Pet-Friendly Spots in South Africa
Heading out without your pets is no fun at all; especially during summer. The great news is, more and more places and destinations are becoming pet-friendly which means more options for you and your pet to explore together. In this article, we’ve narrowed down a few restaurants, parks and accommodation options around South Africa that are pet-friendly.
Continue reading to find:
Pet -friendly restaurants, parks and accommodation in the Western Cape
After a nice, long stroll on Melkbosstrand Beach, make sure you pop by Die Damhuis. Your dog will get their very own doggy menu which includes chicken cubes, steak and dog-friendly ice-cream. Water bowls are also provided and there is even a designated pet play area for your dog to play, exercise, and socialise while you tuck into your meal.
Alphen Trail
A beautiful trail along the Diep River and Constantiaberg Mountain where you and your dog can take in all the greenery while getting some exercise.
This cool, casual hotel offers plenty for pet owners and their special plus one. All rooms of the hotel are dog-friendly, except the upstairs area. And with a menu of Hill’s Science Plan and healthy doggo treats, this hotel makes sure that your four-legged friend is kept happy throughout their stay. In fact, the Radisson Red has their very own permanent pet guest, the resident Boston Terrier by the name of Baxter.
Pet -friendly restaurants, parks and accommodation in Gauteng
Looking to cool off on a hot day? Ice-cream is a no brainer. While it's best to avoid giving your pet ice-cream, Paul’s Homemade Ice Cream has treats especially for dogs. These include miniature cakes topped with homemade doggie biscuits, and Bossobello sticks, a fancy Italian dog snack.
Verity Park
A little green square which is the perfect place to walk your dog, get some fresh air, and bump into other dog owners.
The Secret Valley is a beautiful stone cottage surrounded by plenty of spacious greenery in the Cullinan District and the Brandbach Range. Dogs, cats, caged birds and horses are welcome at no extra charge, but make sure to bring your own pet beds, bedding and bowls. Surrounded by nature, you and your beloved pet can enjoy endless picnics in the sun, and long walks to the river.
Pet -friendly restaurants, parks and accommodation in KwaZulu-Natal
Sea, sun, sand and food – can it get any better? Yes, if you add your pet to the equation. And thankfully, Surf Riders Food Shack welcomes pets with a special menu just for dogs, which includes the "Poochini Snack-Biscuit" and "Bag of Bones”. Your dog can also live their best life with the wind in their fur, sand in their paws and a tasty snack in their belly.
Jameson Park
A pretty park with plenty of open space for your dog to run around and get some well-needed exercise.
You are more than welcome to check in with your pet at The Oyster Box Hotel. The staff takes their pet guests seriously, and offers everything your pet needs for a comfortable stay. From pet beds to pet-friendly rooms and a customised pet menu, you can rest assured that your beloved pet will be well-catered for here. Don’t forget to say hi to the friendly resident cat, Skabenga.
Pet -friendly restaurants, parks and accommodation in the Eastern Cape
After taking your dog for a walk on Pollock beach, pop in to Something Good Roadhouse, a surfing inspired family restaurant located on the beach. There is a designated outdoor area for dogs, so grab a seat outside and take in all the views with your canine companion by your side.
This easy hiking trail spans 8km along the coast, so that you and your dog can enjoy great views of the water.
Ocean View Forest Reserve & Guest Farm
If you fancy something different with nothing but nature all around you, head to Ocean View Guest Farm. There are various types of accommodation available here, including camping, B&B and self-catering. Declared a National Heritage Site, you and your pet can go hiking, or enjoy a relaxing hangout at one of three nearby beaches. There are also plenty of walking spots for dogs. Pets stay for free on condition that you make arrangements beforehand. Your pet must also be up to date on vaccinations.
Pet -friendly restaurants, parks and accommodation in the Northern Cape
The LBow Room has an outside section that accommodates dogs to sit outside with their owners. It has a special food menu for dogs, and complimentary water bowls.
Oliewenhuis Art Museum is an art gallery, but you are welcome to bring your pet along for a refreshing walk in their lush gardens, as long as they are on a leash.
These restored Karoo townhouses are best for pets and pet owners that appreciate a quiet and tranquil stay. All units are pet-friendly, and the surrounding town offers a pet walking route, and unique sunrises & sunsets that only the Karoo can offer.
Pet -friendly restaurants, parks and accommodation in the Free State
Iewers Nice is an amazing dog-friendly restaurant in Westdene, Bloemfontein. A cute spot for good food with great friends and your beloved dog!
This is a lovely dog park for pet owners and their canine companions. It is a cordoned off area where you can sit down and watch your dog socialise with others.
Surrounded by the Maluti Mountains, Old Mill Drift Guest Farm is the ideal pet getaway. It is a farm that spans 666 hectares with spectacular views. Choose to relax and become one with nature, or take the more adventurous route with river tubing and 4X4 trails. Dogs, cats, caged birds and horses are welcome on condition that you make arrangements for this beforehand. Be sure to bring pet beds, bedding and bowls. Pet owners can also request pet food at a fee.
Recommended Travel Essentials for pets:
If you’ve decided to go and explore some pet-friendly places with your beloved companion, don’t forget the important travel essentials, to make your outing or trip to your holiday destination much more comfortable for both you and your pet. Simply pop by your nearest Absolute Pets store for all your pet travel needs. Here are some of our top pet travel products:
- Cat Carrier Kombucha
- Wagworld Car Seat Protective Dog Hammock
- M-Pets Comfort Crate (online only)
- Olly & Max Pet Stroller
- Olly & Max Waste Bags with Handles
- Olly & Max Travel Water Carrier
We hope you've found this article helpful and wish you and your pets a wonderful summer outdoors, exploring the many places you can go together.
Happy & Healthy
The Absolute Pets team