Last reviewed: August 12, 2026. Cherry Grove Beach is part of the City of North Myrtle Beach, so City beach laws apply throughout the area. Rules can change. Follow posted signs, instructions from beach patrol, and the City’s current Beach Laws.
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Dogs on the beach
From May 15 through Labor Day, dogs are not allowed on the beach between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Outside those restricted hours, dogs may visit the beach but must remain on a leash. Owners must keep their pets under control and pick up and properly dispose of pet waste.
For off-leash exercise, use a designated dog park rather than the beach. Check current locations, hours, and rules before visiting.
Umbrellas, tents, and shade devices
From May 15 through Labor Day, the City allows only center-pole umbrellas no taller than 7 feet 6 inches, with a circular shade no wider than 9 feet in diameter.
Tents, tarps, cabanas, pavilions, sports-brellas, and similar supported shade devices are prohibited during that period. A small infant-shade exception may apply under the City’s ordinance; review the official rule before bringing one.
Keep all umbrellas and belongings clear of lifeguard sightlines and emergency-access routes.
Fireworks
Fireworks are prohibited throughout the City of North Myrtle Beach, including the beach, unless the City has approved a permitted display. This includes sparklers and other consumer fireworks.
To report illegal fireworks, call North Myrtle Beach Police Dispatch at 843-280-5511. Call 911 for emergencies. See the City’s Fireworks information.
Alcohol, glass, and litter
Alcohol and glass containers are prohibited on the beach. Do not conceal or transfer alcoholic drinks into other containers for beach use.
Littering is illegal and may result in a fine. Carry out everything you bring with you.
Beach holes and overnight belongings
Fill every hole before leaving the beach. Unfilled holes can injure visitors, wildlife, and emergency personnel.
Nothing may be left on the beach between 7 p.m. and 8 a.m. Unattended items may be removed.
Dunes and sea oats
Do not walk on, damage, or remove vegetation from the dunes. Do not attach belongings to sand fencing or dune walkovers. Use marked public beach accesses.
Swimming, surfing, and watercraft
Do not swim more than 50 yards from shore or beyond shoulder depth. Watercraft must operate at least 100 yards offshore.
Seasonal surf and skimboard restrictions apply from May 15 through Labor Day between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Surfing is allowed only in designated areas during those hours, and it is prohibited within 300 feet of a pier. Surfers must wear a leash. Ask a lifeguard or consult the City’s current rules before entering the water.
Golf carts
Golf carts must display a valid South Carolina permit and be driven by a licensed driver. They may operate only from sunrise to sunset on qualifying secondary roads with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or less.
Golf carts may cross—but may not travel along—primary roads such as Ocean Boulevard, Highway 17, Sea Mountain Highway, and 27th Avenue South. Obey all traffic laws and do not exceed the cart’s seating capacity. South Carolina law requires children under age 12 to wear a seat belt on public roads.
Review the City’s Golf Cart Laws and use map before driving.
Before you visit
Beach rules, parking procedures, and seasonal restrictions can change. Review the official City pages before your trip and follow all posted instructions after you arrive.
