Dog Adventures

Cinema · Boat Tours · Mini Golf · Kayaking · Bike Pet Trailers · Daufuskie Island · Farmers Markets · Indoor Spots to Escape the Weather · Events & Seasonal

Hilton Head Island is one of the most dog-friendly destinations on the East Coast — and if you know where to look, your dog can join you for almost everything. This page covers confirmed dog-friendly activities, events, and outings on HHI and in the surrounding Lowcountry. As always, policies change — call ahead when it matters.

Also see: Dog-Friendly Restaurants | Beaches & Dogs | Parks & Dogs

On the Water

Several local tour companies welcome leashed, well-behaved dogs aboard. Most require prior notice — call or email before you book.

  • Lowcountry Ferry — departs from C.C. Haigh Jr. Boat Landing (Pinckney Island Boat Landing) on Hilton Head. Dogs must be leashed and restrained at all times. All pets require a ticket. (843) 341-2327
  • Dolphin Discoveries Hilton Head — Dogs welcome on private boats including the Guaranteed Dolphin Tour, Family Fishing, Fireworks, Shark Tooth Hunting, Sunset, and Beachcomber tours. Dogs must be leashed and off cushions/seats.
  • Vagabond Cruise — Well-behaved dogs welcome on Ocean Dolphin Cruises, Sunset Dolphin Cruises, and the Daufuskie Island Ferry (9 AM trip only).
  • Infinity Charters — Dog-friendly; wildlife viewing, crabbing, fishing, and sunset cruises.
  • Runaway Charters of Hilton Head — One well-behaved leashed dog welcome on fishing trips ranging from 4–9 hours.
  • Captain Mark’s Dolphin Cruise — Leashed dogs welcome on dolphin watch, sunset cruise, and crabbing adventure.
  • Over Yonder Charters — All tours pet-friendly; call ahead if other parties are aboard.
  • Captain Buddy’s — Leashed dogs welcome on certain tours with prior approval.
  • Cross Island Cruises — Private, dog-friendly dolphin tours and charters.
  • Outside Hilton Head — Dogs welcome on guided boat tours including the Ultimate Lowcountry Day, Private Beachcombing Cruise, and Private Dolphin Eco Tour.

Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals

Daufuski Island

Daufuskie is one of the most dog-friendly destinations in the Lowcountry. No cars, no bridges, no rush — just sandy paths, open golf carts, and a community that genuinely welcomes dogs.

Getting There

  • Lowcountry Ferry — departs from C.C. Haigh Jr. Boat Landing (Pinckney Island Boat Landing) on Hilton Head. Dogs must be leashed and restrained at all times. All pets require a ticket. (843) 341-2327
  • Vagabond Cruise — dogs welcome on the Daufuskie Island Ferry (9 AM trip only); dogs must remain on deck.

Golf carts are the primary mode of transportation on the island — no cars allowed.

  • Tour Daufuskie — Dog-friendly golf cart rentals and island tours. (843) 842-9449
  • Daufuskie Difference — Dog-friendly ferry rides and golf cart rentals. daufuskiedifference.com | (843) 290-9336
  • Daufuskie Transit — Dogs ride free on island transportation. daufuskietransit.com | (843) 338-2570

    Other golf cart rental companies on the island include Mungeon Creek Retreat, Daufuskie Carts, and Freeport Marina — call ahead to confirm their individual pet policies.

Beaches on Daufuskie
Leashed dogs are allowed on the beach before 10 AM and after 5 PM from April 1 through September 30. More flexibility in the off-season.

Dining
Pets are welcome at the outdoor seating areas of the island’s restaurants. Pack enough dog food for your stay — options on the island are limited.

Bike Trails & Pet Trailers

Hilton Head has more than 60 miles of bike paths — and your dog doesn’t have to stay home. These local rental companies offer pet trailers you can attach to a bike:

Mini Golf

  • Legendary Golf — 900 William Hilton Pkwy, Hilton Head Island, SC — (843) 686-3399
  • Adventure Cove — 18 Folly Field Rd, Hilton Head — May welcome dogs in outdoor areas; call ahead to confirm before you go. (843) 842-9990

Movie Theaters & Outdoor Films

  • Park Plaza Cinema — Dogs 20 lbs and under are welcome — leashed or in a carrier at all times, no furniture, clean and well-behaved. Their words, not ours — and we love them for it.
  • Shelter Cove Towne Centre — Outdoor Movie Night — Free outdoor movies in the park at Shelter Cove Community Park, every Thursday evening through August 13. Movies start at 7:30 PM. Dogs welcome. Shelter Cove Events
    ⚠️ Heads up: Tuesday Summer Jams events at Shelter Cove include fireworks, typically starting around 9 PM. If your dog is noise-sensitive, plan accordingly — fireworks from these events can be heard across the island, whether you’re attending or not.
  • Hwy 21 Drive-In — Beaufort, SC — The only drive-in theater in the Lowcountry, and dogs are welcome. Three screens, double features every Thursday–Sunday, new movies on Fridays. 55 Parker Dr, Beaufort, SC. hwy21drivein.com

Farmers Markets

All three local markets welcome leashed, well-behaved dogs.

  • Farmers Market at Coastal Discovery Museum (formerly HHI Farmers Market) — 70 Honey Horn Dr, Hilton Head. Tuesdays 9 AM–1 PM, year-round. Coastal Discovery Farmers Market
  • Hilton Head Community Market — Shelter Cove Community Park — Saturdays 9:30 AM–12:30 PM, February–December, rain or shine. Hilton Head Communtiy Market
  • Bluffton Farmers Market — Martin Family Park, 68 Boundary St, Bluffton. Thursdays only. Sept–May: 12–4 PM | June–Aug: 10 AM–2 PM. Bluffton Farmers Market

When the Weather Doesn’t Cooperate

Too hot, too cold, or raining sideways — these spots welcome leashed dogs inside, making them a great option for a quick stretch when outdoor plans fall through.

  • Confirmed dog-friendly: PetSmart · Petco · Lowe’s · Home Depot · Tractor Supply · HomeGoods · All About Pets · Pet Wants · Woofgang Bakery · Locals Only Taproom
  • Generally dog-friendly, but policies vary by location — call ahead: ACE Hardware · TJ Maxx · HomeSense · Marshalls · Barnes & Noble · Ross · Michaels · Target

Before you tackle The Great Indoors — Remember
Bring: Water and a bowl · Poo bags · Something absorbent for wet accidents, plus a bag to carry it out · A short leash with a secure harness
For the car: In Summer run the A/C a few minutes before your dog gets in. Never leave them alone inside. Keep a cold water bottle handy for the ride.
Know your dog: Dogs in public spaces should be leashed, calm, and comfortable around people and activity. The best adventures start with an honest read of your dog’s temperament.

Events & Seasonal Outings

  • Shelter Cove Towne Centre — Sunset Celebrations
    Friday evenings, 7–10 PM at Shelter Cove Towne Centre. A relaxed outdoor event series — great for a leashed evening outing.
  • PetSmart Events
    PetSmart HHI hosts occasional pet-friendly events throughout the year. 430 William Hilton Pkwy, Unit 107, Hilton Head Island, SC
    Saturday, July 18, 10am-12pm — “Dog Days” Ice cream social, Saturday, July 25 10am-12pm — Adoption event with Salty Paws of the Lowcountry. Check Petsmart’s social media for other upcoming dates.
  • Hilton Head Island Lantern Parade
    A beloved community tradition — a glowing procession down the beach after sunset. Free and open to all. Dogs welcome on the beach. 📅 2026 Date: Saturday, November 14 | Steps off at 5:30 PM
  • Hounds on the Harbour — Hilton Head Humane Association
    A fun day with Fido at Harbour Town in Sea Pines. Raffles, DJ, dog activities, the famous pupcake walk, and adoptable dogs on site. Note: non-residents and non-Sea Pines property owners pay a gate fee to enter Sea Pines.
    October 3, 2026 — check hiltonheadhumane.org for 2026 date.
  • Hilton Head Humane Annual Beach Walk
    📅 Typically April — check hiltonheadhumane.org for 2026 date.
  • St. Patrick’s Day Parade
    Dogs welcome at this beloved island parade, held the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day.
    📅 2027: Saturday, March 13
  • Christmas in July — Sea Pines
    📅 Typically July — check Sea Pines events calendar for dates.
  • Turkey Trots
    Several Turkey Trots take place on and around HHI each November — but pet policies vary by event. Some welcome dogs, others specifically do not. Contact the event organizers directly before assuming your dog is invited.
  • Paws & Claus — Sea Pines
    📅 Typically December — check Sea Pines events calendar for dates.
  • Shelter Cove Towne Centre — Holiday Lights
    End of November through December 31. Stroll or drive through festive lights throughout the centre, including a 28-foot decorated Christmas tree in the park. Great for holiday photos with your dog.
  • Pet Visits with Santa — Shelter Cove Towne Centre
    📅 Dates TBD for 2026 — check Shelter Cove events calendar closer to the season.
  • Fire Station #3 — Drive-Through Christmas Lights
    A local favorite. Load up the car (and the dog) for a festive drive-through light display hosted by Hilton Head Fire Station #3. 📍 534 William Hilton Pkwy, Hilton Head Island
    📅 Check local community pages for dates closer to the holiday season.
  • Harbour Town Lights — Sea Pines
    Harbour Town comes alive with lights from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day — a walkable waterfront display with a towering Christmas tree, illuminated seasonal figures, and reflections across the marina. Easy to enjoy any evening throughout the holiday season. Leashed dogs welcome.
    📅 Nightly, Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day | Harbour Town, Sea Pines

⚠️ Non-residents pay a $10 gate fee to enter Sea Pines.

This page is updated as new information is confirmed. Know of a dog-friendly spot we missed? Contact us at crittercompasshhi@proton.me