I can remember when people used to walk on the beach while their dogs scampered in and out through the surf, chasing balls or just nosing through the sand. There are still some beaches that welcome well-behaved pooches on leashes, providing they’re controled and the owners commit to cleaning up after their furry friends. There’s nothing more fun for a dog than running back and forth on a long, brisk walk with its “master!” There’s an endless array of things to discover, like a pesky gull or a sandpiper, or even those little critters called crabs that are so much fun to chase down. Dogs and beaches were made for each other and I found some in South Carolina that sound like canine heaven itself. It’s up to people to find their own lodging, but this is just a capsule of some of the Charleston area beaches that are welcoming doggy walkers to their sandy shores.
Edisto Island is a great place to go and relax with your dog. The whole island is extremely pet-friendly and walking on the beach here is no problem. Just make sure to have dogs leased with a six-foot or shorter leash and to clean up after your canine friend. This is the dog etiquette required at every beach except for those few that allow dogs to run on the sand unleashed. Edisto Beach State Park has a four-mile road that wanders through fascinating maritime forest and overlooks the salt marshes. Sunbathe with your dog or hunt for shells on the beach. Take some peaceful sunset strolls and just listen to the gentle waves lap up and recede in the sand. More information is available by calling 843-869-2756.
Foley Beach only allows dogs on their beach from Oct. 1-April 31. TThe dog protocol here is the same as with any beach discussed. This beach area has so many special events and entertainment it is simply common sense to purchase one of their Gold Passes which give access to three beaches and lots of other spcial events during the year, including a Pet Fest at Mt. Plesant at Palmetto Islands County Park. This pass is just $75 for regular purchase, but it’s only $55 for Charleston residents and just $40 for Charleston discounted seniors over the age of 60. It’s really too good a deal to pass up for any Charleston or area residents who may want to do regular beach walks with their dogs in the winter months. Foly Beach has umbrella rentals and restaurants and picnic areas for relaxation. Dogs love the beach too, so it’s just common sense to visit a dog-friendly place where the two of you will have so much fun and get such good exercise together regularly. It’s run by the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission which can be reached by calling 843-588-3474.
Kiawah Island also takes kindly to dogs and dog lovers, with the same general rules that apply in the other parks. Its Beachwalker County Park is just another place where walkers can take their hounds for a fresh outing in the sea breases along the waterfront sands of South Carolina. Their contact phone number is 843-768-2395.
This park is accessed by taking Bohicket Road to the island. Pass through the security gate and turn right on Beachwalker Drive, which leads right up to the park.
