Summer is here, and we’re excited to welcome another busy beach season along the Grand Strand! Whether you’re visiting for a week or spending the entire summer here, a little extra awareness can help everyone enjoy a safe and stress-free vacation.

Here are a few friendly reminders as we kick off the season:

Check the Beach Flags

Before heading into the water, take a quick look at the beach warning flags posted each day. They provide important information about surf and ocean conditions and can change throughout the day.

Beach Flag Meanings

• 🟢 Green Flag – Low hazard; calm conditions
• 🟡 Yellow Flag – Medium hazard; use caution
• 🔴 Red Flag – High hazard; strong surf and currents
• 🔴🔴 Double Red Flag – Water closed to the public
• 🟣 Purple Flag – Dangerous marine life may be present

Even experienced swimmers should use extra caution when red flags are posted.

Stay Aware in the Water

Ocean conditions can shift quickly, especially during the summer months. Even strong swimmers should use caution and avoid swimming too far from shore. Children should always be supervised near the water.

If you ever find yourself caught in a rip current, remember to stay calm and swim parallel to the shoreline until you’re out of the current.

Whenever possible, swim near a lifeguard. Lifeguard towers are staffed along many areas of the Grand Strand beachfront throughout the busy season for added safety and assistance.

Stay Hydrated and Protect Yourself from the Sun

A long beach day can be exhausting in the summer heat. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and reapply sunscreen regularly, even on cloudy days. Hats, sunglasses, and beach umbrellas can also help limit direct sun exposure and keep everyone more comfortable.

Practice Good Beach Etiquette

Helping keep our beaches clean and enjoyable benefits everyone. A few simple reminders:

• Dispose of trash properly and avoid leaving items behind on the beach
• Please do not bring glass containers onto the sand
• Avoid setting up chairs, umbrellas, or tents on dunes or near beach fencing
• Large tents are not permitted on the beach
• Keep walkways and beach access areas clear for others

Keep an Eye on Children and Pets

Children should never be left unattended near the water or pool areas.

For those bringing pets along, please remember dogs must remain on a leash and follow local beach regulations. As a reminder, dogs are not permitted on the beach between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM from May 15 through September 15.

Monitor Weather Conditions

Summer weather can change quickly along the coast, especially during the afternoon hours. If thunderstorms approach or lightning is nearby, exit the beach and pool areas and seek shelter indoors until conditions improve.

Enjoy a Safe Summer

We hope everyone has a safe, relaxing, and memorable summer at the beach. A little preparation and awareness go a long way toward making beach days fun for everyone!