Steeped in history and Spanish moss, South Carolina is known for its stately plantations, sandy beaches, and swaying palms. In reality, the state is divided into three diverse regions. The upstate, anchored by the growing city of Greenville, is popular for outdoor activities and quaint mountain towns. The Midlands or Piedmont region is home to the state capital of Columbia and Congaree National Park, where you'll find the tallest trees east of the Mississippi and synchronous fireflies. And the coast is popular for its historical gems like Charleston and Magnolia Gardens, as well as golf and beach getaways in Hilton Head Island and Myrtle Beach. No matter which part of South Carolina you intend to visit, it's sure to be a memorable pet friendly trip.
Best Time To Visit
With the Blue Ridge Mountains in the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, there isn't a bad time of year for a pet friendly trip to South Carolina. Spring tends to be the rainiest season, but it’s also when the flowers and trees bloom. The beach towns get very crowded at the peak of summer, but the weather is still great during the shoulder months of May and September, and pets are allowed on more beaches in the off-season. Fall in the Upcountry is absolutely gorgeous as the trees change colors in the mountains. Even winter is balmy compared to states further north, making this an ideal time to visit Charleston. Winter is also when the best deals on hotel rooms can be found throughout the state. Peak hurricane season in South Carolina is late August to late October, so travelers should keep an eye on the daily weather reports at that time.
Things Not To Miss
Walk the trails, take a guided garden tour, or view the 400-acre estate from the Nature Train and Nature Boat with your pet at Magnolia Gardens and Plantation in Charleston.
Enjoy the seaside resort of Myrtle Beach, where pets are permitted on the sand and boardwalk all day between Labor Day and April 30. (During the summer months, pets are allowed only from 5pm to 10am.)
Visit Shelter Cove Towne Centre on Hilton Head Island for unique shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Watch your pup have a ball at the four-acre dog park and beach at James Island County Park in Charleston.
Paddle or hike your way through the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States at Congaree National Park.
