Rufus & Co. Cafe

Rufus & Co. Cafe sits in the Port of Airlie marina precinct at 33 Port Drive, and it is named after a dog, which sets the tone. The cafe's own Instagram invites visitors to come for coffee and dog cuddles from 7am daily, and it appears on Airlie Beach's dog-friendly dining listings. Expect a solid breakfast and lunch menu with marina views, smoothies, and house-baked sweets.

The dog setup

Dogs are welcome at the outdoor seating overlooking the marina, with water bowls generally on hand in a place that leans into being pet-friendly. The marine stinger and sun considerations of far north Queensland apply: bring your own water bowl as backup and pick a shaded table. Keep your dog leashed and clear of the foot traffic that funnels past on tour mornings.

Max: this is the meeting point before the boats leave, so an early coffee beats the crowd and gives a settled dog room to relax.

Getting there and parking

The cafe opens daily from 7am, with food service through the morning and the kitchen winding down early afternoon. Marina parking is on site but fills at peak times, and the waterfront paths make it an easy walk from central Airlie Beach. Calm on-lead walking loops the marina itself, and the Bicentennial Walkway runs toward Cannonvale for a longer scenic stretch of path.

Close by with the dogs

For an off-lead run, Cannonvale Dog Exercise Area is a short drive away. Other dog-friendly coffee in the area includes Harry's Corner Cafe in town and Fat Frog Beach Cafe at Cannonvale, and Bella Vista Suite is a pet-welcome stay option.

More options are on the Queensland dog friendly cafes guide and the Airlie Beach destination page.