Can You Drink Beer on the Beach in South Carolina? Here’s What You Need to Know

It’s a warm evening on Folly Beach. The sun’s setting, the waves are rolling in, and you’ve got a cold beer in hand. You’re relaxed, happy, and wondering-can you drink beer on the beach in SC? The answer isn’t as simple as yes or no. It depends on where you are, who’s watching, and what kind of beach you’re on.

It’s Not Statewide-It’s Local

South Carolina doesn’t have one law that says, "You can drink on all beaches." Instead, each city or county makes its own rules. That means what’s allowed on Myrtle Beach might get you fined on Hilton Head. You can’t assume it’s okay just because you see others doing it.

For example, in Charleston County, including Folly Beach and Isle of Palms, alcohol is completely banned on public beaches. Signs are posted. Beach patrols enforce it. If you’re caught with an open container, you could face a $500 fine and possible confiscation of your drink.

On the other hand, Myrtle Beach allows alcohol on the beach-but only between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., and only in plastic or aluminum containers. Glass bottles? Not allowed. No exceptions. Even if you’re just sipping a beer while walking along the shore, you’re breaking the law if it’s after 6 p.m. or if you’re holding glass.

Why the Strict Rules?

You might wonder why places treat beach drinking so seriously. It’s not about judging people. It’s about safety and public order.

South Carolina’s beaches get over 15 million visitors a year. During peak season, some beaches see 50,000 people in a single day. When alcohol mixes with sun, sand, and crowds, things can turn dangerous fast. There’s been a rise in incidents involving drunk swimmers, rowdy groups, and even fights near boardwalks. Local governments say the rules help keep beaches family-friendly and reduce emergency calls.

In 2023, Hilton Head Island reported over 300 alcohol-related beach citations-mostly for open containers and underage drinking. That’s not a small number. And it’s not just about fines. Emergency crews spent more than 120 hours responding to alcohol-related incidents on beaches that year.

What About Beach Campsites?

If you’re camping right on the beach-like at the Myrtle Beach State Park or Fort Moultrie Campground-the rules change again. These are state-managed sites, and they follow different rules than public beaches.

At state parks, alcohol is allowed in designated camping areas, but not on the beach itself. So you can crack open a beer at your campsite after dark, but once you step onto the sand, it’s game over. Some parks even have quiet hours starting at 10 p.m., so even if you’re on your own site, you’re still expected to keep it down.

Private beach campgrounds? They set their own rules. Some allow alcohol freely. Others ban it completely. Always check the campground’s website or call ahead. Don’t assume just because you’re "on private property" you’re free to drink. Many private sites still follow local ordinances to avoid trouble with the town.

What Counts as an Open Container?

It’s not just about having a beer in your hand. An open container means any alcoholic drink with the seal broken-whether it’s in a can, bottle, cup, or even a flask. Even if you’re not drinking, if the top is off and it’s accessible, it’s still considered open.

Some people think putting beer in a cooler or wrapping it in a towel makes it okay. It doesn’t. Law enforcement doesn’t care if you "aren’t drinking right now." The law is about possession and accessibility, not consumption.

And yes, that includes beer in a thermos, a growler, or a wine box. If it’s alcohol and it’s open, it’s illegal on most public beaches in SC.

What’s the Best Way to Enjoy a Drink Near the Beach?

You don’t have to give up your beach night entirely. Here’s how to do it right:

• Stick to beachside bars or restaurants with outdoor seating. Most have patios facing the water and serve drinks legally.
• Bring non-alcoholic drinks to the beach. Sparkling water, lemonade, or iced tea taste just as refreshing.
• If you’re camping, wait until you’re back at your site and after sunset to enjoy a drink.
• Check the specific beach’s website before you go. Look for "beach ordinances" or "alcohol policy" on the city’s official page.

Pro tip: Myrtle Beach’s official website has a downloadable beach rules PDF. It’s updated every year. Bookmark it. Print it. Keep it in your car. That way, you’re never guessing.

What Happens If You Get Caught?

The consequences vary by location, but here’s what usually happens:

• First offense: Warning or $50-$200 fine (depending on the city).
• Second offense: $200-$500 fine, possible court appearance.
• Third offense: Could mean community service or even a misdemeanor charge.
• Underage drinking: Separate, harsher penalties. Parents can be held liable if their teen is caught with alcohol on the beach.

Some cities, like Hilton Head, have started using beach ambassadors-friendly staff who give out warnings before writing tickets. But don’t count on that. If you’re seen with an open container, you’re risking it.

What About Other States?

If you’re comparing notes with trips to Florida or California, remember: SC is stricter than most. In Florida, many beaches allow alcohol unless posted otherwise. In California, some beaches like Santa Monica ban it outright. But SC’s patchwork of local laws makes it one of the trickiest places to navigate.

There’s no national rule. No federal beach alcohol law. That’s why knowing your local rules is non-negotiable.

Bottom Line

Can you drink beer on the beach in SC? Sometimes-but only if you know exactly where you are and what the local rules say. Most public beaches ban it. Some allow it with strict limits. Always check before you go. Don’t risk a fine, a confiscated drink, or a ruined trip just because you assumed it was okay.

Plan ahead. Bring a cooler with water and snacks. Save the beer for your campsite or a nearby pub. The beach is for sun, sand, and surf-not for legal trouble.