Splash Safe
in Myrtle Beach

It's starting to get hot in Myrtle Beach, and the next few months will be even hotter. Brian Mitchell, the Myrtle Beach Fire Department's Ocean Rescue Division Chief, talks through tips on how to stay safe in the heat on the beach.

1. Stay hydrated

2. Put a cool rag or some ice on your head or neck

3. Wear sunscreen (SPF higher than 30)

Whether you live here or are planning a visit, please keep these tips in mind for your beach days. 

If you or your child need swim lessons, you have some options in Myrtle Beach. Both the City of Myrtle Beach’s Recreation Division and the Claire Chapin Epps YMCA have swim lessons for people of all ages and skill levels. Myrtle Beach Recreation District Manager Ryan Caputo and YMCA Aquatics Director Autumn Finney explain more about the programs. With as many pools and bodies of water as there are in Myrtle Beach, knowing how to swim is very important! Please take advantage of these lessons if you are able to.

To learn more about City of Myrtle Beach lessons, visit https://www.myrtlebeachprst.com/, and to learn more about lessons at the Claire Chapin Epps YMCA, visit https://www.coastalcarolinaymca.org/.

Most resort pools are shallow, so it’s best to enter feet first—no diving. Pool decks can be slippery too, so remind little ones to walk, not run. And a helpful tip: wearing flip-flops or sandals on the way to the beach protects your feet from hot sand that can cause burns.

Great question! Our beaches use a flag system to help you understand ocean conditions at a glance—so you can enjoy the water with confidence. Here’s what each flag color means:

🟢 Green Flag – Low Hazard

Calm conditions. It’s generally safe to swim, but always keep an eye on the waves and never let children swim unattended.

🟡 Yellow Flag – Medium Hazard

Moderate surf or currents. Use caution when swimming, especially with young children or if you’re not a strong swimmer.

🔴 Red Flag – High Hazard

Strong surf or dangerous currents. Swimming is not recommended. Please stay close to shore and use extreme caution near the water.

🚫 Double Red Flag – Water Closed to the Public

Conditions are too dangerous to allow anyone in the water. For your safety, swimming is prohibited when double red flags are flying.

🟣 Purple Flag – Dangerous Marine Life

This flag doesn’t refer to water conditions, but to marine life spotted nearby—like jellyfish or stingrays. It's a signal to stay alert and be cautious in the water.

For everyone’s safety, swimming and surfing are not allowed within 75 yards of fishing piers in the City of Myrtle Beach. Piers can attract fish—and other marine life—so it’s best to keep a safe distance

It’s always a good idea to check the forecast before heading out. Quick-moving afternoon storms are common, and safety is top priority. If you hear thunder, that means lightning is nearby—please leave the water and find shelter until the storm passes.

Learn more about the latest tides and conditions in the Myrtle Beach area. 

• Tides and Conditions
• Current Weather Conditions
• S.C DHEC's Beach Access Guide

A little preparation can go a long way. Consider swimming lessons for young children before your visit, and CPR training for the family is a great way to feel more confident in case of an emergency. Peace of mind is a great travel companion.

Jellyfish are a natural part of our coastal ecosystem, and while encounters aren’t super common, it’s always smart to stay aware. Most jellyfish have clear, umbrella-shaped bodies with long, trailing tentacles that can sting—even after they’ve washed up on the sand.

Here’s how to stay safe:

• Be observant in the water. If you spot a jellyfish, calmly exit the ocean and let others nearby—and a lifeguard—know.

• Don’t touch jellyfish, even if they appear dead. Their tentacles can still sting on contact.

• If stung, rinse the area immediately with vinegar or rubbing alcohol to help neutralize the sting. Avoid using fresh water, which can make it worse.

• Seek help from a lifeguard. They’re trained to assist and can provide first aid if needed.

And remember, if you see a purple beach flag, that means marine life—like jellyfish—has been spotted nearby. It’s a good signal to stay cautious and consider staying out of the water until conditions are safer.

Feeling confident and prepared is one of the best ways to enjoy your time at The Beach. While lifeguards and resort staff are here to help, it’s also a great idea to learn a few safety basics before your trip—especially CPR.

Everyone, with or without children, can benefit from CPR training. It gives you the knowledge to act quickly in an emergency and can truly make a difference. The American Red Cross and other organizations offer CPR certification classes across the country and right here in the Myrtle Beach area.

A little preparation goes a long way—and helps make your vacation as safe, fun, and carefree as possible.

Whether you're in Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, or anywhere along the Grand Strand, help is never far away.

If you need assistance while on the beach, your first stop should be a lifeguard. Lifeguards are stationed at many public beach accesses during the busy season and are trained to respond to medical concerns, water rescues, and general safety issues. They can also provide information on surf conditions, beach rules, and local wildlife.

For emergencies, dial 911—this connects you with the nearest local emergency services. Dispatchers in our area are familiar with the beach communities and can quickly direct first responders to your location.

If it’s a non-emergency—like a question about beach regulations, reporting a minor issue, or checking lost & found—here’s a helpful breakdown:

• In the City of Myrtle Beach, contact the Myrtle Beach Police Department's non-emergency line or speak with city beach patrol officers.

• In North Myrtle Beach, the Public Safety Department oversees both police and fire services and can assist with beach-related concerns.

• In Surfside Beach, you can reach out to the Surfside Beach Police Department or town hall for information and support.

• If you’re in unincorporated Horry County (like Garden City, parts of Cherry Grove, or other county-maintained beach areas), contact the Horry County Police Department or Beach Services depending on the issue.

If you're staying at a hotel or resort, your front desk staff is also a great resource—they’re often in contact with local safety officials and can help you navigate any situation.