Tips on Myrtle Beach Warnings or Dangers - Stay Safe!

Despite the fun in the sun to be found at Myrtle Beach, it is a good idea to understand the warnings and dangers before you go. You don't want to let any surprises ruin your vacation.

The summer months bring crowds, but it also could mean hurricanes. Hurricane season runs from June through November, during the busiest time of year at Myrtle Beach. There is always a chance the South Carolina shoreline could be in the path of a dangerous hurricane or the beach areas could experience effects from a hurricane in another coastal area.

The water in Myrtle Beach can be tricky. Riptides can take you out to sea, so be careful of these. If you are in deep water and feel yourself being pulled out, swim out of the current quickly. If you are pulled out to sea, remain calm and swim parallel to shore, eventually you'll break free of the riptide and be able to swim towards shore. The riptides tend to be trickier in Myrtle Beach than the beaches of North Myrtle Beach. For example, during hurricane Dean in August 2007 the Myrtle Beach swimming area was closed down after about a dozen rescues, but the swimmers at North Myrtle Beach were just fine. If the warning flags are up, do not try to go into the ocean. The undercurrent is strong and can pull even the best swimmer under. Always obey the flags and the lifeguard.

Due to water temperature warming and overfishing, especially off of the Atlantic coast, reports say larger numbers of jellyfish are coming in contact with beachgoers, and there have been a lot more stings in recent years. Always be sure to wear shoes or flip flops while walking around the beach, especially at night when it is difficult to see where you are walking. Jellyfish do wash up and are sometimes are hard to see. If you are stung by one you can become very sick and, even months later, you can still see the scar from the sting. The type of jellyfish in this area are not deadly but their stings hurt! “Cannonball Jellyfish" are one of the common types of jellies in Myrtle Beach.

You need to be cautious while in the ocean. If you don't want to risk getting cut from shells or other sharp objects, wear water shoes. Also, the sun can be very intense in Myrtle Beach. Don't forget to wear sunscreen, especially in the summer.

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Editor's note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about warnings and dangers in Myrtle Beach.