But even the best summer parties require a few rules to keep everyone safe, happy and healthy — and Myrtle Beach is no different. During the summer months, there are special beach laws put in place that you need to know before you hit the sand and surf. For our guests at The Breakers Resort in the downtown oceanfront district, here's an updated list of the local beach laws for 2017:
* Beach Tents: It's nice to make your own shade on the beach, but the City of Myrtle Beach has enacted new regulations regarding the size, location and time of year beachgoers can use tents and umbrellas. From Memorial Day (May 29) through Labor Day (Sept. 4), only umbrellas are allowed, and their maximum diameter is 7 1/2 feet. All shading devices are required to be set up at or behind the high tide mark to give lifeguards better sight lines and allow emergency vehicles easier access.
* Bicycles: Bikes with wide tires below the high-tide line provide a perfect way to go exploring on the beach, but only during specified times. Due to the increased foot traffic on the beach during the summer months, the use of bikes is prohibited from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from May 1 through Sept. 4. The good news for cyclists is that the city has recently installed miles and miles of bike lanes and paths, including along Ocean Boulevard, for your seaside cycling enjoyment.
* Dogs: Four-legged friends can enjoy the beach, too, but only during specific times during the summer months. Dogs are not permitted on the public beach between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. from May 1 through Sept. 4. The local leash law also applies on the beach, requiring a leash of no longer than 7 feet. Owners are required to clean up after their dogs, and there are baggie stations and trash cans located at every public beach access. Another recent law change bans horseback riding in the city limits year-round.
* Prohibited: There are certain items and activities that are not allowed on the beach, regardless of the time of year. The banned list includes alcoholic beverages, campfires, glass containers, fireworks, and the destruction of sea oats and sand dunes. Just like on dry land, littering is illegal and detrimental to the environment. Please help keep our beautiful beaches and ocean waters clean by taking a garbage bag with you to the beach and collecting your trash for disposal.
* Surf Zones: To prevent dangerous run-ins between surfers and swimmers, the City of Myrtle Beach has established five “surf zones” where beachgoers can take part in certain watersports during the summer months between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. The closest surf zone to The Breakers Resort is between 34th Avenue North and 47th Avenue North. Other surf zones are located from 29th Avenue South to the southernmost city limits; between 62nd and 68th Avenues North; between 78th and 81st Avenues North; and from 87th Avenue North to the northernmost city limits.
Now that you know the rules, the only things left to do are to book your vacation plans at The Breakers Myrtle Beach Resort and have a fun and safe summer getaway in Myrtle Beach.
