The Isle of Palms Beach is one of the nicest beaches in South Carolina. The sandy beach is roughly seven miles long and stretches from Breach Inlet on the South End to Dewees Inlet on the North End. The beach is clean and family-friendly and open to the public year-round.
Enjoy activities like swimming, fishing, surfing, sunbathing, parasailing, and more while visiting the IOP beach. Dogs are allowed on the beach depending on the time of day and the time of the year. Check out all the rules for the beach and dogs regulations.
Also, keep in mind that there is more beach available for vacationers to use a few hours before or after low tide. You may want to take this into consideration when planning your trip. Check the tides and weather for Isle of Palms.
Isle of Palms Public Beach Access
Public beach access paths are located along Ocean Blvd and Palm Blvd. There are beach access paths on just about every block. Also, along palm Blvd, 42nd Avenue through 59th Avenue has public access at the end of each street. There are over 40 access paths on the Island!
Always park in designated areas and use only the beach access paths to get on to the beach. The City clearly marks beach access paths.
If you plan on parking on Palm Boulevard, Carolina Blvd, or any other street that offers parking, be sure to bring all the necessary items for your day at the beach. Unlike Front Beach or the County Park, no amenities are available when parking on these streets. However, shopping on the Isle of Palms is always nearby.
Also, you can rent beach umbrellas, beach chairs, golf carts, and beach bikes. These rentals will be waiting for you at the beach or your vacation home. There are several companies offering equipment rental for a day or longer.
Find hotels on the Isle of Palms or nearby. Book a flight to Charleston International Airport for your visit.
Handicap IOP Beach Access
Handicapped wheelchairs are available to access the beach from the City. There is not a charge to use these wheelchairs. Wheelchairs are available of a first-come first served basis and can be used from 8 a.m. until 8p.m. Find out how to reserve a beach access capable wheelchair.
Isle of Palms Beach Rules
Please follow the Isle of Palms Beach rules. These rules are designed to make your day, and the day of other visitors, at the beach more enjoyable. Also, these regulations are in place to keep the beach clean and enjoyable for years to come. The IOP Police Department enforces regulations.
- Alcohol is not allowed
- Fireworks are not allowed
- No glass bottles on the beach
- Use only beach access paths and do not go into the dunes
- Do not pick or damage Sea Oats growing in the dunes
- Do not leave personal belongings unattended
- Camping or sleeping on the beach overnight is not permitted
- Rules about dogs on the beach must be followed
- Motorized watercraft, like boats and jet skis, are not allowed in swimming areas
Is the IOP Beach Dog Friendly?
The IOP is a dog-friendly beach, but dogs are only allowed on the beach at certain times of the day. However, these times vary depending on the time of the year. Follow the link provided here to find out the complete rules for dogs on the Isle of Palms Beach.
Check out the comprehensive beach rules guide from the City of Isle of Palms.
Other Beaches in Charleston SC
Also, there are several other beaches in Charleston, SC you can visit. Sullivan’s Island beach is only a few minutes away from the IOP. Folly Beach is about a 30 minute drive. Folly Beach offers dining, shopping, a long white sand beach, and other attractions also. Edisto Beach SC is a beautiful beach located on Edisto Island and is about and hour from the Isle of Palms.
Also, click here for a map of South Carolina Beaches you can visit near Isle of Palms.
Furthermore, you can learn more about beach chair rentals, waterfront restaurants on Isle of Palms, beach access, IOP shopping, IOP churches, and charter fishing by using these links. Find out more about Edisto Beach Restaurants.