Picture this: you’ve spent a long day enjoying the sun, sand, and surf in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and you’re tempted to stay the night on the beach, lulled to sleep by the sound of waves. But before you set up camp, there’s something important to know—sleeping on the beach in Myrtle Beach or anywhere in Horry County is prohibited. As a general rule across the Carolinas, Karen and I tell folks that if the sun is up, you can sleep; if the sun is down, you are up. While this is an oversimplification, it is a great guiding principle. This post will examine the rules and regulations governing sleeping here on the Grand Strand.
Understanding Horry County’s Beach Sleeping Ordinances
Horry County, home to Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach, has strict ordinances prohibiting sleeping on the beach from 9 p.m. to 8 a.m. This rule applies countywide, meaning there is no spot on the sand where you can legally spend the night, regardless of whether it’s within a designated campsite.
Key Regulations:
- Countywide: No sleeping on the beach from 9 p.m. to 8 a.m.
- North Myrtle Beach: Sleeping on the beach is prohibited from 9 p.m. to sunrise.
- Myrtle Beach: Sleeping on public beaches is prohibited from 9 p.m. to 8 a.m.
For more details on Horry County ordinances, visit the Horry County Government website.
What Happens If You Get Caught Sleeping on the Beach?
If you’re caught sleeping on the beach in Horry County during prohibited hours, don’t panic. In most cases, local authorities prioritize education over enforcement.
First Step: Education and Counseling
Community leaders have stated that their first course of action is to educate and counsel individuals on the local ordinances. This approach is often enough to resolve the situation without further penalties.
What If You Refuse to Leave?
If someone refuses to comply with the ordinance and continues to sleep on the beach during restricted hours, the next step would be issuing a ticket. Fines for violating the beach sleeping regulations can be as high as $500.
The Worst-Case Scenario: Arrest
An arrest may be made in extreme cases, such as repeated non-compliance or other aggravating circumstances. However, this is considered a last resort and is not the typical response.
Why Is Sleeping on the Beach Prohibited in Myrtle Beach?
You might wonder why Horry County has such strict rules about sleeping on the beach. These regulations are in place to ensure the safety of both visitors and the environment. The county can better manage beach cleanliness, prevent disturbances, and protect the natural coastal ecosystem by prohibiting overnight stays.
Alternatives to Beach Sleeping in Myrtle Beach
If you’re looking for a unique overnight experience in Horry County, consider staying at one of the many nearby campgrounds that offer beach access. While you can’t sleep directly on the sand, you can enjoy the beach during the day and rest comfortably at a nearby campground or hotel at night.
Some great options include:
- Myrtle Beach State Park Campground
- Pirateland Family Camping Resort
- Ocean Lakes Family Campground
For more information about these campgrounds, check out our post on the best campgrounds near Myrtle Beach.
Sleeping On The Beach
While sleeping on the beach in Horry County may be appealing, it’s important to respect the local ordinances that prohibit it. Following the rules, you can enjoy a safe and fun experience along the beautiful Grand Strand without any surprises from local law enforcement. Instead, take advantage of the many nearby campgrounds that offer beach access and amenities to make your stay in Horry County unforgettable.
Explore our other posts on Carolinas Like A Local for more local tips and travel advice.
Dennis Stemmle is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and lecturer at Coastal Carolina University. He writes about travel, college success, and entrepreneurship.