Written by: Helen Wells
Helen writes for Sea Star Realty, sharing local insights, travel tips, and vacation inspiration to help visitors make the most of their time along the Grand Strand.
Taking a vacation on the Grand Strand is even more enjoyable if you can bring your dog. Since the South Grand Strand has beaches that are friendly to dogs, as well as walking trails, restaurants, and parks, you and your dog can spend a wonderful getaway by the coast together.
Whether you're staying in Garden City Beach, Surfside Beach, Murrells Inlet, or Myrtle Beach, there are a variety of ways to make use of the surroundings with your pet, and this guide will help you discover the best pet-friendly activities on the Grand Strand.
If you'd like to relax on the beach, eat at some of the local restaurants, or spend time outside, then take your dog with you and discover the reason the Grand Strand is one of the best pet-friendly places for a vacation on the South Carolina coast.
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In this blog:
- Surfside Beach Bark Park
- Pet-Friendly Hiking Trails in the Myrtle Beach Area
- Pet-Friendly Beaches in the Grand Strand
- Dog-Friendly Restaurants in the Myrtle Beach Area
- Book Your Grand Strand Vacation with Sea Star Realty
Surfside Beach Bark Park
Take a look at the dog park at Surfside Beach, which is open from sunrise until sunset, so your dog will have plenty of time to run, play, and meet other dogs while you're on your visit to the South Grand Strand.
A fence encloses the park and includes a pond where the dogs can splash about and cool down. It has separate sections for big and small dogs so that all dogs can play safely. While you are there, you can sit on a bench, walk along the paved route, or let your dog meet some new friends.
Pet-Friendly Hiking Trails in the Myrtle Beach Area
Hiking is an excellent way to explore the Grand Strand with your dog, since there are pet-friendly trails near our vacation rentals that let you and your dog appreciate the region's natural beauty. Don't forget to take along some water, waste bags, and keep your dog on a leash when necessary.
The Hulk
- Myrtle Beach
- 6.0 miles
- About 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete
The Hulk is one of the local favorites because of its wooded surroundings and peaceful location, removed from the crowded beach.
Garden City Beach Walk
- Murrells Inlet
- 4.9 miles
- About 1 hour and 23 minutes to complete
The trail offers fresh coastal air and excellent views, so it's ideal for walking with your dog in the morning or in the evening.
Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk
- Murrells Inlet
- 1 mile
- About 20 minutes to complete
There are plenty of stops along the Marsh Walk where you can enjoy waterfront dining, entertainment, and scenic views with your dog.
Pet-Friendly Beaches in the Grand Strand
No one wants to leave their pet at home while the family is having fun at the beach. Fortunately, several beaches near Myrtle Beach are dog-friendly and allow your pet to join in the activities. Since beach rules can vary by season, it's a good idea to check the local regulations before you go.
Garden City Beach
The beach spans two counties and is subject to different regulations depending on which part you visit.
Garden City Beach (Horry County)
- From May 1st through Labor Day, dogs are not permitted on the beach between 10 am and 5 pm.
- At all other times, dogs must be on a leash no longer than seven feet.
Garden City Beach (Georgetown County)
- Dogs have to be on a leash between 9 am. and 7 pm.
- In all other hours, the dogs can go without their leashes, provided they remain under voice control.
Pawleys Island
- Dogs are welcome year-round.
- Owners must keep their dogs under voice control, carry a leash, and remove their pets' waste.
- Dogs must be on leashes and under control between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm from 1st May to 30th September.
Huntington Beach State Park
Huntington Beach State Park, one of the most popular outdoor spots in the area, allows dogs year-round.
- Dogs can be on the southern part of the beach
- Dogs have to be on a leash, which is no more than six feet in length
- Dogs are not allowed in the buildings or on the northern part of the beach
Apart from the beach, you have the opportunity to go birdwatching, take part in nature trails, and enjoy some of the best coastal views in the Grand Strand.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants in the Myrtle Beach Area
In many restaurants on the Grand Strand, you are allowed to take your dog to the outdoor seating area so you can have your meal together.
Surfside Beach
Dagwood's Deli & Bar
- Cuisine: American and bar food
- Known for burgers, cheesesteaks, specialty sandwiches, and hearty portions
- Dogs are welcome in the fenced patio area
Pizza Hyena
- Cuisine: Pizza
- Serves wood-fired pizza, wings, sandwiches, and salads
- Dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio
Wooden Spoon Eatery
- Cuisine: American and Greek
- Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Dogs are welcome on the outside patio
Myrtle Beach
It's worth making a short drive to these restaurants since they go the extra mile for people who love dogs.
The Sneaky Beagle
The popular restaurant in Myrtle Beach is very dog-friendly and even offers menu items specifically for them. Customers can enjoy tacos, cheesesteaks, salads, and sandwiches.
Tidal Creek Brewhouse
The Tidal Creek Brewhouse features a special area called the K-9 Korral in which dogs can play while you are having a drink of craft beer, coffee, or a meal. Dogs that behave well are allowed in all the outdoor areas, including the beer garden.
Book Your Grand Strand Vacation with Sea Star Realty
Bringing your pets on your Grand Strand vacation? We have lots of pet-friendly rentals. Sea Star Realty offers places to stay in Garden City Beach, Surfside Beach, and Murrells Inlet so that you can be close to the best dog-friendly beaches, trails, and restaurants.
No matter if you're looking for a snug condo, a large beach house, or one that has extra space for your family, you'll be able to find places that make traveling with pets simple and enjoyable.
Sea Star Realty offers property rentals that come with private pools and excellent ocean views. Take a look at our selection of Myrtle Beach vacation rentals and begin planning your next trip, this time making it pet-friendly.
Featured Rental: Atlantic Getaway