Bellarine Bayside Holiday Parks

Bellarine Bayside Holiday Parks runs a seasonal dog-friendly program at its beachfront parks in Portarlington, with select campsites and a limited number of cabins open to dogs from 27 April to 18 September 2026. It puts you on the sand with a ten to fifteen minute coastal walk into the Portarlington town centre.

The pet policy

Dog-friendly tourist sites allow up to two dogs per site, and dog-friendly cabins allow one dog per cabin. You must register your dog and book through reception in advance, since these options are not available through standard online booking. A leash no longer than 3 metres is required at all times inside the park. Confirm current fees and exact cabin numbers when booking, because availability is limited and the season runs autumn through mid-spring only.

The place

The parks sit at 20 Boat Road on the Portarlington foreshore, with camp kitchens, playgrounds and direct beach access. Bring your own dog bed, bowls and treats, since guest amenities cover the basics only. The coastal path right outside the park is the walk most guests use, running along the water into town past the pier and its fishing boats.

Pepsi: the coastal path outside the gate is the best part, an easy amble into town with plenty to sniff and no need to get back in the car.

Location and nearby

The park is reached via the Bellarine Highway from Geelong, with on-site parking. Several cafes on the main street seat dogs outdoors, and beach leash rules can tighten over summer, so check City of Greater Geelong signage before you swim. If you are touring the peninsula with a dog, St Leonards Picnic Ground Fenced Dog Park is the enclosed run up the coast, Seaview House Queenscliff is a heritage stay that takes pets, and Ocean Grove Holiday Park is the alternative park with cabins at the southern end of the Bellarine.

Who it suits

Owners who want a beachfront base outside peak summer, with an easy walk into town and the Bellarine's wineries a short drive away for day trips. Cold-weather campers get the most out of it, with hireable fire pits running through the dog season.

Before you book

Book early, since dog-friendly sites and cabins are limited, and confirm your dog's registration with reception before arrival rather than turning up hoping for a site. Note the season excludes school summer holidays entirely.

More options are on the Victoria pet friendly stays guide and the Portarlington destination page.