A 3-day road trip from Gold Coast to Geelong designed for two adults and two dogs, featuring plenty of stops at dog-friendly parks and beaches, with budget-friendly accommodation suggestions along the way.
Begin your road trip south from the Gold Coast.
Ensure your dogs are comfortably secured for the journey.
Driving your own car south on the Pacific Motorway (M1).
Stretch your legs and let your dogs play at a designated off-leash beach.
Brunswick Heads' South Beach (south of the surf club) is a great option. Always check local signage for specific off-leash areas and times.
Ensure dogs are under control and pick up after them. There are often water bowls at nearby cafes.
Find a dog-friendly cafe with outdoor seating along the route, or pack a picnic to enjoy at a rest stop or park.
Continue your drive towards Port Macquarie, enjoying the scenic New South Wales coastline.
Make sure to take regular short breaks for both you and your dogs.
Continue on the Pacific Motorway (M1).
Let your dogs burn off some energy at a local dog park in Port Macquarie, such as the fenced area at Stuart Park or a designated off-leash beach like Nobby's Beach.
Confirm current off-leash areas upon arrival. Nobby's Beach is typically dog-friendly off-leash.
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a pet-friendly pub bistro or takeaway meal at your accommodation.
After a morning walk with the dogs, check out from your accommodation and begin your journey towards the Southern Tablelands.
Driving your own car south on the Pacific Motorway (M1), then connecting to the M7 and M31 to bypass Sydney.
Stop at a rest area or a smaller town's park along your route (e.
g., near Newcastle or in the Hunter Valley region) to let the dogs have a toilet break and stretch their legs.
Enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic rest stop or a dog-friendly park.
The Southern Highlands area has lovely spots if you plan your stop carefully.
Continue your drive inland towards Goulburn, the first inland city of Australia.
The Hume Highway is generally good for driving, but always monitor for fatigue.
Follow the M31 (Hume Motorway) towards Goulburn.
Explore one of Goulburn's dog-friendly parks, such as Belmore Park in the city centre, perfect for an evening stroll and a chance for your dogs to run.
Grab a relaxed dinner in Goulburn.
Many local pubs offer outdoor seating that may be dog-friendly; otherwise, takeaway is always an option.
Enjoy a final morning walk with your dogs before starting the last leg of your journey to Geelong.
Driving your own car south on the Hume Highway (M31) towards Melbourne, then connecting to Geelong.
Take a refreshing break at one of the many well-equipped rest stops or a regional town along the Hume Highway, providing a chance for your dogs to stretch and sniff around.
After a long drive, you've reached your destination!
Settle into Geelong and prepare to explore its dog-friendly attractions.
Enjoy a leisurely walk through parts of the Geelong Botanical Gardens.
Dogs are generally welcome on-leash in most outdoor areas (check specific signage for any restricted zones).
Rating: 4.5/5. Dogs must be on-leash. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g255350-d3498727-Reviews-Geelong_Botanical_Gardens-Geelong_City_of_Greater_Geelong_Victoria.html?m=66827
Stroll along the iconic Eastern Beach Reserve and through Steampacket Gardens.
These areas offer beautiful bay views and are popular for dog walks (on-leash).
Perfect for a scenic walk. Grab an ice cream or coffee at a nearby kiosk with outdoor seating if available. Google Places: Steampacket Gardens (Rating: 4.5/5).
Relax and enjoy dinner at Little Creatures Brewery.
They often have outdoor areas where well-behaved dogs are welcome. Check their current policy when you arrive.
Rating: 4.3/5. Price varies. Confirm dog policy for outdoor areas. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g255350-d5887467-Reviews-Little_Creatures_Brewery_Geelong-Geelong_City_of_Greater_Geelong_Victoria.html?m=66827
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