Charleston, South Carolina, is a haven for dog lovers, so we’ve put together our own guide to show you just how dog-friendly Charleston really is. Its blend of Southern charm and hospitality extends to its canine visitors, ensuring a delightful experience for all. Plus, plenty of potential to find perfect Charleston pet sitters, or discover your own Charleston house sit and pet sitting adventure!
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Dog parks in Charleston
James Island County Park
This expansive park is a dog's dream come true. With miles of trails, an off-leash dog park, and even a dog beach, James Island County Park provides plenty of space for your pup to run and play. There are also shaded areas and picnic spots, making it a perfect spot for a family or group outing.
Location: 871 Riverland Dr, Charleston, SC 29412, United States
The Citadel Dog Park
A well-maintained off-leash park with separate areas for small and large dogs. It’s a great place for pups to socialize and burn off energy.
Location: 171 Moultrie St, Charleston, SC 29409, United States
Downtown Waterfront Park
A scenic park perfect for a leisurely stroll with your pup. Enjoy the iconic Pineapple Fountain, harbor views, and plenty of shady spots for a break.
Location: Vendue Range, Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Sullivan’s Island Beach
One of the most dog-friendly beaches in Charleston, allowing off-leash play during designated hours. Enjoy a scenic coastal walk with your pup while taking in ocean views.
Location: Charleston, SC 29482, United States
White Point Garden
Located at the tip of the Charleston Peninsula, this historic park offers shaded walkways, beautiful scenery, and a peaceful place to enjoy a stroll with your leashed dog.
Location: 2 Murray Blvd, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Dog-friendly restaurants in Charleston
Brown Dog Deli
End your day at Brown Dog Deli where you’ll be met with a dog treat machine and water bowls at the door. This quirky spot is full of great food and fun games. Take a walk down memory lane and enjoy a variety of memorabilia from different decades.
Location: 225 Calhoun St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Poogan's Porch
Located in a charming Victorian townhouse, Poogan's Porch offers traditional Southern cuisine. Named after a neighborhood dog, this restaurant welcomes pets on its porch, providing a cozy atmosphere for both you and your furry friend.
Location: 72 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Taco Boy
With locations downtown and on Folly Beach, Taco Boy serves a variety of tacos and Mexican-inspired dishes. Their outdoor seating areas are dog-friendly, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal with your pet.
Location: 217 Huger St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States
Red's Ice House
Located on Shem Creek, Red's Ice House offers seafood and classic American fare. The waterfront views and dog-friendly patios make it an ideal place to relax with your canine companion.
Location: 98 Church St, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, United States
The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits
Perched atop The Restoration Hotel, The Watch provides panoramic views of Charleston. Their outdoor areas are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy a meal or drink with your pet while taking in the cityscape.
Location: 75 Wentworth St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Fuel Charleston
Set in a converted gas station, Fuel offers Caribbean-inspired dishes and a spacious dog-friendly patio. The casual setting is perfect for a laid-back meal with your furry friend.
Location: 211 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403, United States
The Obstinate Daughter
Located on Sullivan's Island, this restaurant offers a menu inspired by Southern and Italian cuisines. Dogs are welcome in their outdoor seating area, allowing you to enjoy a meal after a day at the nearby beach.
Location: 2063 Middle St, Sullivan's Island, SC 29482, United States
Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oysters
Set in a renovated garage, Leon's is known for its fried chicken and oysters. The casual atmosphere extends to their dog-friendly outdoor seating, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Fun dog-friendly activities in Charleston
Historic Charleston City Market
This historic, must-see landmark is not only a bustling atmosphere for both locals and tourists, it’s also incredibly dog-friendly! The Market welcomes dogs to join their owners on their stroll through market stalls that are filled with local goods and crafts, souvenirs, and food. Additionally, many vendors provide water bowls to keep your pup hydrated, and some even carry treats! The City Market is also shaded to keep your pet comfortable while you shop and protect their paws from the heat.
Cost: Free entry
Date and time: Sunday to Thursday 9:30 am - 5 pm, Friday & Saturday 9:30 am - 5 pm & 6:30 pm - 10:30 pm
Location: 188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Rainbow Row
Another must-see spot in Charleston, Rainbow Row is the perfect place to take your canine friend on your visit! This classic Charleston landmark was restored in the 1930s when the streets’ homeowners all decided to paint their homes in pretty pastels to contrast the otherwise neutral buildings. Rainbow Row brings some serious eye candy to the city, featuring 13 historical homes for you and your pup to enjoy together.
Cost: Free entry
Date and time: 24/7
Location: 79-107 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Dog-friendly walking trails in Charleston
Charles Towne Landing
Step back in time with your furry friend at Charles Towne Landing. This historic site, marking the birthplace of the Carolina colony, offers beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a nature preserve. Dogs are welcome on leashes, so you can enjoy a leisurely stroll together while soaking in some history.
Location: 1500 Old Towne Rd, Charleston, SC 29407, United States
Isle of Palms
An essential stop on a beach tour de Charleston, Isle of Palms' coastline stretches for miles and dogs can roam without leashes for half the year. After a dip in the Atlantic, check the shops and restaurants on Ocean Boulevard.
Location: Isle of Palms, South Carolina, USA
Palmetto Islands County Park
This spacious park in Mount Pleasant offers dog-friendly walking trails, open fields, and a dog park where your pup can run off-leash.
Location: 444 Needlerush Pkwy, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, United States
Dog-friendly cafes in Charleston
Lost Dog Cafe
Situated on Folly Beach, Lost Dog Cafe is a popular spot for breakfast and lunch. With a relaxed atmosphere and a dog-inspired theme, the cafe invites leashed dogs to join their owners on the outdoor patio.
Location: 106 W Huron Ave, Folly Beach, SC 29439, United States
Rise Coffee Bar
Situated at 77 Wentworth St within The Restoration Hotel, Rise Coffee Bar welcomes pets at their outdoor seating area. They serve roasted coffees from Toby's Estate, artisan teas from Bellocq, fresh cold-pressed juices, and pastries.
Location: 77 Wentworth St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Blūm
Located at 652 King St, Blūm is a dog-friendly coffee shop known for its inviting atmosphere. While specific details about their pet policy are limited, they are recognized as a pet-friendly establishment.
Location: 511 Meeting St Suite 201, Charleston, SC 29403, United States
The Harbinger Cafe & Bakery
Situated at 1107 King St, The Harbinger offers a cozy environment with dog-friendly outdoor seating. They serve a variety of baked goods and beverages.
Location: 1107 King St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States
Second State Coffee
With multiple locations, including 70.5 Beaufain St, Second State Coffee provides a dog-friendly atmosphere with outdoor seating. They are known for their quality coffee and friendly service.
Location: 70.5 Beaufain St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Bitty & Beau's Coffee
Located at 159 Church St, Bitty & Beau's is a unique coffee shop that employs individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They offer a dog-friendly environment with outdoor seating.
Location: 159 Church St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Annual dog events in Charleston
Yappy Hour
Starting in May, this series offers live music and beverages in a relaxed park setting, welcoming leashed dogs to join the fun. Head to the Charleston Country Parks website for more info.
Cost: $2 per person
Date and time: Thursday, August 28, 2025, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Location: James Island County Park, 871 Riverland Dr, Charleston, SC 29412, United States
Woofstock: A Lowcountry Dog Music Festival
This annual event features live music, food trucks, local vendors, and supports local rescues. Leashed dogs are welcome to enjoy the festivities. Go to their website to see the full line up and list of vendors.
Cost: $15 per person
Date and time: April 12, 2025 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM
The best dog-friendly bars in Charleston
Pearlz Oyster Bar
Known for fresh seafood and a lively atmosphere, Pearlz welcomes dogs in their outdoor seating areas. It's a great spot to enjoy oysters and other seafood specialties with your pet by your side.
Location: 153 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States
Edmund’s Oast
A popular Charleston brewery with a large outdoor seating area that welcomes dogs. Enjoy delicious food and craft brews while your pup lounges by your side.
Location: 1505 King St #115, Charleston, SC 29405, United States
Kudu Coffee & Craft Beer
Located at 4 Vanderhorst St, Kudu offers a pet-friendly patio where you can enjoy a selection of coffee, teas, and craft beers. Note that there is no table service on the patio, so you'll need to place your order inside.
Location: 4 Vanderhorst St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States
Tips on dog-friendly things to do in Charleston from dog owners and pet sitters
Charleston is full of Southern charm and welcomes four-legged friends at many of its parks, beaches, and restaurants. Whether you’re a local or visiting, there are plenty of ways to explore the city with your pup by your side!
Tips for pet parents
Pet Etiquette
Always keep your dog leashed in public areas unless in designated off-leash zones. Remember to clean up after your pet to maintain the city's cleanliness and ensure continued access to these venues.
Prepare your pup for the heat and humidity
Being in the Deep South, Charleston, South Carolina, can get hot. Very hot, and humid! So making sure your pup stays safe and hydrated is super important. Carry a water bottle and a collapsible bowl for your dog during outings. In the summer, schedule walks in the early morning or evening to avoid the heat, and remember to use pet-safe sunscreen for dogs with light-colored fur or exposed skin.
Plan ahead for your vacation
Heading out of town but not sure what to do with your pup? While day trips are easy to organize, longer vacations require a little more planning. Finding a Charleston pet sitter who’ll care for your furry family members while you’re away is not only better for your pooch, but also means you’ll have total peace of mind on your trip. To find out more, click below.
How to connect with pet sitters in Charleston
Tips for pet sitters
Pack for hot weather
As mentioned, things can get hot and humid in Charleston, particularly during the Spring and Summer months. Always check ahead on what the temperature will be if you’re planning a pup outing, whether it’s safe for them to be outside, and prep a bag beforehand with plenty of water and protective gear.
Plan ahead for a day out
It’s always best to be over-prepared, particularly when dog-sitting. Be sure to familiarize yourself with walking routes and days out, with marked places to stop in the shade or to take a break. Pack plenty of supplies, including a first aid kit, and have a Plan B in your pocket in case your pup pal becomes tired or wants to go home.
Experience Charleston through house sitting
Love the idea of staying in a gorgeous beach-side home with a furry friend by your side? Become a pet sitter in Charleston! Click below to see how house and pet sitting can make that happen.
How to find house sits in Charleston
