Finlayvale Waterhole Dog friendly swimming holes near Port Douglas
Are you searching for a fantastic dog-friendly destination near Port Douglas where you and your four-legged companion can have a memorable day out? You’re in luck! We at FNQ Dogs recently stumbled upon the Finlayvale Road Swimming Hole, a hidden gem nestled along the beautiful Mossman River, where you and your furry friend can take a refreshing plunge amidst stunning natural surroundings. In this blog post, we will share our amazing experience exploring this remarkable location with our beloved dog, Biggie, and provide helpful tips to ensure you have a fantastic time while you visit this incredible dog-friendly water hole.
Finlayvale Waterhole close to Port Douglas
Finlayvale WaterholeHow to get there
The swimming holes are only a short drive from Port Douglas and Mossman. From Mossman it’s only a 5 minute drive to reach the swimming holes on Finlayvale Road. When you have reached Mossman, drive onto Syndicate Road and make a left onto Finlayvale Road, towards the Silky Oaks Lodge. When on Finlayvale Road, make sure to keep an eye out for the waterholes which will be on your left hand side.
Biggie at Finlayvale Waterhole
First Swimming SpotA Thrilling Adventure Before the Bridge
Our escapade started when we left Port Douglas with Biggie, keen to discover a place where he could splash around and have a blast. As we journeyed down Finlayvale Road, we came across the first swimming hole just before the bridge. Reaching this spot is an adventure in itself, as you’ll need to navigate through trees and climb down to access the water. The challenge only adds to the excitement and charm of this hidden gem.
The pristine water is ideal for dogs of all sizes, including our dog Biggie, who is a great swimmer. However, after heavy rainfall the water flow can become quite fast, which for us and Biggie added to the thrill. However, you may want to be a bit more careful if your dog is not a great swimmer. The Mossman River at this spot is divided by a small island and there’s also a swing located here for those seeking an adrenaline rush. Surrounded by lush rainforest and the soothing sounds of nature, this first swimming spot proved to be an exciting experience for us and Biggie.
Dog friendly Finlayvale Waterhole
Second Swimming Spot A Relaxing Retreat Down the Road
After conquering the first swimming hole, we ventured further along Finlayvale Road. We soon found another fantastic spot to park our car next to a picturesque cane field. From there, it was a short and easy walk to the second swimming hole, which quickly became our favourite, as well as Biggie’s, since he found lots of sticks for us to throw into the creek for him to fetch.
This serene oasis offered a more accessible entry, allowing us to simply walk down and gradually step into the water. The depth here doesn’t exceed 1.2 metres, making it the perfect spot for Biggie to play and swim without worry. The combination of clear water, gentle slopes, and a tranquil atmosphere creates an ideal setting for both dogs and their owners to unwind and enjoy nature’s beauty. And if you’re looking for even more fun, make sure to take your floatie along and let yourself drift along the river!
The Swing at Finlayvale Waterhole
Tips And Considerations
| Safety Tips | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Supervision | Always supervise your dog while they are swimming, and be aware of the water depth, currents, and potential hazards. This will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your furry friend. |
| Hydration | Bring fresh drinking water for your dog, along with a collapsible bowl for convenient hydration on the go. Staying hydrated is essential for your dog’s health, especially during physical activities like swimming. |
| Cleanliness | Be a responsible dog owner by packing dog waste bags to clean up after your pet. This helps to maintain the cleanliness of the swimming hole for other visitors and protect the environment. |
| Wildlife Awareness | Keep a watchful eye for local wildlife and maintain a respectful distance to protect both the animals and your dog. This is important for the well-being of native species and for your dog’s safety. |
| Crocodile-Free Zone | You can enjoy peace of mind knowing that there are no crocodiles in this part of the Mossman River. However, always remain vigilant and informed about potential risks in any natural environment. |
The Finlayvale Road Swimming Hole near Port Douglas offers an idyllic setting for a fun-filled and adventurous day out with your furry friend. With two distinct swimming spots to choose from along the Mossman River, you and your dog enjoy either a picnic or a nice refreshing swim in the ice cold water. So, pack up your car, grab your dog, and head to Finlayvale Road for an unforgettable dog-friendly adventure!
Like to explore more dog friendly swimming holes? Emerald Creek is also really good!
Location of the Swimming holes
First Swimming Hole
Second Swimming Hole
Michael and Biggie Swimming at Finlayvale Waterhole
Frequently asked questions
The swimming hole is only a short drive from Port Douglas and Mossman. From Mossman, it’s only a 5-minute drive and roughly 15 minutes from Port Douglas to reach the swimming holes on Finlayvale Road.
To reach the swimming holes on Finlayvale Road, you can drive onto Syndicate Road from Mossman and make a left onto Finlayvale Road, towards the Silky Oaks Lodge. The waterholes will be on your left-hand side.
The pristine water is ideal for dogs of all sizes, including small dogs. However, after heavy rainfall, the water flow can become quite fast, so you may want to be a bit more careful if your dog is not a great swimmer.
There are no facilities available at the swimming hole, so make sure to pack everything you need, including fresh drinking water for your dog, a collapsible bowl for convenient hydration, and dog waste bags to clean up after your pet.
No, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that there are no crocodiles in this part of the Mossman River.
Yes, you can bring a floatie to the swimming hole and let yourself drift along the river for even more fun.
There are no specific restrictions mentioned on the number of dogs that can be brought to the swimming hole. However, visitors should always be mindful of their pets’ behavior and keep them under control at all times for everyone’s safety and enjoyment.
Biggie’s verdict
WOWZERS! This place was a lot of fun! I like the clear water and love to float around with my freshly gathered sticks! We have been here a couple of times now and this is definitely one of my favourite spots! I always like to go to Port Douglas for some Peesha after a nice long swim!