Miles of Dog-Friendly Fun in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
- Luie Boone
- Sep 7
- 9 min read
This vacation destination is a part of our third series of blog posts titled Rover Ready.
Luie Boone heard whispers of Myrtle Beach and didn’t hesitate—he promptly, and quite rightfully, renamed it Mutt-le Beach. Want to know why? Well, according to Luie Boone, it’s got more paws than people, more fetch than finesse, and the kind of tail-wagging vibes that make every pup feel like the top dog. Surf, sand, and slobbery smiles? That’s Mutt-le Beach! Expect Luie Boone was told by his hoomans that he can't keep trying to rename places. In his heart, it will always be Mutt-le Beach. Officially, he supposes it can stay as Myrtle Beach, as long as he gets to visit!
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a great place to bring your dog along for a vacation full of adventures. With miles of sandy shoreline, plenty of outdoor parks, and restaurants that welcome four-legged guests, Myrtle Beach makes it easy to plan a getaway that both you and your pup can enjoy together. Whether your dog loves splashing in the waves, meeting new furry (or hooman) friends, or just lounging by your side, there are plenty of ways to make memories on the coast.
Luie Boone reckons that one of the absolute best parts about bringing your dog to Myrtle Beach is the ocean. Who doesn't love the ocean? Maybe animals that can't swim, but Luie Boone can swim, and Luie Boone loves it! Myrtle Beach is divided into three sections, based on where each section is located on a map: North, Central, and South. Each of these three beaches has its own personality and charm.
North Myrtle Beach tends to be quieter and more relaxed. It has wide stretches of sand, which are perfect for long walks.
Central Myrtle Beach is considered to be livelier, with its iconic boardwalk, exciting shops, and plenty of people-watching opportunities.
South Myrtle Beach has a more laid-back and local vibe. It provides easy access to parks and campgrounds.
No matter which part of Myrtle Beach that you stay in, you’ll find dog-friendly spaces to explore. However, there are a few seasonal rules about when pups can be on the beach! Luie Boone says as long as you pay attention to the rules, enjoying the sand and the water is a breeze. In the summer months, dogs are welcome on the beach before 10 AM and after 5 PM. You know what's so great about those timeframes? Well, it's when the weather is cooler, so less concern about hot sandy sizzling your pooch's paws. Also, you can catch the sunrises and sunsets at this time. From September through April, the beach opens up to dogs all day long. This gives you and your pup even more freedom to roam, play, and splash.
If you're looking for some fun away from the beach, Luie Boone has some ideas for you! In fact, Myrtle Beach has plenty of outdoor spaces where dogs are welcome. One great spot is the Market Common. With its wide walking paths, shops, and a dog park, the Market Common is a great place to enjoy with your dog. Another local gem is the Myrtle Beach State Park, which offers shaded trails and picnic areas where you can relax with your pup. There's also stretches of shoreline, where leashed dogs are allowed to explore. And for the dogs who just love to socialize? Luie Boone says that Barc Parc is a local favorite. This spot has a big, fenced-in area, where pooches can run freely. There, dogs can put their sniffers into action, whether they're outgoing and eager to make new friends or prefer to explore solo at their own pace.
Looking to dine out with your pup in Myrtle Beach? No worries! Many restaurants offer pet-friendly patios, so you can enjoy a meal while your pup lounges happily at your feet. RipTydz Oceanfront Grille & Rooftop Bar is a must-stop restaurant, just for its gorgeous ocean views. Crooked Hammock Brewery is another great place to visit, due to its laid-back atmosphere and plenty of outdoor space. Be sure to visit River City Café, too, as it's a casual favorite where dogs are just as welcome as people. You’ll often find staff bringing out water bowls and offering a little extra attention to your furry dining companion.
Finding a comfortable place to stay can be simple, too. Myrtle Beach offers lots of pet-friendly accommodations, ranging from hotels to vacation rentals. La Quinta Inn & Suites and Ocean Park Resort are two popular picks for dog owners. There are also plenty of Airbnbs, which cater specifically to guests with pets. Many properties understandably charge a small fee for dogs. Below, Luie Boone will recommend the incredible rental, SI SIESTA, for your stay in Myrtle Beach.
Please remember that traveling with your dog does take a little extra planning. However, with a little planning ahead, you can guarantee it's a smooth and exciting trip. Be sure to pack all the essentials, including food, water bowls, a leash, favorite toys, and maybe even a blanket or bed that smells like home! Always keep an eye on the temperature, since sand can get quite hot in the summer. Fresh, cold water is also a must, in order to guarantee your dog (and yourself) remain hydrated! Lastly, it's very important to follow local leash rules and be considerate to other beachgoers.
Overall, bringing your dog to Myrtle Beach turns a regular beach vacation into something truly special! From watching the sunrise while your pup trots beside you, to relaxing together after a day of exploring, you’ll find that this coastal town—whether you're in North, Central, or South Myrtle Beach—has plenty to offer.
Paws Rest Here
Luie Boone paw-selected this perfect vacation rental for your stay in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Check it out below!
Rental Name: SI SIESTA
This rental has 4 bedrooms with 6 beds and 2 bathrooms.
Photos courtesy of THOMAS Beach Vacations
It features the following amenities:
On the Atlantic oceanfront
Charcoal grill
Beach shower
Quick stroll to the surf and sand
Easy beach access right from backyard
Spacious oceanfront deck with gates, which keeps your dog secure
What does Luie Boone think of this rental? He woofed:
Si Siesta! And, no, I'm not saying yes to an afternoon nap. I'm actually talking about SI SIESTA, the rental that my hoomans picked out for our trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. I'm bringing my best buddy Spike. He's my turtle plush toy, and he's super excited, because Myrtle Beach is home to many, many, many turtles! He hopes to meet some of his relatives. Do you want to know the best part about this vacation rental? The backyard is the beach! Yeah, you heard that right. I'm going to be able to zoom straight down from the deck, onto the sand, and into the ocean. Hopefully, I can find a spot to do a big cannonball off. If not, I'll just roll around in the sand until I look like a sugar-coated donut. The seagulls better leave me alone, because I'm not actually a donut; I'm still a furry, happy pup! After a fun day on the beach, I'll head back up to the huge deck and get locked in by its gates. My hoomans say I have no self-control when it comes to the water and swimming. They'd be right. Up on the deck, I'll sniff the salty breeze, bark at the seagulls, and soak up the sun—all while keeping my eye on the grill. I love me a hot dog! The inside of the rental sounds just as paw-some. There are tons of comfy beds, and a cozy living room for snuggle sessions. The kitchen is fully stocked, too. I'll be flashing my best begging eyes at dinnertime. I haven’t even set one of my hairy paws inside yet, but I already know this is going to be the best trip ever! Myrtle Beach, here we come!
Paws Venture Here
Luie Boone sniffed out and dug up these local gems for you to check out while vacationing in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina!
Myrtle Beach State Park
This is a popular, dog-friendly state park right in the heart of the Grand Strand. According to Luie Boone (and Google), the Grand Strand is a stretch of beach land on the Atlantic Ocean. It is over 60 miles long, and it is nestled amongst the maritime forest! Luie Boone reckons that he can run across the whole Grand Strand in just a few minutes; his hoomans just shake their heads at him and laugh. Overall, this local gem is a quiet and, surprisingly, green escape from the otherwise bustling beach. Please note that leashed dogs are permitted on the trails.
Horry County Bike and Run Park
This unique park hosts seven miles of mountain-biking and mountain-running trails. The trail system was developed by the Myrtle Beach Triathlon Club, as well as partner running and cycling clubs. Luie Boone warns that this is not always a nice, easy stroll through the woods. Nah-uh. He says that you have to keep your head on a swivel and your sniff on alert, or you might get dozed over by a herd of bicycles. Scary! Always be considerate to other users of the trail, keep your dog on a leash, and have a working recall for your pooch.
Withers Swash Park
Withers Swash Park is a dog-friendly recreational area. You can bring your furry friend here to explore the 15-acre park, featuring trails and boardwalks. Luie Boone wonders if he can sprint off one of the boardwalks and cannonball into the water. Don't miss out on the Withers Swash Pier, which overlooks the beautiful green wetlands.
McLean Park
The McLean Park is a spacious, 10-acre park. It has a swimmable, 2-acre lake, and it offers a paved half-mile walking path and fitness trail. This park is known to locals and visitors alike as the most beautiful park in the community! Luie Boone says you better not let one of your pooch's landmines ruin the beautiful park's standing.
Island Adventure Watersports
Island Adventure Watersports offers pontoon boat rentals, which is the perfect solution for dogs and their hoomans who want to get out and enjoy the water. Depending on your pooch's vibe, you can have some big fun or do some relaxing. Luie Boone wouldn't be able to wear shades like that pooch; Luie Boone would have on a life jacket and be doing cannonballs off the pontoon all day long. Afterwards, he'd recommend the two-hour ride to the beautiful and popular Sandy Island, where there is a secluded beach to enjoy. For the hoomans: all gas is included, so no refueling cost!
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is always a family favorite. This 1.2-mile long boardwalk provides incredible oceanfront views of the pristine beach and ocean. It's perfect for getting in some exercise. Or, for simply taking a relaxing stroll with your pooch—all while enjoying the views. Luie Boone's going to have to recreate the picture to the left. He's going to make his hoomans bring a crown, so he can pose in front of that sandcastle like he's the king that owns it!
Living Large Party Barge
Are you ready to live it large with your pooch? Well, then it's time to visit the Living Large Party Barge! You can enjoy a dog-friendly, private charter tour around the Myrtle Beach area. You can spend the day on the water, swimming, fishing, and touring the coastline. Luie Boone's hoomans will have to pack his life jacket, because there's zero promise that Luie Boone doesn't try to jump over the railing of the party barge and do the biggest cannonball known to man. Because why is he on a boat, if he's not doing cannonballs?
The Sneaky Beagle
This restaurant has outdoor tables, where your pup can join you for a meal. They have a special dog menu, which includes options like peanut butter-coco balls and chicken jerky! The eatery offers an impressive selection of tacos, sandwiches, and sushi rolls. You can pair your meal with one of their craft beers or signature cocktails. Luie Boone will refrain from drinking, just in case that sneaky beagle tries to sneak up on him.
Luie Boone's Pet Peeve about
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
There's just so much to love about this vacation destination, but there's one thing that's got Luie Boone's leash in a twist. He woofed:
The sand of Myrtle Beach goes on forever and forever and forever. That sounds like heaven to a pooch like me. Miles of digging, rolling, and running until my paws just can't go anymore. Don't forget that Spike, my turtle plushie, is coming along for the trip. He loves a good adventure, and I bet he's just as excited as I am! In my head, I can already hear what Spike will say about all the sand. He’ll probably tell me, “Dig faster and find me a new shell!" Then, he’ll want me to bury him until only his little head sticks out, so he can pretend that he’s a real turtle hiding in the dunes. I know that Spike loves the idea of being part of the action, even if he can’t actually move. But my humans keep reminding me that the sand can be tricky. It sticks to toys—especially Spike—and sneaks into my mouth. If I eat too much sand, I could get a sore belly. That means no fun for either of us. Sand can also get stuck between my toes, making them really itchy. Plus, it can make my eyes water if a gust blows it the wrong way and right into my eyes. Worst of all, hot sand can burn my paw pads if I’m not careful. I'm not worried, though. I know that my hoomans will take really good care of me and make sure that no sand bothers me!
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