Discover the Beachside Laws You Need to Know in Myrtle Beach!
Ah, Myrtle Beach! A haven for sunbathers, surfers, and fun-seekers alike. Whether you’re a local or just soaking in a vacation, it’s important to be in the know when it comes to the beachside regulations. With rules in place that can certainly make or break a perfect day at the coast, here’s a friendly rundown of what you should keep in mind, especially as the off-season kicks in!
Free Parking Awaits!
Starting November 1, parking your car won’t cost you a dime in Surfside Beach and North Myrtle Beach. Yes, you heard that right! In North Myrtle Beach, all parking spots will be free from November to February. But don’t forget, paid parking returns from March to September from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Surfside Beach follows a similar pattern—free parking is available between November 1 and February, and then it’s paid from March 1 until October 31. Just a reminder, in Myrtle Beach, it’s paid parking year-round from 9 a.m. to midnight. Save those coins for the beach ice cream instead!
Golf Carts: The Daytime Stars
As the evenings grow longer with the end of Daylight Savings Time, remember that golf carts are only allowed on the roads during daylight hours. This means you can cruise around after 6 a.m. but must be parked by 6 p.m. (or 8 p.m. after Daylight Savings). Also, did you know golf carts can only be driven where the speed limit is 35 mph or less? So, keep an eye on those speed signs!
Surfs Up and Cruising Down!
From May 1 to Labor Day, Myrtle Beach imposes a no cruising law between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. This means if you’re out and about late, be sure to keep it moving and avoid looping down Ocean Boulevard during those hours. After Labor Day, the coast is clear, and the boulevard is yours to cruise freely! Surfing, on the other hand, is unrestricted after Labor Day, so feel free to hit the waves anytime!
Barking up the Right Tree
Dog owners, you’ve got a sweet deal during the off-season! From Labor Day through April 30, there are no time restrictions for doggy beach play in Myrtle Beach. In North Myrtle Beach, pups can enjoy beach time without a time limit from Labor Day through May 15. Just remember to keep them leashed and scoop up after them—no one likes an unsightly surprise in the sand!
Bikes and Umbrellas, Oh My!
After Labor Day, biking is back in style! You can ride your bicycles along the boardwalk anytime from now until April 30. However, come April, biking only allowed from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. While you’re chilling on the beach, make sure you’re using the proper umbrellas. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, circular umbrellas with a maximum diameter of 7.5 feet are permitted in Myrtle Beach, but come September, you can set up your tents and larger shades!
Curfews and Safety Rules
A friendly reminder for our younger visitors, the city has a curfew between midnight and 6 a.m. for those under 18, ensuring everyone stays safe at night. And if you’re into surfing or skimboarding, just be aware of the designated times: North Myrtle Beach prohibits these activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. from May 15 through Labor Day—after that, it’s a surf’s up situation!
Myrtle Beach is a stunning destination filled with excitement, happiness, and unforgettable moments. Just follow these guidelines to ensure your beach days remain sunny and hassle-free. Now pack those beach bags, grab your friends and family, and let the good times roll!
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
