Georgetown County’s unincorporated beaches include areas such as Litchfield Beach, North Litchfield, DeBordieu and portions of Garden City Beach south of the county line. These beaches are known for their quieter atmosphere and natural beauty, but visitors should be aware that county ordinances differ from neighboring communities. In addition to beach regulations, some private communities may have additional rules, so always observe posted signs.
Dogs are welcome on Georgetown County’s public beaches.
From 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., dogs must remain on a leash.
Outside those hours, dogs may be off leash provided they remain under voice control. If requested by law enforcement, owners must be able to demonstrate that their dog responds reliably to voice commands.
As always, pet owners are responsible for cleaning up after their animals.
Unlike some neighboring municipalities, Georgetown County does not prohibit beach tents or canopies during the day. However, all tents, cabanas, umbrellas, chairs, coolers and similar beach equipment must be removed when you leave for the day.
Items left unattended after sunset or left overnight are considered abandoned and may be removed by Georgetown County.
No personal property may be placed within 25 feet of an emergency beach access, and nothing may obstruct public beach access points.
Alcoholic beverages are prohibited on Georgetown County’s public beaches.
Glass bottles and glass containers are also prohibited.
Many Georgetown County beaches are located within Fireworks Free Zones. Because restrictions vary depending on location, visitors should verify whether fireworks are permitted before using them. Anyone who discharges fireworks is responsible for cleaning up all debris left behind.
Unlike most Grand Strand communities, bonfires may be permitted on some unincorporated Georgetown County beaches, but specific requirements must be followed.
Before building a beach fire, visitors should:
Some communities prohibit open fires altogether, so always verify local restrictions before planning a bonfire.
Public beach accesses are open:
Beach access closes:
No overnight parking is permitted at public beach accesses.
Sleeping on public beaches is prohibited between midnight and sunrise.
Camping is not permitted on Georgetown County’s public beaches.
Fishing is welcome, but it may not create unsafe conditions for swimmers, surfers or others using the beach.
South Carolina Department of Natural Resources regulations apply, including fishing license requirements where applicable.
Georgetown County’s beaches provide important habitat for nesting sea turtles, migratory shorebirds and fragile dune vegetation.
Visitors should:
Protecting these habitats helps preserve one of the least-developed stretches of South Carolina’s coastline.
Littering is prohibited.
Please remove everything you bring onto the beach, including chairs, umbrellas, toys and fishing equipment.
If you dig a hole in the sand:
Motor vehicles are prohibited on Georgetown County beaches and dunes except for authorized emergency and maintenance vehicles.
Public beach access parking is only allowed during posted access hours. Overnight parking at public beach accesses is prohibited. Always park in designated parking areas and never block emergency access routes.
Horseback riding is prohibited from March 1 through October 31.
Horses are permitted November 1 through the last day of February, and riders are responsible for cleaning up after their animals.
Public nudity is prohibited on Georgetown County beaches.
Beach weddings generally do not require a county permit in unincorporated areas. However, all public beach regulations still apply, and public beach accesses may not be used for gatherings or obstructed by equipment or decorations.
Visitors most commonly receive warnings or citations for:
In an emergency, call 911 immediately.
If you’re on a guarded section of beach, notify the nearest lifeguard. For maintenance issues at a public beach access, contact Georgetown County Parks & Recreation at 843-545-3532.
