Professional Travel Guide
Search

Myrtle Beach Travel Security

Use travel security information provided by the professionals to stay safe on your trip to Myrtle Beach. Use our security guide to avoid unnecessary risks, bad neighborhoods, tips for personal safety, health, and Myrtle Beach do's and dont's.

Myrtle Beach South Carolina is more than just sand and sun. A Myrtle Beach vacation includes golf, shopping and Pavilion Nostalgia Park among its many attractions. A popular destination for the family, Myrtle Beach is not quiet, but it offers plenty of fun.
 Map Style: Road Aerial Hybrid
Updating Map...
Destination Guidebook for Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Personal Safety   |   Health   |   Disabled Advisory   |   Dos & Don'ts
  
Personal SafetyTop  Back to the top

Like any other bustling tourist town, Myrtle Beach has its share of crime. Most crimes can be avoided with a little common sense. Be aware of your belongings at all times, especially on the beach. Avoid carrying items in a fanny pack and try not to go out alone at night.

Stay alert of your surroundings, and don't leave items unattended in a car. If you need to withdraw money from an ATM, try to use one that is located indoors and only go during daylight hours.

If relaxing at a restaurant or lounge, use caution and do not accept alcoholic drinks from strangers and do not leave your drink unattended. Some substances that can be placed in your drink are odorless and tasteless.

When on the beach, follow all posted instructions and pay close attention to the lifeguard on duty. The surf can be rough at times. Lifeguards are on duty Memorial Day weekend-Labor Day. Do not walk the beach alone at night. And remember, South Carolina laws require all drivers and occupants of motor vehicles to wear seat belts at all times—no exceptions.

 
HealthTop  Back to the top

Beware of severe sunburn. UV rays can penetrate even heavy cloud coverage, so use a sunblock with a high SPF every time you are out in the sun. Remember to reapply after swimming or every few hours.

If you are stung by a jellyfish, rub some sand against the sting underwater to get rid of the nettles. Apply vinegar or alcohol to neutralize the toxins and cleanse the area (all lifeguards and beach patrol carry vinegar for such emergencies). If you have an allergic reaction, call 911.

Beach Patrol officers can be found on all the beaches. They are trained in CPR and first aid.

The Grand Strand Regional Medical Center is located at 809 82nd Parkway, Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-692-1000. http://www.grandstrandmed.com.

In case of emergency, dial 911.

 
Disabled AdvisoryTop  Back to the top

Myrtle Beach is sensitive to the needs of visitors with disabilities. Most city buildings can accommodate those with special needs. Myrtle Beach has 34 public beach access points (street ends, parks and other access points) within the city accessible to people with physical disabilities.

Beach wheelchairs with umbrellas and large tires that can traverse the sand are available free of charge, typically in one-hour increments during the summer and up to one week during other times of the year. Contact the Mobility Center of the Grand Strand. Phone 843-692-8001 or 843-918-1382. Toll-free 877-683-2473. http://www.cityofmyrtlebeach.com/handicapped.html.

Visitors with a valid handicapped tag or license plate, Disable American Veterans or Purple Heart license plates can park for free at any parking meter in South Carolina.

 
Dos & Don'tsTop  Back to the top

Do be prepared for congested traffic during the summertime when you're traveling (cruising) along the "strip."

Don't wear a thong. Those who do are subject to get a ticket. And make sure to put on a cover-up when you are off the beach.

Don't expect to see alligators on or near the beach. They don't live in saltwater. If you do see an alligator, don't approach it.

Do wear a helmet if you are riding a motorcycle. Although South Carolina law does not require a helmet for riders age 18 and older, it's still a good idea since traffic is heavy during peak seasons. For riders younger than 18, a helmet is required by law.

Don't feed the birds when sitting outside at a local restaurant.

Don't leave pets or children in cars during the summer. The heat can be brutal and often fatal, particularly for dogs.

Editor's Choice of Luxury, Deluxe, and Value priced hotels in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina:

Deluxe
Star Rating:


8400 Costa Verde Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC
Value
Star Rating:


1105 S Ocean Blvd
Myrtle Beach, SC