Warmer days bring families and college visitors to the beach for weeks. Here is how to enjoy an easy, safe spring trip to the Grand Strand.
Spring surf can be deceptive. Swim near a lifeguard when on duty, and if caught in a rip, stay calm, float, and signal for help.
Beach & water safetyGlass, littering, and certain items are restricted on the beach. Tents and shade have size and setback rules in season.
City beach rulesCooler air masks a strong UV index. Use sunscreen, bring water, and pack a layer for breezy evenings.
Water quality advisories, beach flag changes and weather warnings — a heads-up before you head out.
Sign up for alertsThe ocean is still cool and lifeguard coverage is ramping up, so a few habits keep your spring beach days safe.
Green is calm, yellow is moderate, red means dangerous surf, and double red means the water is closed. Flags fly at staffed beach access points.
Coverage expands as the season warms. Pick an access with a stand and keep children within arm’s reach. Lifeguard start dates vary by access point, so verify current coverage with the City or your resort before relying on it.
Spring water temps can cause cold-water shock. Ease in, and do not swim alone or after dark.
If you see a red flag or cannot spot a lifeguard, stay on the sand. Rip currents are the leading surf hazard on the Grand Strand.
Spring weekends fill the lots near the beach. Here is where to park and how to get around.
The Pavilion Parking Garage at 914 N. Kings Hwy. is the closest covered garage to the Boardwalk and SkyWheel. Rates climb during holidays and events, so bring a card and arrive early.
Paid parking is enforced 9 a.m. to midnight daily, March through September. Downtown meters run $2/hour; beach-access spaces are $3/hour or $15 all day. Pay at the meter, in the ParkMobile app, or by texting your zone number to 25023.
A 7-day visitor parking pass is $50 from the Lanier Parking office inside the Pavilion garage (914 N. Kings Hwy.). It covers city meters all week.
Coast RTA runs year-round fixed-route buses along the beach corridor. The free seasonal shuttle ended in June 2026, so check current routes on the Coast RTA Ride Tracker app or call 843-488-0865. Rideshare drop-offs avoid the closures too.
Parking rates and bus routes change seasonally; confirm current pricing on the City of Myrtle Beach and Coast RTA sites before you go.
Traffic is heaviest right after big events. Let lots clear by walking a while, or arrange a rideshare pickup a few blocks away.
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