🐾 The Lowcountry's Prettiest Views With Your Pup

Welcome back, Pawmetto Parents!

We hope you and your pups are soaking up this cooler weather! Our dog used to spend hours happily sprawled in the snow back when we lived in Chicago, so she’s especially thrilled that the blazing Southern heat has finally eased up.

This week, we’re spotlighting two of our favorite dog-friendly spots with incredible Lowcountry views: the West Ashley Greenway and Saltwater Cowboys on Shem Creek. Plus, if you’re ready to trade those Halloween costumes for Santa suits and reindeer antlers, we’ve rounded up some festive events and photo ops where your pups can shine!

If you’re searching for a beautiful, the West Ashley Greenway might just be your new favorite place. This scenic, flat trail stretches right through Charleston’s West Ashley neighborhood and offers a peaceful mix of nature, neighborhoods, and salt marsh views — making it a win for both humans and pups alike.

The West Ashley Greenway is a 10.5-mile walking and biking trail that runs from Albemarle Road near South Windermere Shopping Center all the way to Johns Island. It follows a former rail line and is part of the East Coast Greenway system — so it’s wide, flat, and easily walkable for all levels.

You’ll pass through a variety of landscapes along the way, including quiet neighborhoods, wooded stretches, open fields, and marshy wetlands. It’s perfect for everything from a quick morning walk to a longer weekend outing with your dog.

The beloved Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park is back, and it’s one of the few holiday attractions in the Lowcountry where pets are welcome to join the fun!

Made of millions of twinkling lights and more than 200 light displays, this festival is a cherished tradition for many families. While some of the light displays are enjoyed from the comfort of your car, there are also designated nights and activities where pets are welcome to join in the magic in the walking trails at the event.

Before the festival officially opens to vehicles, the park offers a two-night-only event where families can walk (or jog) the dazzling light trail on foot—with pets invited!

Event Details:
📍 871 Riverland Dr. Charleston, SC
📅 Tuesday, November 12 & Wednesday, November 13, 2025
🕔 Guests should arrive at 6pm, with gates closing at 6:30pm
🎟 Tickets start are $38/vehicle and must be purchased in advance
👉 Click here for full details + ticket link

This 2-mile route is a rare chance to stroll through the light displays before car traffic begins for the season. Families (and leashed pets!) are welcome to walk, jog, or simply take it slow and soak in the sparkle. Dogs must be on a short, non-retractable leash, and cleanup stations are provided throughout the route. Afterward, participants are invited to stick around and enjoy all the fun and festivities the park has to offer.

Whether you have a golden retriever in reindeer antlers or a tiny pup in a cozy holiday sweater, this event is a great way to kick-off the festive season with the whole family.

Want some festive photos of your pup? Dogtopia in Summerville is hosting Brittany Anne Photography to take special Christmas pictures of your dog. Times are available on November 8th, 10th, and 15th. Sessions are $50 with a $25 fee for additional dogs. Click here for more details and to book your session! (You do not need to be a member of Dogtopia to participate!)

There’s something special about Shem Creek at sunset — the water reflecting the sky, dolphins surfacing near the docks, and the golden light casting a warm glow over everything. For our family, one spot brings it all together: Saltwater Cowboys in Mount Pleasant. It’s become our go-to restaurant on Shem Creek because of it’s amazing food and views. And it’s one of the most genuinely dog-friendly places in the Charleston area!

The outdoor patio is spacious and relaxed, with plenty of shade and a laid-back vibe that makes it easy to settle in and stay awhile. It’s the kind of place where no one is bothered if your dog’s tail knocks into the table leg or if your toddler drops a French fry. Everyone’s just enjoying good food and good company along the water.

And the food? As good as the view. Saltwater Cowboys is known for its Southern comfort classics and Lowcountry seafood — think smoky pulled pork, hush puppies, brisket, fried shrimp, and buttery cornbread. The barbecue is what keeps us coming back, but the whole menu has something for everyone, including fresh salads, coastal platters, and a solid cocktail list.

But what truly sets Saltwater Cowboys apart for dog owners is how they treat dogs like actual guests. They don’t just offer a bowl of water and call it a day — they’ve created a full Dog Treat Menu, with $5 options like Peanut Butter Bites, Cowboy Chews, and Smoky Bacon Bites.

Cooler weather makes this experience even better. Fall evenings on the patio are ideal for fluffy dogs who don’t love the summer heat, and after dinner, we always take a stroll along the Shem Creek Boardwalk. It’s one of the simplest joys in Charleston — watching the boats, spotting wildlife, and taking in the breeze.

You can find Saltwater Cowboys at 130 Mill Street in Mount Pleasant, and they’re open Monday through Saturday from 11am-12am, and Sundays 10am-12am. It’s walkable, family-friendly, and full of Lowcountry charm — and best of all, your dog is always invited!

From Charleston Animal Society:

“Meet Shirella!

This pocket sized lady is looking for a place to call her own. At 7 years young, Shirella is ready to settle down and relax in a cozy bed. She may be down for a little trot around the block, but her passion is cuddling up on the couch and being with her people. She has the sweetest little grunts and groans she communicates with and is always sure to flash her precious smile. It's scary here at the shelter for such a small girl and she is very nervous here but she is holding hope that someone will see her charming smile and give her a chance.”

In the comments, people noted that she is such a sweet girl and the pictures don’t even do her cuteness justice! You can meet and adopt Shirella at the 2455 Remount Road, North Charleston location.

Charleston Animal Society is currently overwhelmed with 1,300 in need, so now is the time to adopt! Adoption fees are currently sponsored by Jeff Cook Real Estate. Click here for more details about the adoption process.

Love,

Lacey 🐾 & The Berks 👨‍👩‍👦‍👦