Things to Do in Savannah With Your Dog

What are the best things to do in Savannah with a dog?

Savannah is a walking city, which makes it a pretty great place to explore with your dog. Some of our favorite dog-friendly Savannah adventures include:

• Walk the Historic District — Explore Savannah's 22 historic squares, oak-shaded streets and parks. Dogs should remain leashed.
• Visit Forsyth Park — Walk beneath the live oaks, see the famous fountain and find a shady spot to people watch.
• Explore Bonaventure Cemetery — Leashed dogs can join you for a peaceful walk among the historic monuments, live oaks and Spanish moss.
• Hike Skidaway Island State Park — Miles of trails wind through maritime forest and salt marsh.
• Visit Wormsloe — Leashed dogs can explore the outdoor grounds and trails with you, although they aren't permitted inside the buildings.
• Try Whitemarsh Preserve — A more local option for getting off the sidewalks and onto wooded trails.
• Walk Daffin Park — Plenty of room for a leashed walk, plus an off-leash dog area nearby.

Can I take my dog to Forsyth Park?

Yes. Dogs are welcome at Forsyth Park but need to remain leashed. The 30-acre park is one of the easiest dog-friendly things to do in Savannah. Walk the perimeter, explore beneath the live oaks, see the fountain or just grab a shady spot and watch Savannah go by.

Can dogs walk through Savannah's historic squares?

Yes. Leashed dogs can walk through Savannah's famous historic squares and public parks. There are 22 of them throughout the Historic District, so you'll have plenty of opportunities to stop in the shade along the way. Bring water and poop bags — and watch those paws when the temperature climbs.

Can I take my dog to Bonaventure Cemetery?

Yes. Bonaventure Cemetery is one of our favorite places for a quieter Savannah dog walk. Expect winding roads, huge live oaks, Spanish moss, historic monuments and beautiful views near the Wilmington River. Keep your dog leashed and remember that Bonaventure is still an active cemetery, so be respectful of the grounds and other visitors.

Where can I hike with my dog near Savannah?

You have several good options.

• Skidaway Island State Park — Miles of trails through maritime forest and alongside the salt marsh.
• Whitemarsh Preserve — Wooded trails that tend to feel a little more local and less touristy.
• Wormsloe State Historic Site — Trails, marsh views, historic ruins and that famous oak-lined entrance. Dogs can explore outdoor areas on leash but aren't permitted inside the buildings.

Where can my dog swim in Savannah?

Try Butter Bean Beach on Diamond Causeway — a popular local water-access spot at the Skidaway Narrows. It isn't a traditional ocean beach. Water-loving dogs can enjoy it too, but there are a few things to know:

• Watch for sharp shells — Oyster shells and other shells along the shoreline can cut paws.
• Pay attention to the tide and current — This is tidal water and conditions can change.
• Watch for boats — Butter Bean is next to an active boat ramp.
• Keep your dog leashed — This isn't an off-leash dog beach.

Can dogs go on the beach at Tybee Island?

No. Dogs are not allowed on Tybee Island beaches, even on a leash — and this isn't just a summer restriction. Dogs are prohibited from Tybee's beaches year-round. You can still explore dog-friendly areas and businesses around Tybee with your pup. Just don't head onto the beach together.

Where is a dog-friendly beach near Savannah?

If you want an actual ocean beach where your dog can put paws in the sand, look toward Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Dogs are permitted on Hilton Head beaches during certain times, but the rules change seasonally. Check the current Hilton Head beach regulations before you make the drive.

Are there dog-friendly restaurants and bars in Savannah?

Yes — quite a few. Savannah's outdoor dining culture means you'll find restaurants, coffee shops, breweries and bars with patios that welcome dogs. But don't assume that an outdoor patio automatically means dogs are allowed. Policies can change, and outdoor seating may be affected by weather or special events. Our list of favorite dog-friendly Savannah patios is coming soon.

Are there off-leash dog parks in Savannah?

Yes. Savannah has traditional public dog parks, including an off-leash dog area in the Daffin/Herty Pines area. Just remember that not every dog enjoys being dropped into a group of unfamiliar dogs. If yours doesn't, Savannah has plenty of parks, trails and neighborhoods where you can have a great adventure together without going off leash.

What should I know about bringing my dog to Savannah in the summer?

Savannah gets hot and humid. The biggest thing to watch is the pavement. Asphalt and sidewalks can become dangerously hot for paws much faster than you might expect.

• Plan longer walks for early morning or evening
• Carry more water than you think you'll need
• Bring a collapsible bowl
• Look for shade
• Give your dog plenty of breaks
• Never leave your dog unattended in a vehicle

Do I need to worry about alligators when walking my dog in Savannah?

Yes, you should be aware of them. Savannah and the surrounding Lowcountry are alligator habitat. Be particularly careful around ponds, lagoons, marsh edges and other bodies of water. Keep your dog leashed and don't allow them to wander along the water's edge. The same goes for other local wildlife — Savannah is beautiful because we're surrounded by marshes and nature, but we're sharing that environment.

What should I pack when exploring Savannah with my dog?

Keep a little Savannah dog kit in the car:

• Water
• Collapsible water bowl
• Poop bags
• Leash and backup leash
• Towel
• Vaccination records
• Any medications your dog needs
• Paw protection for hot weather