbah Park. The water is typically calm and clear, but be mindful of the tide. Walking further down the dog beach usually leads to quieter, more scenic spots.
Location: Border St, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia
Brunswick Heads Beach
Another stretch of sand with a dog exercise area, Brunswick Heads Main Beach is found just 20 minutes north of Byron Bay. The pretty off-leash section starts south of the Surf Club and extends for 400 meters to the Tyagarah Nature Reserve boundary.
Location: S Beach Rd, Brunswick Heads NSW 2483, Australia
Other dog-friendly beaches further afield include:
- New Brighton Beach: 7/11 Ocean Ave, New Brighton NSW 2483, Australia
- South Golden Beach: Pacific Esplanade, South Golden Beach NSW 2483, Australia
- Seven Mile Beach: New South Wales, Australia
The dog exercise area at Belongil Beach
The best dog-friendly parks, Byron Bay
If sand and sea aren’t your furry friend’s idea of a good time, why not explore some of Byron Bay’s green spaces?
Dening Park
While pooch pals unfortunately aren’t able to join at the weekend markets hosted here, this small green park makes for a great starting point for a dog walk on the leash.
Location: Lawson St, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia
Butler Street Reserve
Another small area of greenery that’s often used for the market, the central location of this park makes it a good place to stretch those leggies. Note that it can get muddy, and there’s limited shade.
Location: 3 Somerset St, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia
Brunswick Valley Heritage Park
With riverside paths, picnic areas, and plenty of space for off-leash frolicking, this is worth the trip out of Byron Bay if you’re looking for some green space.
Rocky Creek Dam, Byron Bay
Our favorite dog-friendly walks, Byron Bay
Stretch both two legs and four on one of these dog-friendly walks – just be sure to keep Fido on the leash unless you’re in a specific off-leash area.
Rocky Creek Dam
Pack a picnic and explore the peaceful trails of Rocky Creek Dam with your leashed pup, just under an hour’s drive from Byron Bay. The trails vary in length and offer a great alternative since pups aren’t allowed in nearby Nightcap National Park.
Location: Rocky Creek Dam Rd, Dunoon NSW 2480, Australia
Northern Rivers Rail Trail
These old railway lines in the Burringbar area, just north of Byron, have been converted into shared cycling and walking paths. Pack a flashlight if you want to explore the Burringbar Range Tunnel and Hulls Road Tunnel, where you might see glowworms and bats.
Location: Stokers Siding NSW 2484, Australia
Lennox Head Boardwalk
Keep Fido on the leash to take the boardwalk route from Boulder Beach to Lennox Head and back, taking in the gorgeous coastal views as you go.
Location: Lennox Head NSW 2478, Australia
The tastiest dog-friendly restaurants, Byron Bay
If all this talk of long walks and beach frolics has got your stomach rumbling, check out these dog-friendly restaurants.
Treehouse Byron Bay
After working up an appetite in the nearby off-leash area at Belongil Beach, grab a table outside in the pet-friendly seating area of Treehouse. Your furry friend can enjoy some attention from the staff as you relax and enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Location: 25 Childe St, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia
Miss Margarita
This popular Mexican spot has three outdoor tables where four-legged furries are welcome. While you enjoy pulled pork quesadillas, homemade nachos, and squid tacos washed down with a classic margarita, pups can sip on a refreshing bowl of water.
Location: 2 Jonson St, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia
The Roadhouse Byron Bay
Serving dinner Thursday to Sunday, and breakfast and brunch the rest of the week, The Roadhouse is a tasty escape just outside the busy town center. Their “night” menu features delicious pizzas, meat dishes, small plates, and daily specials. Booking a table is recommended, especially in the evening.
Location: 6/142 Bangalow Rd, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia
Light Years - Byron Bay
Book a table in the outdoor seating area for you and your pooch, and try pork belly bao, kingfish ceviche, and miso corn. Or if you can’t decide what to eat, order the “banquet” – a selection of dishes ideal for a special occasion.
Location: 139 Jonson St, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia
No Bones Byron Bay
A tasty array of fresh, vegan dishes are served at reasonable prices in this dog-friendly restaurant. Whether you’re plant-based or not, pop by to try their tasting menu – you won’t be disappointed!
The coziest dog-friendly cafes, Byron Bay
Is coffee and cake more your thing? Or perhaps a leisurely brunch? Either way, these dog-friendly cafes are sure to do the trick.
The Byron Bay General Store
Once a general store (hence the name), this rustic cafe now serves vegan dishes for breakfast and lunch. There’s plenty of outdoor seating, but four-pawed pals are also welcome inside. The acai bowls, mushrooms with scrambled tofu, and banana bread are all highly recommended.
Location: 26 Bangalow Rd, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia
Three Blue Ducks (The Farm)
After a mooch around The Farm, head to one of the outdoor tables with your furry friend to enjoy the freshest produce and homemade drinks.
Location: 11 Ewingsdale Road Byron Bay, Ewingsdale NSW 2481, Australia
Bayleaf Cafe
Try a coconut cold brew, Turkish eggs, or mushroom focaccia as your pup is treated to a bowl of filtered water at this popular cafe.
Location: 2A Marvell St, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia
The Top Shop
A warm and welcoming vibe, friendly staff, and coffee and pastries to die for make this cute cafe super popular – and busy! Luckily, there’s plenty of space on the grassy lawn outside for pooch pals and their pawrents.
Other dog-friendly places, Byron Bay
While pups aren’t permitted at some of the most famous tourist attractions, we’ve still got a couple more dog-friendly Byron Bay spots up our sleeve…
Visit The Farm
There’s more to see at The Farm than just its restaurant! A 1 km tour around the property – guided or self-guided – will introduce you and your leashed pup to the resident animals and growing produce. You can also explore the bakery, plant nursery, and farm shop selling fresh goods and souvenirs. Just remember to keep your pup on their best behavior!
Location: 11 Ewingsdale Rd, Ewingsdale NSW 2481, Australia
Go to the Stone & Wood Brewery
Four-pawed pals can join humans in the large outdoor space by the entrance, where you can enjoy tasting boards of beer and something from the food menu.
Tips for pet parents in Byron Bay
Check leash rules
While your instinct might be to run straight to the sandiest stretch of beach, remember that your four-legged family member is only allowed in specific areas. Check signage for the most up-to-date rules, as regulations can change to protect wildlife and other beachgoers.
Explore further afield
While Byron might be famous for its beaches, don’t miss out on exploring the beautiful hinterland. Just remember to be extra mindful of the local wildlife in these areas, including native birds and even snakes.
Plan ahead for your vacation
Heading off on an adventure without your furry friend? Make sure they’re comfortable and well-cared for by finding a verified pet sitter to look after them while you’re away. Our sitters care for precious pets in the familiar surroundings of their own home, allowing you to enjoy your travels stress-free.
Tips for pet sitters in Byron Bay
Respect the lifestyle
Byron Bay has a relaxed, eco-conscious vibe. Be mindful of noise levels, especially if you’re staying in a residential area, and be sure to dispose of pet waste properly.
Protect yourself (and pets) from the sun
Byron Bay gets a lot of sunshine, so it’s best to avoid the strong midday sun, especially during heat waves. Make sure you and your furry friend stick to the shade whenever possible, carry plenty of water, and remember to apply sunscreen.
Check sea conditions
If your four-pawed pal enjoys swimming, be aware of the ocean conditions, including strong currents or rips that can occur even in seemingly calm areas. Always supervise water play closely.
Try house and pet sitting
Love the sound of exploring Byron Bay with a furry friend by your side? Exchange loving pet care for a place to stay, and discover what it’s like to live in a real Byron Bay home with a local furry for company.
