Planning a Shoalhaven getaway with the family? Well, we can’t wait to welcome you, even the four-legged family members!
The dog days of summer may be over, but you’d be barking mad to pass up the milder climate and fewer crowds that make the Shoalhaven such a sought-after spot during the winter months. Whether it’s keeping up with the pup on an active outdoor adventure or mooching with the pooch in a cosy corner, we offer a true pet-lovers paradise and dream doggie destination.
From charming country towns to world-renowned beaches and naturally stunning parks and reserves, you’ll find plenty of dog-friendly attractions and accommodation to set tongues and tails wagging. Here are our picks for making the most of your dog holiday getaway!
1. Exploring our Dog-Friendly Beaches
The Shoalhaven boasts some of Australia’s most beautiful coastline (in fact, we have a “100 Beach Challenge”) – and a quick look at the paw prints in the sand will tell you that many beaches welcome four-legged visitors.
Plenty offer off-leash areas during early morning and late afternoon, including Culburra Beach, Currarong Beach, Callala Beach, Huskisson Beach, Nelson Beach, Swan Lake, Washerwomans Beach (Bendalong), Colliers Beach (Ulladulla) and Cormorant Beach (Bawley Point). And many more sandy stretches welcome you and your pup on-leash for splash-tastic fun as you soak up the winter sunshine!
NOTE: It’s important to note where endangered shorebird nesting areas are located as dogs are prohibited in these locations.
Accommodation nearby: 10 Holiday Haven locations
Photo Credit: Josh Brnjac
2. Walkies in Nature
Beaches aren’t the only spots to get your nature-fix. You’ll find a park, reserve or trail suitable for every type of doggie – with plenty of off leash reserve areas including Shoalhaven Heads and Nowra Showground. The latter includes an agility park, and you’ll find similar fenced dog parks at Clifton Park (Sanctuary Point) and near Milton Showground.
For on-leash pet friendly strolls, the Shoalhaven River Ben’s Walk is a favourite, as is Coomie’s Walk near Currarong. You’ll also meet plenty of other pet owners along the Jervis Bay shared Bay Walk path and Basin Foreshore Walk at St George’s Basin, or Ulladulla’s excellent One Track For All Walk.
Note that Morton National Park does not allow dogs, however State Forests welcome them, as does Bomaderry Creek Regional Park – an excellent place to explore. And of course, all the normal responsible pet owner things apply – unless signposted otherwise, always keep your dog on-leash and bring plenty of water for both of you.
Accommodation nearby: 10 Holiday Haven locations
Photo Credit: Josh Brnjac
3. Winter Wineries
Fancy a woof with your wine? The Shoalhaven welcomes dogs at several cellar doors and vineyards – with plenty of picturesque and peaceful vibes for your pup to chill to while you enjoy wine tastings. Many establishments provide water bowls and shaded areas, making it easy to combine your love of local wines without leaving your four-legged friends behind.
Just some of the pet-friendly sipping and sampling spots include Lyrebird Ridge, Silos Estate, Yarrawa Estate and Cambewarra Estate. And don’t forget Bawley Vale Estate – where you can not only bring your own dog, but it might make friends with the resident cocker spaniel and the farmyard animals onsite!
Accommodation nearby: Holiday Haven Kangaroo Valley, Holiday Haven Shoalhaven Heads, Holiday Haven Lake Tabourie
Photo Credit: Cambewarra Estate Winery
4. SUP with Pup!
Who says you can’t enjoy the water together? Many Shoalhaven waterways welcome dogs on stand-up paddleboards and kayaks, with the calm river systems providing perfect conditions for adventurous dogs who enjoy water activities.
Sussex Inlet Stand Up Paddle are big doggie lovers and can help you share your board adventure with your four-legged family member! This includes specific dog-friendly equipment and guidance for this unique bonding experience on the water. How cool is that!
Accommodation nearby: Holiday Haven Swan Lake
Photo Credit: Josh Brnjac
5. Dog-Friendly Accommodation
Sit… sit… stay! And staying is the least of your worries at Holiday Haven – with most parks extending a warm welcome to you and your pet. Ten of our 12 parks are suitable for dogs – simply contact the park prior to your stay.
During the winter months (not including school holidays), there is a lot more flexibility and freedom – including access to dog-friendly powered sites. You’ll also find free disposal bags located throughout the park to make it easy to clean up after them. And if you’d rather not ‘ruff’ it, many Holiday Haven parks also now offer dog-friendly cabins too!
To ensure the enjoyment of all guests, pet-owners are simply asked to keep pooch on a leash at all times while within the park. Check out the Holiday Haven website to learn more and investigate your specific park’s options.
