Dog-friendly Townsville: Things to do in Townsville with a dog
If your pup had a travel wishlist, dog-friendly Townsville would be on it. From beloved local spots to leash-optional beach days and tail-wagging walking trails, this sun-soaked Queensland city is ready to roll out the welcome mat for your four-legged explorer.
Ready to sniff out the best parks, leashed beaches, and pup-approved events? This guide covers it all — plus tips for finding trusted house sitting or pet sitting support through furpetvo.com.
Best dog parks in Townsville
If your dog lives for zoomies, bum sniffs, and rolling in mystery patches of grass, these dog-friendly parks Townsville offers are more than just green space — they’re off-leash playgrounds, social hubs, and nap-fuel in one.
Murray Dog Park
This fully fenced park features shaded seating, an agility course, and plenty of open grass for off-leash freedom. It includes a dedicated section for small dogs and a separate run for large dogs, plus multiple waste stations to keep things tidy.
Location: Unit 60/57 Murray Lyons Cres, Annandale QLD 4814, Australia
Palmetum
Located near one of Townsville’s leafiest spots, this off-leash dog park is surrounded by natural beauty. Fully fenced and peaceful, it’s ideal for dogs who prefer quiet space over bustling energy. After your pup’s had a run, enjoy a leashed stroll through the adjacent botanical gardens.
Location: University Rd, Douglas QLD 4814, Australia
Bushland Beach Dog Park
A local favorite that blends beachside breeze with secure play, this fully fenced, shady park is perfect for dogs who need room to roam — without crowds. It features a small-dog agility course and easy access to nearby sandy paths for cooling-off strolls.
Location: 50 Lionel Turner Dr, Bushland Beach QLD 4818, Australia
Dog-friendly restaurants in Townsville
Your dog gives you that look every time you pick up the car keys for dinner. No more leaving them behind — these dog-friendly restaurants Townsville pet parents love welcome both you and your pup with wagging enthusiasm.
Longboard Bar & Grill
Ocean breeze, live music, and cold drinks for you — water bowls and friendly head pats for your dog. Situated right on The Strand, it’s a perfect stop after a waterfront walk.
Location: The Strand Headlands, 80 Gregory St, Townsville City QLD 4810, Australia
Wild Rice Laos & Thai Cuisine
Tucked into a quiet pocket just outside the city center, Wild Rice serves bold, aromatic dishes in a relaxed outdoor setting. Leashed dogs are warmly welcomed at the shaded front area — where the smells are as irresistible to pups as the food is to you.
Location: 1/235 Flinders St, East QLD 4810, Australia
C Bar Strand
Seaside dining, strong coffee, and staff who truly appreciate a good dog. Grab an outdoor table, order something fresh, and relax while your pup curls up comfortably at your feet.
Location: 80 Gregory St, Townsville City QLD 4810, Australia
Fun dog-friendly activities in Townsville
Ready to shake things up from your usual fetch routine? These dog-friendly activities Townsville has on offer go well beyond the lap around the block.
Climb Castle Hill
Locals know Castle Hill is the place to walk off energy — and dogs are very much welcome. Stick to the shaded paths or tackle the Goat Track if you're feeling adventurous. Just bring plenty of water — and expect enthusiastic tail wags at the summit.
- Cost: Free
- Date and time: Daily
- Location: Castle Hill Rd, Townsville City QLD 4810, Australia
Picnic at Anderson Park Botanical Gardens
Pack lunch, grab your leash, and spread out a blanket. This lush garden space is a laid-back go-to for lazy afternoons. While dogs must remain leashed in designated pet-friendly areas, there’s no shortage of grassy spots, shady nooks, and curious birds to keep your pup engaged.
- Cost: Free
- Date and time: Open daily
- Location: 41 Gulliver St, Mundingburra QLD 4812, Australia
Walk along The Strand
This scenic coastal stretch is ideal for a calm, breezy stroll — especially in the early morning or golden hour. Pause on grassy patches, refill your pup’s water bowl at public stations, and enjoy friendly waves from fellow walkers.
- Cost: Free
- Date and time: Anytime
- Location: Townsville, QLD 4810, Australia
Best dog-friendly walking trails in Townsville
Got a pup with zoomies and a nose for adventure? These dog-friendly hikes in Townsville are perfect for strolls that turn into sniff-tacular explorations — from coastal cliffs to native bushland and hilltop views.
Cape Pallarenda Walking Track
Want serious “sniff appeal”? Head to Pallarenda, where the walking track hugs the coast before winding into quiet bushland. One of Townsville’s most beloved dog-friendly walks, it delivers beach breeze, serene trails, and birdwatching opportunities — while your pup tracks scents only they can detect.
Location: Cape Pallarenda Road, Graves Circuit, Pallarenda QLD 4810, Australia
Length: Approx. 2 km
Mount Louisa Walking Track
An absolute pup-ular choice for dog walking Townsville style. This elevated trail winds through native bushland, offering panoramic views at the top and shaded rest spots along the way. It’s a refreshing change from beach walks — especially for dogs who love a gentle climb paired with serious sniffing.
Location: Corner of Bayswater Road & Weston St, Mount Louisa QLD 4814, Australia
Length: Approx. 2.5 km one way
Jezzine Barracks Boardwalk
Coastal breeze? Check. Public art? Yep. Room to sniff every bush in sight? You bet. This scenic boardwalk connects The Strand to Rowes Bay with wide, accessible paths, leashed access throughout, and grassy patches perfect for rest stops — making it ideal for relaxed, sensory-rich outings.
