Is Charleston Dog Friendly? – The Ultimate Guide for 2025
Nothing is better than discovering and exploring a city with your best friend, especially if that best friend is of the four-legged variety. So you and your dog are ready to set out and hit the town in exploration, just one thing you have to know first, is Charleston dog friendly?
I have good news for you. Charleston is one of the most dog-friendly places that you will be in. People in Charleston and Charleston businesses love dogs. Don’t be surprised if you see a dog almost everywhere you go from grocery stores to the beaches. If you are moving to Charleston, living there, or just visiting, you will find that Charleston is amazing with dogs.
I hope that wherever you and your dog go, you don’t mind being late because everyone will stop you to see and pet your pups. Your best friend will love all the attention from everyone. Don’t be surprised if your dog gets a lot of free treats while out exploring with you.
Dog-Friendly Activities in Charleston South Carolina
There are many different and unique things that you will be able to do with your dog in Charleston. One of the best parts of Charleston is that your dog can tag along with you on many of the normal activities, including many tourist things as well.
You will find that your puppy will be very happy with being able to join you in all these activities throughout Charleston. Charleston really does prove to everyone that the city is made for dogs almost as much as it is made for people. Doing these activities, will help answer the question, is Charleston dog friendly?
1. Stroll Through the Historic Streets
One of the best things about Charleston is that the city is easy to walk. The historic part of the peninsula is laid out perfectly to walk all day and see everything. Enjoy strolling through the historic streets with your dog as you explore cobblestone streets, antebellum houses, and many historical locations. Take your pups out and walk in the same areas that defined a nation.
It can get crowded at times during the high tourist season but you will also see lots of dogs with their owners as well. There is plenty of grass along many of the sidewalks to give your dogs relief when the pavement gets a little too hot for their paws to handle.
2. Visit the Angel Oak Tree
Take your dog to one of the coolest sights to see, The Angel Oak Tree. The Angel Oak Tree is out on John’s Island and is the oldest living oak tree east of the Mississippi River. It is estimated to be between 300 and 400 years old.
Standing at over 65 feet high and 25.5 feet in circumference, The Angel Oak Tree is a magical site. This is a free site that you can visit. Dogs are allowed in the picnic area but not underneath the canopy of the tree. Such a perfect place to take a great picture with your dog with a fantastic background.
3. Visit the Charleston Tea Plantation
If you are a tea lover, this place is for you. The Charleston Tea Plantation is located about 20 minutes outside of Charleston on Wadmalaw Island and is the only tea garden in North America.
Enjoy taking your dog all over the plantation to view the bushes of tea as far as the eye can see. Take a picture with their mascot, Waddy The Frog. Your pup will love the open area and all the smells. The only place your dog will not be able to go is inside the center or on the trolly rides. One of the best things about here, it is free!
4. Tour Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a 390-acre plantation on the banks of the Ashley River. The plantation was founded in 1676 by the Drayton family and has survived many historical events in Charleston. The popular gardens that make this the most visited plantation was started by Reverend John Grimke-Drayton. He introduced the first Azaleas to America in the 1820s with the start of the garden.
Enjoy the endless walkways as you stroll through the gardens with your dog. Dogs are allowed all over the plantation grounds as long as they are leashed. Bring the family out and take the perfect family picture with your dog set in one of the most beautiful gardens in The United States.
5. Walk the West Ashley Greenway
This is one of the best walking paths in the area. The West Ashely Greenway is a trail that is just over 8 miles long and stretches from Folly Road to Main Road in the West Ashley part of Charleston. The side closer to Folly Road will take you through more residential areas, while the western part has more nature and wetlands.
This greenway used to be a railroad and is fairly straight. The majority of the path is paved with asphalt, so be careful when it is hot out for your dog’s paws. You will see lots of people running, biking, and walking their dogs along the West Ashely Greenway. It is a beautiful walkway that your dog will enjoy.
6. Take an Old Charleston Ghost Tour
Are you ready to get scared when the sun goes down and the ghosts come out? The Old Charleston Ghost tour takes you around historic Charleston to enjoy one of the most haunted cities in the country. This is a dog-friendly walking tour that takes you from haunted spots to cemeteries.
There are two tours each night at 7:30 pm and 9:30 that last 90 minutes. Each tour starts in Washington Square Park next to City Hall. Your tour guide, Mike has been featured on many television, radio, and podcast shows.
To purchase tickets for you and your dog, check out the website here.
7. Take a Charleston Carriage Works Tour
One of the best ways to tour Charleston is with one of the horse and carriage tours. Well, Charleston Carriage Works upped the game for you by allowing you to bring along your dog to explore Charleston. There are 5 different historic zones, so no tour is the exact same.
If your dog is small enough to sit on your lap the whole time, no purchase is needed. But, if you have a larger dog, you will need to purchase a child’s ticket for the tour so that everyone will be comfortable. When you return to the stable after the tour, your dog will be provided with water and treats.
Make sure to get your tickets here on their website.
8. Go Paddleboarding or Kayaking on Shem Creek
Shem Creek is one of my favorite places in the Charleston area. This area is filled with restaurants on the water. You will see plenty of boats pulling up with the day’s catch for fresh seafood.
One of the best things to do on Shem Creek is to go paddleboarding or kayaking. If you do not own one, no worries, you can always rent one from Coastal Expeditions.
You will see lots of people out on the water with their four-legged companions with them enjoy the water. I do recommend getting your dog a lifejacket just to be safe, Shem Creek is different than a pool or lake.
Do not be surprised if a dolphin comes up to you and wants to join you in your adventures for a little bit. Enjoy the perfect sunset on the water with your best friend.
9. Visit Charles Towne Landing
Charleston was founded in 1670 when a group of English settlers landed at a marshy point on the banks of the Ashley River. This location would become known as Charles Towne and the founding of the Carolina Colony.
Bring your dog out to enjoy the historical site that includes hiking trails, a live oak alley, gardens, and a 17-century replica sailing ship. Your pups will enjoy the afternoon walking around outside in the open spaces.
Charles Towne Landing asks that you don’t take your dogs to the Animal Forest section of the site. The Animal Forest is a zoo area on the grounds and therefore can create problems with your dog.
10. Enjoy a Baseball Game
How great is it to go to a baseball game with your friends, family, and your kids? How much better would it be to go with your dog? And how much better would it be to go with your dog and have a whole stadium full of dogs?
Charleston’s local baseball team, The Charleston RiverDogs, puts on a Dog Day at Joe Riley Stadium every Tuesday when they have a home game. You will see the stadium packed with dogs enjoying the game.
If you are planning on bringing your pups out, make sure that you get a signed waiver and a Dog Day pass from the main gate during all Monday home games.
Bonus: Dog Day Afternoon
Water Parks for Dogs! Yes, you read that correctly! How amazing is that? This is a perfect event to take your dog to if you live in Charleston. There are three different water parks in the Charleston area and for one day, they turn the parks into the best park that a dog could ask for.
At the end of each season, usually in September, the three water parks will have a day where they let the local dogs into the park to have the most fun that they can have in the water.
The three Water Parks are:
- Splash Island Waterpark at Palmetto Islands County Park
- Splash Zone Waterpark at James Island County Park
- Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark at North Charleston Wannamaker County Park
Check the website here for the exact dates and times. They are usually in two different sessions on the day of the event.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Charleston South Carolina
A great thing about Charleston and its love for dogs is that dogs are welcome just about anywhere and that includes going out to eat. In pretty much any restaurant that has an outdoor area, dogs will be allowed. The following are some of the best restaurants that love to have dogs at their establishments.
Make sure to ask for a dog menu and a bowl of water when there. Most places will have one or the other, and some will have both. Once you take your puppy to a restaurant, you will be answering your own question on whether is Charleston dog friendly.
1. Charleston Sports Pub
Charleston Sports Pub has 5 locations in the greater Charleston area. This is one of the best places to watch sports. They have been voted Best In South Carolina and Best In Charleston for 4 years in a row by Post and Courier and Charleston City Paper.
Make sure to see the Pub Pup Menu so your dog can have a great snack while watching the game with you. Make sure to check it out during brunch as they have some of the best brunches in Charleston.
2. Tattooed Moose
Tattooed Moose has two great locations in Charleston, one on John’s Island and one in North Charleston in the Park Circle area. Both of the places have large outdoor areas to eat and drink at. Your dog will love the open area and meeting new friends. Enjoy a few drinks and the famous Duck Club Sandwich with the Duck Fat Fries. Trust me, you will thank me later.
3. Bay Street Biergarten
Bay Street Biergarten is an amazing place in Charleston. The outdoor patio place is filled with games and lots of dogs hanging out at the tables. You will enjoy the large beer selection. Be careful about the taps on the table, they can be dangerous. They have a great German meets Lowcountry food mixture going on. You will be very happy visiting this establishment with your dog.
4. Fuel Cantina
Fuel Cantina is a smaller restaurant with a large persona. It was once an old gas station that became a Caribbean-themed cuisine restaurant. The patio area is a larger space and is a great place to eat, relax, and hang out with your dog. Make sure to try their Grilled Jerk Chicken Sandwich.
5. Red’s Icehouse
Red’s Icehouse is one of my favorite places in the city and should not be missed when visiting. It is located on Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant. The atmosphere of drinking and eating on the water while boats, kayaks, paddleboards, and even dolphins pass by is the best.
The outdoor area is nice and usually, you will see about 5-10 dogs there enjoying their time waiting for some great food to fall on the ground. Have a great relaxing afternoon with a local beer from one of Charleston’s breweries while you spend time with your pups next to the water.
6. Poogan’s Porch
What better place to take your dog than a restaurant named after a dog? This restaurant is called Poogan’s Porch. Poogan was the name of the dog that lived in the place when it was purchased. The unofficial greeter was Poogan until he passed away. This restaurant is classic Lowcountry cuisine and you will love it. Bring your dog and enjoy the outdoor seating and don’t forget to purchase a souvenir dog bowl.
7. Taco Boy
Taco Boy has three great locations: downtown, Folly Beach, and Summerville. They have an amazing Día de los Muertos theme restaurant that sets the atmosphere apart from traditional Mexican restaurants. Every one of their restaurants has large open patio areas where your dog will get all of the attention. Try out the Folly Beach one after you and your pup take a stroll on the beach.
8. Edmund’s Oast
Edmund’s Oast has three locations all in downtown Charleston. They are their own brewery and restaurant. You can get some of the best local Charleston beer at Edmund’s Oast. Like everywhere else, dogs are not allowed inside the restaurants but they all have a large patio area where dogs are recommended to visit.
Are the Beaches Dog-Friendly in Charleston South Carolina
Going to the beach is one of the best things to do in Charleston. It is even better when you can bring your dog along. And good news, the popular beaches in Charleston do allow dogs. The beaches do have strict rules though about dogs on the beach and I will break them down for you.
A few things to remember for all locations are the following: All dogs are required to be up-to-date on their rabies vaccination. All owners are required to pick up all dog waste. Just stick to the rules so you and your four-legged friend can have the best time at the beach.
1. Folly Beach
Dogs are allowed on Folly Beach year-round but there are restrictions on certain times of the day and months. Dogs are not allowed on the beach from May 1st – Sept 30th during the hours of 10 am – 6 pm. If you are caught breaking the rules, there will be a maximum fine of up to $500. When on the beach, your dog must always be on a leash. Check out the full policy for Folly Beach here.
2. Isle of Palms
Dogs are allowed on Isle of Palms year round. There is not a time when dogs are not allowed on the beach, there are certain times when they have to be leashed. Dogs DO NOT have to be leashed from April 1st – September 14th during the hours of 5 am – 9 am and September 15th – March 31st from 4 pm – 10 am. All other times they must be leashed.
Also, your dog must have a metal license tag attached to its collar with the name of the licensed veterinarian who provided the rabies vaccine. Owners must also carry a valid certificate of rabies vaccination with them to be available at all times. Check out the full policy for Isle of Palms here.
3. Sullivan’s Island
Sullivan’s Island has the strictest rules of all the beaches. You will have to obtain a permit for your dog from Town Hall. Residents of Sullivan’s Island will be charged $25 and all others will be $50.
The rules for the summer hours can be tricky. The summer season for dogs runs from May 1st to September 30th. During this time, dogs can be off leash from 5 am – 10 am. Dogs must be on the least from 6 pm – 5 am. Dogs are not allowed on the beach from 10 am – 6 pm.
The winter season for dogs runs from October 1st to April 30th. During this time, dogs can be off leash from 5 am to noon and have to be leashed from Noon to 5 am. Check out the full policy for Sullivan’s Island here.
4. Kiawah Island
Kiawah Island’s leash laws and time restrictions are dependent on the time of year and where you are on the beach. Dogs are allowed on the beach year-round. The beach has zones for your dog and what is allowed in the area.
Critical Habitat Area – Dogs are not allowed in this area throughout the entire year.
Dog Use Area – This is a special area where your dog can be off of the leash from 7 am – 7 pm. They must be leashed from 7 pm – 7 am. This is a year-round rule.
Remainder of the Beach (Seasonal Dog Leash Area) – From March 16th – October 31st, dogs must be leashed at all times. From November 1st – March 15th, dogs are allowed to be off of the leash from 7 am – 7 pm. Your dog must be leashed from 7 pm – 7 am.
Check out the full policy for Kiawah Island here and check out the map for the areas of the beach here.
5. Edisto Island
Edisto Island Beach does allow dogs on the beach year-round. From May 1st – October 31st, dogs must be leashed. From November 1st – April 30th, dogs are able to be on the beach with no leash. Edisto Island has installed doggy waste bags at every beach access point for easy cleanup.
6. Seabrook Island
The beaches at Seabrook Island do allow dogs. This is a lot of Kiawah Island for the rules. There are certain times and locations for dogs to be leashed and when to not be. The beach has zones for your dog and what is allowed in the area.
Restricted Area (Red) – Dogs are not allowed in this area throughout the entire year.
Limited Restriction Area (Yellow) – Dogs are allowed in this area but they must be on a leash at all times.
General Beach Area (Green) – From April 1st – September 30th, dogs have to be on a leash during the hours of 10 am – 5 pm. From 5 pm – 10 am dogs can be without a leash. From October 1st – March 31st, dogs are allowed to be off the leash at all times.
Check the full policy of Seabrook Island here and check out the map for the areas of the beach here.
Once you bring your dog out for a beach day, you will be getting closer to answering the question, is Charleston dog friendly?
Dog-Friendly Parks in Charleston South Carolina
Charleston has many parks throughout The Holy City and the best part, they are very dog-friendly. In almost any park that you go to, you will see dogs running around with their owners.
Many of the parks I have on this list are major Charleston parks all around the city. You will find lots of wide open space for your dog to run around and try to get them tired.
Please just clean up after your dog to keep the parks looking great and for the communities to keep allowing them to be dog-friendly.
1. James Island County Park
James Island County Park is what I believe heaven would be like for a dog. The park itself is a huge area with waterslides, rock climbing walls, camping, and best of all, a 4-acre dog park. Included in the dog park is a small lake with a beach for all the puppies to have the best life ever.
If your dog loves to swim, this is the place to go. Enjoy an afternoon of throwing the ball in the water, wearing them out. This is the best place to take your dog, hands down. The entrance fee for the park is $2.
2. White Point Garden and The Battery
At the end of the peninsula that makes up Charleston, you will find White Point Garden. It is a park that is covered with trees and has many statues and cannons throughout it. Your dog is going to have the best of times chasing squirrels and birds.
The garden does not have a fence around it so please pay close attention to your dog. From sunrise to 9 am and 5 pm to 11 pm, you do not need to use a leash for your dog.
The Battery is one of the most beautiful walkways in downtown Charleston. It goes right along the peninsula and around White Point Garden. You will see some of the most beautiful houses in Charleston while walking The Battery. On one side of you, you will have nothing but water. It is one of the best spots in all of Charleston and your dog will enjoy taking this walk with you.
3. Joe Riley Waterfront Park
Joe Riley Waterfront Park is a great place to take your puppy on a walk. There are a lot of great things to see while in the park. The iconic Pineapple Fountain is a must for photos. See if you can get someone to take a photo of you and your dog together. Stroll down the large walkway to the Cooper River. There are plenty of places to sit in the shade and just people-watch with your dog.
4. Hampton Park
Hampton Park is located by The Citadel and has lots of space for your dog to run and have fun. There are walkways throughout the entire park that takes you through floral gardens. The park is dog-friend but requires you to have a leash on them. But, there is a section, The Hampton Park Dog Run, which is an off-leash spot in the park designed just for dogs.
5. Colonial Lake
Colonial Lake Park is a small area in Charleston. The area is a beautiful residential area with many grand houses to look at. You will enjoy walking around the lake while people are fishing, running, and biking around. You will see lots of people walking their dogs around the lake. One of the best things is the parking is free around the park.
6. Riverfront Park in North Charleston
Riverfront Park in North Charleston is a great park with lots of room. You will see that the park is dedicated to the Navy Service Men and Women. The park is located right next to the old Navy Base in Charleston. While walking with your dog, make sure to stop by the dedicated dog park in the park to let your dog off of the leash for a bit.
Extra: Local Small Parks
Charleston does love to have dogs in the city. With this, the city and communities have set up small dog parks all over. These are different than the large parks. Most of these are smaller but great in community areas. Be on the lookout for them or ask your dog owner friends. People are discovering new ones all the time.
Dog-Friendly Hotels in Charleston South Carolina
The good news to all of you with dogs who are looking to visit Charleston, many of the hotels in the city do allow dogs to stay at them. Charleston’s love of dogs is no different from many hotels.
Many of the hotels though, will have a one-time charge for your four-legged friend to stay. But with that, they will be treated like the best guests in the hotel. They will enjoy their stay in any hotel with all the attention that will be given to them.
1. The Vendue
The Vendue is a great art hotel located in the heart of historic downtown Charleston. Enjoy the 200 pieces of original artwork throughout the hotel. Have a cocktail or beer on the rooftop bar while enjoying the views of the city and beautiful sunsets. Dogs are able to stay as a guest, they will cost a one-time fee of $95 but The Vendue loves its furry friend guests.
2. The Ryder Hotel
The Ryder Hotel is in a great location in downtown Charleston on Meeting St. It is within walking distance of just about everything that you want to do and see in the city. Dogs are welcome at The Ryder Hotel. There is a fee of $100 per stay with a weight limit of 40 pounds. The limit of dogs per room is 2.
3. Hotel Emeline
Hotel Emeline is a beautiful boutique hotel just off the Charleston City Market. The hotel offers many relaxing options from a garden, free bikes, and a bar. Hotel Emeline loves to have dogs as guests. In fact, they have a Pawsome Package that includes custom-made dog treats by the in-house chef, a dog mat, a bowl, and a comfy bed.
4. Charleston Place
Charleston Place is located a block off the Charleston City Market and in the heart of shopping on King Street. Dogs are welcome at Charleston Place in all different shapes and sizes. They are not allowed in certain areas of the hotel like the restaurant and bar. Charleston Place does offer pet sitters through the concierge.
5. Grand Bohemian Hotel
The Grand Bohemian Hotel is located right off the heart of campus at the College of Charleston. It hosts its own art gallery and has a rooftop restaurant that is made with locally sourced ingredients. Grand Bohemian Hotel is a premier dog-friendly hotel and welcomes your pet with a one-time fee of $150.
Of course, there are plenty of other options to choose from in Charleston to stay with your four-legged friends. Take a look at the options from the link below to find a hotel that works out best for you and your dog.
If you are looking for hotels that are dog-friendly or just looking for a hotel with the best rates, check out my page about Charleston hotels. Where to Stay in Charleston SC
Things to Consider When Traveling with Dogs
- Micro-chipping your dog – If you are traveling with your dog or living in Charleston, it is a good idea to have your dog microchipped. Especially for those traveling with their dog, lots of new and exciting things will be around them and they may take off out of excitement or fear.
- Have copies of shot records – In case of an emergency, it is a good idea to keep records of your dog’s shots on your phone or in your car.
- People will be petting your dog – Be prepared for everyone to stop you and your dog to pet and talk to them. Everyone in Charleston loves dogs and will stop you. If your dog has high anxiety with a lot of people, take them to one of the less congested areas of the city.
Is Charleston Dog Friendly: In Conclusion
Well, there you have it if you were wondering if Charleston is dog friendly. Charleston is a very dog-friendly city that loves dogs. Your best friend will be able to do just about everything with you while visiting or living in the city.
One great thing you will find with dog owners is that they will invite you to dog social platforms to be a part of. There will be lots of dog meet-ups around the city. This is a great way to meet other owners and for your dog to meet new four-legged friends.
So to answer the question, is Charleston dog friendly? YES!
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