Ellis Beach Bar & Grill

Ellis Beach Bar & Grill sits right on the sand at 6 McCoy Street, a few minutes north of Palm Cove on the Captain Cook Highway, and dogs are welcome at the outdoor tables with the Coral Sea in front of them. Beachfront dining with a leashed dog is the whole pitch here, and it works.

The dog setup

Dogs go in the outdoor seating only; the main indoor area is off limits. Keep the leash on while you eat and give staff a heads-up when you arrive with a dog. Water bowls sometimes come out for pets, but pack your own to be safe. Weekend lunches can gather a few dogs at once, so a dog that copes with company does best here.

The vibe

Oysters, brisket burgers, fish tacos and squid anchor the menu, with live music and happy hour cocktails through the week. It draws a mixed crowd of locals and travellers, and it is one of the region's better sunset spots, which shapes the busiest hours. Doors open from 7am, closing at 5pm most days and 8pm Thursday to Saturday.

Getting there

On-site parking is limited with overflow along the road, so arrive early on weekends and around sunset. A courtesy bus runs at times; check their socials and confirm dogs are allowed on it before relying on it.

Max: the off-leash stretch of beach is south past the rocks, not right out the front of the tables. Check the signage before you let go.

While you're out there

Ellis Beach runs along the front of the venue, and Cairns Regional Council lists an off-leash section starting at the southern rocks, with leashes required crossing the esplanade to reach the sand. For an overnight stop next door, Ellis Beach Oceanfront Bungalows takes dogs in designated cabins and sites, and Sunbird Park Fenced Dog Park at Kewarra Beach is a short drive south.

Late afternoon into sunset is the drawcard and also the busiest parking window, so come ahead of the crowd if you want an easy table. More options are on the Queensland dog friendly pubs guide and the Ellis Beach destination page.