Why Myrtle Beach Is a Top Dog-Friendly Destination
The Grand Strand offers morning beach access, off-leash parks, and pet-welcoming patios.
Myrtle Beach is one of the most accessible beach destinations on the East Coast for pet owners. Many oceanfront hotels and condos set aside dedicated pet-friendly floors, complete with nearby grass areas, waste bag stations, and quick access to the sand during dog-approved hours. The city also features a network of off-leash dog parks, pet-welcoming patios at breweries and restaurants, and even Barefoot Landing — a lively waterfront shopping complex where your pup is enthusiastically welcome.
One important note: most beachfront hotels enforce size and breed restrictions, typically capping dogs at 40–65 lbs. If your dog is larger, stepping just a few blocks inland opens significantly more options with higher or no weight limits. From oceanfront pet friendly hotels Myrtle Beach SC to inland suites, you’ll find hotels pet friendly Myrtle Beach travelers consistently recommend.
Top 7 Pet Friendly Hotels in Myrtle Beach for 2026
These picks span pet friendly hotels Myrtle Beach and pet friendly hotels in North Myrtle Beach, with a mix of oceanfront and family-friendly options.
The standout pet-friendly property in Myrtle Beach, Voco Shelby is a modern boutique hotel inspired by vintage 1950s coastal design. It accepts pets up to 75 lbs — one of the most generous weight limits of any oceanfront hotel — and sits steps from the Myrtle Beach boardwalk and top attractions.
If your dog is under 40 lbs, Ocean Park Resort is a dreamlike choice. The property features an on-site pet spa called the FURology Paw Spa & Retreat and direct beach access for sunrise strolls. The staff is exceptionally pet-aware, with dedicated pet-relief stations and treat stations near the front desk.
A comfortable, full-amenity resort located about a 10-minute drive from downtown, the Hilton is an excellent choice for families who want brand reliability with pet flexibility. Dogs up to 65 lbs are welcome. Being slightly removed from the beachfront buzz means more green space for your dog and a quieter stay for you.
For budget-conscious travelers who still want flexibility, Red Roof Inn Market Common is hard to beat. It allows up to 2 pets with a maximum combined weight of 80 lbs — one of the highest limits in its price tier. The first pet stays free, with only a small additional fee for a second. Steps from dining and shopping at Market Common.
Located beside Broadway at the Beach — Myrtle Beach’s most popular outdoor entertainment complex — this Hampton Inn puts you within easy walking distance of restaurants, miniature golf, the Ripley’s Aquarium, and lakefront dining. Both dogs and cats up to 75 lbs are welcome.
Motel 6 charges absolutely no additional pet fee — an exceptional value for multi-pet households or longer stays. It accommodates up to 2 pets with a combined weight of up to 150 lbs in designated rooms. Both dogs and cats are welcome. Pets cannot be left unattended, and exotic pets are not allowed.
For longer stays or families who need more room, Homewood Suites offers spacious suite-style rooms with full kitchens and a comfortable layout pets will appreciate. Up to 2 pets, each up to 75 lbs, are welcome with a reasonable flat fee. Both dogs and cats are allowed, but no exotic pets.
Quick Comparison: Pet Policies at a Glance
Use this to compare myrtle beach oceanfront hotels pet friendly with budget-friendly inland stays.
Here’s an at-a-glance summary of pet policies across our top picks for easy side-by-side comparison:
| Hotel | Max Weight | Pet Fee | Cats OK? | Max Pets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Voco Shelby by IHG | 75 lbs | $75/pet, per stay | No | 2 |
| Ocean Park Resort | 40 lbs | Call to confirm | Call to confirm | 1 |
| Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort | 65 lbs | Confirm at booking | Confirm | 2 |
| Red Roof Inn — Market Common | 80 lbs combined | 1st pet free; $15/night 2nd | Yes | 2 |
| Hampton Inn Broadway | 75 lbs | $75 flat (1–3 nights) | Yes | 2 |
| Motel 6 Myrtle Beach | 150 lbs combined | FREE | Yes | 2 |
| Homewood Suites Coastal Grand | 75 lbs | $50 flat (1–4 nights) | Yes | 2 |
Myrtle Beach Dog Rules (2026)
Early morning beach walks with dogs are one of the best parts of a Myrtle Beach trip.
Before heading to the sand, it’s critical to understand the city’s pet ordinances to avoid fines:
- Allowed hours (May–September): Dogs may access the beach before 9:00 AM and after 5:00 PM.
- Off-season (October–April): Hours are generally more relaxed — confirm with local authorities each season.
- Leash required: Dogs must be on a leash at all times on the beach and in public areas.
- Waste stations: Most pet-friendly hotels and beach access points have waste bag dispensers. Always clean up.
- Off-leash options: The Grand Strand has several designated dog parks where off-leash play is permitted.
Beyond the beach, Barefoot Landing is one of the best spots to bring your pup — it’s a lively waterfront destination with shops, restaurants, and a fun atmosphere that actively welcomes dogs. Several breweries and restaurant patios along the Grand Strand also roll out the welcome mat for well-behaved dogs.
Insider Tips for Traveling with Pets to Myrtle Beach
🐾 Pro Tips Before You Book
- Always call ahead to confirm current pet policies — fees and rules can change seasonally.
- Bring documentation of your pet’s vaccinations; some properties (like Compass Cove) require proof at check-in.
- Book directly with the hotel when possible — third-party booking sites sometimes miss breed or weight restrictions.
- Pack a portable water bowl, a travel bed or crate, and extra waste bags for beach outings.
- If your dog is over 65 lbs, look inland from the beachfront — properties like Motel 6 and Homewood Suites offer far more generous weight allowances.
- Use BringFido.com to filter by pet size and read verified pet-owner reviews.
What to Pack for a Beach Trip with Your Dog
A day at the beach is more fun (and safer) with the right gear. Essentials include: a collapsible water bowl, fresh water (sea water can make dogs sick), a beach umbrella or shaded shelter for your pup, doggie sunscreen for short-haired breeds, a leash that won’t corrode from saltwater, and a beach towel dedicated to drying your dog. Don’t forget — rinse your dog’s paws and coat with fresh water after every beach session to remove salt and sand.
