Wollongong is famous for its dog-friendly beaches, scenic hikes, and welcoming cafes. This vibrant coastal city in New South Wales is a haven for dog lovers. Whether you’re a local or visiting, here’s an ultimate guide to pet-friendly Wollongong. Plus, if you’re looking for reliable pet sitters in Wollongong, read on to learn about house sitting.
Dog-friendly beaches in Wollongong
Dog-friendly beaches in Wollongong are everywhere! The coastline is a playground for dogs and their owners. Here’s a list of off-leash dog beaches in Wollongong where your pup can splash, run, and socialise.
Corrimal Beach
1.4 kilometres long, Corrimal Beach is the perfect spot to let your dog run free and sniff the sea air.
Location: Lake Parade, East Corrimal, NSW 2518
McCauley's Beach
McCauley’s Beach is a popular dog-friendly beach in Wollongong, perfect for some splashing and water fun.
Location: Craig St, Thirroul, NSW 2515
Stanwell Park Beach
Stanwell Park Beach Reserve is lengthy and spacious, with a small area that’s dog-friendly (so make sure to look out for signs before letting your pup run free). There’s also BBQ equipment, as well as lagoons and creeks to enjoy with your leashed dog.
Location: Stanwell Avenue, Stanwell Park, NSW 2508
Fairy Meadow Beach
Enjoy breathtaking coastal views and an off-leash area with your furry adventure buddy at Fairy Meadow Beach.
Location: Elliotts Road, Fairy Meadow, NSW 2519
Coniston Dog Beach
Coniston Beach in Wollongong is a great spot to take your furry mate for exercise and meet new friends.
Location: Coniston Beach, Wollongong, NSW 2500
MM Beach (North Port Kembla Beach)
A short drive from Wollongong city, this scenic, quiet beach is a great place to take your dog to relax and burn off some energy.
Location: Gloucester Blvd, Port Kembla, NSW 2505
Little Austinmer Beach
North of Austinmer Beach, Little Austinmer Beach has lots of exciting things for your pooch to sniff and explore, such as rock pools.
Location: 2 Little Austinmer Ln, Austinmer, NSW 2515
Puckey’s Beach
Puckey's Beach has a designated off-leash area for your dog to roll around in the sand to their heart's content.
Location: 2 Elliotts Rd, Fairy Meadow, NSW 2519
Perkins Beach
In the suburbs of Wollongong, Perkins Beach provides a quiet retreat, perfect for long beach walks with your four-legged friend.
Location: Perkins Beach, Primbee, NSW 379
Windang Beach
Windang Dog Beach is a dog-friendly area of Windang Beach where pups can run around off-leash.
Location: Windang Dog Beach, Windang, NSW 2528
Top tips for visiting dog-friendly beaches in Wollongong, NSW
- Dogs must be on a leash going to and from off-leash beaches.
- Always check for seasonal restrictions, especially during summer months when dogs may not be allowed on certain beaches during peak hours, such as Scarborough Beach.
- Watch out for strong currents and tides, and bring fresh water to keep your dog hydrated. Some areas may have dangerous wildlife like jellyfish or stingrays, so keep a close eye on your dog, especially in the water. Many popular beaches in Wollongong are patrolled, offering added safety with lifeguards on duty during peak times.
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Dog-friendly cafes in Wollongong
Enjoy a coffee break without leaving your dog behind. These dog-friendly cafes in Wollongong warmly welcome pups with water bowls and dog-friendly seating.
Diggies Cafe
This dog-friendly cafe in Wollongong allows dogs at the outdoor patio area. Located near North Wollongong Beach, Diggies Cafe offers brunch dishes and a relaxed vibe right by the sea.
Location: 1 Cliff Rd, North Wollongong, NSW 2500
Opus Coffee Brewers
Homemade bagels, house-smoked salmon, and freshly roasted hot coffee. Opus Coffee Brewers happily welcomes dogs into their cafe and provides dog treats.
Location: 118-120 Keira St, Wollongong NSW 2500
North Beach Kiosk
Overlooking the beach, North Beach Kiosk invites dogs on their outdoor deck and offers fresh juices and beach bites.
Location: 1 Cliff Road, North Wollongong, NSW 2500
Lili J
This small, family-owned cafe has a big heart for specialty coffee… and dogs! Drop in to Lili J for some homemade goods made with fresh, local ingredients.
Location: Unit 1/156 Corrimal St, Wollongong NSW 2500
Longboard Cafe
Longboard Cafe is an al fresco café placed right on South Beach, perfect for you and your dog to enjoy some fresh eats after a day at the beach - think acai bowls, eggs benedict and yummy wraps.
Location: 1 Marine Dr, Wollongong NSW 2500
Bostons Espresso Cafe
Bostons Espresso Cafe has regular dogs as well as humans. Whether you’re coming for unbeatable coffee or Air Dried Kangaroo Chews (dogs only), make sure you don’t miss visiting this welcoming hub in the CBD.
Location: 11/15 Atchison St, Wollongong, NSW 2500
Flat White with one
Step into this local dog-loving neighbourhood gem and enjoy some tasty treats inside or outside with your pooch.
Location: 648 Princes Hwy, Russell Vale NSW 2517
Pasticceria Massimo Papa
Fulfil your sweet tooth with irresistible cheesecake and authentic Italian sweeties at Pasticceria Massimo Papa. They welcome four-legged friends in their dog-friendly outside area.
Location: 130 Princes Hwy, Fairy Meadow, NSW 2519
Dog-friendly restaurants in Wollongong
For a more hearty meal, here are several dog-friendly restaurants in Wollongong that allow you to bring your canine companion.
The Hill Bar & Kitchen
Near Wollongong, The Hill Bar & Kitchen has an outdoor dining area where you can bring your dog. This coastal view restaurant is the perfect spot to enjoy seafood and other Australian go-tos.
Location: 98 Fern St, Gerringong NSW 2534
KG on Terralong
This South African cafe, restaurant and bar has a large outdoor seating area, perfect for your furry companion to join you for a bite to eat. Enjoy traditional South African dishes and browse their eye-catching art and designs on display.
Location: 42 Terralong St, Kiama, NSW 2533
Hemingway
Located inside Wollongong University, this warm, dog-friendly venue offers a sunny terrace for you to enjoy their brunch and lunch menu while your dog rests in the shade.
Location: 98 Fern St, Gerringong NSW 2534,
North Gong Hotel Bistro
The North Wollongong Hotel is loved by locals and visitors alike. Their bistro is the perfect spot to enjoy a sunny beer garden, watch some sports, and indulge in hearty pub classics with your dog by your side.
Location: 3 Flinders St, North Wollongong NSW 2500,
Dagwood
From bottomless brunch to traditional Asian delights, Dagwood is a top spot for street food and cocktails.
Location: 19 Market St, Wollongong, NSW 2500
Dog parks in Wollongong
Looking for a dedicated off-leash dog park in Wollongong that gives your pet a safe space? Wollongong has several “green areas” in Parks that allow off-leash dogs to run free and socialise with other dogs.
Figtree Oval, Figtree
One of the most popular outdoor spaces for dogs, Figtree Oval dog park has creek access and is open 24/7.
Location: 11 Princes Hwy, Figtree, NSW 2525
Proud Park, Helensburgh
This fully fenced off-leash dog park is a great place to take your pup to burn off some steam.
Location: 1 Nixon Pl, Helensburgh, NSW 2508
Riley Park, Unanderra
This fairly quiet dog park is a great spot for you and your fur-ever friend to spend some quality time together.
Location: Central Rd, Unanderra, NSW 2526
Reed Park, Dapto
This fenced off-leash dog park features agility equipment, drinking water and doggy bags.
Location: Bong Bong Rd, Horsley, NSW 2530
Eleebana Reserve, Koonawarra.
This 24/7 dog park is perfect for your unleashed dog to enjoy greenery and a quiet atmosphere.
Location: Eleebana Crescent, Koonawarra NSW 2530
Dog-friendly pubs in Wollongong
These dog-friendly pubs in Wollongong allow you to enjoy the vibrance of the city’s nightlife without leaving your pooch at home.
The Illawarra Brewery
This pub has a fantastic outdoor seating area where you and your pooch can enjoy the local buzz while you sip on some craft beer.
Location: Eastern Terrace, Win Entertainment Centre, Crown St & Harbour St, Wollongong, NSW 2500
The Prince Wollongong
This lively spot welcomes dogs at their outdoor seating area on certain days of the week, so call up before arriving with your pup.
Location: Globe Ln, Wollongong, NSW 2500
Five Barrel Brewing
Five Barrel Brewing loves to welcome dogs (almost as much as they love beer) to their outdoor seating space.
Location: 318 Keira St, Wollongong, NSW 2500
Dog-friendly hikes in Wollongong
Explore Wollongong’s natural beauty on foot with your dog. These dog-friendly hikes in Wollongong offer stunning coastal views and nature immersion.
Puckey’s Estate & Beach Loop
This scenic loop blends shaded bush tracks through Puckey’s Estate with coastal trails, making it a great mix of nature and beach time.
Location: 2 Elliotts Rd, Fairy Meadow, NSW 2519
Wollongong Blue Mile Coastal Path
This flat path hugs the coastline from Stuart Park to Wollongong Golf Club, perfect for an easy on-leash stroll with ocean views.
Location: Wollongong NSW 2500
Sea Cliff Bridge Walk
Enjoy walking across the famous Sea Cliff Bridge with panoramic ocean views - dogs are welcome on-leash along the footpath.
Location: Lawrence Hargrave Dr, Clifton NSW 2515
McCauley’s Beach Loop
The combination of paved path and an off-leash beach section at McCauley’s Beach is great for curious canines who love sand and water.
Location: Sandon Point, Bulli NSW 2516
East Corrimal Dog Beach Loop
This longer coastal route includes an off-leash beach section and pathways around Bellambi Lagoon.
Location: Corrimal Beach, NSW 2518
Top tip for dog-friendly hikes in Wollongong
Many Wollongong walks switch between “green-zones” and “orange-zones”, sometimes within a few hundred metres, so always check signage and keep a lead handy.
Sea Cliff Bridge, Wollongong
Tips for pet parents: Important things to know about Wollongong
- Head to a local dog event. If you’re looking for more dog-friendly activities in Wollongong, we recommend checking out some dog events such as North Gong Dog Day.
- Stick to the leash laws. There are plenty of dog-permitted beaches and other spots that provide on-leash areas. “Green zone” beaches, parks and pathways allow dogs to be off the lead, whereas “orange zones” allow leashed dogs access (such as Sandon Point Beach and Bellambi Beach). “Red zones” don’t allow dogs at all. For more information, make sure to check the City of Wollongong’s website.
- Wildlife awareness. Wollongong’s natural areas are home to native wildlife, so make sure to keep your dog under control, and clean up after them to help protect local ecosystems.
- Plan ahead for your trip. When planning a holiday, it’s important to remember that pets thrive in their own familiar environment. Trusted pet sitters offer loving, in-home care that keeps your dog happy and comfortable while you travel. Click below to find out how it works!
Connecting with pet sitters in Wollongong
Tips for pet sitters
- Explore local dog-friendly spots. Grasp what dog-friendly Wollongong has to offer through the eyes of your new four-legged friend. Even better, ask the pet parent which are their dog’s favourite places to go.
- Understand seasonal weather. Wollongong’s coastal climate means mild winters and warm summers. Prepare for sun protection and hydration during summer walks.
- Build trust with owners. Make clear communication a priority and don’t forget to snap pictures of your time with their pet.
- Experience Wollongong through house sitting. Get all the perks of coastal living and a furry companion to spend it with. Think morning walks along the beach, cosy café stops, and sun-filled beer gardens. If you love animals and crave a slower way to travel, read more about pet sitting below.
House sitting in Wollongong
More dog-friendly travel guides near Wollongong
Thinking about house sitting near Wollongong, visiting a nearby town with your canine companion, or welcoming a pet sitter soon? Explore our travel guides below for dog-friendly places to visit, along with local tips and advice.
Dog-friendly Wollongong: FAQs
Are dogs allowed on public transport in Wollongong and the Illawarra region?
It depends - dogs may be allowed on buses, but it’s up to the discretion of the driver, and they must be in secure carriers or crates. Trains often don’t allow dogs.
Can dogs go off-leash at Wollongong beaches year-round?
Off-leash access is limited to certain beaches and specific times. Seasonal restrictions often apply, especially in summer, so it’s best to check the Wollongong City’s website for up-to-date information.
What should dog owners know about the wildlife around Wollongong?
Wollongong is home to lots of native wildlife, so dogs should be kept on a leash in natural areas to avoid disturbing the wildlife and to protect your dog from potential hazards.
What are the main off-leash dog beaches in Wollongong?
Wollongong has “green zone” beaches where dogs can explore off-leash - these currently include Sharkeys, Little Austinmer, McCauley's, East Corrimal and more. Always check the local rules before entering any beach with your dog, and don’t let them off if you’re unsure.
Is Wollongong City Beach dog friendly?
There are restrictions in place on Wollongong City Beach and its surrounding areas - many are classified as “red zones”, so instead opt for a “green zone” beach to ensure your dog is allowed.
Can you take dogs to Wollongong Botanical Gardens?
No, dogs are not allowed at Wollongong Botanical Gardens as it’s an important wildlife refuge, but there are lots of other dog-friendly places to walk your dog in Wollongong, including green zone beaches, Puckey’s Estate (on a lead) and multiple designated dog parks.
