Australia’s travel scene is going to the dogs, in the best possible way! New data from Booking.com reveals a surge in pet-led holiday planning ahead of International Pet Day on April 11.
With nearly 2.3 million searches across the APAC region for pet-friendly stays in 2025, it seems Aussie travellers aren’t just packing bags anymore, they’re also packing treats, leashes and very opinionated four-legged travel companions.
According to Booking.com’s latest Travel Trends research, pets are increasingly shaping the itinerary.
Almost half of Australian travellers holidaying with pets (49%) hit hiking trails and nature walks, while 56% headed straight for dog-friendly beaches. Another 44% explored pet-welcoming towns, cafes, and patios, proving that when pets travel, the vibe is officially unleashed.
From “sit” to “stay”: Australia’s top pet-friendly picks
Luxury meets bark in the “Pup Yeah” package at QT Hotels, available across cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and beyond. Expect gourmet treats, orthopaedic pet beds, and a “Strut Your Pup” guide to the best local dog-friendly hotspots. It’s less room service, more room paw-ty.
For beach-loving floofs, Seaside Paws in Kingscliff is serving serious coastal chic—just a short leash-length from surf, sand, and scenic strolls, with bonus access to nearby Byron Bay for extended tail-wagging adventures.
City pups aren’t left behind either. Kimpton Margot Sydney offers a mid-city escape complete with welcome treats, bowls, and beds—because in Sydney, even the dogs check in in style.
In Brisbane, W Brisbane is rolling out its P.A.W. (Pets Are Welcome) program, while the hinterland charm of The Retreat Tamborine Mountain gives pets and owners room to roam in leafy serenity.
Over on the Gold Coast, Quest Robina offers fully pet-friendly apartments, ideal for travellers who like their holidays with a side of backyard zoomies.
Victoria, WA & beyond: fur flies nationwide
In Melbourne, Ovolo South Yarra goes full VIPooch with memory foam beds, gourmet treats, and even social hour for dogs who enjoy a good mingle (and probably better social skills than their humans).
For a more artsy escape, a Victorian home overlooking Edinburgh Gardens blends culture and canine-friendly strolls, while Scape Living at Aurora delivers hotel-style comfort with pet-inclusive living in the heart of the city.
Western Australia also gets in on the action, with The White House at Wallcliffe offering coastal charm near Margaret River, and Quest Innaloo providing a comfy Perth base for pets on the move.
The final sit
As International Pet Day approaches, one thing is clear: Australian travel is going to the dogs — but travellers wouldn’t have it any other way. With more hotels rolling out the red carpet for pets, the future of travel might just come with a wagging tail and muddy paws.
Or as industry insiders are now calling it: pawsport control is officially open.
