Shoredrive Motel

Shoredrive Motel sits at 117 The Strand in North Ward, right on Townsville's beachfront strip, with the ocean-side promenade out the front door. It is a pet-friendly motel: dogs are taken in designated pet-friendly rooms, which makes it one of the few Strand-side stays where the dog checks in with you.

Dogs at the Shoredrive Motel

The critical move is booking one of the designated pet-friendly rooms, such as the pet-friendly budget twin or double. Third-party listings report dogs of any size and even multiple pets accepted, some noting no extra pet fee, but the motel does not publish its size limits or charges, so ring +61 7 4771 6851 and lock in both the pet room and the fee for your dates before you book. Ask about leaving the dog alone in the room too, since most motels of this type restrict it and Shoredrive's policy is not spelled out publicly.

The vibe

Reviews split the rooms into two eras: the newer ones with pool or ocean views, spa rooms, balconies and comfortable beds get the praise, while some older rooms read as dated. Ask which wing or style you are getting when you book, especially if you are paying for an ocean view. A BBQ area in the grounds covers easy dinners, and the location does the rest.

Getting there and walking the dog

You are on The Strand, so the seaside walking path starts at the door. Note the council rules: dogs stay on leash along the Strand promenade and are not permitted off leash on the Strand beach itself, so morning walks are leads-on along the water. For a coffee with the dog nearby, Juliettes and Vitti Cafe on Gregory are both in North Ward, with Chubby Magpie Coffee Roasters a short walk up the hill.

The North Ward destination guide and the Queensland stays index cover the rest of the area. This suits travellers who want the Strand on their doorstep without paying resort prices, and who are happy to confirm the pet details on the phone rather than trust a booking form checkbox.

Pepsi: on-leash all along the Strand, apparently. Fine. The sea smell from the balcony and my own room number make up for it.