A dog at The Shallows, while BigWave Skydive drops from above. Photos: Shellharbour City Council.
Planning a summer holiday doesn’t mean leaving someone behind — especially not the four-legged member of the family.
From off-leash beach runs to dog-friendly cafes and coastal adventures, Shellharbour makes it easy to plan a staycation where your dog is just as welcome as you are.
The Shallows is Shellharbour’s iconic off-leash beach and can well be described as a paradise for dogs and their humans.
Expect to watch surfers ride waves, whales breach offshore, and skydivers land nearby while your pup runs free across the black sand or grassy green space.
The coarser sand is a blessing — it’s just a quick towel down and you’re done.
It also comes equipped with plenty of waste bins and, on weekends, has the bonus of a coffee van in the car park for your morning caffeine hit.
Outside of The Shallows, Shellharbour region has eight designated off-leash zones and dog‑agility parks.
In November, a new off-leash dog park was opened at Croom Regional Sporting Complex at Albion Park Rail, which adds to parks at Whittaker St in Flinders, Kingston St in Oak Flats, and Shellharbour War Memorial Park in Warilla, among others.
These parks offer space for pups to run, play, and even tackle agility equipment, all under owner supervision. Some are event segmented into small- and big-dog areas.
In addition to people-friendly water fountains at many parks, dedicated dog-water stations are installed across the LGA, offering a well-deserved sip after play or on hot days.
However, don’t forget to bring waste bags, keep dogs leashed where required, and clean up after them to ensure a safe, clean environment for all.
When it’s time to refuel yourself, Shellharbour’s cafe culture is as pet-friendly as it gets.
Enjoy alfresco dining at Badu Eatery & Bar in Shellharbour Village, sip craft beer at Bass Point Brewing in Barrack Heights, or relax by the water at The Waterfront Tavern in Shell Cove.
Dogs at HARS (left) and the art trail.
Many venues offer outdoor seating so your furry friend can join you for brunch or a sunset drink.
Speaking of outdoors, for a dose of nature and a place for walkies, take a stroll through Blackbutt Forest Reserve or along the Lake Illawarra Foreshore. Both are ideal for a relaxing walk surrounded by greenery or a picnic with your fur-family — as long as your dogs remain on a leash at all times.
Note, dogs are not permitted in Bass Point Reserve or Killalea Regional Park.
Looking for something different? Shellharbour has attractions that welcome pets too.
The Historical Aircraft Restoration Society Museum (HARS) at Shellharbour Airport allows dogs on a leash on tours, or head to the Illawarra Light Railway Museum, where pets can even ride the trains if safe to do so.
Then there’s whale season. If your pooch enjoys spotting humpbacks as much as you do, it might be worth booking a dog-friendly whale-watching cruise with Shellharbour Wild for you both.
When it comes to events, the annual Woofstock at The Waterfront Shell Cove offers a free, dog-friendly festival with expert advice, adoption opportunities, and free microchipping for all Shellharbour residents to promote responsible pet ownership.
Accommodation is easy, with plenty of pet-friendly options.
From camping at NRMA Shellharbour Beachside Holiday Park to cosy stays at Shellharbour Beach Cottage or holiday homes at Barrack Point Holidays, there’s something for every type of traveller and their canine companions. Always check with operators for conditions and availability.
Wondering how your best friend can come along for the ride during your holiday?
Woof Wonderland not only offers doggie day care but also a pet taxi service, while Leisure Coast Limousines provides inclusive travel arrangements for pets.
If you have a pet, there’s no excuse not to have a Shellharbour holiday exploring your own backyard.
