Going to the beach can mean a lot of things- a long walk to clear your head, a relaxing couple of hours of sun bathing or a day full of swimming, sand castles and spending time with friends. Here are a few tips to help your time at the beach go a little smoother.

Parking Smart: Know the Zones and Rates
Check to see if there are hours for paid parking. From North Myrtle Beach to Pawleys Island, there are a lot of different municipalities: different cities versus being in Horry or Georgetown counties. Its important to know what the rules are for where you are going. 
See if there are options for hourly versus or an all-day parking pass.
Check with your city if you qualify for a parking pass as an owner. 
Why am I being charged to visit the beach? Economics- a parking lot near the beach is some of the most sought after real estate in the entire world. Paying a few dollars to park there is nothing compared to the millions of dollars it could be sold for. I’m thrilled and thankful the lots exist. 

Timing is Everything

Parking is based not only on what time of day but also what time of year. Most parking is reduced or free during the offseason. 
Pro tip: Arrive early or consider staying later. One of our favorite times to visit the beach is in the evening when the crowds are gone and weather is cooler. 
Payment Options

Most meters accept coins, credit/debit cards
Download the ParkMobile app or Passport Parking app for convenient mobile payments
Umbrella and Shade Rules: Stay Cool Legally
Umbrellas and tents are restricted. Check the city and county rules for rules and regulations on your specific shade device. 
Stay current on any updated laws and rules on your tent/umbrella
Check the timing- many rules change based on Peak Season (Memorial Day to Labor Day) versus off-season
Be sure to follow the safety guidelines: all shading devices must be secured but cannot be tied, bound, or connected together
Why does it matter about my tent/umbrella? Public safety and for the enjoyment of everyone. People have literally been impaled and killed by umbrellas that have been caught by strong winds. And a few bad apples who abuse using tents have ruined it for the rest of us. I’ve seen entire “tent towns” obstructing huge portions of the beach. Be sure to know the rules and follow them to avoid fines and fighting with Beach Patrol. 

Pet Policies
Most beach towns have hours during peak season that pets are not allowed on the beach. Typically, owners are allowed to bring their dog early morning and late evening. 
During off-season (Labor Day - April 30), dogs are allowed on the beach at any time
Dogs must be on a leash 7 feet or shorter at all times
Pet owners must pick up and properly dispose of pet waste
We have the laws and rules because of irresponsible dog owners. I get especially upset about dogs not on leashes. Just because your dog is friendly to other dogs doesn’t mean my dog (who is on a leash) is friendly to your dog.

Keeping Your Belongings Safe- Beach Security Best Practices
Never leave valuables unattended – the beach attracts large crowds
Use waterproof bags for phones and wallets when swimming
Consider designating someone in your group as the "belongings watcher"
Beach Rules for Personal Items

Items cannot be set up before 8:00 AM or left after 7:00 PM
Digging holes deeper than 2 feet is prohibited – all holes must be filled before leaving
Metal detecting is allowed on public beaches but not in dunes or street ends
Try to keep your “stuff” near you. Being spread out across a large area during a busy beach day is rude
Waves go in and out and tides go up and down. Be responsible and don’t let your belongings trash the ocean
Music and Noise Guidelines: While there are no specific decibel limits in city ordinances, good beach etiquette means:

Keep music at a volume that doesn't disturb nearby families
Use headphones when possible, especially during peak hours
Remember that sound travels farther on open beaches
Be extra mindful near family areas and during early morning or evening hours
Consider that many beachgoers come here for relaxation and tranquility
Special Considerations

Large gatherings and parties may require permits
Wedding ceremonies and events often need advance coordination with city officials
Be respectful during nesting season (May-October) when sea turtle monitoring may be taking place
Additional Beach Rules to Remember
Prohibited Items and Activities

No alcohol or glass containers on the beach. Be smart. Beer bottles are easy for beach patrol to spot.  
Most beaches do not allow fires, including barbecues and bonfires
Swimming is not allowed within 75 yards of a pier- not only do sharks congregate around piers, no one wants to be caught by a large hook. 
Swimmers should not go beyond 50 yards from shore or deeper than chest-deep
Environmental Protection

It's illegal to disturb or damage dunes, sand fencing, or sea grass oats
Stay on marked boardwalks and paths
Use provided trash and recycling containers – littering is illegal. This is a pet peeve. Don’t bury your trash. If your trash blows away in the wind… go get it. Clean up after yourself. 
Why These Rules Matter
First- these rules are important for safety and so we can all enjoy the beach. Second, its because this is my home and I don’t want my home trashed. We’d have fewer laws and regulations if people were considerate of others. These regulations aren't just bureaucratic red tape – they're designed to:

Ensure safety for the millions of visitors who enjoy our shores annually
Protect our environment and preserve the natural beauty that makes our area so special
Maintain accessibility so everyone can enjoy our beaches comfortably
Support our local economy by keeping our beaches attractive
Questions About Beach Life? I'm here to help! Pease don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss how different neighborhoods and areas provide different levels of beach access, or to schedule a tour of available properties along the Grand Strand.