A gull flying low over a breaking wave
Know before you go

Sunset Beach questions, answered.

Straight answers, with sources

What visitors ask most

🐕
Are dogs allowed on Sunset Beach?Yes, on a leash of 10 feet or less, except from the Friday before Memorial Day to Labor Day, when dogs aren't allowed on the beach from 9 AM to 6 PM. Pick up after them: the fine is $100.
🅿️
How much is parking at Sunset Beach?Paid from 9 AM to 5 PM, April 1 to October 31; free outside those hours. The Town's guide lists $5 an hour (up to 3 hours), $20 a day, $80 a week or $175 a season. Pay with the SurfCast app.
⛱️
Are tents allowed on Sunset Beach?Between 3rd and 29th Streets, only single-pole shades. Elsewhere, canopies, tents and cabanas up to 12 × 12 feet go in one row between the trash-can posts, 10 feet apart. Nothing before 7 AM, and everything off by sunset.
🛟
Are there lifeguards at Sunset Beach?No. The Town says the beach is patrolled during the day, but there are no lifeguards. Check the rip current risk and the flag at your access before you swim.
📬
How far is the walk to the Kindred Spirit mailbox?About 1.4 miles each way from the 40th St. access, walking west on the beach onto Bird Island: about 2.8 miles there and back.
♿
Can I rent a beach wheelchair at Sunset Beach?Yes. The Town rents SurfChairs and walkers for $10 a day (from July 1, 2026) and delivers them in town. Book online at least 36 hours ahead.
🏄
Can you surf at Sunset Beach?Not between 5th and 32nd Streets from May 1 to October 31. Outside that stretch and season, yes.
🛺
Where do golf carts park at Sunset Beach?Golf carts, other LSVs and motorcycles use the roadside spaces with green curb stops or signs. No vehicles of any kind on the beach.
🦐
How far is Calabash from Sunset Beach?Right next door. The Calabash waterfront, where the fishing boats and dolphin cruises leave, is about 3 miles west of the Sunset Beach bridge as the crow flies.
🏠
Where can I stay at Sunset Beach?Mostly beach houses and condos, through rental companies with offices in Sunset Beach, plus an inn on the island and golf resorts nearby.