Surfside Beach Local service guide

Beach life

Beach equipment rules in Surfside Beach, SC

Surfside Beach limits tent and canopy size and placement on the public beach.

Source: Town of Surfside Beach shading device rules (opens in a new tab)

Tent and canopy restrictions

Tents, canopies, and other shading devices may not exceed 10 feet by 10 feet. Source: Town shading device rules (opens in a new tab)

Except for umbrellas and baby tents, shading devices must sit beside the town's beach emergency lane with at least 10 feet between them. Source: Town shading device rules (opens in a new tab)

These devices must use straight tie-downs, with no beach equipment between them. Source: Town shading device rules (opens in a new tab)

Overnight removal window

Except for town equipment, beach equipment may not remain on the public beach from 9:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. Source: Town shading device rules (opens in a new tab)

The town removes and disposes of shading devices or other equipment left during that window or left unattended. Source: Town shading device rules (opens in a new tab)

The South Carolina DNR sea turtle guidance (opens in a new tab) says four sea turtle species use state waters and may nest from May through October. It also says to remove chairs and tents overnight.

Placement near lifeguard stands

Place umbrellas and other shading devices, including baby tents, behind the lifeguard stand without obstructing the lifeguard's view. Source: Town shading device rules (opens in a new tab)

When a lifeguard moves the stand as the tide rises, move every shading device west to preserve the lifeguard's view. Source: Town shading device rules (opens in a new tab)

Request beach gear rentals

Share your rental dates, equipment quantities, delivery address, and pickup details with the provider.

Town rules

Beach rules

Check when dogs cannot use the beach during the summer season.

Beach access and pier rules

Plan where to fish outside the 300-foot exclusion around the Surfside Beach pier.

Questions about beach gear rentals

How large can a tent or canopy be on Surfside Beach?
The town limits tents, canopies, and other shading devices to 10 feet by 10 feet.
Source: Town of Surfside Beach shading device rules (opens in a new tab)
Can I leave beach equipment on Surfside Beach overnight?
No. The town prohibits equipment on the public beach from 9:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m.
Source: Town of Surfside Beach shading device rules (opens in a new tab)
Where should I place an umbrella near a lifeguard stand?
Place it behind the lifeguard stand without obstructing the lifeguard's view of the beach.
Source: Town of Surfside Beach shading device rules (opens in a new tab)