A few simple habits keep every swim safe — at the beach, the pool, or the waterpark.
There’s nothing better than diving into summer in Myrtle Beach — whether you’re floating in the pool, riding the waves, or racing down a waterslide. But before you cannonball into the fun, let’s make sure everyone stays safe and smiling.
That’s why Visit Myrtle Beach has teamed up with the YMCA of Coastal Carolina and the City of Myrtle Beach to help spread the word about water safety. A little know-how goes a long way when it comes to keeping you and your crew safe around water.
A few simple habits keep every swim safe — at the beach, the pool, or the waterpark.
Make sure children know to always ask for permission before going in or near the water. Teaching your children to be water smart is the first step in water safety – be sure they understand the importance of asking permission before going in or near the water.
Avoid Breath-Holding Games or Challenges. Prolonged breath-holding can lead to shallow water blackout, even for strong swimmers. Kids and adults alike should avoid games or challenges that involve holding your breath underwater — it’s just not worth the risk. Breathe easy, swim safely!
Always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket when in or near the water — especially If you or your kids aren’t confident swimmers, It’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to stay safe — not just on boats, but at the pool, beach, or water park too.
Supervise your children whenever they’re in or near water. When children are swimming, make sure they are actively supervised at all times. Teach your children that they should only swim in locations where a lifeguard is on duty, or where a responsible adult agrees to watch the children in the water without distractions.
Don’t jump in the water to save a friend who is struggling in deep water. If an adult or child finds their friend in deep water unexpectedly, their natural reaction may be to jump in the water to try and save them. Even if they are a great swimmer, a panicked person will overpower them, pulling the rescuer under water.
When it comes to rip current safety, If you’re caught in a rip current, don’t panic—float, don’t fight. Trying to swim directly back to shore against the current can quickly exhaust even the strongest swimmers. Instead, stay calm, keep your head above water, and float to conserve energy.
If you or your child need swim lessons, you have some options in Myrtle Beach. Both the City of Myrtle Beach’s Recreation Division and the Claire Chapin Epps YMCA have swim lessons for people of all ages and skill levels. Myrtle Beach Recreation District Manager Ryan Caputo and YMCA Aquatics Director Autumn Finney explain more about the programs. With as many pools and bodies of water as there are in Myrtle Beach, knowing how to swim is very important! Please take advantage of these lessons if you are able to.
To learn more about City of Myrtle Beach lessons, visit https://www.myrtlebeachprst.com/, and to learn more about lessons at the Claire Chapin Epps YMCA, visit https://www.coastalcarolinaymca.org/.
Weaker and younger swimmers should always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket in or near the water. Inflatable toys and floaties are not substitutes for a life jacket.
Don’t fight it. Stay calm, float, and swim parallel to the shore until you’re free of the current, then angle back in. Wave your arm and call for help if you need it.
Check the beach warning flags and swim near a lifeguard. See our beach safety page for the full flag guide.
Most resort pools are shallow, so it’s best to enter feet first—no diving. Pool decks can be slippery too, so remind little ones to walk, not run. And a helpful tip: wearing flip-flops or sandals on the way to the beach protects your feet from hot sand that can cause burns.
For everyone’s safety, swimming and surfing are not allowed within 75 yards of fishing piers in the City of Myrtle Beach. Piers can attract fish—and other marine life—so it’s best to keep a safe distance
Jellyfish are a natural part of our coastal ecosystem, and while encounters aren’t super common, it’s always smart to stay aware. Most jellyfish have clear, umbrella-shaped bodies with long, trailing tentacles that can sting—even after they’ve washed up on the sand.
Here’s how to stay safe:
Be observant in the water. If you spot a jellyfish, calmly exit the ocean and let others nearby—and a lifeguard—know.
Don’t touch jellyfish, even if they appear dead. Their tentacles can still sting on contact.
If stung, rinse the area immediately with vinegar or rubbing alcohol to help neutralize the sting. Avoid using fresh water, which can make it worse.
Seek help from a lifeguard. They’re trained to assist and can provide first aid if needed.
And remember, if you see a purple beach flag, that means marine life—like jellyfish—has been spotted nearby. It’s a good signal to stay cautious and consider staying out of the water until conditions are safer.
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