Beach Rules and Regulations

Click here for the island’s rules and regulations.  The Town of Kiawah Island Beach Patrol enforces ordinances. Contact Beach Patrol at 843-518-2880 or info@beachpatrolsc.org. 

Beach Rules and Regulations: 
  • Strong rip currents are common. Swim with caution. Charleston County Parks and Recreation provides lifeguards at Beachwalker County Park.
  • No wading/swimming in Captain Sam’s Inlet (western end of the island).
  • No glass, metal shovels, plastic carryout bags, plastic straws, Styrofoam, balloons, or drones allowed.
  • Stay off the dunes and use public walkovers.
  • No overnight storage of beach equipment (tents, chairs, toys, etc.).
  • No open fires or fireworks are allowed at any time except ones permitted by the Town. Fireworks are subject to confiscation.
  • No littering. Use waste receptacles at beach accesses.
  • No vehicles are allowed on the beach except emergency and authorized vehicles.
  • Public nudity is prohibited.
  • No sleeping on beaches after dark
  • Launching, retrieving, and beaching of motorized vessels, including jet skis, are prohibited except for authorized vessels.
  • Bikes are allowed on the beach but must be walked across boardwalks. Reckless operation is prohibited. Bikes must be stored overnight in an appropriate storage location where the bikes cannot be visible from the street or adjoining property.
  • Never approach sea turtles, hatchlings, or their nests. Sea turtles are an endangered species. Do not interfere with them in any way.
  • May through October – all outdoor lighting visible from the beachfront should be turned off from 9 p.m. to dawn to protect nesting sea turtles. Hatchling turtles are disorientated by artificial light. Fill in holes dug in the sand before you leave the beach. If you see any adult sea turtles or hatching, call 843-768-9166 to report your sighting.
  • Sand Hole Ordinance: Changing the beach's contour and using metal shovels is prohibited.  Plastic shovels are allowed but can be no longer than 14” in length.
  • Commercial business is prohibited on the beach except under license from the Town.
  • Fishing – A saltwater fishing license is required for all recreational fishing. Licenses can be obtained at Seacoast Sports and Outfitters at 843-768-8486 (Freshfields Village) or online at the Department of Natural Resources website or call 843-762-5000.