A Dog (& Human) Friendly Travel Guide to Charleston

Photo by @Barkleydoodles

Charleston, South Carolina is a hot travel destination for many reasons such as the southern charm, beautiful scenery, and fun beaches, but did you know it is also a very dog-friendly place?

If you are visiting The Palmetto State anytime soon, this guide should help you navigate the best places to take your pooch so you can all have a great time.

 

Shop For Your Dog

 

King street is one of the most popular shopping streets for humans, but there are lots of cute shops to spoil your fur babies too. 

Crew Lala

 8 Avondale Avenue in Charleston, SC.

Photo by Crew Lala

Preppy meets southern charm. All the essentials you need for your dog, high quality bowties, bandanas, boutique bags and more. Crew Lala is one of our favorite high end shops for dogs. A short ride outside of Charleston and you can explore their gorgeous boutique.

Photo by Crew LaLa

 

Woofgang Bakery

341 King Street in Charleston, SC

From adorable cookies to grooming services, this bakery has everything you need for your dog. Located in the heart of shopping district, in King street.

Photos by Woofgang Bakery

 

Visit the Beach

Photo by Bring Fido

Photo by @samoa_twix_aussie 

Folly Beach is one of Charleston's more pet-friendly beaches, but there are others such as Kiawah Island, Sullivans Island, and Isle of Palms. Dogs are allowed on the beach any time from October 1 to April 30. Between May 1 and September 30, dogs are not allowed on the beach from 10:00 am-6:00 pm. Dogs must be leashed at all times, no matter the time of year. Also, each beach has their own rules, so be sure to do your research before you go.

 

Dog-Friendly Eats

Poogan’s Porch, named after a dog, is one of the most popular dog-friendly restaurants with both a front porch and back patio for your furry friends to sit at and dine with you.

Enjoy an island-inspired meal at FUEL Charleston and take your pup along, too! They have a beautiful courtyard that is dog-friendly, perfect for those summer days.

Lost Dog Cafe is perfect for your brunch needs if you’re in the Folly Beach area. They’ve decorated their restaurant with the cutest dog-themed pieces, so of course your pup is welcome!

Leons Poultry and Oyster Shop is the quintessential southern choice when visiting Charleston. They do fried chicken, oysters, lots of salads, cheap beer, soft serve, rosé on tap, frozen G&T’s, tons of grower champagne, and decent cocktails – all in an old garage. Pull up a seat under one of the many shaded tables on the outdoor patio and prepare to enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner. 

Photo by Sundays The Brand

Beardcats Sweet Shop 

Beardcat’s Sweet Shop is a gelateria, coffee shop and retail space that sits below The Obstinate Daughter on Sullivan’s Island.

 

Parks and Walking

 

Take a stroll through Waterfront Park. Waterfront Park is perfect for a scenery-based walk because of its beautiful gardens, the pier, and harbor views. 

Pineapple Fountain is an iconic Charleston must see! 

 

James Island County Park is one of Charleston’s more popular off-leash dog parks. It features acres and acres for your dog(s) to run and socialize, a large lake to swim in, and great views for the whole family. 

 

Another off-leash option is the Riverfront Park Dog Park. A fully-fenced area near the Navy Yard is a great way to get them to let loose while on vacation. You can also walk your dog throughout the rest of the park on a leash. 

 

Charleston’s Farmer Market is a very popular activity on the weekends during the warmer months. Walk your pups through the market while listening to great music and tasting the wonderful variety of food the locals have to offer. 

 

 

Rainbow Road is Charleston’s most popular Instagram destination. A gorgeous road of historic homes, all with different pastel color shades.

 

Check out our other dog-friendly travel guides and be sure to tag us if you visit some of these hot spots on your next vacation.

 

Do you have any tips that we missed? Comment below! 

Blog content created by Sydney of @madpuplife Follow her content at Mad Pup Life for all things pet and pet lifestyle.