Looking for the best places where you can spend time with your pooch?
Well lucky for you we’ve compiled a list of all the the top spots around Melbourne so you can have a wagging good time with your doggo.
Beaches:
Port Melbourne Beach
Located between Port Melbourne Yacht Club and Lagoon Pier, Port Melbourne Beach is one of Melbourne’s infamous dog beaches. It’s busy here, with a combination of dogs and fellow beach goers on picnics, but despite the crowds, there’s a large area for dogs to run around in and out of the water. Don’t forget to keep an eye on your pet and to collect any droppings!
Where: Beach St, Port Melbourne
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St Kilda West Beach
Also known as dog beach heaven, St Kilda West Beach is open all year round, and just one of three dog beaches in the St Kilda precinct. Compared to other beaches in Melbourne, St Kilda West beach is mellow and doesn’t strike up a large crowd so no need for you or your pup to fret. Head over to West Beach Pavilion to grab a coffee too! Just remember to be observant with your pooch and refrain them from walking on the dune conservation area.
Where: Beaconsfield Parade, St Kilda West
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Cafes:
Fairfield Park Boathouse and Tea Gardens
One visit here and you’ll be hooked. This place is possibly one of the coolest places to visit with your pooch, the a pair of you won’t want to leave. The riverside venue features a casual dining approach but you’ll think you’re in a traditional English setting, and the stunning garden is an off leash dog park. Walk along the pier, hire a boat and enjoy some fresh scones.
Where: Fairfield Park Drive, Fairfield
https://www.instagram.com/p/BYFuQR0hgWL/
St Edmonds Café
Described as Melbourne summed up in one place, the hip corner store is covered in street art, boasts great food, great coffee plus. And most important, it’s dog friendly! Bring your fur-coated friend along to chill out before heading out for a day of shopping.
Where: 154 Greville St, Prahran
https://www.instagram.com/p/BWBTv9eAtqR/
Hikes:
The Bay Trail
Walking the trail you’ll have spectacular views of the bay. Starting at St Kilda Pier to Bay St Brighton, the six-kilometre flat walk will approximately take an hour. For those dogs that can handle the pressure, the loop is a total of nearly 12 kilometres of walking that can take up to two hours. You’ll also get great views of Luna Park, colourful St Kilda Marina and sailboarders on the bay.
Time: 2 hours
Distance: 12km loop
Where: St Kilda Pier
https://www.instagram.com/p/BXnJ5HhDrT_/
Jells Park Walk
Your pooch will be the envy of all dogs once you take your pup on Jells Park Walk. Circling Wildlife Lake you’ll enjoy views of the local wildlife, a range of birds migrating from China and Japan. The walk starts and ends at the Visitors Centre along the sealed and gravel path. The park includes picnic areas and toilets. Note: dogs are not allowed in the conservation area.
Time: 1 hour
Distance: 4km loop
Where: 32 Jells Rd, Wheelers Hill
https://www.instagram.com/p/BWgffkBjpVb/
Parks:
Victoria Gardens
Don’t be fooled by the grand gates at the entrance to these gardens, this is a place of fun for your little friend. The entire park is gated too so there will be no running away! Victoria Gardens features meticulous gardens and a centered medium oval with water fountains. You can bring along the kids too because there’s a separate gated playground.
Where: 361 High St, Prahran
https://www.instagram.com/p/BTymEgEBzHh/
Ruffey Lake Park
A combination of an on and off leash park spread across 68 hectares, this place is considered to be one of the largest and most popular parks in Manningham. Featuring Ruffey Creek, the park also has large grass areas, playgrounds, a golf course, barbeques, picnic shelters and toilets. Perfect for a Sunday day out with the whole family.
Where: Victoria St, Doncaster East
https://www.instagram.com/p/BYSaFkKAPiA/
Pubs:
Great Northern Hotel
Enter through the Beer Garden gate on Pidgon Street to a world where dreams do come true – a place that encourages visitors to bring their pups along! The venue is practically run by Billy the bulldog, and is a classic pub with great food beer and a beer garden. Thursday night is burger night!
Where: 644 Rathdowne St, Carlton North
https://www.instagram.com/p/BXu35jRACsS/
Little Creatures
The South Geelong brewery is described as a Willy Wonka factory for adults, but move over Charlie, there’s no chocolate here. Instead, you’ve got a great range of beer from the Little Creatures team. The village-like experience includes a Barrel Hall and dining area at the Canteen. Bring your four-legged friend along while you enjoy a pint or two.
Where: 221 Swanson St, Geelong
https://www.instagram.com/p/BYAsEFGHWB_/
