Looking for pet friendly accommodation? You’re in luck! The Gold Coast is not only one of Australia’s top tourist destinations for families and couples, but it also welcomes pets with open arms. Whether you’re looking for a beachside escape, a hinterland hideaway, or an apartment in the heart of the city, there are plenty of affordable, pet friendly accommodation options that don’t compromise on comfort.
In this guide, we’ll explore 10 of the best budget pet-friendly places to stay on the Gold Coast, complete with activity suggestions, neighbourhood tips, and travel advice to help make your next holiday one the whole family—including the dog—can enjoy.
🌊 Why Gold Coast is Perfect for Pet friendly accommodation
The Gold Coast is known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and outdoor lifestyle—all of which make it an ideal destination for travelling with pets. Many parks, cafes, and even beaches across the region are pet friendly. Several dog-friendly walking trails and leash-free zones mean your furry companion can enjoy the holiday as much as you do.
Plus, with more pet friendly accommodation than ever, from caravan parks to holiday homes, planning a budget-conscious trip with pets is easier than you might think.
🏡 Types of Pet Friendly Accommodation in Gold Coast
The Gold Coast caters to different styles of travel, and pet owners will find a variety of lodging options, including:
🐕 Holiday Parks and Cabins: Cheap Pet friendly accommodation like holiday parks offer fenced cabins, leash-free play areas, and even pet washing stations.
🏠 Pet-Friendly Hotels and Motels: Many budget-friendly motels now allow pets and include basic comforts such as pet beds, bowls, and outdoor access.
🏢 Serviced Apartments: Perfect for families or long stays, giving pets space to roam and owners a kitchen to prepare meals.
🏡 Airbnbs and Short-Term Rentals: A flexible and often affordable option, many private properties welcome pets and provide yards or pet enclosures.
🐾 Top 10 Cheap Pet Friendly Accommodations in Gold Coast
Here are ten highly rated, budget-friendly accommodations that cater to you and your furry family member:
- BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park (Helensvale)
- 🐶 One of the most popular family and pet friendly accommodations on the Gold Coast. It features dog-friendly cabins, leash-free zones, a pet wash station, and even dog agility courses. It’s also located near major theme parks like Movie World 🎢 and Wet’n’Wild.
- Bay of Palms Holiday Apartments (Elanora)
- 🏞️ Surrounded by greenery and backing onto a lake, these self-contained apartments offer a peaceful stay with plenty of space for pets. The property is just minutes from dog-friendly beaches and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.
- La Costa Motel (Bilinga)
- 🏖️ A charming retro-style motel close to the beach and Gold Coast Airport. Pets are welcome in designated rooms, and you’ll enjoy quick access to long walking beaches and pet-approved cafés.
- NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort (Biggera Waters)
- 🏕️ This family-oriented resort includes pet friendly accommodation like cabins, lush grounds, and activities for kids. It’s a short drive to dog-friendly Broadwater Parklands and Harbour Town shopping outlet.
- Jacobs Well Tourist Park (Northern Gold Coast)
- 🎣 Ideal for fishing, kayaking, and relaxing with your pet. This quiet park allows pets on powered and unpowered sites, and select cabins. Great for a tranquil escape near the water.
- Kirra Beach Tourist Park (Coolangatta)
- 🌴 Conveniently located near one of the most dog-welcoming beaches on the coast. The park includes pet-approved campsites and walking tracks. Coolangatta also has pet-friendly cafés and outdoor markets.
- Gold Coast Holiday Park Cabins (Southport)
- 🛶 Nestled close to Southport Broadwater, this property has pet friendly accommodation and allows pets in its holiday cabins. There’s a leash-free area, and it’s a short drive to The Spit, one of the best dog beaches in Queensland.
- Pet-Friendly Airbnb Homes (Various Locations)
- 🏘️ Numerous hosts on Airbnb offer affordable pet friendly accommodation with fenced yards and outdoor decks. Suburbs like Miami, Burleigh Heads, and Labrador are excellent for beach access and walking trails.
- Ashmore Palms Holiday Village (Ashmore)
- 🦜 Known for its tropical gardens and family atmosphere, this property occasionally offers pet friendly accommodation on request. It’s also home to exotic birds and lush parklands.
- Broadwater Tourist Park (Southport)
- 🐕 This park offers well-kept pet-friendly campsites, proximity to off-leash dog parks, and walking distance to cafés and shops. A popular choice for travellers who love to be outdoors.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Activities and Places to Visit
Make the most of your Gold Coast holiday by exploring these pet-friendly spots:
🌊 The Spit, Main Beach: Arguably the most famous off-leash beach on the coast. It’s spacious, scenic, and great for swimming and socialising.
🌳 Pizzey Park: One of the largest off-leash dog parks, equipped with agility gear, shaded picnic areas, and plenty of room to run.
🚶 Tallebudgera Creek Walk: A peaceful, pet-friendly trail with picturesque views. Dogs on leash are welcome.
☕ Commune Café (Burleigh Heads) & Elk Espresso (Broadbeach): Welcoming staff, great coffee, and water bowls for pets. Perfect for a relaxing breakfast with your furry pal.
🌺 Hinterland Escapes: Take your pup inland to the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk or stay in a pet-friendly cabin nestled in the forest.
📝 Booking Tips for Pet-Friendly Accommodation
Booking the right stay requires a little planning. Keep these tips in mind:
- 📞 Call Ahead: Even if listed online as pet-friendly, confirm directly with the property to understand rules, size limits, or extra charges.
- 👜 Pack Smart: Bring your pet’s essentials—bed, food, leash, waste bags, and comfort items.
- 📅 Book Early: Pet-friendly options book out fast during holidays and weekends.
- 📍 Choose Location Wisely: Pick places near parks or pet-friendly cafes to avoid driving everywhere.
- 📲 Use Pet-Friendly Booking Sites: Platforms like Holidaying With Dogs, BringFido, or PetStayAdvisor make searching easier.
💡 Local Tips for a Stress-Free Pet Holiday
🛁 Find Vets Nearby: It’s a good idea to locate a nearby vet or 24-hour clinic in case of emergencies.
🚗 Car Safety: Secure your pet in the car with a harness or pet carrier during long drives.
🐕 Follow Local Leash Laws: Off-leash is allowed only in designated areas. Always clean up after your pet.
🦴 Try Pet Menus: Some cafés offer special doggie menus, like puppuccinos and dog biscuits.
🧼 Grooming on the Go: Look for mobile groomers who can visit your accommodation.
🧳 Final Thoughts: A Tail-Wagging Time Awaits!
A trip to the Gold Coast can be just as exciting and relaxing for your four-legged family members as it is for you. With a wide variety of cheap pet-friendly accommodation, welcoming public spaces, and activities tailored to pet owners, your dream holiday doesn’t require leaving anyone behind.
Whether you’re camping under the stars, staying in a beachside cabin, or relaxing in a leafy Airbnb, you’ll find the Gold Coast truly pet-inclusive and full of adventure.
So grab the leash, pack the toys, and hit the road—your pet-friendly Gold Coast escape starts now! 🐾☀️🏖️