Free Beach Parking in Myrtle Beach – Winter Savings for Everyone!
As the vibrant Myrtle Beach area settles down for its winter slumber, the hustle and bustle recedes, making way for something truly exciting — the chance to grab some free beach parking! Whether you’re a local trying to save some bucks, a snowbird escaping the chilly weather, or an off-season tourist looking for adventure, we’ve compiled a guide just for you. Here’s where to park without digging into your pockets!
Myrtle Beach Parking: A Bit of a Squeeze
Let’s start with the heart of the action — Myrtle Beach itself. Unfortunately, if you’re hoping for free beachfront parking here, you’re in for some disappointment. The city has no options for free spots along the beach for anyone but the lucky residents. Yep, you heard it right! Locals can grab a parking decal that lets them park at meters and certain residential streets with ease. However, for the rest of us, parking can cost anywhere from $2 to $3 an hour or a flat $15 per day. And just so you know, the city waved goodbye to free off-season parking as of 2023 — talk about a bummer!
North Myrtle Beach: A Different Story
If you’re making your way up to North Myrtle Beach, you have some fantastic news waiting for you! Starting November 1, the city rolls out the red carpet with free parking throughout the off-season. That’s right — all lots and streets in North Myrtle Beach are yours to enjoy, *absolutely free*, for several months! The parking fees will make a comeback on March 1, 2024, ranging between $2 and $4 an hour from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. But for now, enjoy the stretch of sand without worrying about parking costs.
For residents and property owners in North Myrtle Beach, you can register for free city parking every year—super simple! You can do it online or swing by in person. Just another way this adorable coastal town rolls out the welcome mat for its community.
Surfside Beach Offers Another Freebie
Just a hop away from Myrtle Beach is Surfside Beach, and guess what? They play the friendly card too! From November 1 to February 28, parking fees are waived, so you can bask in the sun with your wallet still intact. Just like North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach charges between $2 and $4 an hour during the busy season, or $10 to $15 per day depending on where you park. Local residents have the same sweet deal: they can snag free parking too!
County-Owned Lots: The Year-Round Free Parking Gems
It’s not just the towns laying out generous offers; the county gets in on the action too! There are several county-owned lots that provide free parking year-round. The sweet spots include a beach access parking lot at Nash Street along with two in Garden City, available 365 days a year. The Nash Street lot is conveniently located near Myrtle Beach State Park, so you can easily stroll into the park without a penny spent!
Special Accessibility Perks
If you’re someone with a handicap placard or possess Purple Heart, Disabled American Veterans, or Medal of Honor license tags, you’re in luck! You can park absolutely *free* at any municipal parking spot across South Carolina. It’s fantastic to see such great support for our heroes and the community!
Wrap Up
This winter, if you’re itching for some beach time without breaking the bank, the Grand Strand offers plenty of opportunities for free parking. With spots in North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, and more, there’s no excuse not to get out there and soak up the sun (and save some dollars while at it!). Remember to enjoy everything our beautiful coast has to offer as the season rolls on, and keep those parking deals in mind!
