The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is a popular destination for beachgoers, offering a scenic and lively atmosphere. However, to maintain the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, the city has established a set of rules and regulations that must be followed. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key Myrtle Beach boardwalk rules you need to know before your visit.
Prohibited Items and Activities
- Alcohol and Glass Containers: Consuming alcohol and possessing glass containers on the beach are strictly prohibited.
- Disturbing the Dunes: It is illegal to disturb or damage the dunes, sand fencing, sea grass, or sea oats. Visitors must stay on the boardwalks and marked paths.
- Metal Detecting: Metal detecting is allowed on the public beach but not in the dunes, street ends, or any other public property.
- Littering: Littering is against the law. Visitors must use the provided trash and recycling containers.
- Fireworks and Fires: Discharging, selling, storing, or possessing fireworks within the city, including the beach, is illegal. Additionally, all fires, including barbecues and bonfires, are prohibited on the beach.
- Commercial Activity: Commercial activity on the public beach is prohibited. Non-commercial weddings are allowed without a permit, but commercial weddings are not.
Pet-Friendly Regulations
- Dog Regulations: Dogs are allowed on the beach before 10:00 a.m. and after 5:00 p.m. from May 1 through Labor Day. From the day after Labor Day to April 30, dogs are allowed on the beach at any time. Dogs must be on a leash seven feet or shorter, and owners must pick up and properly dispose of their droppings.
Beachfront Structures and Setup
- Umbrellas, Tents, and Canopies: From Memorial Day through Labor Day, only circular umbrellas up to seven-and-a-half feet in diameter are allowed. From the day after Labor Day until Memorial Day, tents and canopies up to 12-by-12 square feet are allowed. Umbrellas must be in line with or behind the lifeguards’ line of umbrellas or landward of the mean high tide line. Tents and canopies, when allowed, must be 10 feet behind the umbrella line.
- Beach Setup and Removal: Items may not be set up on the beach before 8:00 a.m. and must be removed from the beach by 7:00 p.m., daily.
Dress Code
- Appropriate Attire: “Thong” style bathing suits are not allowed on the beach or in public.
Water Sports Regulations
- Kayaks and Surfboards: From May 1 through Labor Day, kayaks and surfboards are allowed between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at specific locations only.
- Motorboats and Jet Skis: Motorboats may not be operated within 400 yards of the beach, and jet skis may not be operated within 100 yards of the beach from May 1 through Labor Day unless they are being launched.
It’s important to note that these rules are subject to change, and visitors should check the Myrtle Beach website or contact the city for the most up-to-date information. Violations of these ordinances can result in fines and/or jail time, so it’s essential to follow the rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk.