Pet Friendly Vacation Rentals on Hilton Head Island

We understand animal lovers like you want to travel with your four-legged friends. They are family! You can reduce costs (and the stress and hassle) of boarding your dog at a kennel when you bring them along, plus you have the added enjoyment of being with them on your vacation. At Beachside Getaway, we are proud to be able to offer pet-friendly vacation rentals on Hilton Head Island that are comfortable, clean, and the perfect backdrop to have the perfect family vacation on HHI. Here today are some tips for traveling to Hilton Head with your dog or cat. Plus, we have some recommended properties!

Leash Laws on Hilton Head

Before you go, it’s important to note Hilton Head Island’s leash laws. These leash laws are seasonal and worth paying attention to. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, no dogs are allowed 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. During off-hours and in spring/fall, dogs must be on a leash or under positive voice control. During the Spring/Fall (April 1 – Thursday before Memorial Day & Tuesday after Labor Day – Sept 30): Dogs must be on a leash 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Other times, they must be on a leash or under positive voice control.

Winter (October 1 – March 31): Dogs are allowed on the beach at any time, but must be leashed or under positive voice control. You should note that as of 2025, dogs are restricted from certain areas near Fish Haul Creek. (In case you are curious, the town defines "Positive voice control" to mean that your dog is obedient and stays close to the owner, not chasing birds or disturbing others.)

In addition, there are also some general regulations to follow. Dogs in public areas or on the beach when required must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. As responsible pet owners always do, pet waste must be removed immediately. If you are traveling with a service dog, your service dog is permitted on the Hilton Head Island beaches, so long as it is leashed. Failure to follow these rules can result in fines. So follow the rules and you will be all set!

Tips for Traveling with your Pet

If traveling by plane, you will want to work directly with the airlines for all the necessary paperwork and steps, as well as pay your fees. Traveling by car to Hilton Head Island is a popular choice for hundreds of thousands every year, Hilton Head is easily accessible from I-95. If you are driving with your dog, you will want to take steps to keep them safe. Consider a car restraint or travel crate.

It’s a good idea to make sure vaccinations are up to date, flea/tick/worm medications have been administered. Bring a copy of your vaccinations and health records, just in case, and most importantly – make sure your dog is microchipped or has a collar that is secure.

For packing, you’ll want to bring your dog’s food (consistency is so important in a dog’s diet!) and pack a brush, leash, dog waste bags, and your dog’s favorite comfort items like bed or toys.

Pet Resources on Hilton Head Island and Pet Supply Stores on Hilton Head

Hilton Head Island has a Pet Smart, located near Port Royal in the shopping center (430 William Hilton Parkway Unit 107). This has everything you need and more to keep your dog fed and ensure his needs are met while you are on Hilton Head.

All About Pets HHI is located on Arrow Road and offers grooming and supplies for your furry friends. They also have day-boarding services, so if you are wanting to go to the beach all day or do a boat excursion where you will be gone (and you don’t want to leave your dog in the home or villa all day), you can consider pet day care on Hilton Head.

Visit: https://www.allaboutpetshhi.com for more information.

Emergency Vet in Hilton Head Island

In the scary and unfortunate event that you need an emergency vet on Hilton Head, there are several options to choose from. Find Plantation Animal Hospital, https://www.plantationanimalhospitalsc.com, at 105 Dillion Road, Suite B, HHI. Plantation Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinary medical facility where the professional staff provides the best possible medical care, surgical care and dental care for their highly-valued patients.

Animal Care Clinic of Hilton Head

46 Wildhorse Road

https://www.animalcareclinichhi.com

Specialty and Emergency Care

New River Vets

https://nrvets.com

This is located off Island in Hardeeville but offers 24/7 emergency vet care. For a true emergency where you need the very best care day or night, be sure to visit

The Hilton Head Dog Park

Want to take your dog off-leash and get out some energy (and probably make a few friends along the way)? Visit the Hilton Head Island dog park located at Chaplin Park, 11 Castnet Drive. This is mid-island, close to Palmetto Dunes. It’s a fenced in yard that is divided for small and large dogs. It has shaded benches and water fountains for dogs! It’s open dawn until dusk. It’s located near restrooms, walking trails, and close to the beach.