Charleston Pet-Friendly Guide: Complete Guide

Travel with your furry friends! Discover pet-friendly hotels, parks, restaurants, and activities. Discover the best pet-friendly experiences in Charleston.

ByFun Around Me Team
5 min read

Welcome to the ultimate pet-friendly guide for Charleston! Travel with your furry friends! Discover pet-friendly hotels, parks, restaurants, and activities. This comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best pet-friendly experiences that Charleston has to offer, from popular hotspots to hidden local favorites. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you'll find insider tips, detailed recommendations, and everything you need to make the most of your pet-friendly adventure in Charleston. Our carefully curated selection ensures you won't miss any of the must-see spots while also discovering unique experiences that most tourists overlook.

Key Takeaways

  • Charleston offers over 93 exceptional pet-friendly experiences
  • Best time to visit varies by activity - check individual listings for optimal timing
  • Many experiences require advance booking, especially during peak season
  • Local guides and experts provide invaluable insights and access
  • Prices range from budget-friendly to premium, with options for every preference

Pet-Friendly Hotels & Accommodations

Hotels, vacation rentals, and accommodations that welcome pets with open arms and special amenities.

Hampton Inn Charleston-North

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 7424 Northside Dr, North Charleston, SC 29420, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Charleston Riverview

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 11 Ashley Point Dr, Charleston, SC 29407, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 20 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

Best Western Charleston Inn

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 1540 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29407, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Charleston Mount Pleasant

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 245 Magrath Darby Blvd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 350 Johnnie Dodds Blvd #2931, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

Hampton Inn Charleston/Mt. Pleasant-Patriots Point

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 255 Sessions Way, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

Hotel Indigo Mount Pleasant by IHG

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 250 Johnnie Dodds Blvd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

Homewood Suites by Hilton North Charleston

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 7399 Northwoods Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29406, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

Hilton Garden Inn Charleston / Mt. Pleasant

Pet-friendly accommodation that welcomes your furry friends with open arms, offering comfortable stays and pet amenities.

πŸ“ 300 Wingo Way, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, USA

  • πŸ•Pets welcome with no extra fees
  • πŸ•Pet beds and bowls provided
  • πŸ•Nearby walking areas
  • πŸ•Pet-sitting services available
  • πŸ•Designated pet-friendly rooms

Dog Parks & Pet Recreation Areas

Off-leash dog parks, pet-friendly beaches, and outdoor spaces where your pets can play and socialize.

James Island County Park - Dog Park

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 871 Riverland Dr, Charleston, SC 29412, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

East Bay Dog Park

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 41 S Adgers Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

Hampton Park Dog Run

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 83-147 Grove St, Charleston, SC 29403, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

Wannamaker Dog Park

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 8888 University Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29406, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

Palmetto Islands County Park

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 444 Needlerush Pkwy, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

Bridgewater Dog Park

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ Carolina Bay Dr, Charleston, SC 29414, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

Mixson Avenue Dog Park

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 4856 Mixson Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

North Charleston Wannamaker County Park

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 8888 University Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29406, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

Wescott Dog park

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 9006 Dorchester Rd, North Charleston, SC 29485, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

Broken Leash Dog Park & Bar

Off-leash dog park where your pets can run, play, and socialize with other dogs in a safe, enclosed environment.

πŸ“ 8811 Old University Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29406, USA

  • πŸ•Fully fenced off-leash area
  • πŸ•Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • πŸ•Water fountains for pets
  • πŸ•Waste disposal stations
  • πŸ•Shaded seating for owners

Pet-Friendly Restaurants & Cafes

Restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating that welcome pets, some even offering special pet menus.

Berkeley's

Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.

πŸ“ 624 1/2 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403, USA

  • πŸ•Pet-friendly outdoor seating
  • πŸ•Water bowls for pets
  • πŸ•Treats available for dogs
  • πŸ•Welcoming staff
  • πŸ•Shaded patio area

The Tattooed Moose

Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.

πŸ“ 4845 Chateau Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405, USA

  • πŸ•Pet-friendly outdoor seating
  • πŸ•Water bowls for pets
  • πŸ•Treats available for dogs
  • πŸ•Welcoming staff
  • πŸ•Shaded patio area

Iron Rose

Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.

πŸ“ 115 Meeting St #174, Charleston, SC 29401, USA

  • πŸ•Pet-friendly outdoor seating
  • πŸ•Water bowls for pets
  • πŸ•Treats available for dogs
  • πŸ•Welcoming staff
  • πŸ•Shaded patio area

Little Palm

Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.

πŸ“ 237 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, USA

  • πŸ•Pet-friendly outdoor seating
  • πŸ•Water bowls for pets
  • πŸ•Treats available for dogs
  • πŸ•Welcoming staff
  • πŸ•Shaded patio area

Poogan's Porch

Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.

πŸ“ 72 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401, USA

  • πŸ•Pet-friendly outdoor seating
  • πŸ•Water bowls for pets
  • πŸ•Treats available for dogs
  • πŸ•Welcoming staff
  • πŸ•Shaded patio area

Bedford Falls CHS

Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.

πŸ“ 430 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403, USA

  • πŸ•Pet-friendly outdoor seating
  • πŸ•Water bowls for pets
  • πŸ•Treats available for dogs
  • πŸ•Welcoming staff
  • πŸ•Shaded patio area

Park & Grove

Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.

πŸ“ 730 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403, USA

  • πŸ•Pet-friendly outdoor seating
  • πŸ•Water bowls for pets
  • πŸ•Treats available for dogs
  • πŸ•Welcoming staff
  • πŸ•Shaded patio area

Page's Okra Grill

Pet-friendly restaurant with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a meal while your furry companion relaxes by your side.

πŸ“ 302 Coleman Blvd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, USA

  • πŸ•Pet-friendly outdoor seating
  • πŸ•Water bowls for pets
  • πŸ•Treats available for dogs
  • πŸ•Welcoming staff
  • πŸ•Shaded patio area

Veterinary Services & Pet Stores

Emergency vets, pet stores, grooming services, and essential pet care facilities.

PetSmart

Essential pet services including supplies, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your pets healthy and happy during your travels.

πŸ“ 2076 Sam Rittenberg Blvd, Charleston, SC 29407, USA

  • πŸ•Pet supplies and food
  • πŸ•Grooming services available
  • πŸ•Knowledgeable staff
  • πŸ•Emergency vet services
  • πŸ•Pet medications in stock

PetSmart

Essential pet services including supplies, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your pets healthy and happy during your travels.

πŸ“ 7620 Rivers Ave Ste 120B, Charleston, SC 29406, USA

  • πŸ•Pet supplies and food
  • πŸ•Grooming services available
  • πŸ•Knowledgeable staff
  • πŸ•Emergency vet services
  • πŸ•Pet medications in stock

All Is Well Pets

Essential pet services including supplies, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your pets healthy and happy during your travels.

πŸ“ 440 Old Trolley Rd Ste A, Summerville, SC 29485, USA

  • πŸ•Pet supplies and food
  • πŸ•Grooming services available
  • πŸ•Knowledgeable staff
  • πŸ•Emergency vet services
  • πŸ•Pet medications in stock

Island Dog Pet Wash & Market

Essential pet services including supplies, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your pets healthy and happy during your travels.

πŸ“ 1964 Ashley River Rd # A, Charleston, SC 29407, USA

  • πŸ•Pet supplies and food
  • πŸ•Grooming services available
  • πŸ•Knowledgeable staff
  • πŸ•Emergency vet services
  • πŸ•Pet medications in stock

Pet Supplies Plus Goose Creek

Essential pet services including supplies, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your pets healthy and happy during your travels.

πŸ“ 208 St James Ave, Goose Creek, SC 29445, USA

  • πŸ•Pet supplies and food
  • πŸ•Grooming services available
  • πŸ•Knowledgeable staff
  • πŸ•Emergency vet services
  • πŸ•Pet medications in stock

Alendry Whole Pet

Essential pet services including supplies, grooming, and veterinary care to keep your pets healthy and happy during your travels.

πŸ“ 1021 E Montague Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405, USA

  • πŸ•Pet supplies and food
  • πŸ•Grooming services available
  • πŸ•Knowledgeable staff
  • πŸ•Emergency vet services
  • πŸ•Pet medications in stock

Pet-Friendly Activities

Tours, attractions, and activities where pets are welcome to join the fun.

White Point Garden

Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Charleston park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.

  • β€’Bring water and portable bowl
  • β€’Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
  • β€’Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
  • β€’Check for shade during hot weather
  • β€’Watch for other dogs and wildlife

Bulldog Tours

Visit this pet-friendly Charleston attraction where your furry companion is welcome to join the experience.

  • β€’Call ahead to confirm pet policy
  • β€’Bring leash and required documentation
  • β€’Plan for pet breaks and water
  • β€’Avoid peak visiting hours
  • β€’Be prepared to carry small pets if needed

Waterfront Park

Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Charleston park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.

  • β€’Bring water and portable bowl
  • β€’Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
  • β€’Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
  • β€’Check for shade during hot weather
  • β€’Watch for other dogs and wildlife

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Charleston park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.

  • β€’Bring water and portable bowl
  • β€’Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
  • β€’Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
  • β€’Check for shade during hot weather
  • β€’Watch for other dogs and wildlife

Pineapple Fountain

Visit this pet-friendly Charleston attraction where your furry companion is welcome to join the experience.

  • β€’Call ahead to confirm pet policy
  • β€’Bring leash and required documentation
  • β€’Plan for pet breaks and water
  • β€’Avoid peak visiting hours
  • β€’Be prepared to carry small pets if needed

Old South Carriage Company

Visit this pet-friendly Charleston attraction where your furry companion is welcome to join the experience.

  • β€’Call ahead to confirm pet policy
  • β€’Bring leash and required documentation
  • β€’Plan for pet breaks and water
  • β€’Avoid peak visiting hours
  • β€’Be prepared to carry small pets if needed

North Charleston Wannamaker County Park

Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Charleston park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.

  • β€’Bring water and portable bowl
  • β€’Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
  • β€’Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
  • β€’Check for shade during hot weather
  • β€’Watch for other dogs and wildlife

Cypress Gardens

Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Charleston park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.

  • β€’Bring water and portable bowl
  • β€’Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
  • β€’Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
  • β€’Check for shade during hot weather
  • β€’Watch for other dogs and wildlife

Shem Creek Park

Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Charleston park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.

  • β€’Bring water and portable bowl
  • β€’Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
  • β€’Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
  • β€’Check for shade during hot weather
  • β€’Watch for other dogs and wildlife

Charleston Outdoor Adventures

Enjoy quality time with your pet at this Charleston park, offering open spaces and pet-friendly amenities.

  • β€’Bring water and portable bowl
  • β€’Keep pet on leash unless in designated off-leash area
  • β€’Bring waste bags and clean up after pet
  • β€’Check for shade during hot weather
  • β€’Watch for other dogs and wildlife

Pet Travel Tips

Essential advice for traveling with pets, from packing to safety considerations.

Waterfall Discovery Hike

Embark on an exhilarating Charleston adventure that combines stunning natural beauty with heart-pumping excitement and expert guidance.

  • β€’Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
  • β€’Bring plenty of water - at least 2 liters per person
  • β€’Pack high-energy snacks like trail mix and energy bars
  • β€’Check weather forecast and trail conditions before going
  • β€’Start early to avoid afternoon heat and crowds

Desert Canyon Trail

Challenge yourself with this thrilling Charleston experience, designed for adventurers seeking authentic outdoor excitement and memorable moments.

  • β€’Bring a detailed trail map and compass or GPS
  • β€’Wear layers that can be added or removed
  • β€’Apply sunscreen and bring a hat for sun protection
  • β€’Tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time
  • β€’Carry a first aid kit and know basic first aid

Coastal Cliff Walk

Explore Charleston's wild side with this carefully crafted adventure, offering the perfect blend of challenge and natural wonder.

  • β€’Bring a headlamp or flashlight just in case
  • β€’Pack out all trash - leave no trace
  • β€’Stay on marked trails to protect vegetation
  • β€’Be aware of wildlife and keep a safe distance
  • β€’Bring trekking poles for stability on steep sections

Valley View Trail

This Charleston outdoor experience provides adrenaline-seekers with safe, exciting activities led by certified professionals.

  • β€’Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
  • β€’Bring plenty of water - at least 2 liters per person
  • β€’Pack high-energy snacks like trail mix and energy bars
  • β€’Check weather forecast and trail conditions before going
  • β€’Start early to avoid afternoon heat and crowds

Historic Trail Journey

Discover the raw beauty of Charleston's landscape through this immersive adventure, suitable for various skill levels.

  • β€’Bring a detailed trail map and compass or GPS
  • β€’Wear layers that can be added or removed
  • β€’Apply sunscreen and bring a hat for sun protection
  • β€’Tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time
  • β€’Carry a first aid kit and know basic first aid

Wildlife Observation Path

Push your limits with this Charleston expedition, where experienced guides ensure both safety and unforgettable thrills.

  • β€’Bring a headlamp or flashlight just in case
  • β€’Pack out all trash - leave no trace
  • β€’Stay on marked trails to protect vegetation
  • β€’Be aware of wildlife and keep a safe distance
  • β€’Bring trekking poles for stability on steep sections

Essential Tips

  • πŸ•Always call ahead to confirm pet policies
  • πŸ•Bring vaccination records and health certificates
  • πŸ•Pack familiar items like toys and bedding
  • πŸ•Research local pet regulations and leash laws
  • πŸ•Keep your pet on a regular feeding schedule
  • πŸ•Bring enough medication for the entire trip
  • πŸ•Have a recent photo of your pet in case they get lost
  • πŸ•Microchip your pet before traveling
  • πŸ•Plan for pet-friendly transportation options
  • πŸ•Book pet-friendly accommodations well in advance

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit

The best time for pet-friendly experiences in Charleston varies by activity and season. Generally, spring and fall offer ideal conditions with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season with the most options but also the highest prices and largest crowds. Winter can offer unique experiences and better deals, though some activities may be limited.

Average Price

Prices for pet-friendly experiences in Charleston range widely depending on the activity and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium and exclusive options can range from $200-500+. Many activities offer group discounts and package deals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Charleston offers many excellent pet-friendly experiences, each with its own unique character. The best choice depends on your preferences, budget, and schedule, but our guide highlights the top-rated options that consistently deliver exceptional experiences.

Timing varies by activity, but generally spring and fall offer ideal conditions. Summer is peak season with the most options but larger crowds. Check individual listings for specific timing recommendations and seasonal considerations.

For popular experiences, especially during peak season, advance booking is highly recommended. Some activities have limited capacity and sell out quickly. Booking ahead also often provides better rates and ensures availability.

Requirements vary by activity, but generally bring comfortable clothing, appropriate footwear, sun protection, water, and any specific gear mentioned in activity descriptions. Check individual listings for detailed requirements.

Many pet-friendly experiences in Charleston cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experts. Check individual listings for difficulty levels and requirements. Many operators offer instruction and guidance for newcomers.

Costs vary widely depending on the type of experience and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium options can range from $200-500+. Group discounts and packages are often available.

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