Top 19 Dog-Friendly Beaches in South Carolina

Discover the charm of dog-friendly beaches in South Carolina, perfect for you and your furry friends. This coastal paradise offers numerous spots where your pets can frolic in the sand and surf. Enjoy South Carolina’s pet-friendly shores’ scenic beauty and welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a memorable outing.

With various dog-friendly locations, you can find the ideal place for relaxation and play. Visit these special beaches and make the most of your time by the sea with your canine companions.

Explore top dog-friendly beaches in South Carolina! Learn about leash regulations, pet-friendly zones, and seasonal guidelines to plan a perfect day with your furry companion.

1. Kiawah Beachwalker Park, Kiawah Island

Kiawah Beachwalker Park is an excellent dog-friendly beach on the picturesque island of Kiawah. With 10 miles of pristine coastline, Kiawah Island is considered one of the most beautiful islands in South Carolina.

The beach is approximately 45 minutes from downtown Charleston. It offers umbrellas, chairs, picnic essentials, restrooms, and wheelchairs.

There are many picnic spaces and a small drink and food vending machine here. You can also enjoy the day on the beach by riding bikes, fishing, or shopping.

• Timings: The beach is open from 10 am to 5 pm in January, February, November, and December. In March, April, September, and October, it is open from 10 am to 6 pm. It is open from 9 am to 7 pm from May to Labor Day. It remains closed on Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s Day.
• Fees: The entry cost usually varies between $5 to $15, based on the season. Car parking costs 15 dollars per weekday and 20 dollars on weekends. County residents can use the gold pass.
• Address: 8 Beachwalker Drive, Kiawah Island, SC 29455.

Kiawah Island Dog Rules

• Pets must always be on a leash when outside (pen, fence, etc.) unless confined.
• Dogs are prohibited at any time of year in important habitat zones at the island’s ends.

Read Dog-friendly Beaches in North Carolina

2. Morris Island Beach

Morris Island is another island in the SC region with a pet-friendly beach on its shore. This undeveloped beach is full of tranquility and is only accessible by boat. To reach the island, book a boat from Mount Pleasant (Adventure Harbour Tours is the most famous among them). It takes only 20 minutes to reach the island.

Morris Island allows dogs to run loose off-leash with the fewest dog regulations and restrictions. Morris Island is far from the people, so visitors come for the solitude, the landscape, and perhaps a chance to see some dolphins. 

The main picturesque attraction is the ancient lighthouse, built in 1876. Unfortunately, one can’t get inside because it’s located on rapidly eroding land. Beyond the views from the lighthouse, there are shells and wildlife to discover. 

• Timings: It opens daily from 12 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. However, call beforehand for more detailed information, as the waves on the day of your excursion determine when the boats will depart.
• Fees: The parking cost ranges between $2 to $5 here. 
• Address: 1750 E Ashley Ave, Folly Beach, SC 29439, USA.

Morris Island Beach Dog Rules

• The beach is free from strict dog restrictions.
• If it isn’t the shorebirds’ nesting season, the dogs can run without their leashes and play in the sand and water.

3. Edisto Beach

Edisto Beach is located in the southern part of Edisto Island, with over four miles of coastline. The family-oriented beach is also lovely for walking with pets.

Enjoy the beach by swimming, relaxing on the shore, and collecting seashells and shark teeth. If you are lucky, you may find archaeological and rare pieces in the clear waters. 

The beach authority also hosts fantastic tournaments and events in which everyone can participate. Several restaurants, hotels, and churches are available on the island to make the trip more memorable and hassle-free.

• Timings: It remains open daily from 8 am to 6 pm.
• Fees: The ticket price is $5 for adults, $5 for senior citizens, and $4 for children between the ages of 6 and 15. It is free for children under age 5.
• Address: Town of Edisto Beach, 2414 Murray Street, Edisto Beach, SC 29438.

Edisto Beach Dog Rules

• From May 1 to October 31, dogs are permitted on Edisto Beach as long as they are leashed.
• Bags for dog waste are available at practically all beach access points.
• From November 1 to April 30, dogs are permitted off-leash.

4. Surfside beach

Surfside Beach is one of South Carolina’s top dog-friendly beaches. The family-friendly beach offers restrooms, special wheelchairs for beaches, and foot showers.

There are 36 access points to the famous beach, ideal for boating, swimming, fishing, and surfing. The eco-friendly community encourages vacationers to recycle by collecting cans, bottles, and newspapers. 

You may feel safe bringing the family here for fun because the coastlines are maintained regularly and watched over by lifeguards to keep everyone safe. Seven parks and many restaurants are available on Surfside Beach To make the journey more cozy and tranquil. Please note that large animals, including horses, are prohibited on the beach.

• Timings: The beach is open from 9 am to 5 pm.
• Fees: Vehicles need an annual pass of $10 to drive there, and pedestrian beaches have no expenses.
• Address: Town Hall, 210 Highway 17 S, Surfside Beach, SC.

Surfside Beach Dog Rules

• From May 1 until Labor Day, dogs and other domestic animals are prohibited on the public beach between 10 am and 5 pm.
• On the beach, dogs need to be leashed at all times.

5. Folly Beach, Folly Island, South Carolina

Folly Beach is undoubtedly one of the most popular dog-friendly beaches in South Carolina, with many international gourmets visiting it daily. The beach offers many activities to enjoy, like kayaking, swimming, paddle boarding, riding bikes, and surfing, and it also offers beautiful sites to take mesmerizing pictures.

Folly Beach hosts various seasonal festivals, like Thanksgiving and live concerts, to add flavor to the trip. The beach can be a perfect venue for a beautiful party, private event, or wedding.

Many hotels are also available on the beach to provide a fantastic dining and lodging experience. Some well-known and favorite tourist hotels are Tides, Hotel Folly, Beachwalk Villas, etc. 

• Timings: Folly Beach remains open daily from 8 am to 9 pm.
• Fees: The minimum full-day pass cost is $10 to $20, but it varies depending on location.
• Address: Folly Beach County Park, 1100 W Ashley Ave, Folly Beach, SC 29439.

Folly Beach Dog Rules

• From May 1 to September 30, dogs are prohibited on the beach between 10 am and 6 pm.
• Dogs on the beach are permitted from October 1 to April 30 but must be kept on a leash.

6. Alder Lane Beach, Hilton Head Island

Alder Lane is another famous pet-friendly beach on Hilton Head Island. It is near the Marriott Grande Ocean Resort and offers beach access right off South Forest Beach Drive.

The family-friendly, less crowded beach offers basic amenities like restrooms, seasonal lifeguards, beach matting, an outdoor shower, and a parking area. 

The white sand is perfect for building sand castles, and during turtle season, some turtle nests can also be found on the beach. Many hotels are available here, providing good lodging experiences.

• Timings: 6 am to 9 pm in the summer and 6 am to 6 pm in the winter. The beach is open all year round. 
• Fees: The metered parking area costs about $0.25 for 15 minutes of parking.
• Address: 2 Woodward Ave, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA.

Alder Lane Beach Dog Rules

• During the designated beach season, April 1 through September 30, dogs are welcome on the sand before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m.
• They must always be on a leash or under firm verbal control.
• Dog waste should be removed and properly disposed of by the owner.

7. Sullivan’s Beaches, Sullivan’s Island, Charleston

Sullivan’s Island is a small island in South Carolina with long beaches and watersports. It’s ideal for day vacations because of its history, folklore, local eateries, stores, peace, and beauty. 

There are many activities on the beach to get out of boredom and experience some adventures like kayaking, kiteboarding, paddle boarding, sailing, and fishing. Only a few restaurants are on the island; Home Team BBQ and MEX 1 Coastal Cantina are must-visits. There are public beach access points on the shores, which are still called stations.

From here, one can see Fort Sumter, Charleston’s Battery Row, and the Morris Island Lighthouse in breathtaking detail. This beach boasts miles of beachfront to lay back and enjoy the sun view, with natural beauty and very little commercial development.

• Timings: The beach remains open from 9 am to 11 pm.
• Address: Sullivan’s Island.

Sullivan’s Beaches Dog Rules

• Dogs are permitted on the beach during the summer months of May 1 through September 30.
• Dogs can be off leash from 5:00 am to 10:00 am and on leash from 6:00 pm to 5 am.
• No dogs are allowed on the beach between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm.

8. Myrtle Beach State Park

Myrtle Beach State Park is an outstanding and popular dog-friendly beach destination in South Carolina and the USA. This 312-acre preserve is on the southern edge of Myrtle Beach. It offers unspoiled beaches, a maritime forest, and contemporary comforts like a campsite, a nature center, and a fishing pier.

Camping on the beach is the chief attraction for tourists. As the island is crowded, it is necessary to reserve the camping site beforehand.

You can enjoy the day by fishing, hiking, visiting the nature center, and collecting seashells. You may even see dolphins playing in the water.

• Timings: The park is open every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. (however, from December through February, it shuts at 8 p.m.).
• Fees: The beach park has an entry fee of $8 per adult over 16 years old. 
• Address: 4401 South Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, SC 29575.

Myrtle Beach Dog Rules

The cottages and the cabin areas are not pet-friendly. From May 1 through Labor Day, pets are prohibited on the beaches from 10 am to 5 pm (7 days a week). Most other outdoor spaces allow pets all year long if they are restrained physically or on a leash no longer than six feet. 

9. Driessen Beach Park, Hilton Head Islands

Driessen Beach Park is a pet-friendly beach on Hilton Head Island. Surrounded by green nature and a mesmerizing sea view, the less crowded beach is perfect for those looking for a good time with family and friends at the seashore.

The beach house has four outdoor showers, a vending machine, and restrooms with water fountains for washing off sea sands. Seasonal lifeguards, playgrounds, and picnic essentials make the trip comfortable and safe for visitors.

• Timings: The park is open daily, depending on daylight savings time, from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the summer and 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the winter.
• Fees: The beach provides a sizable parking area with over 200 parking slots; the fee is $4.
• Address: 64 Bradley Beach Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA.

Driessen Beach Dog Rules

Dogs are only permitted on the boardwalk from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and not on the beach between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m

10. Isle of Palms County Park and Beach

Isle of Palms County Park is a family-friendly beach in Charleston with over 600 feet of oceanfront. It has all amenities picnic amenities like picnic tables, grills, umbrellas, and many more. It’s perfect for boardwalks and volleyball and has a playground for children.

Restrooms, outdoor showers, ice cream cafes, dressing areas, and lifeguards will be there to make the trip a comfortable and safe one.

• Timings: It remains open every day from 9 am to 7 pm.
• Fees: The parking fee remains between $5 and $20, depending on the season and special days. 
• Address: 1-14th Ave, Isle of Palms, SC 29451.

Isle Of Palms Dog Rules

• Pets are required to be on a leash behind the shoreline at all times.
• Pets are allowed off-leash on the beach from 5 am to 9 am from April 1 through September 14.
• From September 15 through March 31 before 10 am or after 4 pm.
• Pets are permitted on the beach but must always be on a leash otherwise.

11. Coligny Beach Park, Hilton Head Island

Coligny Beach Park is another famous pet-friendly beach on Hilton Head Island. It’s located at the terminus of Pope Avenue. One of the key factors contributing to Coligny Beach Park’s popularity is its amenities. The park provides essential amenities like sand showers, retail establishments, dining options, and various clean facilities. 

The beach is home to several excellent restaurants, such as Tiki Hut, Rita’s, Flatbread Grill, etc. Due to its high popularity, the beach remains crowded most of the time, so reserving spots beforehand would be an intelligent choice. Peak-hour traffic may be somewhat chaotic, but there is free parking, which is a plus.

• Timings: From March to October, Coligny Beach Park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the winter.
• Fees: Umbrellas and chairs are available for rent here. One umbrella and two chairs cost $40 for the whole day from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Address: 1 Coligny Circle, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States.

Coligny Beach Dog Rules

• Dogs are allowed on the beach in the winter from 6 am to 6 pm.
• Dogs are only permitted on the beach before 10 am and after 5 pm during the summer when it’s open from 6 am to 9 pm.

12. Beaches at the Fripp Island

Fripp Island dog beaches are less crowded and secluded, near South Carolina’s southernmost point. The island is home to several golf courts, dog-friendly beaches, resorts, and a small community of citizens.

The island offers numerous fun things to do. Paddleboarding, excursion at Pritcher’s Island, exploring the Cabana Club Complex and Hunting Island Lighthouse, and horse riding are its top attractions. Wildlife creatures, like loggerhead sea turtles, are found on the beach.

There are ‌32 access points along the shore, making it much easier to enjoy the time here. One thing to remember is that this is a private island, and an island card is needed.

• Timings: The beach remains open every day, from 9 am to 5 pm
• Fees: The chair rent costs around $10/day, umbrellas $20/day, and a set (two chairs and one umbrella) costs $40/day.
• Address: 225 Tarpon Boulevard, Saint Helena Island, SC, US, 29920.

Fripp Island Dog Rules

• Dogs are permitted on the beach anytime from October 1 through March 31 on a leash or under voice control.
• They are allowed on the beach anytime from April 1 through the Thursday before Memorial Day.
• Pets must be on a leash between 10 am and 5 pm.

13. Burkes Beach, Hilton Head Island

Burkes Beach is a famous pet-friendly beach on Hilton Head Island. It has tennis and basketball courts, a playground, and even a dog park. At 60 Burkes Beach Road, Burkes Beach is reachable via William Hilton Parkway. Free parking meters and outdoor showers are available at this location.

You can ride a bike, enjoy a picnic, swim, or lie down on the beach with your pet. Seasonal lifeguards and beach rentals are available on Burkes Beach.

• Timings: The beach is open every day from 6 am to 9 pm. In winter, the daylight length determines the beach’s closing times.
• Address: 60 Burkes Beach Road, Hilton Head Island 29928.

Burkes Beach Dog Rules

From Memorial Day through Labor Day, dogs are only allowed at Burkes Beach before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m.

14. Fish Haul Beach Park, Hilton Head Island

Fish Haul Beach Park is a year-round, pet-friendly beach on Hilton Head Island. It is ideal for individuals looking for a peaceful getaway to wander about with their pups, watch birds, and relax as it overlooks Port Royal Sound.

On this beach, you will have access to a lovely white sand beach on the inlet and free parking. The most basic facilities include bathrooms, rinse showers, and picnic essentials. In addition, a small parking lot is free to use.

This island has many activities, such as wildlife viewing, collecting sea shells and shark teeth, strolling, etc. 

• Timings: The beach park is open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Sunday. The timing may change in winter.
• Address: 124 Mitchelville Road, Hilton Head Island 29926

Hilton Head Beach Dog Rules

• A leash requirement on this beach or dogs must be under voice control.
• Dogs are prohibited on beaches from the Friday before Memorial Day to Labor Day between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm.
• Animal waste must be removed from the beach and properly disposed of. It’s prohibited to let pets chase or bother wildlife.

15. Litchfield Beach

Litchfield is undoubtedly one of the best dog-friendly beaches in South Carolina. With a beautiful ocean view, the Litchfield area boasts clean beaches. There are public and private tennis and golf facilities on the beach. The most famous beach activities include eating, shopping, and riding bikes.

The family-friendly beach also has many hotels and residences. Litchfield’s best-known hotels are Litchfield Beach and Golf Resort. Pre-booking is unnecessary as the beach is rarely overly crowded.

• Timings: The beach remains open from 8 am to 7 pm; however, it also depends on the weather and season.
• Address: 14276 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island

Litchfield Beach Dog Rules

Leashes are required if dogs are taken on the beach between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. Dogs can be off-leash at other times if trained for voice commands

16. Garden City Beach

Garden City Beach is a small, family-friendly beach near the famous Surfside Beach. The beach provides everything from fishing and surfing during the day to dancing at night in the pub.

Garden City Beach is  10 miles south of downtown Myrtle Beach. It is a short drive to Get There for a day trip or a night out. Beach homes and condo rentals are the lodging options in Garden City Beach.

The pier, located in Garden City, is a popular destination among visitors. It offers many fun activities and is free to use.

• Timings: The beach remains open from 7 am to 7 pm, depending on the day’s weather.
• Address: Garden City, SC 29576, USA

Garden City Beach Dog Rules

From March 1 through Labor Day, dogs are prohibited on the beach between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Dogs trained for voice control with leashes are allowed here the rest of the time.

17. North Myrtle Beach

North Myrtle Beach is another dog-friendly beach in South Carolina. It’s a perfect spot for family fun activities, as the beach offers many great things. 

There are golf courts, shopping complexes, fishing areas, fine restaurants, and luxurious lodging options to make the trip hassle-free.

The beach hosts special events that everyone can attend. It might be a moment you’ll cherish for the rest of your life to ride a horse and take in the scenic scenery of this lovely beach. The beach also offers stunning wedding venues, and the rates are reasonable.

• Timings: Timing may vary according to the season and weather; however, the general time is 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Address: North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, USA

North Myrtle Beach Dog Rules

Dogs are prohibited on the beach from 9 am to 5 pm from May 15 to September 15. At other times, dogs must be on leashes, and the pet owner must properly dispose of pet waste.

18. Crescent Beach

Crescent Beach is a family-friendly, small beach in South Carolina. Fewer people are on the beach yearly, so you can skip booking beforehand. There are many shopping complexes, splendid resorts, and restaurants all over the coast.

Some popular destinations near Crescent Beach that everyone should visit are House of Blues Myrtle Beach, Cherry Grove Pier, Alabama Theatre, and OD Pavilion Amusement Park. Many hotels on the beach have been visitors’ favorites, like Castaway Beach Inn, The Red Tree Inn, and Seaside Resort.

• Timings: The beach is open from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Saturday.
• Address: North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582, USA

Crescent Beach Dog Rules

Dogs must be leashed at the beach. Pet owners need to dispose of their dogs’ waste.

19. Cherry Grove Beach

Cherry Grove Beach is a famous beach among pet owners in North Carolina. The beach never fails to amuse visitors with its splendid ocean view and fine amenities. Many fun activities get you out of boredom, like golfing, fishing, shopping, kayaking, etc. 

Cherry Grove also provides beautiful venues for private weddings. Various seafood restaurants provide delectable dishes like Filet, Duffy Street Seafood, The Shack, etc. Records are set on Cherry Grove Pier yearly for catching large fish, sharks, etc. Unquestionably, it ranks among South Carolina’s best piers.

• Timings: The beach remains open from 8.30 am to 6 pm.
• Address: 3502 N Ocean Blvd, North Myrtle Beach

Cherry Grove Beach Dog Rules

Dogs are prohibited on the beach from 9 am to 5 pm from May 15 to September 15. For the rest of the year, dogs are allowed on the beach at any time, but on a leash.

Read Why Do Dogs Rarely Get Sick?

20. Horry County Beaches

Horry County Beaches is known as a dog-friendly beach in South Carolina. Located just south of the town is the famous vacation spot Myrtle Beach. This 14-mile beach starts from North Myrtle Beach and goes to the Dunes Club in Myrtle Beach.

Grand Stand and the Surfside Beach town limits to the south of Springmaid Pier. The boundary is from Surfside Beach to Garden City Beach to Georgetown County Line in the south. 

People enjoy swimming, surfing, golfing, and basking in the sun. Dogs are allowed on this beach if they follow all the regulations. Sailboats, kite surfing, and jet skis are other benefits of the beach. Weddings are hosted here to provide a beautiful backdrop for a special occasion. 

• Timings: From Sunrise to Sunset
• Fees: $1.25 per hour.

Horry County Dog Rules

• Dogs are prohibited from the beach from 1st May till Labor Day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• They must be on a leash of a maximum of 7 feet. 
• Owners must remove the waste from the beach.

Dog-Friendly Beaches Near You in South Carolina

Conclusion

Exploring dog-friendly beaches in South Carolina ensures a memorable and enjoyable experience for you and your furry friend. By understanding the best spots and local regulations, a perfect beach day is within reach. This guide has provided all the essential information, from leash laws to off-leash areas. Remember, a well-prepared pet owner is a responsible one. Ready to make the most of a beach adventure? Embrace these tips and enjoy a fantastic day with your dog at South Carolina’s beautiful beaches.