As the dog days of summer continue, now is the perfect time to explore the Lowcountry with your furry four-legged friend. While Charleston, Kiawah, and the surrounding areas are known for their rich history, beautiful coastlines, and great food, there are also numerous dog-friendly spots in the Lowcountry. From beaches to breezy restaurant porches, read on for suggestions of where to explore with your four-legged friend!

Outdoor parks

From leisurely strolls to beach days, from relaxing picnic locations to social dog parks, the outdoor parks in the Lowcountry offer many options for pet owners to simply enjoy the outdoors with their dogs. Beachwalker Park on Kiawah Island and Isle of Palms County Park are both great options for beachgoers to relax on the beach with their furry companion. Isle of Palms is a popular spot for visitors, while Beachwalker Park is a bit more private. Both beaches do have restrictions, so be sure to check them out before letting your dog romp around off-leash.

James Island County Park hosts an off-leash dog park for dogs of all sizes to play and socialize. The dog park has separate sections for small and large dogs, as well as lake access for swimmers. The rest of the park is dog-friendly as well, but dogs must be kept on a leash outside of the dog park. Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant and The Charleston Battery are both excellent places to stroll around and take in the sights with your four-legged friend. Enjoy one of the many Shem Creek restaurants with waterfront patios, or bring a picnic to enjoy in the dog-friendly White Point Garden.

Shopping & Dining

Possibly one of the most famous areas in downtown Charleston, King Street is a very popular shopping district. You can find many sidewalk water bowls for your thirsty pooch. Be sure to check the storefront windows for the pet-friendly sticker, indicating that well-behaved dogs are permitted inside the store. If you can dine al fresco at a restaurant in the Lowcountry, chances are high that your dog can join you! Poogan’s Porch, Daps, and Bay Street Biergarten are all highly-rated restaurants in downtown Charleston that offer dog-friendly dining. If you’re in Kiawah, enjoy lunch and expansive waterfront views with your furry friend on the porch of The Ryder Cup.

Other Dog-Friendly Activities

Enjoying the Lowcountry with your furry companion doesn’t have to be limited to outdoor restaurants and parks! Some of our favorite activities are a bit more unexpected. If your dog enjoys being on the water as much as being in it, The Charleston Water Taxi is a great option to travel around the area while enjoying a nice breeze. Charleston Outdoor Adventures also allows dogs on kayak rentals as well as many private tours. If you prefer taking in the beauty of nature on foot, leashed dogs are allowed to explore the public gardens at Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, as well as The Charleston Tea Garden.

We love our four-legged friends and are thrilled to live in a region that loves them too! Whether you’re a Lowcountry local or considering becoming one, be sure to check out some of our Outdoor Spaces for some pet-friendly design inspiration!