Strait on the Beach

Strait on the Beach is an absolute-beachfront cafe on Ocean Parade in Holloways Beach, right on the sand with uninterrupted Coral Sea views. It has a reputation as one of the easiest stops in the area to bring a dog after a beach walk.

Dog setup. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor, undercover patio area. Staff regularly put out water bowls for canine visitors. Keep dogs on a lead at the table and under control, as with any busy outdoor dining area.

Good to know. The cafe does breakfast, brunch and lunch, plus cocktails and live music at times, so it can get lively later in the day. Access is straight off the beachfront boardwalk, so it works well as a coffee stop mid-walk rather than a special trip.

Getting there and parking. The cafe is at 1/14-16 Ocean Parade, Holloways Beach. Free street parking is generally available along Ocean Parade, and it is an easy walk from the beach path.

Nearby with the dogs. Holloways Beach has off-leash zones at its northern and southern ends, with a leash required on the esplanade path and when crossing roads. Max: keep an eye on the water here, Cairns council and local dog groups flag the occasional crocodile and stinger risk along this stretch, so check current warnings before letting a dog swim. Machans Beach, a short drive north, is another off-leash option if Holloways is busy. The Holloways Beach Markets run on the second Sunday of the month and are dog-friendly too.

When to go. Mornings are the easiest time, before the lunch crowd and cocktail crowd arrive, and while the sand is cool enough for paws. Confirm the current pet policy and any beach warnings at the till or with council signage on the day.

Sources

• Strait On The Beach | Dog Friendly Cafe in Holloways Beach · petcloud.com.au
• Exercising & socialising your dog - Cairns Regional Council · cairns.qld.gov.au
• Dog friendly travel in Cairns · tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au

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