Your Guide to a Dog-Friendly Getaway in Port Stephens!

Planning a trip to Port Stephens and want to bring your furry best friend? You're in luck! This beautiful region in New South Wales, Australia, is incredibly welcoming to dogs, offering plenty of opportunities for you and your pup to enjoy the stunning beaches, parks, and even some great places to eat and drink.

Here's a breakdown of dog-friendly spots in Port Stephens:

Hit the Beach with Your Hound!

Port Stephens boasts a fantastic selection of beaches where your dog can join in the fun. Remember to always be a responsible pet owner, clean up after your dog, and be mindful of other beach goers.

Off-Leash Fun:

• Bagnalls Beach (Corlette): Often called "dog heaven" for a reason! This popular beach is off-leash all day long. Enjoy the calm, shallow waters perfect for introducing your dog to the beach. You'll also find picnic areas, parking, and a playground nearby, making it a great spot for the whole family.

• Birubi Beach (Anna Bay): Let your dog run free before 9 am and after 5 pm. During the off-peak season (May to September), dogs are permitted off-leash at all times. This vast, patrolled surf beach along Stockton Bight is popular for various activities. Important: Be aware of waves and always check signage for specific off-leash zones, especially staying at least 100 meters away from flagged areas.

• Shoal Bay Beach (Eastern End): From the boat ramp to the Tomaree Lodge entry, this section welcomes off-leash dogs between 5 pm and 9 am.

• Boat Harbour: During the off-peak months (May to September), enjoy off-leash access on the beach. During peak season (October to April), dogs are allowed on the beach between 5 pm and 9 am on-leash only.

• Lemon Tree Passage (Tilligerry Peninsula): Kooindah Park, located next to Henderson Park, is completely off-leash all day.

• Mallibula (Tanilba Bay, Tilligerry Peninsula): This beach is designated as off-leash for your furry companions.

• Fingal Bay Beach: Look for the designated off-leash area near the surf club.

On-Leash Areas:

• Birubi Beach (Anna Bay): Dogs are welcome on-leash at all times.

• Shoal Bay Beach: Outside the designated off-leash times and area, your dog must be kept on-leash.

• Boat Harbour: During peak season (October to April), dogs are allowed on the beach between 5 pm and 9 am on-leash only.

• Salamander Bay: Beach areas located off Foreshore Drive and accessible from Soldiers Point Road are designated on-leash areas. These are described as lovely spots for safe swimming and picnics.

• Bennetts Beach (Hawks Nest - Great Lakes region): Dogs are allowed on-leash only between 5 am and 9 am and 5 pm and 8 pm.

• Corlette: Offers various on-leash walking tracks and parks.

Explore Dog-Friendly Parks and Trails:

Beyond the beach, Port Stephens offers fantastic parks and walking trails where your dog can stretch their legs:

• Tomaree National Park: Discover pet-friendly walking trails with breathtaking scenic viewpoints, including the popular Tomaree Head Summit Walk. Be sure to check for any specific restrictions on individual trails.

• Bagnalls Beach Reserve (Corlette): In addition to the beach, this reserve features a dedicated off-leash area for dogs to socialise and play.

• Kooindah Park (Lemon Tree Passage): This park is entirely off-leash all day.

• Boat Harbour Headland: Enjoy numerous off-leash walking trails around the headland, along with dog-friendly picnic areas.

• Fingal Bay Foreshore: Features a convenient fenced, off-leash dog park.

• Lancaster Park (Soldiers Point): Another excellent fenced, off-leash dog park, open from 7 am to 7 pm.

• Tanilba Bay Boardwalk: Take a leisurely stroll with your dog on this welcoming boardwalk.

• Boomerang Park (Raymond Terrace): A large parkland with a designated off-leash dog area located at the Freeth St entry.

Refuel and Relax at Dog-Friendly Eateries:

After a day of adventures, you and your furry friend can unwind at one of the many dog-friendly cafes, restaurants, and bars in Port Stephens with outdoor seating areas:

• In House Kitchen (Nelson Bay): Stylish cafe with comfortable outdoor seating.

• Below Deck Cafe and Bar (Nelson Bay): Enjoy waterfront views from their partly covered, dog-friendly outdoor area.

• The Little Nel Cafe (Nelson Bay): A charming cafe with a sunny, dog-friendly front terrace.

• Shoal Bay Country Club (Shoal Bay): Alfresco dining downstairs welcomes well-behaved dogs.

• Cheeky Dog Bar (Soldiers Point): A dedicated dog-friendly venue with both indoor and outdoor eating and drinking spaces, a Mediterranean-inspired menu, and a fantastic beer garden. They even host special doggie events!

• Murray's Craft Brewing Co (Bobs Farm): Offers a spacious and welcoming dog-friendly outdoor area.

• Cafe Kin (Nelson Bay): Features outdoor seating where dogs are welcome.

• Inner Light Tea Rooms (Nelson Bay): Enjoy outdoor seating with beautiful water views (be mindful of birds).

• Nice (Nelson Bay): A cafe that warmly welcomes canine companions.

• Essence Cafe (Nelson Bay)

• Longboat Cafe (Fingal Bay)

• Magnolia at the D'Albora Marina: Offers lovely waterfront dining where dogs are permitted.

• Lighthouse Tea Room: Take in the views with your dog by your side in their outdoor area.

• Riverhouse Cafe (Raymond Terrace): A local favourite that welcomes dogs of all sizes.

Important Note: While these establishments are known to be dog-friendly, it's always a good idea to confirm their current policies when making a booking or upon arrival.

For the Most Up-to-Date Information:

Remember that regulations can change. For the latest details on specific off-leash areas and any updates to dog-friendly policies, it's always recommended to check the official Port Stephens Council website before your visit.

Have a wonderful and dog-friendly time exploring the beautiful Port Stephens region!