Surfside Beach

The small, quiet community of Surfside Beach in South Carolina offers its visitors over 2 miles of gorgeous oceanfront beach. This beautiful, inclusive, welcoming community is well known for their "Family Beach" throughout America, as it was the first town in the United States to gain the title of being an Autism-Friendly travel destination.

Not only is the beach recognized for its inclusive nature to humans, but it's also pet-friendly during the off season. From May 15th to September 15th, its the busiest time of the year in Surfside Beach, and therefore, pups are prohibited from the beach. But from September 16th to May 14th, dogs can romp in the sand and splash in the water alongside their humans, leashed of course.

The year-round temperatures in Surfside Beach make it an ideal location to cool off, even during the off season. You and your pooch can enjoy various beach activities, such as swimming, fishing, surfing, and beach sports. While walking the beach with your pooch, be sure to avoid the sand dunes. Fences and dune walkovers are in place so that this unique habitat can be preserved. 

This pawtastic beach is also a home for sea turtles, so be sure to fill in any holes your pup may dig, as baby sea turtles can get trapped in them. Pack all that you need for a woofderful day, including water to share and clean-up bags, and be sure to stoop and scoop. The town of Surfside Beach is known for its eco-friendly nature, and offers garbage and recycling bins along the beach. 

Facilities such as restrooms and showers can be found at some of the 36 access points to the beach, such as at Surfside Pier and 5th Avenue South. Some access points just have restrooms, like at 1st Avenue North and 13th Avenue South. Parking is metered along side streets, and is available in parking lots, and ranges from $1.75 an hour to $10 for the day. Parking fees are enforced from 7 AM to 7 PM, March 1st to October 31st. During all other times, this parking is free. Residents can also get decals for parking. Check the website for more info and locations of areas. 

If you’re looking for a refreshing walk along the beach with your pup in pawrific South Carolina, Surfside Beach is the place for you!