Myrtle Beach Hotels Blog

Read about what not to bring to the beach before you enter full vacation mode to save yourself from fines or other trouble once you arrive in Myrtle Beach. While it’s normal to check your airline for baggage rules to avoid fines and confirm the hotel’s policies and check-in times, we’re guessing you rarely research the laws that govern your destination beach.

Once you’ve reserved your hotel or resort for vacation and found all the best places to eat and drink, it’s time to do the real research: learning the beach laws. If you saunter onto the sand wearing your new thong bikini, hauling a huge tent and a cooler full of brews, you’re not paying close enough attention to what not to bring to the beach. While the decision to fly versus drive might help you weed out some of these prohibited items, knowing what’s legal, illegal, and frowned upon at your beach destination can save you embarrassment, money, and hassle. 

Consider this your reminder that what might be allowed at home may not be here in Myrtle Beach. If these rules seem like common sense, that’s great! But they can also vary from beach to beach and by county, so the safest bet is to not bet and instead follow this basic guide.

What Items Are Not Allowed on Myrtle Beach?

For the most part, vacationers have free reign on the beaches to enjoy the sun, play in the sand, socialize, and swim. But if you’re used to hanging by the water in your own city, you might find the rules here are quite different. Bringing the items on this no-no list can even result in misdemeanor charges and hefty fines, turning one of the best free things to do in Myrtle Beach into an expensive disappointment.

Alcohol

Possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages on beaches are strictly forbidden. Many people do not know that alcohol is not allowed on Myrtle Beach. This is not an easy rule to sneak around, due to law enforcement actively patrolling on four-wheelers. Save yourself a lot of hassle, money, and legal woes, and leave the drinks at your hotel. You can always grab a cocktail at a beach bar after you finish your day in the sand.

Glass

This is a public service if there ever was one. The no-glass rule has been saving feet from cuts and scrapes since its inception. Use plastic bottles and containers or aluminum cans on the beach—and be extra thoughtful and recycle them when you’re done.

Tents 

There are very specific, seasonal rules for umbrellas and tents on beaches. Myrtle Beach bans large-canopy tents for safety reasons (they create an obstacle for law enforcement and lifeguards reaching those in need), so forgo the expensive, bulky tent and take a beach umbrella instead. Or, better yet, rent your chairs and umbrellas and let someone else set them up and take them down for you!

Bicycles

From 10 a.m. to 5 a.m. from May 1 through Labor Day, bicycles (and tricycles) are prohibited from the beaches. During the off-season, bikes are allowed at any time. To be fair, this rule shouldn’t upset anyone because bikes are cumbersome to pack in the first place.

Animals

Don’t bring your dog to the beach, even if you really want to: Your pup isn’t allowed between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. in the summer months. After Labor Day (and before May 1) dogs may accompany you any time, but must be leashed and poops must be scooped. If you’re traveling with cats, reptiles, or exotic animals, keep in mind they are never allowed on the beach—we have an ecosystem to protect. (As you may imagine, service animals are exempt from the prohibited list). Note: Hot sand can burn paw pads! Be aware of the temperature before visiting the beach with your dog during the hours dogs are welcome.

Fireworks

Independence Day revelers will have to cede to the authorities on this one. Fireworks are both a nuisance and a hazard. Don’t do it. Leave the fireworks shows to us—we’re experts and you can see them many times during the summer at Barefoot Landing, Broadway at the Beach, and Myrtle Beach Pelicans games.

Grills/Fires

Starting a fire is never allowed on the beaches. This includes barbecues and bonfires, and the rule stands even if you get hungry or cold. Save yourself the work and fines, pull on a sweater, and leave the cooking to these burger restaurants.

Vehicles

This is one of the ways Myrtle Beach beats Daytona Beach: No cars are allowed on the Grand Strand beaches! File this rule under “well, duh.” But know that this eye-opening beach law also applies to golf carts, ATVs, motorcycles, and similar motorized transport, which all fall under the umbrella of “vehicles.” 

Thong Bathing Suits

In case you read this while finalizing your packing list, leave your thong-style swimsuits at home. These are prohibited in public in Myrtle Beach. You’ll need to spring for something with a little more coverage before you hit these family-friendly pools and beaches. 

Items That Don’t Belong on the Beach

This category of items has no business on the beach and you shouldn’t need us to tell you, but for the sake of transparency, we’re including no-brainers below. Please, don’t bring these to the beach. We realize they aren’t totally illegal, but they are totally unnecessary:

Weapons 

Not necessary, folks. This is a happy place.

Plastic Bags

There are no laws against these (yet) but they’re a blight to beaches. They’re the first things to blow away from you and usually head straight for the water, where they disrupt ecosystems and kill animals. And once the bag has been lost to the wind, you’ve effectively littered, which is illegal. Tote your belongings and snacks in canvas bags and reusable plastic containers instead.

Loud Music

Tunes make everything better, usually, but not when cranked up to ear-splitting levels. If you insist on bringing a small stereo, keep the volume at a level that won’t disturb the people next to you. And for the sake of the kids, keep the content clean.

Surfboards / Kayaks

While surfboards and kayaks are not prohibited outright, their use is governed by a few rules, as are flotation devices. Take a look at the city’s laws before hanging ten.

Frequently Asked Questions

What shouldn’t you do on the beach?

When headed to the beach, do not disrupt fellow visitors with loud music or wear inappropriate beachwear, and do not consume alcohol, or set up camp with your bike, dog, or beach tent during the busy summer season. 

Can you have alcohol on Myrtle Beach?

No. We can’t answer the question, “Is alcohol allowed on Myrtle Beach?” enough. But many visitors, most of whom are surprised alcohol is prohibited on our beaches, ask time and again.

Can you bring coolers to the beach at Myrtle Beach?

Yes, coolers are allowed on the beaches as long as they do not contain alcohol or glass, as both of those items are prohibited. Snacks, soda or water, and even a tube or can of sunscreen (pro tip!) can be brought to the beach in a cooler.

No two Myrtle Beach pizza places are exactly the same, so before you say you know where the best pizza is, check out this list to see for yourself. Pizza hotspots in the Grand Strand are serving nearly any pie style you could want, inspired from all over the country, so you’ll have no trouble finding New York-style pizzerias or hand-tossed versions of Sicily’s finest, along with deep dish pies, and even gluten-free crusts and crustless pizzas.  

While no single eatery can claim bragging rights as the best pizza place in Myrtle Beach, there are several pizza restaurants near Broadway at the Beach—Melt, Extreme Pizza, and Mellow Mushroom—serving some of the most delectable pies in the Grand Strand.

Having such a great variety of pizza joints at your fingertips means you can get your hands on fresh, hot pie almost anytime. And these restaurants offer more than just pizza, so you can feed picky eaters and enormous appetites in one stop. Whether you want wings first and pizza second, or pizza first and then dessert, these restaurants offer plenty of options. Many pizzerias will even deliver right to your hotel, but when you’re out and about and a hankering hits you, you’ll find fun pizza restaurants near all the top attractions

Whether it’s date night or you just want something fast and easy, these Myrtle Beach pizza places have you covered:

Myrtle Beach has plenty of Asian restaurants serving top-notch Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisines, plus creative fusions to satisfy any tastes. Whether you’re a foodie trying all the top places to eat or you simply want to spice things up and try something new, you won’t have trouble finding excellent Asian food in Myrtle Beach. 

Myrtle Beach’s Best Asian Restaurants in 2023

The votes are in and the top honors for best Asian food in Myrtle Beach go to casual dining venues, upscale restaurants, and points between. Whether you want a sit-down dinner and family-style dishes, a Teppanyaki-style tableside preparation, an all-you-can-eat buffet, or a tray of decadent, hand-rolled sushi, you’ll find the best Asian restaurants in Myrtle Beach to satisfy any appetite. Here are the Grand Strand’s top Asian restaurants for 2023: 

  • Empire Fire Mongolian Grill
  • King Kong Sushi
  • Yamato Steakhouse
  • P.F. Chang’s
  • Miyabi
  • E Noodles & Co.
  • Lil Tokyo
  • 39th Ave Bar & Grille
  • Thai-Lao
  • China Dragon

The dining in Myrtle Beach is excellent overall, and the bar certainly doesn’t lower for Asian fare. In fact, Myrtle Beach Asian restaurants are making some of the most talked-about signature dishes and staple entrées in town. Check into your hotel or resort and then check out the authentic cuisine and scrumptious bites at any—or all—of these fantastic eateries:

A Myrtle Beach moped rental is your answer for cruising down the Boulevard in the sunshine and getting to your favorite beach without breaking a sweat. A moped’s speed (or lack of) gives you plenty of time to savor the sights as you get to your next attraction, and they’re great fun for riding around the strip area with family and friends. Whether you’re new to scooters or you have one back home, you’ll be happy to discover there are many places offering moped rentals right here in Myrtle Beach.

Rent your ride by the hour, day, or week—there are nearly a dozen moped and scooter rentals in Myrtle Beach to choose from so you can get the style and price that’s best. You’ll find many gas-powered mopeds for rent that get excellent mileage around the city, and there are also companies offering electric scooters and e-bikes

The Myrtle Beach moped rental prices vary by company and style of ride. An electric scooter rental in Myrtle Beach is a cost-effective option that starts as low as $25 per day. Renting a moped will cost you a bit more, from $50 per day to up to $180 per day each, and medical mobility scooters are often a more costly option compared to a typical moped.

If you’re considering a moped or scooter rental, know that Myrtle Beach is a great location for it because the views are excellent and the attractions along the Boardwalk and other areas are in close proximity, so you can easily jaunt from spot to spot. 

Here are some facts you need to know before renting your new ride:

  • Renters must be 18 years old and must have a valid driver’s license and credit card
  • Moped drivers must have a moped operator’s license or a valid driver’s license
  • Operators and riders under the age of 21 must wear protective helmets
  • Mopeds are not allowed on any roadway with a speed limit greater than 55 mph
  • Lights and headlights must be turned on while the moped is in operation
  • Electric scooters may not be left unattended anywhere on public property

Get your vacation off to a fast (or fast enough) start and consider renting a moped or scooter while you’re in town. Rent scooters and mopeds in Myrtle Beach at these and other locations:

Super Cycles & Scooters

If you’re looking for an electric scooter rental in Myrtle Beach, Super Scooter serves areas of Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, and the greater Grand Strand. These electric scooters have been altered to abide by speed limit rules in many of the campgrounds in Myrtle Beach and make a great transportation option in busy tourist areas. Catch a break on rates with longer rentals.

Scooter Stop Rental

Scooter Stop is a luxury provider that offers convenient dropoff and pickup to make your Myrtle Beach moped rental convenient, whether you’re staying in North Myrtle Beach or right downtown. Though the rates are more expensive than some, the online rental process is easy and if you’re enjoying a 5-star stay, this upscale rental service will fit right into your plans.

Myrtle Beach Rental Superstore 

This moped rental of Myrtle Beach offers all kinds of rides and they’re conveniently located right on Ocean Boulevard. Find your low-rider or standard moped rental, or check out a golf cart to ride with your entire family. This rental is right by the beach so you won’t need to stray far from your Boardwalk hotel to find your ride.

Broadway at the Beach

You’ll find Wheelchair & Scooter Rentals of Myrtle Beach right at Broadway at the Beach. Though their selection is geared toward medical mobility, they are convenient for anyone who needs extra help navigating the shops in the area. Because this is one of the most-visited attractions in Myrtle Beach, it is a convenient spot to grab your rental. Book a scooter or moped rental in advance or stop by the shop and let the helpful team assist you.

Sometimes brand new hotels in Myrtle Beach aren’t actually new, but you wouldn’t know it looking at the sparkling lobbies, renovated pools, and fresh rooms. With something like 19 million visitors to Myrtle Beach annually, it is not surprising that the hotels and resorts in the Grand Strand need sprucing up from time to time. You may be surprised how many undergo remodeling and emerge looking like the newest hotels in Myrtle Beach. Some of the updates are purely cosmetic and others add tech-savvy features to the dossier of offerings, like digital room keys and Wi-Fi that seems to reach the ocean. 

Thankfully these seemingly new hotels in Myrtle Beach don’t ditch everything—you can still count on them for their Southern hospitality, excellent hotel deals, and convenient lodging near all the best attractions. While it may be a temporary inconvenience if your favorite tower is under construction, continual improvements are how these resorts consistently deliver the best dining, picture-perfect pools, and comfy beds and suites you’ve come to expect.

Whether brand new, refreshed, or totally rebranded, all the best hotels and resorts go through some level of renovations to meet and exceed guests’ expectations. Check out what’s new at Myrtle Beach hotels and plan your next visit to see these impressive upgrades for yourself.

Find out where to fly a kite in Myrtle Beach so that after the sandcastles, pool time, and beach reads are finished, you can still enjoy some fun in the sun. If you’re already on vacation when the urge to get out and fly a kite hits you, you’re in luck. The Myrtle Beach area offers many places to shop for kites of all kinds.

Broadway at the Beach is home to a specialty shop where you can pick up a new high-flying kite while on vacation. Klig’s Kites has many regular and stunt styles to choose from, with loads of designs, too. Some travelers even make it a tradition to buy a new kite each year as a souvenir. A popular style to buy is the triangular-shaped delta kite, which looks almost bat- or bird-like in the sky. These are easy to fly and keep airborne in a range of wind conditions. 

While your vacation resort will offer tons of amenities, and the area is loaded with things to do, you’ll be surprised how satisfying spending a day on the shore flying a kite can be for kids and adults. Follow our tips to get started, and learn where to fly your kite in Myrtle Beach to make the most of your new hobby. 

Getting Started: Flying a Kite

When you’re ready to join the kite-flying crowd, these basic principles will help make your flight a success:

  • Start simple: If you’re new to kite flying, start with a single-string kite. 
  • Pay attention to the weather: 5 to 15 mph wind is great for most delta and diamond kites, and about 8 to 25 mph wind is ideal for more complex styles.
  • Be aware of your surroundings: Keep a respectful distance between yourself and others, and avoid proximity to structures, especially if you’re still honing your skills.

To pilot your kite, first stand with your back to the wind. Hold the kite up by the bridle point (where the flying line attaches to the kite) and let the line out. If there’s enough wind to fly, the kite should go up. To make the kite climb, let it fly away a little bit, then pull in on the line. Repeat until your kite is high enough to find steady wind. If the wind is light, you may need to deploy a two-person launch technique: The helper takes the kite downwind and releases it as the flier pulls the line hand-over-hand in order to gain altitude.

Places to Fly Your Kite in Myrtle Beach

When looking for places to fly a kite, the wide, sandy shoreline of Myrtle Beach is an obvious choice. We recommend somewhere that isn’t crowded, especially if you’re inexperienced. This will give you space to walk with your kite as it takes flight. If you want even more room, wait for a low tide so the beach is even more expansive, or walk some distance from the oceanfront resorts to find a more secluded area of Myrtle Beach to fly your kite. These quieter locations offer a more relaxing experience so you can admire the vibrant colors against the endless blue of the ocean and sky.

It is ok to fly your kite on the sand in Myrtle Beach as long as you do so mindfully, and do not distract or interfere with the lifeguards’ visibility; also avoid the sand dunes when looking for places to fly your kite because it is illegal to disturb or damage these protected areas of the beach. 

While you can fly kites on the shores of Myrtle Beach, other places you can try include the area’s parks. State parks and city parks often have the open spaces you need to successfully launch and fly a kite, and depending on the season, these areas may even be less crowded than the beaches. If you’re in a city park, watch out for playground equipment, power lines, and other structures your kite could become tangled in.

Myrtle Beach Kite Festivals

While you know Myrtle Beach is a destination for beachgoers and fishermen, you probably didn’t realize the kind of draw this area holds for kite enthusiasts. There are two kite festivals in Myrtle Beach that bring in professional kite pilots and novice fliers. Local spectators and Myrtle beach vacationers enjoy watching these magnificent displays streaking across the sky. If you’re in town during either of these events, add them to your itinerary:

Klig’s Kite Festival Myrtle Beach

This Myrtle Beach kite festival is held downtown, so you’ll probably be able to view these high-flying kites from the balcony of your Boardwalk hotel. Popular local store Klig’s Kites hosts this festival, and each year it has featured some impressive displays throughout the two-day event. If you’re visiting in October, save some room in your schedule on the 21st or 22nd to check out this festival.

Huntington Beach State Park Kite Festival 

This two-day kite festival in March will be held at Huntington Beach State Park, just 15 miles from Myrtle Beach. If you’re visiting the Grand Strand in March, this event is already in the works for 2024 and it’s planned for the 23rd and 24th. Past years’ festivals have featured food trucks, kite crafts, a petting zoo, and other fun activities.