Pet-Friendly Beaches in South Carolina: Where Your Pet Can Join the Fun
If you’re planning a beach vacation to South Carolina, you don’t have to leave your furry friend at home. There are many beautiful pet-friendly beaches in South Carolina where you can relax and enjoy the sun and sand with your entire family, including your beloved pet.
South Carolina’s beaches are known for their soft sand, clear water, and stunning scenery. There are also a variety of beach towns and villages to choose from, each with its own unique charm. Whether you’re looking for a lively beach scene or a more secluded spot to relax, you’re sure to find the perfect pet-friendly beach in South Carolina for your needs.
In this article, we will introduce the 10 best pet-friendly beaches in South Carolina. We will discuss the unique features of each beach, the amenities and activities that are available, and tips for planning your visit with your pet.
Why choose a pet-friendly beach?
There are many benefits to visiting a pet-friendly beach with your pet. For one, it allows you to spend more time with your pets and create lasting memories together. It also gives your pet the opportunity to run and play on the beach, which is a great form of exercise and mental stimulation. Additionally, visiting a pet-friendly beach can help to socialize your pet and make them more comfortable around other people and animals.
When planning a beach vacation with your pet, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, be sure to check the pet rules of the beach you plan to visit. Some beaches have restrictions on where and when pets are allowed on the beach. Second, be sure to bring plenty of fresh water and sunscreen for your pet. Third, be aware of the dangers of heatstroke and dehydration, and take steps to keep your pet cool and hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
Let’s take a look at 10 Pet-Friendly Beaches in South Carolina:
Folly Beach
Folly Beach, located near Charleston, is known for its relaxed atmosphere and pet-friendly policies. Dogs are allowed off-leash in designated areas during certain times, making it a great place for dogs and cats to run and play.
Pet rules and restrictions
- Dogs must be on a leash at all times in parking areas, on the boardwalk, and in designated areas during peak season (May 1st to September 30th).
- Off-leash areas are located at the far east and west ends of the beach.
- Dogs must be up-to-date on all vaccinations and be licensed.
- Dog owners are responsible for picking up their pet’s waste.
Amenities and activities available for pets and their owners
- Pet-friendly restaurants and bars
- Pet-friendly hotels and vacation rentals
- Dog parks and walking trails
- Dog-friendly beaches
- Dog-friendly water sports, such as paddleboarding and kayaking
What makes this beach unique and ideal for pet owners
- Folly Beach has a relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind with your pets and family.
- The beach is wide and sandy, with plenty of space for dogs to run and play.
- There are designated off-leash areas where dogs can roam free.
- There are also a number of pet-friendly amenities and activities available, such as dog-friendly restaurants, bars, hotels, and water sports.
Here are some additional tips for visiting Folly Beach with your pet:
- Bring plenty of fresh water and sunscreen for your pet.
- Be aware of the dangers of heatstroke and dehydration, and take steps to keep your pet cool and hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
- Clean up after your pet immediately.
- Be respectful of other beachgoers, and keep your pet under control.
Isle of Palms: Pet-Friendly Beach Paradise for You and Your Furry Friends
Isle of Palms is a beautiful barrier island located just north of Charleston, South Carolina. It is known for its stunning beaches, charming seaside villages, and world-class golf courses. Isle of Palms is also a great destination for beach travelers with pets, as it is one of the most pet-friendly beaches in South Carolina.
Pet rules and restrictions
Dogs are allowed on Isle of Palms Beach year-round, but they must be on a leash at all times. There are also a few other pet rules and restrictions that beachgoers should be aware of, such as:
- Dogs are not allowed on the beach between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
- Dogs are not allowed on the beach within 100 feet of any pier or fishing jetty.
- Dogs are not allowed in any of the Isle of Palms Beach parks.
Amenities and activities available for pets and their owners
There are a number of amenities and activities available for pets and their owners on Isle of Palms. For example, there are several doggie waste stations located throughout the beach. There are also a number of pet-friendly restaurants and cafes on the island.
In addition, there are a number of activities that pet owners and their furry friends can enjoy on Isle of Palms, such as:
- Swimming in the ocean
- Walking or running on the beach
- Playing fetch or frisbee in the sand
- Exploring the island’s many parks and trails
- Visiting one of the island’s many pet-friendly restaurants or cafes
What makes this beach unique and ideal for pet owners
There are a number of things that make Isle of Palms a unique and ideal beach for pet owners. First, the beach is very well-maintained and clean. Second, there are a number of amenities and activities available for pets and their owners. Third, the beach is located near Charleston, which is a vibrant city with a lot to offer visitors.
Huntington Beach State Park
Huntington Beach State Park, located near Murrells Inlet, is a great option for beach travelers with pets. Leashed pets are allowed on the south end of the beach, as well as on the park’s nature trails.
Pet rules and restrictions
- Pets must be leashed at all times on the beach and nature trails.
- Pets are not allowed in the park’s buildings or on the playground.
- Pet owners must clean up after their pets.
Amenities and activities available for pets and their owners
- Huntington Beach State Park offers a variety of amenities and activities for pets and their owners, including:
- A dog-friendly beach
- Nature trails
- Picnic areas
- Restrooms
- Showers
- Changing rooms
- Food and beverage vendors
What makes this beach unique and ideal for pet owners
Huntington Beach State Park is a unique and ideal beach for pet owners because it offers a variety of amenities and activities for pets and their owners to enjoy together. The park’s dog-friendly beach is a great place for dogs to run and play in the sand and water. The park’s nature trails are also a great place for pets and their owners to explore the outdoors.
In addition to its amenities and activities, Huntington Beach State Park is also unique because of its beautiful scenery. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, dolphins, and turtles. The park’s beaches are also known for their soft sand and clear water.
The park offers a variety of amenities and activities for pets and their owners to enjoy together, as well as beautiful scenery.
Tips for visiting Huntington Beach State Park with your pet
- Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen for your pet.
- Clean up after your pet.
- Be aware of the park’s pet rules and restrictions.
- Consider bringing a portable dog bed or blanket for your pet to rest on.
- If you’re planning on hiking on one of the park’s nature trails, be sure to bring a leash for your pet.
Learn more about Huntington beach state Park.
Edisto Beach State Park
Edisto Beach State Park is a great destination for beach travelers with pets. Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach and in the park’s camping areas. Just be sure to clean up after your pet.
Pet rules and restrictions:
- Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
- Dogs are not allowed in the park’s swimming pools, playgrounds, or nature trails.
- Dogs must be cleaned up immediately.
Amenities and activities available for pets and their owners:
- Edisto Beach State Park has a number of pet-friendly amenities, including:
- Pet-friendly campsites
- Pet-friendly trails
- Pet-friendly beach
- Pet bathing station
- There are also a number of activities that pets and their owners can enjoy together at Edisto Beach State Park, such as:
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Biking
- Picnicking
What makes this beach unique and ideal for pet owners:
Edisto Beach State Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the beach with your furry friend. The park has a wide variety of pet-friendly amenities and activities, and the beach is less crowded than some other beaches in South Carolina.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when visiting Edisto Beach State Park with your pet:
- Be sure to bring plenty of fresh water for your pet.
- Be aware of the dangers of heatstroke and dehydration, and take steps to keep your pet cool and hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
- Be respectful of other beachgoers and clean up after your pet immediately.
Myrtle Beach: Where Your Pets Can Join the Fun
While Myrtle Beach itself has some restrictions on pets, nearby beaches like North Myrtle Beach and Surfside Beach offer pet-friendly areas and access. This makes Myrtle Beach a great destination for beach travelers with pets who are looking for a variety of amenities and activities.
Amenities and activities available for pets and their owners:
- North Myrtle Beach:
North Myrtle Beach has a number of pet-friendly beaches, including Ingram Beach, Cherry Grove Beach, and Crescent Beach. These beaches offer a variety of amenities for pets and their owners, including pet-friendly showers, changing rooms, and food and beverage vendors. There are also a number of pet-friendly activities available in North Myrtle Beach, such as boat tours, fishing charters, and walking trails.
- Surfside Beach:
Surfside Beach is another great option for beach travelers with pets. Surfside Beach has a number of pet-friendly areas, including the Surfside Beach Dog Park and the Surfside Beach Pier. The Surfside Beach Dog Park is a fenced-in area where dogs can run and play off-leash. The Surfside Beach Pier offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a great place to fish or simply relax and enjoy the sunset.
What makes these beaches unique and ideal for pet owners:
- North Myrtle Beach and Surfside Beach are both family-friendly beaches with a variety of amenities and activities for people of all ages. This makes them a great destination for beach travelers with pets who are looking for a place where their entire family can enjoy themselves.
- North Myrtle Beach and Surfside Beach are also both located in close proximity to Myrtle Beach. This means that visitors can easily enjoy the attractions and activities of Myrtle Beach, such as Broadway at the Beach, the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, and the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, while still being able to stay at a pet-friendly beach.
Visiting tips:
- Be sure to check the pet rules of the beach you plan to visit. Some beaches have restrictions on where and when pets are allowed on the beach.
- Bring plenty of fresh water and sunscreen for your pet.
- Be aware of the dangers of heatstroke and dehydration, and take steps to keep your pet cool and hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
- Clean up after your pet.
Love waking up to beach sunrises? Read more about how to prepare for a trip to watch the Mytrle beach sunrise.
Kiawah Island Beach: Pet-Friendly Fun for the Whole Family
Kiawah Island is a popular beach destination for families with pets. The island has a designated dog-friendly beach area, and dogs are allowed on the beach from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Dogs must be on a leash at all times on the beach.
The Kiawah Island Beachwalker Park offers a variety of amenities and activities for pets and their owners, including:
- A designated dog-friendly beach area
- A dog park for off-leash play
- A dog wash station
- Pet-friendly restaurants
- Pet-friendly accommodations
What makes this beach unique and ideal for pet owners
Kiawah Island is a unique beach destination for pet owners because it offers a variety of amenities and activities for pets and their owners to enjoy together. The island’s dog-friendly beach area is a great place for dogs to run and play in the sand and water. The dog park is a great place for dogs to socialize and play off-leash. The dog wash station is a convenient place to wash your dog after a day at the beach. And the pet-friendly restaurants and accommodations make it easy to travel with your pet.
Additional information
- The Kiawah Island Beachwalker Park is located at 10 Beachwalker Dr, Kiawah Island, SC 29455.
- The dog-friendly beach area is located at the eastern end of the Beachwalker Park.
- The dog park is located at the western end of the Beachwalker Park.
- The dog wash station is located next to the dog park.
- For a list of pet-friendly restaurants and accommodations on Kiawah Island, visit the Kiawah Island Tourism website.
Pet Tips
- Be sure to bring plenty of fresh water and sunscreen for your pet.
- Clean up after your pet.
- Be aware of the dangers of heatstroke and dehydration, and take steps to keep your pet cool and hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
Hilton Head Island: Pet-Friendly Beaches and More

If you’re looking for a pet-friendly beach vacation, Hilton Head Island is a great option. There are several beaches on the island that allow leashed pets, including Burkes Beach, Folly Field Beach Park, and Fish Haul Creek Park.
Burkes Beach is a popular choice for pet owners, as it offers a wide stretch of sandy beach and plenty of space for dogs to run and play. The beach is also home to a number of amenities, including restrooms, showers, changing rooms, and food and beverage vendors.
Folly Field Beach Park is another great option for pet owners. This park offers a variety of activities for both dogs and their owners, including a dog park, walking trails, and a fishing pier. The park also has a number of amenities, including restrooms, showers, and changing rooms.
Fish Haul Creek Park is a smaller, more secluded beach that is perfect for pet owners looking for a more relaxed experience. The beach is located in a quiet cove and offers stunning views of the Calibogue Sound. The park also has a number of amenities, including restrooms, showers, and changing rooms.
Amenities and activities available for pets and their owners
In addition to the beaches listed above, there are a number of other amenities and activities available for pets and their owners on Hilton Head Island. For example, there are a number of pet-friendly restaurants and hotels on the island. There are also a number of pet-friendly hiking trails and parks.
Why is this beach ideal?
Hilton Head Island is a great destination for pet owners because of its many pet-friendly beaches, amenities, and activities. Additionally, the island is known for its mild climate, which makes it a comfortable place to visit year-round.
Here are some additional tips for planning your pet-friendly vacation to Hilton Head Island:
- Be sure to check the pet rules of the beach or park you plan to visit. Some beaches have restrictions on where and when pets are allowed.
- Bring plenty of fresh water and sunscreen for your pet.
- Be aware of the dangers of heatstroke and dehydration, and take steps to keep your pet cool and hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
- Make sure your pet is up-to-date on all vaccinations.
- Clean up after your pet.
Sullivan’s Island: A Pet-Friendly Beach Paradise

Leashed dogs are welcome on the beach at Sullivan’s Island. Just make sure to follow their pet regulations.
This Island is a barrier island located just a short ferry ride from Charleston, South Carolina. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, charming downtown area, and laid-back atmosphere. Sullivan’s Island is also a great place to visit with your furry friend, as dogs are welcome on the beach all year long, as long as they are on a leash.
Sullivan’s Island offers a variety of amenities and activities for pets and their owners, including:
- Pet-friendly restaurants and shops
- Pet-friendly hotels and vacation rentals
- Dog parks and walking trails
- Dog-friendly beaches
What makes this beach unique and ideal for pet owners
This Island is a great beach for pet owners because it’s relatively quiet and uncrowded, even during peak season. The beach is also very clean and well-maintained, and there are plenty of places to shade up and rest. Additionally, the locals are very pet-friendly, so you’re sure to feel welcome on Sullivan’s Island with your family and pets.
Pet regulations
While dogs are welcome on the beach at Sullivan’s Island, there are a few pet regulations that you should be aware of:
- All dogs must be on a leash at all times.
- Dogs are not allowed in the water during swimming hours.
- Dogs must be picked up after.
- Dogs are not allowed on the beach during special events or holidays.
Tips for visiting Sullivan’s Island with your pet
Here are a few tips for visiting Sullivan’s Island with your pet:
- Bring plenty of fresh water and sunscreen for your pet.
- Be aware of the heat and humidity, and take steps to keep your pet cool and hydrated.
- Pick up after your pet immediately.
- Be respectful of other beachgoers and their pets.
Pawleys Island: Pet-Friendly Paradise

Pawleys Island is a quiet beach town in South Carolina that allows leashed dogs year-round. It’s a great spot for a peaceful getaway with your pet, and there are plenty of amenities and activities available for both of you to enjoy.
Amenities and activities for pets and their owners
- Pet-friendly hotels and vacation rentals: There are a number of pet-friendly hotels and vacation rentals on Pawleys Island, so you can easily find a place to stay with your furry friend.
- Dog-friendly restaurants: Many of the restaurants on Pawleys Island have outdoor seating where dogs are welcome to join their owners.
- Pet-friendly shops: There are a number of pet-friendly shops on Pawleys Island where you can find everything you need for pets including food, treats, toys, and accessories.
- Long walks on the beach: Pawleys Island has a long, sandy beach that’s perfect for long walks with your dog. Be sure to bring plenty of fresh water and sunscreen for both of you.
- Swimming in the ocean: Dogs are allowed to swim in the ocean at Pawleys Island, but be sure to keep them on a leash.
- Playing fetch in the sand: Pawleys Island has soft, sandy sand that’s perfect for playing fetch with your dog.
Pawleys Island is a unique beach town with a relaxed atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy a peaceful getaway with your pet.
Here are some additional tips for planning a pet-friendly vacation to Pawleys Island:
- Book your accommodations in advance: Pawleys Island is a popular vacation destination, so it’s important to book your accommodations in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.
- Bring plenty of supplies for your pet: Be sure to bring enough food, treats, water, and sunscreen for your pet, as well as any other supplies you may need, such as a leash, collar, and waste bags.
- Be aware of the pet rules: Be sure to check the pet rules of the beach you plan to visit. Some beaches have restrictions on where and when pets are allowed on the beach.
- Clean up after your pet: It’s important to clean up after your pet to help keep the beach clean and safe for everyone.
Seabrook Island Beach

Seabrook Island is a beautiful barrier island off the coast of South Carolina. It is known for its pristine beaches, lush forests, and world-class golf courses. Seabrook Island is also a great destination for beach travelers with pets.
Amenities and activities available for pets and their owners
Seabrook Island has a designated pet-friendly beach area located on the south end of the island. Dogs are allowed on this beach year-round, but they must be on a leash at all times.
In addition to the pet-friendly beach area, there are a number of other amenities and activities available for pets and their owners on Seabrook Island. For example, there are several pet-friendly vacation rentals available on the island, as well as a number of pet-friendly restaurants and shops.
One of the things that makes Seabrook Island Beach so unique is its commitment to being pet-friendly. The island has a number of policies in place to make sure that pets and their owners have a safe and enjoyable experience. For example, the island has a designated pet-friendly beach area, pet-friendly vacation rentals, and pet-friendly restaurants.
Another thing that makes Seabrook Island Beach ideal for pet owners is its relaxed atmosphere. The beach is not too crowded, and there is plenty of space for pets to run and play. Additionally, the beach is well-maintained and clean.
Tips for visiting Seabrook Island Beach with your pet
If you are planning to visit Seabrook Island Beach with your pet, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Be sure to leash your dog at all times when you are on the beach.
- Bring plenty of fresh water and sunscreen for your pet.
- Be aware of the dangers of heatstroke and dehydration, and take steps to keep your pet cool and hydrated.
- Pick up after your pet.
Conclusion
South Carolina is a great destination for beach travelers with pets. With its many pet-friendly beaches, there are plenty of places where you can relax and enjoy the sun and sand with your entire family, including your furry friend.
When choosing a pet-friendly beach in South Carolina, there are a few factors to consider, such as the beach’s location, amenities, pet rules, and unique features. Some beaches are located in more secluded areas, while others are located in more popular tourist destinations. Some beaches have a variety of amenities, while others have more limited amenities. Some beaches have strict pet rules, while others have more relaxed pet rules. And some beaches have unique features, such as dog-friendly restaurants and shops.
Once you have considered these factors, you can start to narrow down your list of potential pet-friendly beaches in South Carolina. Be sure to read reviews of different beaches to get an idea of what other pet owners have experienced.
I encourage you to visit one of South Carolina’s pet-friendly beaches with your pets. You won’t be disappointed!