Planning a holiday with your four-legged friend? The Capricorn Coast region is not only a paradise for nature lovers, beachgoers, and outdoor adventurers—it’s also a welcoming destination for pet parents and their pooches. From cosy retreats and coastal cottages to off-leash beach runs and dog-friendly cafés, here’s your updated guide to travelling with your dog in the Capricorn Coast region.
Whether you’re chasing salty sea breezes or lush hinterland escapes, there’s plenty to discover—together.
Dog-Friendly Accommodation
Elysium Retreat and Stays – Yeppoon
This wellness-focused haven opened in early 2025 and offers a tranquil escape for both humans and their pups. Set among 25 acres of nature, Elysium welcomes dogs on its spacious camping and RV-powered sites, and in select retro-style caravans. With communal kitchens, a recreation room, and a focus on peace and connection, it’s the perfect spot for a reset—with your best mate by your side.
Ferns Hideaway – Byfield
If rainforest tranquillity is more your thing, Ferns Hideaway in Byfield offers dog-friendly camping and caravan spots in a beautiful natural setting. It’s a true retreat for those looking to unplug and recharge while their furry companions enjoy the open space.
Tasman Holiday Parks – Fisherman’s Beach – Emu Park
Located near the beach, this park offers pet-friendly cabins and sites, allowing your furry friend to enjoy the coastal atmosphere with you.
Poinciana Tourist Park – Yeppoon
This park welcomes pets on designated sites, providing a comfortable stay for both you and your dog.
The Causeway Caravan Park – Causeway Lake
Situated near the picturesque Causeway Lake, this park offers pet-friendly options for travelers with dogs.
Blue Dolphin Caravan Park – Yeppoon
A short stroll from the beach, this park allows pets on designated sites, making it a convenient choice for beach-loving dogs and their owners.
Southside Holiday Village – Rockhampton
Set amidst tropical gardens, this village offers pet-friendly cabins and sites, allowing your pet to enjoy the lush surroundings.
Dining Out with Your Dog
The Capricorn Coast also boasts several pet-friendly dining options. Notably, The Waterline Restaurant, Vue Wine Bar & Restaurant, Lure Living, The Alley, Riverston Tea Rooms, Artizan Gluten Free Bakery welcome guests accompanied by their furry friends.
Note: While these establishments are known to be pet-friendly, it’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm their current pet policies, as they may change.
Dog-Friendly Beaches on the Capricorn Coast
General Guidelines
In the Livingstone Shire Council area, dogs are permitted on all beaches on-leash at all times. However, off-leash access is allowed before 8 am and after 4 pm daily, unless otherwise signposted. It’s essential to keep your dog under effective control and clean up after them to maintain these privileges.
Specific Off-Leash Areas
- Farnborough Beach (Yeppoon): Dogs are allowed off-leash from the Bangalee boat ramp south to Barwells Creek, with access via Hinz Avenue. Note that this off-leash access is excluded on weekends and public holidays.
- Fisherman’s Beach (Emu Park): Off-leash access is permitted from the beach access point 150 meters north of Bell Park to Tanby Point, accessible via Hill Street. This off-leash access is also excluded on weekends and public holidays.
- Olive Dorey Park (Lammermoor): An enclosed off-leash dog park featuring agility equipment like tunnels, weave poles, and hurdles.
Beaches with Restrictions
Some beaches have specific restrictions or prohibitions regarding dogs:
- Yeppoon Main Beach: A 400-meter section between the Yeppoon Surf Life Saving Club ramp and the Keppel Bay Sailing Club ramp has been designated as a dog-free zone. This decision was made to balance the interests of all beach users and ensure safety.
- Cooee Bay Beach, Emu Park Beach, and Sandy Point Beach: Dogs are prohibited at all times on these beaches.
Can I Take My Dog to the Islands?
While many Queensland islands are protected national parks with strict no-pet policies, Great Keppel Island is an exception. As it is not a national park, dogs are welcome to visit the island—making it a rare and rewarding coastal escape for pet lovers. You can bring your dog over on the Keppel Konnections ferry. Once on the island, dogs are permitted on-leash at all times, and off-leash before 8am and after 4pm, unless otherwise signed. Please note, Great Keppel Island Hideaway does not allow pets in its accommodation, but Great Keppel Island Holiday Village is a more relaxed alternative that welcomes furry companions. As always, keep dogs under effective control and clean up after them to help preserve this privilege for others.
Environmental Considerations
During turtle nesting season (October to March), it’s crucial to be vigilant and avoid disturbing nesting sites. If you encounter sick, injured, or deceased marine animals, please report them to the Marine Stranding Hotline at 1300 130 372.
It’s a Dog’s Life on the Capricorn Coast
From dog-friendly accommodation and off-leash adventures to beachside cafés and bushwalks, the Capricorn Coast has everything you need for a stress-free, tail-wagging holiday. Just remember to check individual accommodation pet policies when booking, and always follow signage when visiting beaches and public areas.
So pack the leash, grab the treats, and start planning your paw-fect coastal escape!
