PAWs, Boards and Coastal Adventures

Duration: 2 days /1 night

Self Drive Getaway

From Sydney: 90 mins

Regions Included: Shellharbour Village, Shell Cove, Lake Illawarra

Dog friendly weekend at the Shellharbour SuP Festival

Pack the lead, grab the paddleboard and bring your four-legged best friend along for a tail-wagging weekend in Shellharbour. This year’s Shellharbour SUP Festival is set to be bigger than ever, with the exciting addition of Pups on SUPs & Goats Afloat.

For just $10, you and your furry companion can take part in one of the festival’s most entertaining events, where dogs, goats and paddleboards come together for a unique experience on the water. Whether your pup is a seasoned paddleboard pro or a first-timer, it’s guaranteed to be a fun morning filled with laughs, great photo opportunities and plenty of community spirit.

DAY ONE: Explore Shellharbour’s Coastline

Breakfast by the water

Start your getaway in Shellharbour Village with breakfast at one of the many pet-friendly cafés. Enjoy a coffee and bite to eat while your pup relaxes by your side in the outdoor dining areas like including Lou’s Place Cafe, Pacino’s Café and J’s On The Deck

Fetch, Splash and Play at The Shallows

Let your doggo run wild at The Shallows Coastal Reserve, just south of Shell Cove! With its unique volcanic sand, open green space and plenty of room to roam, this off leash dog spot is a dream come true for four-legged adventurers. Whether they’re racing along the beach, splashing in the shallows, chasing waves or making new furry friends, there’s plenty of fun to be had. Expect wagging tails, sandy paws and a whole lot of good times!

Explore Shellharbour Marina and the Waterfront Precinct Shell Cove

Take in the coastal beauty of Shellharbour Marina! Your pooch will love strolling along 2.5km of promenade around Shellharbour Marina that ends at the breakwall jutting out in the ocean, where sweeping ocean views and fresh sea breezes make the journey well worth it.

Watch the boats glide through Shellharbour Marina, soak up the coastal atmosphere and snap a few holiday-worthy photos along the way. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head back to The Waterfront Precinct where you and your four-legged companion can relax and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the pet-friendly outdoor dining venues. It’s a pawsome way to spend an afternoon by the sea!

Paws and Stay Awhile

Turn your festival visit into a mini holiday with a stay at one of Shellharbour’s dog-friendly accommodation options, including Barrack Point Holidays, Red Gate Holiday Home, Shellharbour Marina Holiday Accommodation, NRMA Shellharbour Beachside Holiday Park (bring your own van or camp by the water).

*please contact operator for details

DAY TWO: Shellharbour SUP Festival

Rise and shine with Sunrise SUP

Head to the festival precinct and start your morning on the water with a Sunrise SUP session, soaking up the peaceful coastal views as the sun rises over Shellharbour. For a more mindful start to the day, unwind with a SUP Sound Bath and enjoy a unique blend of stand-up paddleboarding, relaxation and the soothing sounds of the ocean.

Hit the water with your pup

Join the fun of Pups on SUPs & Goats Afloat. With dogs balancing on boards and goats joining the action, it’s one of the most unique events on the festival program. It’s a must-see for animal lovers and a fantastic opportunity to cheer on the furry paddling crew!

Paddle, play and find your festival favourite

Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or simply keen to try something new, the Shellharbour SUP Festival has plenty of ways to get involved. Take on the 2km Novelty Paddle for a fun-filled adventure on the water, or watch the action heat up with exciting sprint racing and the challenging 9km Distance Race.

Soak up the festival atmosphere

Take a break between the on-water action and enjoy the festival atmosphere with live music, waterfront views and plenty of opportunities to relax. Whether you’re there to paddle, spectate or enjoy a fun day out with your dog, there’s plenty to keep you entertained throughout the festival.

Make the most of your stay

After the festival, continue the fun with a scenic walk along the shores of Lake Illawarra as you view the art sculptures along the way, or explore the natural beauty of Blackbutt Forest Reserve.

Before heading home, enjoy a early dinner, pick up a delicious sweet treat from Donut Jam, you will be coming back for more or take one last waterfront walk. With pet-friendly experiences, coastal scenery and plenty of places to explore together, Shellharbour is the perfect destination for a weekend away with your best friend.

Register Now

Pups on SUPs & Goats Afloat is expected to be a crowd favourite, so don’t miss your chance to join the fun. Gather your paddleboard crew, bring your pup and experience one of Shellharbour’s most unique waterfront events this November.

For registrations and festival information, visit https://supshellharbour.com/supfestival.

LOCAL ADVICE

Our team of friendly locals at the Visitor Information Centre can help you plan the perfect getaway, from accommodation recommendations and whale watching experiences to local dining, cultural attractions and hidden coastal gems.

Be sure to collect a copy of the Shellharbour Visitor Guide to discover even more ways to enjoy your whale-inspired adventure. Take home a whale souvenir for your memories!