Isle of Palms - We Welcome Dogs!

Isle of Palms - We Welcome Dogs!

Did you know that May is National Pet Month?  In some areas that may not matter very much, but in Isle of Palms, we take pride in being one of the most pet-friendly beaches around!

Isle of Palms allows dogs on the beach at all times, but has restrictions about when the dogs must be leashed and in control.  Schedule is as follows:

April 1st- September 14th:  Off leash 5:00 am - 9:00 am

September 15th - March 31st:  Off leash 4:00 pm - 10:00 am

At all other times, dogs must be on a leash and under complete control, even in the water.

The health and safety of dogs also matters to the community - as all dogs- locally and “just visiting” must have proof of a current rabies vaccination.

When planning a vacation with your favorite furry friend(s), make sure to take note of several fun places (in addition to the Isle of Palms shoreline!)  that will love and welcome your dog as much as you do! 

They include:

Isle of Palms County Park - A specific portion of the beach open to the public that includes ample parking, picnic areas, showers, and restrooms.  Lifeguards are also often on duty. An added convenience - waste stations.

Breach Inlet - On the northern tip of Isle of Palms, a quieter beach excursion awaits you and your pup!  Still all the beauty and smells to explore - but a little more secluded and less crowded!

Isle of Palms Recreation Center - 
The Rec Center has walking trails and open spaces for pet exercise, check their website for more specific guidelines and event details.

The Rec Center hosts one of the most popular pet friendly events on the island- May 4th from 11-3 pm, “The Isle of Paws Music Fest!”  In addition to great live music and community, your precious pet will enjoy entering the Dog Show, categories include Cutest puppy, Best looking, and Best Rescue (Male and Female). Free pet photos and pet related vendors will also be on site.  Food trucks paired with the band, “The Idlewild Revival” playing music of the Allman Brothers Band will ensure a very fun afternoon!

The Mount Pleasant Blessing of the Fleet and Seafood Festival is also another pet-friendly event held annually, this year occurring on April 28th.  Hosted by the Mount Pleasant Memorial Park and the Rec Center, the event brings together community members for celebrating and paying tribute to the local shrimping and fishing industry.  A boat parade, live music, and craft show draw the community in, but the Mount Pleasant Artists Guild, Shrimp eating contest, and Shag dancing keep the party lively!  This year marks the 37th annual gathering for the Blessing of the Fleet and Seafood Festival.

Additionally, many local restaurants welcome dogs (and their families).  Red’s Ice House gladly welcomes dogs to their waterfront patio overlooking Shem’s Creek.  Acme Lowcountry Kitchen, and Coconut Joe’s Beach Grill also warmly welcome dogs to their deck dining areas.

Lastly, if you plan on taking a day trip into Charleston, your furry friends request Sundays!  The 2nd Sunday of every month, Charleston blocks the road for the benefit and protection of pedestrians and canines only, from the King St. and Calhoun intersection to where it meets Queen St.  Local restaurants set up tables streetside and the area is buzzing with musicians and vendors, all welcoming your pet companion! 

Isle of Palms’ Dog friendly spirit demonstrates its welcoming spirit in all aspects.  The staff at IOP Escapes would be honored to welcome you, your family, and your pets to our slice of heaven!  We are happy to help you find a beautiful, comfortable, and conveniently located pet-friendly vacation beach rental for your next getaway, give us a call!