Charleston is an exceptionally dog friendly city and you can let Fido run free(ish) on our local beaches! Sullivan’s Island has the strictest rules: aside from permitted hours and leash laws, all dogs (visitors’ and locals’ alike) must have a tag which can be purchased from the town hall during weekday office hours.
Sullivan’s Island: All dogs visiting must have a dog permit and the town issued dog collar. Summer season is from May 1-September 30 and they must be off the beach between 10am and 6pm. Dogs allowed on the beach: Off Leash: 5am-10am On Leash: 6pm-5 am
Winter Season is from October 1-April 31: Off Leash: 5am-12pm On Leash: 12pm-5am
Folly Beach: Tag required for residents; visitors exempt. Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach from May 1- September 30, except from 10am-6pm.
James Island County Park: Bring off-leash dogs to the largest fenced-in dog park year-round to splash in the lake and dig in the sand. $2 per human, the park is open from 8am-8pm through Labor Day.
Isle of Palms: Tag required for residents; visitors exempt. Leashed dogs are allowed year-round. Off-leash hours are from April 1-September 15, 5am-8am; September 16-March 31, 4pm-10am.
Palmetto Islands County Park: Dogs are allowed off leash from January-April; 8am-sunset; May-Labor Day; 8am-8pm, and September-December; 8am-sunset.
North Charleston Wannamaker County Park: The park offers over 1,000 acres of beautiful woodlands, wetlands, and provides guests with a variety of activities. Miles of paved trails allow for exploration of the area’s beautiful natural resources. Note, the dog park is closed every Monday morning until 10am for routine maintenance. January-April; 8am-sunset, May-Labor Day; 8am-8pm, September-December; 8am-sunset.
Kiawah Beachwalker County Park: Leashed dogs are welcome year-round, 9am-7pm through Labor Day, $7 per car.
Governor’s Park: Located near the Family Circle Tennis Center, this park is easily accessed from downtown Daniel Island and features soccer and baseball fields, a tot playground, dog run, waterfront trails, and more!
Freedom Park: Dogs are allowed to roam off-leash in specified areas in the park.
