The Best Dog-Friendly Destinations of 2026: Hilton Head, South Carolina

In the grand tradition of coastal enclaves, outdoor dining is central to Hilton Head’s social vibe, and many restaurants accommodate dogs with shaded patios and water bowls. Start by having lunch at Skull Creek Boathouse overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway. Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, one of the island’s oldest waterfront restaurants, also welcomes pets, as does the laid-back Black Marlin Bayside Grill near Palmetto Bay Marina (a bonus win as the spot has the island’s best brunch). Cafe lounging con perros is also a common activity here, particularly at Java Burrito Company and Carolina Coffee & Crumbs.

Coastal Discovery Museum’s open fields and walking trails are dog-friendly, and the weekly Farmers Market held there welcomes leashed dogs (as does Hilton Head Brewing Company). Chaplin Community Park includes a large fenced dog park shaded by pines, and nearby Burkes Beach is an ideal spot for a late-afternoon walk.

Active pups can also join in on mellow water adventures in Hilton Head, from gliding past marshes in a kayak to riding along in a bike basket en route to a sunset shoreline stroll. Between trail time, beach play, and the chance to socialize at dog parks and patios, most dogs end up happily worn out by day’s end—leaving their humans free to enjoy a quiet evening while their four-legged companions snooze contentedly at their feet.

“This place is insanely dog friendly,” says Charlie Clark, VP of Communications at the Hilton Head Island‑Bluffton Chamber of Commerce. “It’s not unusual to have dog friendly pup cups at restaurants and water bowls brought to the table with drinks. One of our restaurants has its own dog menu (the Southern Barrel ‘Barking’ Co.), with ‘Mosey’s Meaty Munchies’ — a mix of brisket, diced chicken, shrimp and bacon, dog appetizers, and even dessert with a fruity frozen ‘dogsicle.'”

The best dog-friendly hotels in Hilton Head

Hilton Head is pretty dog friendly overall, though you could say it favors smaller dogs. Many hotels are dog-friendly, but may have limits that favor small and medium pups, usually capping around 40 pounds or so. But there’s also a huge pool of pet-friendly rentals, condos, and vacation homes that accept large dogs or don’t cap size at all, sometimes even welcoming multiple pets.

We hope you love the spaces and stays we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Beach House Hilton Head Island

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Beach House offers the beachside access of the island’s bigger resorts but maintains more of a laid-back vibe, as evidenced in the extensive cocktail menu at the bar — and the fact that you can sit and enjoy that drink overlooking the water, without an endless stream of people interrupting your view. Dogs also appreciate this setting, where they’re welcomed with special dog-walking and relief area.

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Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island

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If your pup is on the smaller side, Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island is a great pick. The hotel welcomes dogs up to 40 pounds, and dogs are welcomed with treats and pet supplies. The hotel is in an excellent location both for walking to grassy areas and for humans who want to walk to the beach. There’s also a sprawling pool area (pups not allowed in the pool, of course).

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Palmera Inn and Suites

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All-suite and centrally located, this property suits dog owners with kitchen-equipped rooms, easy access to island trails, and generous pet policies. Dogs up to 75 pounds are welcomed, with dog stations, reasonable fees, and convenient ground-floor access for quick walks.

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