Fishwicks

Fishwicks is a well-loved coastal cafe at Culburra Beach, a couple of hundred metres from the main beach accesses, and it has long been a staple for dog walkers. The draw is straightforward food done well plus relaxed outdoor seating where the dog can sit beside you.

The dog setup. Dogs are welcome at the outdoor and footpath tables. Indoors is reserved for certified assistance dogs only, which is the standard rule for a NSW cafe. Staff are used to dogs and water bowls are usually on hand, though it is worth carrying your own in case. The outdoor tables make it easy to keep the lead short and the dog tucked in by your chair.

Good to know. The kitchen is run by chef Gary Fishwick and the cafe is known for locally roasted coffee and house-baked friands, sausage rolls and muffins. It is also notably good for gluten-free eaters, with much of the lunch menu adaptable.

Getting there. The address is Unit 1/77 The Lake Circuit, central to town and roughly 250 to 380 metres from the beach. Street parking is usually easy on The Lake Circuit and nearby streets, though it tightens on peak holiday weekends.

Nearby with the dog. Crookhaven Heads Beach is a short walk away with plenty of open sand, and the Penguin Head lookout makes a good on-leash coastal walk. Check Shoalhaven Council signage for the current off-leash zones and times.

Best mid-morning for brunch after a beach walk. Good for sociable dogs that settle at an outdoor table.

Sources

• Culburra Beach - Signature Escapes · signatureescapes.com.au
• Fishwicks - Gluten-Free Restaurant in Culburra Beach - Atly · atly.com

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.