McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast Travel Blog
Your dog-friendly guide to exploring the McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast
Beach walks, winery lawns and cafés where your dog is welcome. Summer is made for exploring together, and McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast has plenty of relaxed dog-friendly places to eat, drink and roam — just 40 minutes south of Adelaide.
Travelling with your dog doesn’t mean compromising on great food, coastal scenery or a good glass of wine. McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast is one of South Australia’s most dog-friendly destinations, offering beach time, welcoming outdoor hospitality and pet-friendly places to stay.
Use this guide to plan a summer day trip or a weekend away with clear, practical suggestions for where dogs are welcome.
Dog-Friendly Beaches & Coastal Walks
The coastline of McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast is ideal for dogs who love open space and salty air. Many beaches allow dogs, with some areas and times designated for off-lead exercise.
- Aldinga Beach – Long sandy stretches popular for walks and play (check signage for off-lead areas and times).
- Maslin Beach (north end) – A favourite for dog owners with plenty of space and coastal views.
- Sellicks Beach – Wide shoreline for walking and paddling (confirm local rules on arrival).
- Port Noarlunga South & Christies Beach – Great for relaxed walks, with dog access at certain times.
Tip: Beach rules can vary by access point and season. Always check on-site signage, especially during summer.
Dog-Friendly Wineries & Cellar Doors
McLaren Vale cellar doors are known for their relaxed hospitality. Many welcome dogs in outdoor tasting areas when they’re on-lead and well behaved.
- Paxton Wines (McLaren Vale) – Outdoor lawn areas and a relaxed, dog-friendly vibe.
- DogRidge Wines (McLaren Vale) – Outdoor seating and a natural fit for dog lovers.
- Oxenberry Farm (McLaren Vale) – A popular stop with outdoor café seating.
- Kimbolton Wines (Langhorne Creek) – Welcoming outdoor areas for dogs and owners.
Tip: Keep your dog on-lead, bring a water bowl, and ask staff where dogs can sit. Indoor access varies by venue.
Dog-Friendly Cafés & Dining
Outdoor dining is common across the region, making it easy to include your dog when you stop for coffee, brunch or a relaxed lunch.
- Maxwell’s Grocery (Aldinga) – Laid-back café with outdoor seating.
- McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast Visitor Centre - Beautful outdoor gardens and playground for the kids
- Boy & Bloom South (McLaren Vale) – Outdoor tables and a dog-friendly approach.
- The Farm Willunga – Spacious outdoor dining (water bowls often available).
- Ripple & Swirl (Christies Beach) – Coffee with coastal views and outdoor seating.
- Agatha’s Café (Port Noarlunga) – A classic stop after a beach walk.
Tip: Outdoor seating policies can change during peak periods. Call ahead if you’re visiting at a busy time.
Pet-Friendly Places to Stay
Make it an overnight stay with accommodation options that welcome dogs (policies vary by site and season):
- Aldinga Beach Holiday Park
- BIG4 Port Willunga Tourist Park
- Christies Beach Tourist Park
- Moana Beach Tourist Park
There are also pet-friendly holiday rentals across the region. Always confirm fees, size limits, and house rules when booking.
Dog-Friendly Travel Tips
- Follow on-lead requirements and local signage.
- Carry water and plan shade breaks on hot days.
- Clean up after your dog to keep public spaces welcoming.
- Be mindful around wildlife, other dogs, cyclists and families on shared trails.
Dog-Friendly FAQs
Are dogs allowed on beaches in McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast?
Many local beaches allow dogs, with some areas and times designated for off-lead exercise. Always check beach signage for seasonal restrictions and on-lead requirements.
Can I take my dog to wineries in McLaren Vale?
Many cellar doors welcome dogs in outdoor areas, provided they remain on-lead and well behaved. Indoor spaces often have different rules, so it’s best to check ahead.
Do cafés and restaurants allow dogs?
Dogs are commonly welcomed in outdoor dining areas across the region. Policies can change during peak periods, so call ahead if you’re visiting at a busy time.
Is there dog-friendly accommodation?
Yes. Several holiday parks and selected rentals welcome dogs. Pet policies vary by property, so confirm fees, size limits and rules when booking.
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Are dogs allowed on beaches in McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast?
Many local beaches allow dogs, with some areas and times designated for off-lead exercise. Always check beach signage for seasonal restrictions and on-lead requirements.
Can I take my dog to wineries in McLaren Vale?
Many cellar doors welcome dogs in outdoor areas, provided they remain on-lead and well behaved. Indoor spaces often have different rules, so it’s best to check ahead.
Do cafés and restaurants allow dogs?
Dogs are commonly welcomed in outdoor dining areas across the region. Policies can change during peak periods, so call ahead if you’re visiting at a busy time.
Is there dog-friendly accommodation?
Yes. Several holiday parks and selected rentals welcome dogs. Pet policies vary by property, so confirm fees, size limits and rules when booking.
