Pacific Palms with Your Pooch
Pet-Friendly Beaches on the Barrington Coast
If your ideal holiday involves sand between your toes and a wagging tail beside you, the Barrington Coast — and Pacific Palms in particular — is a brilliant choice. This stretch of NSW coastline packs long, soft beaches, sheltered bays and plenty of dog-friendly spots where your four-legged mate can stretch their legs, splash around and sniff out new adventures. Below is a practical local guide to beaches, where dogs are welcome, and how to plan a stress-free getaway with your pup.
Where you can let them run
Several beaches in the Pacific Palms area permit dogs at certain times of day, which is perfect for early-morning zoomies or a sunset stroll. Blueys Beach and Boomerang Beach are regularly listed as dog-friendly during specified hours (usually early morning and late afternoon/evening), so you can enjoy off-lead fun when the signs allow. These beaches are also beautiful for a leash walk when the off-lead windows aren’t in effect. Boomerang in particular is famed for its sweeping crescent of sand and rock pools — ideal for sniffing and exploring between swims.
If you want guaranteed off-lead stretches, head a little further along the coast toward Tuncurry and Forster where sections of Nine Mile and One Mile beaches provide more relaxed rules in certain areas and at certain times — great for long, sandy romps. As always, check local signage on arrival so you know leash rules and permitted hours.
Beaches to note in Pacific Palms
Blueys Beach — long, open sand and a relaxed holiday vibe. Dogs can be walked during permitted times; it’s an excellent spot for beach photos of your dog racing the surf.
Boomerang Beach — a sweeping bay with rock ledges and shallow rock pools; dog walking is allowed during specified hours so your pup can enjoy the waves safely.
Elizabeth Beach — a gorgeous Booti Booti National Park beach; check local rules as off-lead access can vary and some parts are conservation areas.
Where to stay — pet friendly holiday homes
Pacific Palms Holidays lists a selection of pet-friendly holiday homes designed for guests who want to bring their dogs along. Properties range from cosy cottages close to the dunes to larger family homes with fenced yards — great if you’re travelling with a nervous or elderly dog who prefers a contained space. Some pet stays are by application, so it’s worth checking the property details and the booking policy before you confirm.
Nearby parks and holiday parks such as Tiona Holiday Park also promote pet-friendly accommodation options, and can be a practical base if you want lake access and easy parking for beach gear. Tiona explicitly markets pet-friendly stays and activities for owners who want an active, outdoorsy holiday with their dog.
Dog-friendly activities beyond the beach
The Barrington Coast is more than sand: there’s bushwalking, calm lakes and town-based attractions that welcome dogs. Smiths Lake and Wallis Lake foreshore walks are perfect for quieter leash-on adventures and morning paddles (keep dogs away from fragile dune vegetation). Tuncurry’s Beach Street Reserve even features a dog agility park if your pup loves a bit of training or friendly competition. For a relaxed afternoon, many coastal cafés and takeaway spots in the region are dog-friendly (outdoor seating), so you won’t have to leave your companion behind.
Tips for a happy, responsible dog holiday
Always check signage on arrival — rules (and hours) vary seasonally and by beach access point.
Bring water, waste bags and a towel — warm sand and saltwater can be tiring; a rinse and dry will keep them comfy.
Respect nesting birds and dune vegetation — many beaches have protected zones; keep dogs away.
Consider microclimate and heat — mid-day on open sand can get hot, so stick to early/late walks in summer.
Ask about pet policies when booking: some Pacific Palms Holidays properties require approval or have size limits.
Final wag
Whether your dog is a seasoned beach bum or a curious first-timer, the Barrington Coast’s mix of long beaches, sheltered lakes and friendly accommodation options makes it a brilliant destination for pet-friendly getaways. Book a pet-friendly home with Pacific Palms Holidays, pack the lead and toys, and you’ve got everything you need for a holiday full of sand, sea and sloppy kisses. For the most current rules and property options, check the local council and Pacific Palms Holidays’ pet-friendly listings before you go.