Dog-Friendly Sunshine Coast, QLD: What To See & Do With A Dog

House sitting as a pet sitter on the Sunshine Coast, QLD, or lucky enough to call this slice of Queensland home? Our guide to the dog-friendly Sunshine Coast has everything you need, from the best off-leash beaches and coastal walks to cafes, pubs, and activities that welcome four-legged friends.

Dog-friendly beaches on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland

With endless stretches of golden sand and plenty of off-leash areas to explore, there’s no shortage of spots for pups to run, swim, and play with new furry friends! Off-leash rules are subject to change, so it’s always worth checking the local council website before heading out – but here are some of our favorite dog-friendly beaches at the time of writing.

Mudjimba Dog Beach (North Shore/Twin Waters)

To find the dog-friendly section, search for “dog beach Mudjimba” and head to the off-leash stretch between access points 132 and 136. Backed by bushland and opening onto the calm waters of the Maroochy River, the beach feels wonderfully wild and untouched, which is ideal for adventurous pups.

Location: Dog Beach Mudjimba, Queensland, Australia

Noosa Dog Beach

This Mooloolaba dog beach can be found just behind the main beach at the Noosa Spit. The off-leash area of doggy dreams runs along the Noosa River and across to the sandy beaches on the other side. Pups are welcome 24/7, and with calm water and picturesque views, it’s no wonder it’s a popular place!

Location: Noosa Botanic Gardens, Claude Batten Dr, Noosa Heads QLD 4567

Sunshine Beach Off-Leash Area

At the northern end of Sunshine Beach, starting from the Seaview Terrace North carpark, dogs have free rein all the way to the edge of Noosa National Park. There’s plenty of space to play, but note that the surf can get a little rough.

Location: Seaview Terrace, Sunshine Beach QLD 4567

Castaways Beach & Marcus Beach

Stretching for nearly 4km between access points 38 and 47, this is one of the longest off-leash areas on the Coast. Facilities include a filtered water station with a dog bowl and a hose for sandy paws. Just make sure to steer clear of the signed no-dog zones.

Location: Queensland, Australia

Stumers Creek Dog Off Leash Area

One of the Coast’s most popular off-leash dog beaches, Stumers Creek has sand to play in and calm lagoon waters for paddling. Dogs can run free between beach access 67 and 72, and there’s a wash station near the car park for an easy clean-up.

Location: Stumers Creek Rd, Coolum Beach QLD 4573

Point Cartwright Beach, Buddina

For rugged beauty, Point Cartwright is hard to beat. The off-leash zone runs from access points 198 to 201 near the river mouth. To reach it, you’ll need to walk your pup on-leash through the reserve or along the river, as there’s no direct road access.

Location: 1 Pacific Blvd, Buddina QLD 4575

Buddina Beach

Buddina spoils dogs with not one but two off-leash zones! On the other side of Port Cartwright, the stretch between access points 210 and 217 has plenty of space for pups, easy parking, and endless ocean views.

Location: 66/67 Pacific Blvd, Buddina QLD 4575

Kawana Beach

If your four-legged furry needs space for zoomies, Kawana’s 4km sandy stretch delivers. Running from Buddina (access 226) down to Bokarina (access 247), this long beach is quiet and backed by bushland.

Location: 37 Oceanic Dr, Warana QLD 4575

Woorim Dog Beach

The closest surf beach to Brisbane also welcomes pooch pals. At Woorim, pups can go leash-free while you soak in the sun, cast a fishing line, or watch surfers carve up the waves.

Location: Benalong St, Woorim QLD 4507

Dog-friendly cafes on the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is packed with cafes and eateries that welcome four-legged guests. Here are some of the best dog-friendly spots to grab a coffee, brunch, or even dinner with your pup – listed from north to south!

Noosa & surrounds

Sunshine Social Coffee Roasters

A favorite with locals (and their dogs), this cafe has plenty of outdoor seating where you’ll spot pups stretched out in the sun. Great coffee and fresh pastries seal the deal.

Location: 24-26 Duke St, Sunshine Beach QLD 4567

Cafe VinCino

Located in Noosa Marina, this waterfront cafe serves brunch and lunch for humans and a scratch behind the ears for the doggos.

Location: Noosa Marina, 1f/2 Parkyn Ct, Tewantin QLD 4565

Chalet & Co

This bright, beachside cafe serves brunch and lunch with a smile and a side of sea views – and pups are welcome to join.

Location: Unit 11/1 Tingira Cres, Sunrise Beach QLD 4567

Coolum & Peregian

Hand of Fatima Cafe

Known for Middle Eastern flavours and healthy, homemade dog treats!

Location: 2/4 Kingfisher Dr, Peregian Beach QLD 4573

Rock Hop Espresso

Come here for coffee, cake, and healthy dog treats – what more could you want mid-walkies?!

Location: 12b Elizabeth St, Coolum Beach QLD 4573

Wagtail Coffee

The name says it all! Stop by for a coffee on the coast while walking your pup along the beach.

Location: 1/1467 David Low Way, Yaroomba QLD 4573

Maroochydore & Mooloolaba

The Milk Bar Coffee Co

Welcoming staff, great coffee, and a dog-friendly outdoor area make this a local favorite.

Location: 1b/68 Sixth Ave, Maroochydore QLD 4558

SIP Espresso & Eats

Grab something caffeinated for yourself and a puppychino for the pooch!

Location: 100 Duporth Ave, Maroochydore QLD 4558

The Velo Project

There’s plenty of space for pups and their people out back, where you can grab brekky and a puppychino for your four-legged friend.

Location: 19 Careela St, Mooloolaba QLD 4557

Caloundra

One Block Back

You’ll spot a steady stream of pups during your visit here, even if you’re sitting inside!

Location: 106 Nothling St, Moffat Beach QLD 4551

Coffee Cat On Kings Beach

Grab a flat white on the dog-friendly patio overlooking Kings Beach.

Location: 4/8 Levuka Ave, Kings Beach QLD 4551

The Frog's Kitchen

Expect puppychinos and chicken treats all round, with views of Bribie Island in the background!

Location: Grand Pacific Resort, Shop 5a/38 Esplanade Bulcock Beach, Caloundra QLD 4551

Dog-friendly restaurants on the Sunshine Coast

If you’re looking for more than a coffee and some brunch, here’s a selection of dog-friendly restaurants to explore.

Mr Jones & Me

Enjoy modern bistro dishes like duck pancakes, seafood linguine, and calamari on the dog-friendly terrace. The team is known for being particularly accommodating for dietary needs, including gluten-free and dairy-free.

Location: 301 Weyba Rd, Noosaville QLD 4566

High Tide Bar, Grill & Cafe

Across from the beach, this relaxed spot serves fresh, local produce from breakfast through to dinner (Thursday - Sunday evenings). Dogs are welcome at the outdoor tables out front, with water bowls provided.

Location: 1/21-23 Mudjimba Esplanade, Mudjimba QLD 4564

Cotton Tree Beach Bar

Open daily from morning to late, come here for cocktails by the water, accompanied by your pup. The outdoor dining area is dog-friendly, making it ideal for a breezy lunch or sunset session.

Location: Shop 2, Essence, 13, 15 The Esplanade, Maroochydore QLD 4558

The Thirsty Beaver Bar & Kitchen

Famous for their slow-cooked meats and smokehouse specials, The Thirsty Beaver is the place to be for a casual meal with your pup.

Location: 79 Bulcock St, Caloundra QLD 4551

Ricks Garage

Everyone’s welcome at Ricks, even the dog! This iconic spot has live music, a big beer garden, and a solid menu full of burgers, salads, and shakes.

Location: 14-16 Margaret St, Palmwoods QLD 4555

Dog-friendly pubs on the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is full to the brim with pubs, breweries, and even a vineyard or two that welcome doggos. From craft beer by the beach to leafy beer gardens with a true backyard feel, here are some of the best spots to enjoy a drink and a meal with your pup.

Land & Sea

Bring your pup along to Noosa’s first craft brewery, where you can enjoy a tasting paddle of locally brewed beers, or opt for a gin or cocktail if that’s more your style. There’s also a delicious menu of food to match.

Location: 19 Venture Dr, Noosaville QLD 4566

Dingo Creek Vineyard

Swap hops for grapes at this dog-friendly vineyard! Pups can join you in the restaurant or out in the gardens for a picnic, while you sip and sample wines from the cellar door.

Location: 265 Tandur Traveston Rd, Traveston QLD 4570

The Woombye Pub

This Sunshine Coast institution is full of character. You can dig into classic pub grub like steaks, pizzas, and fresh salads out on the dog-friendly veranda.

Location: 3 Blackall St, Woombye QLD 4559

Parklands Tavern

This pub’s outdoor beer garden, nicknamed “The Yard,” feels like a true Aussie backyard – complete with shady tables, live music, and water bowls for pups. Pair an ice-cold drink with pub classics and settle in.

Location: 238 Parklands Blvd, Meridan Plains QLD 4551

Your Mates Brewing Co.

This friendly brewery is a hit with humans and their dogs! They serve great food, craft beers, and water bowls for pups, plus, a percentage of profits goes toward mental health charities.

Location: 41 Technology Dr, Warana QLD 4575

Moffat Beach Brewing Co. Beachside

This dog-friendly brewery has been perfecting its craft for over a decade, so you’re guaranteed a good beer here. They also serve tasty food and doggie donuts!

Location: Shop 2/12 Seaview Terrace, Moffat Beach QLD 4551

Walkies on the Sunshine Coast

Dog-friendly walks on the Sunshine Coast

From coastal boardwalks with ocean views to hinterland hikes through the bush, there’s a dog walk on the Sunshine Coast for every energy level. While most trails require pups to stay on-leash, a few connect to off-leash beaches for extra zoomies.

Coastal walks

Coolum Coastal Boardwalk

This suspended boardwalk starts near Coolum Surf Club and extends to Point Perry, and you can link it with the Mount Coolum Boardwalk for a longer stroll. Keep an eye out for whales, turtles, and dolphins along the way!

Starting point: 102 Yandina Coolum Rd, Coolum Beach QLD 4573

Caloundra Foreshore Walk

This 4km seaside path stretches from Bulcock Beach to Shelly Beach, with nonstop ocean views all the way. Pups must stay leashed along the trail, but sections of Shelly Beach nearby allow off-leash access before 8am and after 4pm (May - October).

Starting point: Bulcock Beach, Queensland

Castaways & Marcus Beach Walk

For sandy off-leash adventures, head to the area between access points 38 and 47. At low tide, the hard-packed sand makes for an easy walk of about 4km – just keep an eye on the surf.

Starting point: Access 38, Castaways Beach, Queensland

Point Cartwright Walkway, Buddina

This 2km headland walk winds past grassy lawns, up to the lighthouse, and along the Mooloolah River foreshore. Furry friends must stay leashed in the reserve, but nearby beaches have some off-leash access during the week (check local signs).

Starting point: Buddina QLD 4575

Hinterland & bush walks

Maleny Trail

Starting at the Maleny Showgrounds, this paved path and boardwalk follows Obi Obi Creek to Fairview, a heritage homestead. It’s an easy 9km stroll out and back, with the option to stop at dog-friendly cafes in town along the way.

Starting point: 13 Maleny Stanley River Rd, Maleny QLD 4552

Mt Ninderry Track

This short 3km hike near Yandina climbs rocky steps to two lookouts at the summit. It’s a steep climb, but you’ll be rewarded with sweeping coastal and hinterland views.

Starting point: 3 Eucalyptus Cres, Ninderry QLD 4561

Ewen Maddock Dam, Landsborough

This peaceful lakeside trail is shared by walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. Expect muddy sections after rain, but there’s also a shorter boardwalk near Maddock Park if you’d prefer an easier stroll.

Starting point: 221 Connection Rd, Mooloolah Valley QLD 4553

Dog-friendly parks on the Sunshine Coast

There’s still more off-leash fun to be had beyond the beaches and walking trails! There are heaps of dog parks to choose from in the area – some are fully fenced, others are open, and a few have extra facilities and equipment. Check the Sunshine Coast Council website for the full list of off-leash areas and rules.

Buderim Dog Park

This is a popular park with high fences, double gates, and separate areas for small and large pups – so they can make furry friends their own size.

Location: LOT 737 Mooloolaba Rd, Buderim QLD 4556

Brightwater Dog Park

This park is a reasonable size and has agility equipment dotted throughout, with water, seating, and waste stations.

Location: Sporting Field, 21-27 Heliconia St, Mountain Creek QLD 4557

Viridian Park Dog Park

Fully-fenced and spacious, this park has plenty of space for pups to have a good run around and play.

Location: Viridian Cct, Birtinya QLD 4575

Sippy Downs Dog Park

This is a good-sized park with a fence all the way around it, plus water and a seating area for pawrents.

Location: Sippy Downs QLD 4556

Little Mountain Common

Here, you’ll find two fully fenced areas with plenty of trees and seating. The large dog area has agility equipment and lots of open space.

Location: 15 Phar Lap Ct, Little Mountain QLD 4551

View of the Glass House Mountains

Dog-friendly activities on the Sunshine Coast

If you’re still looking for things to do with your pup on the Sunshine Coast, here are some activities to try:

Take the Noosa Ferry

Pups small enough to sit on your lap are welcome aboard the Noosa Ferry. The open-air top deck has gorgeous views as you cruise between Noosa Heads, Noosaville, and Tewantin. Tickets cost $28 for an all-day pass ($22 after 1pm), or $16.50 for a return between Noosaville and Noosa Heads.

Location: Noosa Marina, Parkyn Ct, Tewantin QLD 4565

Visit a scenic lookout

Take in the famous views of the Glass House Mountains from the main lookout – pooch pals aren’t allowed on the hiking tracks, but you can park right beside the viewpoint for those iconic panoramas. Other great spots include Wild Horse Mountain Scenic Lookout and Dulong Lookout.

Location: Glass House Woodford Rd, Beerburrum QLD 4517

Explore the Eumundi Markets

Held every Wednesday and Saturday (7:30am - 2pm), these lively open-air markets are packed with food stalls, fresh produce, arts, and crafts. Water bowls are dotted throughout, making it easy to browse with your pup.

Location: 80 Memorial Dr, Eumundi QLD 4562

Wander the Maleny Botanic Gardens

Furry friends are welcome to join on the leash as you explore these gorgeous gardens – just avoid the animal enclosures and aviary. Entry is $47 for adults, and pups get in free!

Location: 233 Maleny Stanley River Rd, Maleny QLD 4552

So, is the Sunshine Coast dog-friendly?

You bet! With an abundance of off-leash trails, beaches, and parks, as well as eateries like cafes, restaurants, and breweries, it’s a great place to be with your four-legged friend.

View from the Maleny Botanic Gardens

Tips for pet parents on the Sunshine Coast

Grab a spot on the terrace early. Many Sunshine Coast cafes and restaurants love welcoming pups, but outdoor seating is often first-come, first-served – so it pays to arrive early, especially on weekends.
Check off-leash rules. Most coastal boardwalks and parks require dogs to be on-leash, while many beaches have designated off-leash zones (sometimes with time restrictions). Always check signs before letting your pup run free.
Plan ahead for your next trip. Enjoying the pet-friendly Sunshine Coast is just the start – connect with a trusted in-home sitter so your furry friend can stay safe and happy at home next time you’re away. Click below to learn more.

Connecting with pet sitters on the Sunshine Coast

How it works

Tips for pet sitters on the Sunshine Coast

Choose the right spot. Surf conditions differ between beaches. Some (like Sunshine Beach and Buddina) can be rough, while calmer lagoons (like Stumers Creek) are safer for less confident swimmers.
Time your visits. Off-leash beach hours can vary depending on the season (e.g. Shelly Beach has different winter and summer rules). Check local council websites for the most up-to-date information.
Enjoy the Sunshine Coast as a house sitter. Love the idea of beachside strolls with a furry friend by your side? Or lazy days exploring dog-friendly eateries and other activities along the Coast? Click below to find out how to start your house sitting adventures.

House sitting on the Sunshine Coast