Myrtle Beach to reopen public beach access without lifeguards

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster announced last Monday he was lifting restrictions on closed public beach accesses and was allowing some non-essential businesses to reopen.

Despite that move, the City of Myrtle Beach initially decided public beach accesses will remain closed, according to our sister station WPDE.

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In a statement, officials had said the public beach access would be closed until either the state of emergency expires, city council made a different decision or the emergency order is rescinded.

But, city leaders reconsidered their decision and decided to open up the public access to the beaches.

North Myrtle Beach re-opened beach accesses shortly after restrictions were lifted last week, but at first, Myrtle Beach decided to keep them closed out of an abundance of caution.

Gov. McMaster easing restrictions on some SC retailers, beach access Gov. McMaster easing restrictions on some SC retailers, beach access

Officials said it will take a few days to remove the barriers, but visitors are allowed to walk around them.

There is one thing to note -- there are no lifeguards on the beach so you will have to swim at your own risk.

Leaders will vote next on reopening short-term rentals.

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Some beaches in North Carolina have reopened with restrictions.

Wrightsville Beach and Oak Island are only allowing people on the beach to exercise -- no sunbathing or fishing.

Carolina Beach is considering doing the same.

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