Lazy Days on Shaws Bay

Lazy Days on Shaws Bay is a small set of waterfront apartments at 23 Hill Street, East Ballina, overlooking Shaws Bay on the Richmond River estuary. Pets are welcome in the standard apartments with advance notice, which makes this one of the few genuine dog-friendly apartment stays right on the water in Ballina.

Dogs at Lazy Days

The policy from the property's own FAQ and terms: pets are welcome in the standard apartments, but are strictly not allowed in the Penthouse. You must tell the property in advance that you are bringing a pet, and dogs are expected to be well behaved and supervised, with no noise disturbances or damage. There is no single published pet fee; charges can vary by apartment and booking channel, so confirm the fee for your specific unit when you book. No size or breed limit is published, which keeps options open for bigger dogs, but get it in writing.

The apartments

These are waterfront one-bedroom apartments and two-bedroom retreats, and guest feedback centres on the sea and bay views, balconies, comfy beds and clean units. It is apartment accommodation rather than a resort, which suits a couple or small group who want their own kitchen and a quiet deck with the dog asleep at their feet.

Walking from the door

One thing to plan around: the beaches and foreshore of Shaws Bay itself are a dog-prohibited area under Ballina Shire Council's rules, so the calm water you are looking at is a look-don't-swim prospect for the dog. The good news is close alternatives. The Compton Drive fenced dog park in East Ballina has off-leash agility equipment, The Spit on the Richmond River is a designated off-leash beach, and the Angel's Beach stretch toward Lennox Head adds a longer on-lead option.

Close by with the dogs

Double Shot on Brighton is the closest cafe stop with outdoor seating, and the Shaws Bay Hotel's beer garden is the walkable dinner option that takes leashed dogs. If you are comparing waterside stays, Reflections Shaws Bay Holiday Park is next door.

More options in the region are on the NSW stays index.