Strait on the Beach

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

The dog setup

Dogs are welcome in the outdoor, undercover patio area, and staff regularly put out water bowls for canine visitors. Keep your dog on a lead at the table and under control, as with any busy outdoor dining strip. This is a beach-walk pairing rather than a destination: access is straight off the beachfront boardwalk, so it works well as a coffee or lunch stop mid-walk.

Worth knowing

The kitchen runs breakfast, brunch and lunch, with scones, eggs benedict and fish and chips among the regulars, plus cocktails and live music at times, so it can get lively later in the day. Hours run from 8am, closing mid-afternoon most days and at 6pm on Saturdays. It gets a solid mention in dog-friendly Cairns round-ups, so weekend mornings fill quickly.

Getting there and parking

The cafe is at 1/14-16 Ocean Parade, Holloways Beach, about 15 minutes north of central Cairns. Free street parking is generally available along Ocean Parade, and it is an easy walk from the beach path.

Close by with the dogs

Holloways Beach has off-leash zones at its northern and southern ends, with a lead required on the esplanade path and when crossing roads. Check current warnings before letting a dog swim here: Cairns council and local dog groups flag the occasional crocodile and stinger risk along this stretch of coast. Machans Beach a short drive north is another off-leash option, with Mayhem at Machans for a coffee stop, and Thai Spicy Dish sits in the same suburb if you want a dinner option another evening.

When to go

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