Pets on Holiday

These locations offer the best of both worlds: great scenery for a picnic and plenty of amenities (like tables and shade) where your dog is welcome to join the feast.

• River Road Reserve (Shoalhaven Heads): A fantastic riverside gem with BBQs and picnic shelters, and plenty of space for a game of fetch by the water. It’s entirely off-leash, so your dog can play while the sausages sizzle.
• Plantation Point & Nelsons Beach (Vincentia): This is the ultimate ‘Bay day’. Set up your picnic on the grassy reserve at Plantation Point (on-leash), which offers stunning views over Jervis Bay and has public amenities. Then walk down the stairs to Nelsons Beach for an off-leash run during permitted hours.
• Moona Moona Creek Reserve (Huskisson): While the creek itself is often protected for birdlife, the surrounding parklands and the adjacent Huskisson Beach (timed off-leash) make it a great home base for a family lunch. There are plenty of shaded tables and public BBQs.
• Hampden Bridge Reserve (Kangaroo Valley): For a change of pace, picnic by the freshwater on Kangaroo River. There are grassy banks under the bridge, perfect for a picnic rug, and the river is great for a doggy dip.

While many National Parks are off-limits to pets, the Shoalhaven has some spectacular ‘regional parks’ and Council trails where dogs are welcome on a lead. Offering river breezes or clifftop views, these local favorites ensure you never have to leave your furry friend behind when you head out for the day:

• Ben’s Walk (Nowra): A stunning loop starting at the Nowra Showground. It features a high suspension bridge, river views, and limestone cliffs. It’s one of the best ‘bush-feel’ walks that is 100% dog-friendly (on-leash).
• Bomaderry Creek Regional Park: A hidden gem with several loop tracks (ranging from 1km to 5.5km). You’ll walk through towering gums and past cool rock overhangs. Dogs are welcome on-leash.
• The Basin Foreshore Walk (Sanctuary Point to St Georges Basin): This is a flat, easy-going track that hugs the water’s edge. It’s perfect for a long, scenic walk where you’re likely to spot kangaroos and pelicans along the way.
• Abrahams Bosom Reserve (Currarong): A great spot for a coastal hike. The Wreck Walk is on-leash and leads you to the site of an old shipwreck, the SS Merimbula. It’s rugged, salty, and very dog-friendly. Then settle in for a picnic at the reserve’s shaded tables after.
• Wirreecoo Walking Trail (Huskisson): Starting from the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum, this easy boardwalk takes you through mangroves and forest. It’s a great sensory walk for dogs who love new smells!

Whether you’re chasing river breezes or clifftop views, these local favorites ensure you never have to leave your best friend behind when you head out for the day.

These local icons have dedicated pet-friendly areas and a few special perks for four-legged companions.

Jervis Bay Brewing Co (Huskisson)

An absolute must for dog owners. This is widely considered the most pet-welcoming spot in town. The Brewery has a massive, sun-drenched beer garden where dogs are welcome everywhere. Look out for the ‘Little Pigs’ food truck on-site, and they often have water bowls and treats available at the bar. Also, ask about their occasional ‘Puppy Pub’ events or social media shoutouts for local ‘Brewery Dogs’.

Flamin’ Galah Brewing Co (Huskisson)

A cool, warehouse-style brewery with a pink concrete bar and a manicured beer garden. They are incredibly flexible — dogs are allowed both inside and outside (usually until 8pm). It’s the perfect spot for a rainy day since you can stay undercover with your pup.

The Huskisson Hotel (The ‘Husky Pub’)

The Historic pub with the best views in town. While the indoor bistro is for humans only, they have a dedicated outdoor pavilion and terrace that is 100% dog-friendly. Access is via the side gate on the right of the hotel — no need to weave through the main crowd.

Albert N Miso (Vincentia)

A boutique cafe named after two very important pooches. This cafe was literally built to be pet-friendly, with dogs in mind. They have multiple outdoor tables and are famous for providing complimentary dog biscuits (and sometimes even a ‘puppuccino’ if you ask nicely!).

Huskisson Bakery & Cafe

A local staple for early-morning coffee and pies. They have a great outdoor seating area where dogs are welcome. They are known for selling house-made dog treats at the counter — perfect for a post-walk reward. Another handy service by this local venue is its picnic hampers – book yourself in for a picnic day and let these awesome folk provide the hamper filled with your choice of bakery treats!

5 Little Pigs (Huskisson)

A bustling Owen Street favorite with high-quality brunch. While seating is limited, their outdoor tables are pet-friendly. It’s the best spot for people (and dog) watching in the heart of Husky.

A necessity for any pup that has enjoyed its holiday to the max! These local groomers will have them smelling fresh for the drive home.

• Snuggle Pup and Cuddle Pooch (South Nowra): Voted one of the best in the Shoalhaven, offering full grooms and a “Puppy Day Spa” experience.
• Happy Feet Grooming Parlour (Bomaderry): Located within the Bomaderry Vet Hospital, offering professional styling for all breeds.
• Mobile Services: For ultimate convenience, Jim’s Dog Wash and Berry Dog Grooming offer mobile vans that can come directly to your holiday rental (with prior booking).

Planning a day trip to a National Park where dogs aren’t allowed? These services can bridge the gap.

• Chevron Dog Training (Huskisson/Nowra): They offer a “Doggy Day Out”—an action-packed service that takes your dog to the beach and parks while you explore the non-pet-friendly sites.
• K9 Walkers: A reliable local team offering professional dog walking and in-home pet sitting if you need someone to check on your pup at the rental.
• Paradise Pet Parks: Situated between Huskisson and Nowra if you need a safe place for your pet to stay overnight. As well as boarding, Paradise Pet Parks also offers training, daycare and Adventure Bus outings and pamper sessions for their furry clients.

Whether you forgot the kibble or want to treat them to a gourmet holiday meal.

• Petstock Nowra: The largest range of premium foods, toys, and travel accessories in the region.
• Alternate Pet Food (Bomaderry): For those who feed a raw or “B.A.R.F” diet. They specialize in fresh, preservative-free bulk meats and bones.
• Bishops South Nowra: Great for rural supplies and larger bags of food if you’re staying for an extended period.