Swimming, surfing, and safety rules in Surfside Beach, SC
From May 15 through September 15, surfing is limited to two designated zones between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. [Surfside Beach swimming and safety rules] (opens in a new tab)
From September 16 through May 14, surfing is allowed anywhere from sunrise to sunset, except within 300 feet of the fishing pier. [Surfside Beach swimming and safety rules] (opens in a new tab)
Last verified August 16, 2026 · Source: Town of Surfside Beach swimming, surfing, and safety rules (opens in a new tab)
Summer surfing hours and zones
From May 15 through September 15, surfing is allowed only in designated zones between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. [Surfside Beach swimming and safety rules] (opens in a new tab)
The northern zone runs from south of 12th Avenue North to 14th Avenue North. [Surfside Beach swimming and safety rules] (opens in a new tab)
The southern zone runs from 13th Avenue South to the southern boundary of the town. [Surfside Beach swimming and safety rules] (opens in a new tab)
Town of Surfside Beach swimming, surfing, and safety rules (opens in a new tab)
Off-season surfing hours and pier boundary
From September 16 through May 14, surfing is allowed anywhere along the beach from sunrise to sunset. [Surfside Beach swimming and safety rules] (opens in a new tab)
Surfing is prohibited within 300 feet of the fishing pier throughout the year. [Surfside Beach swimming and safety rules] (opens in a new tab)
Surfers must wear surfing leashes at all times. [Surfside Beach swimming and safety rules] (opens in a new tab)
Town of Surfside Beach swimming, surfing, and safety rules (opens in a new tab)
Swimming depth and distance limits
Swimmers must stay in water no deeper than chest deep. [Surfside Beach swimming and safety rules] (opens in a new tab)
Swimmers must remain within 50 yards of the shoreline. [Surfside Beach swimming and safety rules] (opens in a new tab)
Town of Surfside Beach swimming, surfing, and safety rules (opens in a new tab)
Lifeguard stand season and locations
Lifeguard stands run from mid-June through mid-August at ten locations. [Surfside Beach swimming and safety rules] (opens in a new tab)
North-side stands are at Holiday Inn at 16th Avenue North, 12th Avenue North, 6th Avenue North, 3rd Avenue North, and 1st Avenue North. [Surfside Beach swimming and safety rules] (opens in a new tab)
South-side stands are at 4th Avenue South, 10th Avenue South, 13th Avenue South, and 15th Avenue South. [Surfside Beach swimming and safety rules] (opens in a new tab)
A stand is at Days Inn at Pier. [Surfside Beach swimming and safety rules] (opens in a new tab)
Town of Surfside Beach swimming, surfing, and safety rules (opens in a new tab)
Plan a safe beach day
Rip currents
See the measured rip current record and the steps to escape one.
Read the rip current guide →Beach rules
Review beach equipment, shading device, dog, and prohibited item rules.
Read the beach rules →