Dog-Friendly Townsville: Things to do in Townsville With a Dog

If your pup had a travel wishlist, dog-friendly Townsville would be on it. From dog-friendly places Townsville locals love to leash-optional beach days and pup-tacular walking trails, this sun-soaked Queensland city is ready to roll out the welcome mat for your four-legged explorer.

Ready to sniff out the best parks, leashed beaches, and tail-wagging events? This guide covers it all. Plus, if you're looking for house sitting opportunities in Townsville or need a reliable Townsville pet sitter, read on to find out more!

Best dog parks in Townsville

If your dog lives for zoomies, bum sniffs, and rolling in mystery patches of grass, these dog-friendly parks Townsville offers are more than just green space; they’re off-leash playgrounds, social hubs, and nap-fuel in one.

Murray Dog Park

This dog park is fully fenced with shaded seating, an agility course, and plenty of grass for off-leash freedom. There’s a section for small dogs, a separate run for large dogs, and multiple waste stations to keep things tidy.

Location: Unit 60/57 Murray Lyons Cres, Annandale QLD 4814, Australia

Palmetum

Located near one of the leafiest spots around Townsville, this off-leash dog park is surrounded by natural beauty. It’s fully fenced, calm, and a great match for dogs who prefer space over chaos. After your pup’s had a run, take a leashed stroll through the adjacent gardens.

Location: University Rd, Douglas QLD 4814, Australia

Bushland Beach Dog Park

This local favorite combines beachside breeze with secure play. It’s fully fenced, shady, and ideal for dogs that need space but not the crowd. There’s a small dog agility course and easy access to sandy strolls nearby for when your pup wants to cool off.

Location: 50 Lionel Turner Dr, Bushland Beach QLD 4818, Australia

Dog-friendly restaurants in Townsville

Your dog gives you that look every time you pick up the car keys for dinner. Forget leaving your dog behind. These dog-friendly restaurants Townsville pet parents love will have you both fed, watered, and welcomed with wagging enthusiasm.

Longboard Bar & Grill

Ocean breeze, live music, and cold drinks for you. Water bowls and head pats for your dog. Longboard sits right on The Strand, making it a pup-tacular stop after a walk along the waterfront.

Location: The Strand Headlands, 80 Gregory St, Townsville City QLD 4810, Australia

Wild Rice Laos & Thai Cuisine

Tucked in a quiet pocket just outside the city center, Wild Rice serves bold flavors with a chilled outdoor vibe. Leashed dogs are welcome out front, where the shade is cool and the smells are sniff-tacular.

Location: 1/235 Flinders St, East QLD 4810, Australia

C Bar Strand

Seaside dining, strong coffee, and staff who know a good dog when they see one. Grab a table outside, order something fresh, and enjoy the breeze with your pup curled up by your feet.

Location: 80 Gregory St, Townsville City QLD 4810, Australia

Fun dog-friendly activities in Townsville

Ready to shake things up from your usual fetch routine? These dog-friendly activities Townsville has on offer go beyond the usual lap around the block.

Climb Castle Hill

Locals know Castle Hill is the place to walk off energy, and dogs are welcome too. Stick to the shaded paths or take the Goat Track if you're feeling ambitious. Just bring water and expect tail wags at the top.

Cost: Free
Date and time: Daily
Location: Castle Hill Rd, Townsville City QLD 4810

Picnic at Anderson Park Botanical Gardens

Pack lunch, bring the lead, and grab a blanket. This lush garden space is a chill go-to for lazy afternoons. While dogs must stay leashed in certain pet-friendly areas, there’s no shortage of grass, shade, or curious birds to keep them entertained.

Cost: Free
Date and time: Open daily
Location: 41 Gulliver St, Mundingburra QLD 4812, Australia

Walk along The Strand

This scenic stretch by the water is ideal for a calm stroll, especially in the early morning or golden hour. There are grassy patches to pause, water stations for thirsty pups, and plenty of people to say hello.

Cost: Free
Date and time: Anytime
Location: Townsville, QLD 4810, Australia

Best dog-friendly walking trails in Townsville

Got a pup with zoomies and a nose for adventure? These dog-friendly hikes in Townsville are perfect for strolls that turn into sniff-tacular explorations. From coastlines to hill climbs, it’s time to swap the same old block for something fur-tastic.

Cape Pallarenda Walking Track

Want a walk with real “sniff appeal”? Head to Pallarenda, where the walking track hugs the coast and leads into bushland. It’s one of the dog-friendly walks in Townsville that gives you a little bit of everything: beach breeze, quiet trails, and the chance to spot birds while your pup tracks who knows what.

Location: Cape Pallarenda Road, Graves Circuit, Pallarenda QLD 4810, Australia
Length: Approx. 2 km

Mount Louisa Walking Track

An absolute pup-ular choice for dog walking Townsville style. This elevated trail winds through native bushland with panoramic views at the top and shaded rest spots along the way. It’s a great change of pace from the beach and perfect for dogs who love a bit of climbing with their sniff session.

Location: Corner of Bayswater Road & Weston St, Mount Louisa QLD 4814, Australia
Length: Approx. 2.5 km one way

Jezzine Barracks Boardwalk

Coastal breeze? Check. Public art? Yep. Room to sniff every bush in sight? You bet. This scenic walk connects Strand Townsville to Rowes Bay with wide paths, leashed access, and grassy patches for rest stops. A great pick for sunset strolls with ocean views.

Location: 38-52 Howitt St, North Ward QLD 4810, Australia
Length: Approx. 2.5 km one way

The best dog-friendly cafes in Townsville

Caffeine for you, cuddles for them. These dog-friendly cafes Townsville locals adore are all about warm welcomes, shady seating, and maybe even a biscuit or two for your furry café date.

The Balcony Restaurant Café

A long-time local fave in the city center, The Balcony is great for people-watching and even better for pup-parking. Leashed dogs are welcome on the verandah while you sip your latte and pretend you’re not sharing your muffin.

Location: 287 Flinders St, Townsville City QLD 4810, Australia

Odyssey on the Strand

This beachfront dog-friendly cafe, Townsville serves strong coffee with a side of ocean breeze. Water bowls are a given, and the outdoor seating makes it easy to kick back after a morning play at the dog beaches nearby.

Location: 120 The Strand, North Ward QLD 4810, Australia

The Cat’s Meow Café

Don’t let the name fool you - dogs are just as welcome here. This quirky little café near Strand Townsville has pup-friendly treats on the menu and a shaded outdoor seating area that’s surprisingly chill.

Location: 507 N Hershey Rd, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States

Annual dog events in Townsville

Ready to fill your calendar with some tail-wagging good times? These dog-friendly activities Townsville hosts every year are all about fun, fur, and community. From charity walks to full-blown pup festivals, they’re paw-some excuses to get outside and mingle with other Townsville dogs and their people.

Pets at the Park

Held every August at Sheriff Park, this pet-friendly day out is packed with energy. Expect agility course demos, doggie competitions, pet-themed market stalls, and more wagging tails than you can count. Great for social pups and proud paw-rents alike.

Cost: Free

Date and time: Annually, August

Location: Sheriff Park, Mundingburra QLD 4812

RSPCA Million Paws Walk

A firm favorite among locals, this leashed dog walk at Pallarenda combines feel-good fundraising with a scenic coastal stroll. There are food trucks, live music, and loads of sniff-worthy stops along the way.

Cost: Varies

Date and time: Annually, May

Location: Pallarenda, Townsville QLD 4810

Townsville Pet Expo

Hosted by the council at Reid Park, this event brings together the best of pet education, entertainment, and giveaways. Dogs must stay leashed, but they’ll still soak up the attention, belly rubs, and treats from every direction.

Cost: Free

Date and time: Annually, September

Location: Reid Park, Railway Estate QLD 4810

The best dog-friendly pubs in Townsville

What’s better than an ice-cold pint? Sharing it with your furry best mate, of course. These dog-friendly pubs Townsville locals rave about serve up cold drinks, good vibes, and a proper welcome for every wagging tail.

The Commonwealth Hotel

A local legend in South Townsville, The Commonwealth is a pet-friendly pub with shaded outdoor seating, water bowls on standby, and staff who know your pup’s name before they know yours. Perfect for after-work drinks with a side of belly rubs.

Location: 46 Allen St, South Townsville QLD 4810, Australia

Seaview Hotel

Right along Strand Townsville, the Seaview boasts a breezy beer garden where dogs are not only allowed, they’re practically part of the crowd. Great views, live music on weekends, and a biscuit or two for your dog if they behave like a good boy.

Location: 56 The Strand, North Ward QLD 4810

The Watermark Townsville

Beach views and beers? Yes paw-lease. This waterfront dog-friendly pub has outdoor seating that looks out over the Coral Sea, with enough room for your pup to stretch out while you relax with a cold one. It’s a top choice for locals looking for a laid-back end to the day.

Location: 72–74 The Strand, North Ward QLD 4810

Dog-friendly wineries in Townsville

While you won’t find traditional vineyards within the Townsville city limits, that doesn’t mean you and your pup have to miss out on a good glass of wine. These local venues serve up quality pours, offer relaxed outdoor seating, and provide a friendly welcome that allows your dog to tag along without fuss.

Shorehouse

A coastal favorite with serious wine credentials, Shorehouse boasts a standout list of Australian and international wines. The shaded outdoor terrace looks over Strand Townsville, and dogs on leads are welcome to lounge while you sip, snack, and enjoy the view.

Location: 118 The Strand, North Ward QLD 4810

The TapHouse Townsville

Looking for something a little more adventurous? TapHouse blends wine, craft beer, and small bites in a relaxed setting. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area, making it a fun option to unwind after a long dog-friendly walk Townsville has to offer nearby.

Location: City Lane, 383 Flinders St, Townsville City QLD 4810, Australia

Dog-friendly beaches in Townsville

Looking to let your furry friend enjoy some sun, sand, and surf? Townsville offers several beaches where dogs can have a good time. Whether your pup loves to splash in the waves or dig in the sand, these dog beaches in Townsville are paw-fect for a day out.

Pallarenda Beach

If your dog lives for wide-open runs and sniff-tacular coastline, Pallarenda Beach is the go-to. With off-leash access between beach markers 8 and 9, there’s room to sprint, swim, and roll to their heart’s content. Plus, the views of Magnetic Island? Paw-fect.

Location: Cape Pallarenda Rd, Pallarenda QLD 4810

Bushland Beach

For dogs who prefer a quieter stretch of sand, Bushland Beach is worth the drive. While not officially off-leash, it’s popular among locals for casual morning trots and salty sunset strolls. Keep your pup leashed unless signage says otherwise, and let them soak up that sea breeze.

Location: Bushland Beach Rd, Bushland Beach QLD 4818

Rowes Bay

Want a beach day without straying too far from town? Rowes Bay offers a leash-friendly shoreline with gentle waves and easy access. Great for a pre-brunch wander or post-park cooldown, especially for dogs still mastering their off-lead manners.

Location: Cape Pallarenda Rd, Rowes Bay QLD 4810

Tips for pet parents

Raising a dog in Townsville means embracing sunshine, open space, and plenty of pup-tential. From beach strolls to tropical downpours, here are some tips to help you and your furry companion get the most out of life in this fur-bulous part of Queensland.

Plan around the wet season

Townsville’s dry and tropical climate means one thing: when it rains, it pours. During the wet season (roughly November to April), bring towels on walks and avoid unsealed trails that turn into mudslides. If your pup hates getting drenched, stick to paved routes like Strand Townsville or indoor-friendly routines.

Use leash areas wisely

While many dog parks around Townsville offer off-leash areas or fully fenced spaces, not all green spaces are off-leash approved. Check local signage and stick to off-leash dog parks if your dog tends to wander off chasing butterflies (or birds). Council maps like Townsville City Council Dog Parks list the best options.

Choose dog-friendly accommodation wisely

If you're visiting from out of town, you’ll be pleased to know there are plenty of dog-friendly accommodation options in Townsville. From beachfront stays like Aquarius on the Beach, to BIG4 Townsville Gateway Holiday Park with pet-friendly cabins, and local Airbnbs that welcome furry guests, you won’t have to compromise comfort to keep your dog close. Just double-check individual pet policies before booking.

Find a trusted pet sitter

Planning to leave town? Dogs thrive on routine and feel calmer staying in their own home. Skip the kennel chaos and consider a verified in-home sitter instead. It’s the next best thing to you being there, and your pup will thank you for the peace and comfort. Curious how it all works? TrustedHousesitters connects pet parents with verified in-home sitters who’ll care for your dog and your home just like you would.

How to find a pet sitter in Townsville

How it works

Tips for pet sitters

Pet sitting in Townsville isn’t just about keeping a pup company; it’s your golden ticket to explore one of Queensland’s most dog-loving, sun-soaked destinations without the hotel bill. From early morning walks along the coast to lazy afternoons at leash-friendly cafes, you’ll quickly discover that this tropical town is best enjoyed with a four-legged tour guide. Here’s how to make the most of your stay (and keep your furry sidekick happy too):

Start your day with a pup-approved walk

Townsville dogs are spoiled for choice when it comes to walking routes, and lucky for you, you get to join in. Try The Strand for sunrise views and sea breezes, or stroll along Ross River Parkway, where locals go for casual trots and sniff breaks. It’s the easiest way to explore around Townsville while sticking to your pup’s routine.

Make time for a café break

Need a morning recharge? So do your dog clients. Grab a flat white at Odyssey on the Strand or chill at The Cat’s Meow Café, where water bowls and wagging tails are part of the vibe. These dog-friendly cafes in Townsville are great for relaxing after your walk or getting those cute “morning coffee with my buddy” pics.

Keep pet parents in the loop

Even the most laid-back Townsville dogs have their quirks. A quick daily check-in with the owner goes a long way, especially if it includes a photo or two from your adventures. Sniffing sculptures at Jezzine Barracks? Tail-wagging on the beach? That’s the kind of update that puts owners at ease (and gets you glowing reviews).

Explore Townsville through house sitting

Want to explore Townsville without paying for accommodation? TrustedHousesitters connects you with pet owners looking for reliable sitters. Stay in real homes, care for adorable pets, and enjoy a unique travel experience.

How to find pet sitting in Townsville