Beach Rules

Over the years, the popularity of our beach, with both visitors and permanent residents, has grown to the point that we now need to ask all who use the beach to help maintain its charm and beauty for the future. To help us preserve and protect this wonder of nature so you and your family can enjoy it this year and your grandchildren and their families in the future, we ask you to abide by a few rules. We have instituted these solely for your safety and the protection of the environment. Our goals are to preserve the family atmosphere of Sunset Beach and add to your enjoyment and relaxation during your visit. Again, welcome to Sunset Beach and have a safe and relaxing visit with us.

Emergencies 🆘

In an emergency, call 911.
Please do not block emergency accesses to the beach. Emergency vehicles and first responders must be able to quickly access the strand.
The emergency vehicle access line runs from the trashcan posts to the dunes. Please keep all items and people out of this area

General Rules and Expectations 📋

Please do not litter. Trash receptacles are conveniently located at each beach access for your use.
Use only plastic containers or cans on the beach. For the safety of beachgoers and wildlife, no glass is permitted on the beach.
Fireworks and laser pointers are not permitted at any time on the beach.

Sun Shades 🏖️

No shade devices are allowed before 7am and must be removed by sunset.
No shades other than umbrellas are permitted between 3rd through 29th Streets. This includes wind-driven shades.
Umbrellas are allowed anywhere along the strand, but must be out of the emergency access line.
- If using extra support and/or tie downs on umbrellas, they must follow all rules for cabanas.
Wind-driven shades with two points of contact and anchors are allowed forward of the emergency access vehicle access.
Canopies, tents, and cabanas must be placed in a single line between the trashcan poles and parallel to the ocean. These items cannot be larger than 12' x 12' in overall footprint.
Users must maintain a distance of at least 10' from other shades.
All devices must be collapsed and secured when sustained wind speeds render them unsafe for use.
Pop-up tents/shading devices designed for infants are not regulated by the cabana rules. However, if the device is large enough for a toddler, a child, or an adult, it is then considered a cabana and must follow all cabana regulations.

Pets 🐾

When off your property, dogs must remain on a leash, any time, any place, in Sunset Beach. This includes the mainland, island, and the beach.
Leash length should be no longer than 10 feet. Electronic leashes are not permitted.
Dogs are prohibited on the beach between the hours of 9:00am—6:00pm, beginning the Friday before Memorial Day and continuing through Labor Day.
Pet owners must carry, in plain view, bags to remove all waste left by their pet on any public or private property that is not owned by said person. Failure to do so can result in a $100 fine per offense.

Beach Activities 🚲 🏄🏻‍♂️

Please remain vigilant when swimming in the ocean. Be aware of your surroundings, currents, and possible warning flags. Some of the most common flags include (information from US Lifesaving Association):
- Yellow: Medium hazard. Moderate surf and/or currents are present. Weak swimmers are discouraged from entering the water. For others, enhanced care and caution should be exercised.
- Red: High hazard. High hazard. Rough conditions such as strong surf and/or currents are present. All swimmers are discouraged from entering the water. Those entering the water should take great care.
- Double Red: Water is closed to public use. This flag may also be used in the event of an emergency evacuation from the water.
- Purple: Marine pests, such as jellyfish, stingrays, and other marine life that can cause minor injuries are present in the water. This flag is not intended to indicate the presence of sharks.
Only non-motorized (classic) bicycles are allowed on the beach. No vehicular traffic of any kind, including motorized or e-bikes, is allowed on the beach.
Sleeping and/or camping on the beach is not allowed after dark nor overnight.
If digging holes in the sand, please refill the sand before leaving or by sunset, whichever occurs first. Doing so helps avoid injuries for both beachgoers and sea turtles.
Bonfires, charcoal, and gas grills are NOT allowed on the beach at any time. These items must also be kept at least 10 feet away from homes and other flammable structures. These can easily cause and spread fires.
Surfing is not permitted from 5th to 32nd Street beginning May 1 and ending October 31.

Environmental Protection 🐢

Please keep off the dunes. They are turtle nesting grounds and help protect the island during storms.
Sunset Beach is a turtle sanctuary. All personal property must be removed from the beach strand by sunset. No personal property may be placed on the strand before 7am. These restrictions allow sea turtles to come ashore at night unobstructed and beachgoers to safely walk the beach after dark.

The Town of Sunset Beach has instituted these rules (ordinances) primarily to protect the environment and to add to your enjoyment and safety while you are visiting with us. Our beach is patrolled during the day, but there are no lifeguards. Please exercise good judgment when swimming in the ocean. Welcome to Sunset Beach, have a great visit, and please, leave only your footprints in the sand! 👣👣👣