Find Dog Friendly Activities in Hilton Head, SC

Going on vacation just isn’t the same without your furry family members. This year, bring your pooch along for a beach getaway! There are so many great dog-friendly activities on Hilton Head that everyone in the family will love, especially your pup! Go hiking, swimming, surfing, and more. We went ahead and did all the digging so that your dog wouldn’t have to. Read on to get the scoop on the best things to do with your dog on the island. Then, be sure to request a free copy of our 7-Day Itinerary for even more thoughtful insight on the best of HHI! 

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“Good Dog” Tips to Know in Advance 

Beach Rules for Dogs 

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As with most things in life, there are a few rules to keep in mind when bringing your dog along for a beach trip!

• Dogs aren’t allowed on the beach between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. the Friday before Memorial Day through Labor Day.

• Dogs must be on a leash: 

• At Fish Haul Beach Park at all times.

• At All Other Beach Parks: 

• Between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. April 1 through Thursday before Memorial Day. 

• Between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Tuesday after Labor Day through September 30. 

• Dogs must be on a leash or under positive voice control at all times. 

• You are responsible for removing dog waste from the beach. 

• It’s illegal to allow your dogs to harass local wildlife. 

Keep Your Dog Safe in the Heat 

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Hilton Head is known for its subtropical climate. In the summer, the temperatures can reach the 100s! It’s so important to

• Stay away from hot sand and hot pavement. 

• Make sure your dog is well hydrated by bringing lots of extra water for them to drink.

• Don’t over-exercise your pet.

• Stay cool in the shade by finding a shady tree or bringing a beach umbrella.

What to Pack for Your Pup 

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While you’re busy packing for the whole family, it can be easy to forget something! That’s why we compiled a little doggy packing list that you can consult while planning your beach vacation: Here are some things that you won’t want to leave behind: 

• Dog food 

• Leash and collar 

• Any necessary certificates, licenses, or healthy records 

• Crate or carrier 

• Dog bed 

• Dog waste bags 

• Food and water bowls 

• Toys 

• Life jacket 

• Prescription medications

• & treats, of course! 

6 of the Best Dog-Friendly Activities on Hilton Head Island 

1. Go for a Walk on the Beach 

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Is there anything more relaxing than walking on the beach with your dog? Let them dip their paws in the waves and sniff the shoreline. It’s the perfect start to the perfect day! Some of the best dog-friendly beaches include: 

• Burke’s Beach 

• Alder Lane Beach Access 

• Fish Haul Creek Beach 

• Hilton Head Island Beach 

• Shipyard Beach Access 

2. Dine Outside at Dog-Friendly Restaurants 

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Take a break from all your adventuring to grab a bite to eat. While dogs aren’t allowed inside restaurants, there are various establishments with outdoor seating that allow dogs. Leash up, and head to one of these amazing restaurants with your pup! 

• Skull Creek Boathouse 

• Bistro 17

• Skillets Cafe & Grill (p.s. They even have a “doggie menu!”)

• Old Oyster Factory 

3. Sniff out the Best Nature Trails 

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Are you and your canine companion ready to explore? Sniff out some of the best nature trails on the island with your furry friend! There are so many

• Audubon Newhall Preserve 

• Sea Pines Forest Preserve 

• Jarvis Creek Fitness Trail 

• Chaplin Community Park 

4. Meet New Friends at the Dog Park 

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If your furry friend needs to blow off steam, take them to a local dog park to romp around! There are plenty of parks that are dog-friendly as well as one that has an off-leash area for your pup. These are a few parks that we recommend: 

• Chaplin Best Friends Dog Park (off-leash dog park)

• Coligny Beach Park 

• Jarvis Creek Park 

5. Cruise the Waterways 

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Is your dog an adventure seeker? Then you’ll love what Hilton Head has in store for you! There are so many fun ways to enjoy getting out on the water with your beloved pooch. Go on a dolphin cruise, try kayaking, or just go for a swim! 

• Captain Mark’s Dolphin Cruise 

• Vagabond Cruise 

• Calibogue Cruises 

• Runaway Fishing Charters 

• Over Yonder Charters 

• Paddleboarding 

6. Hang out in Your Pet-Friendly Vacation Rental 

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At Beach Properties, we understand just how important it is to bring your pup along for the ride. For many, leaving their dog behind with an expensive pet-sitter or boarding kennel just isn’t an option. That’s why we offer a wide selection of

Start planning your dream beach vacation today! 

Browse Our Pet-Friendly Properties