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June 2, 2023Are you planning a trip to South Carolina and wondering how to make the most of your time on the beaches?
Look no further than renting a golf cart! Not only is it a convenient mode of transportation, but it also adds an element of fun to your beach experience. In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about golf cart rentals on South Carolina beaches, specifically Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, and Sullivans Island.
Table of Contents:
- Golf Cart Laws on South Carolina Beaches
- Tips for Driving Your Golf Cart on the Beach
- Accessories to Enjoy Your Golf Cart on the Beach
- Choosing the Right Golf Cart for Your Beach Vacation
Golf Cart Laws on South Carolina Beaches
Before you hit the beach in your golf cart, it’s important to know the laws in South Carolina. Each beach may have slightly different regulations, so be sure to check before you go. In the sections below, we walk you through the regulations and laws for Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, and Sullivans Island.
Folly Beach Golf Cart Laws
Folly Beach has specific laws regarding the use of golf carts on its roads. While golf carts are permitted to cross Center Street and Folly Road, they are not allowed to be driven on these roads. To operate a golf cart, the driver must be at least 16 years old, possess a driver’s license, have the SCDMV registration certificate, and provide proof of liability insurance.
It’s important to note that golf carts cannot be driven at night or in limited visibility conditions, such as during rain. Additionally, all drivers of golf carts are required to read the Folly Beach laws related to golf carts, which can be found in Chapter 73 of the city of Folly Beach Ordinances. Click here to view the ordinance.
For rental golf carts, displaying valid SC Department of Motor Vehicles and the City of Folly Beach stickers is mandatory. Make sure to verify that the rental company follows these regulations.
For more information about golf car laws on Folly Beach, click here.
Isle of Palms Golf Cart Laws
Golf carts may cross a primary highway or street (such as Palm Boulevard from 41st Avenue to Breach Inlet) but cannot travel along primary highways or streets. Golf carts may not be parked on beach access paths unless signs indicate that golf cart parking is permissible. The law prohibits upgrading golf carts by adding equipment to convert the cart to a Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV). A golf cart can not be legally operated in the Isle of Palms after dark.
Parking tip: Designated Golf Cart parking is available on 9th Ocean Boulevard, 28th and 31st Avenues on Palm Boulevard.
For more information about golf cart laws on Isle of Palms, click here.
Sullivans Island Golf Cart Laws
No golf carts are allowed on Highway 703 (commonly known as Ben Sawyer Blvd) or Jasper Blvd. Golf carts cannot cross over Breach Inlet to Isle of Palms. Within four miles of the registration holder’s address, and while traveling along a secondary highway or street for which the posted speed limit is thirty-five miles an hour or less, a permitted golf cart may cross a highway or street at an intersection where the highway has a posted speed limit of more than thirty-five miles an hour.
For more information about golf cart laws on Sullivans Island, click here.
And if you need clarification on golf cart laws, here is a link directly to South Carolina golf cart laws. Or read our blog, discussing more South Carolina golf cart laws.
Tips for Driving Your Golf Cart on the Beach
Driving a golf cart on the beach can be a bit different than driving on the road. We’ve put together some tips so you can have peace of mind when driving on the beach!
Driving your golf cart on the beach can be a fun and convenient way to explore the sand and enjoy the scenery. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential hazards and take precautions to ensure a safe and responsible ride.
One of the challenges of driving on the beach is maintaining traction on the loose and shifting sand. One trick that can help is to deflate your tires slightly, increasing the tire’s surface area and providing a better grip. However, be careful not to deflate too much or risk damaging the tires or rims.
Another important consideration when driving on the beach is to watch out for pedestrians and wildlife, particularly sea turtles. Folly Beach is home to several species of sea turtles, including the loggerhead, and driving too close to their nests or hatchlings can cause severe harm or even death. Be sure to keep a safe distance and obey any signage or guidance from local authorities.
It’s important to remember that saltwater can be highly corrosive and may cause your golf cart to rust and deteriorate faster than normal. To help protect your vehicle, it’s recommended that you thoroughly rinse your golf cart with fresh water after each beach outing to remove any salt and sand that may have accumulated on the exterior and undercarriage.
Finally, it’s important to avoid driving on wet sand, as this can increase the risk of getting stuck or damaging the vehicle. Wet sand can be particularly soft and unstable, and it’s easy to underestimate the depth of the water or mud. If you find yourself stuck, avoid revving the engine or spinning the wheels, as this can cause further damage and make it more difficult to extricate yourself. Instead, try to dig out around the wheels and use traction mats or other tools to help gain traction.
By following these tips and being a responsible beachgoer, you can enjoy the fun and freedom of driving your golf cart on the beach while preserving natural beauty and wildlife.
Accessories to Enjoy Your Golf Cart on the Beach
In addition to driving your golf cart on the beach, there are many accessories and add-ons that can enhance your experience and make your beach outing even more enjoyable. Here are a few ideas to consider:
Beach Chairs and Umbrellas
These essential items can provide shade and comfort during long days on the beach. Some golf carts have built-in racks or holders for chairs and umbrellas, making it easy to transport and set up your beach gear.
Coolers for Drinks and Snacks
Staying hydrated and nourished is key when spending time in the sun, so bringing along a cooler stocked with water, snacks, and your favorite beverages is a good idea. Many golf carts have racks or compartments specifically designed to carry coolers, so you can keep your refreshments close at hand.
Bluetooth speakers for music
Music can be the perfect complement to a beach day, and some golf carts are fitted with Bluetooth speakers that allow you to stream your favorite tunes directly from your phone or other device. Just be sure to keep the volume at a reasonable level and be respectful of other beachgoers.
Beach Toys and Games
Whether traveling with kids or just looking for fun, beach toys and games can provide hours of entertainment. From sandcastle-building kits to frisbees and beach volleyball sets, plenty of options can fit in your golf cart’s racks or storage compartments.
By adding these accessories to your golf cart and preparing for a fun day at the beach, you can make the most of your time in the sun and create lasting memories with family and friends.
Choosing the Right Golf Cart for Your Beach Vacation
Choosing the right golf cart for your beach vacation is an important decision that can significantly impact your overall experience. Our rental service offers a full fleet of golf carts that can seat between 2 and 8 passengers, providing options for groups of all sizes. With our low daily rental costs, you can enjoy the freedom and flexibility of driving your own golf cart on the beach without breaking the bank.
To make your rental experience even more convenient, we offer pickup and delivery services throughout most of Greenville and Charleston counties and the Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island. For a minimal fee, you can deliver your rental vehicle directly to your vacation rental or other location, saving you time and hassle.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a large group, our selection of golf carts and flexible rental options can help you make the most of your beach vacation.
Features to look for in a golf cart rental
When choosing a golf cart rental for your beach vacation, there are a few key features to look for that can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride. Here are two important factors to consider:
All-terrain Tires
One of the most important features to look for in a golf cart rental for the beach is all-terrain tires. These specialized tires are designed to handle a wide range of terrains, including sand, gravel, and rough roads. With all-terrain tires, you’ll have better traction and stability on the beach, making navigating the sand easier and avoiding getting stuck. This can be especially important if you plan to drive your golf cart on the beach during peak hours when the sand is more heavily trafficked.
Lifted Carts
Another feature to consider when choosing a golf cart rental for the beach is a lifted cart. Lifted carts have a higher ground clearance than standard golf carts, making them better equipped to handle the uneven terrain and potential obstacles that you may encounter on the beach. With a lifted cart, you’ll be able to navigate over bumps, rocks, and other hazards with greater ease and less risk of damage to the vehicle.
With these features, you can enjoy a smooth, stable ride on the sand and make the most of your time at the beach.
Reserve your golf cart and start planning your perfect beach getaway!
Renting a golf cart on South Carolina beaches can be a fun and convenient way to explore the area. By following the laws and tips outlined in this guide, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience. Don’t forget to bring along some accessories to make the most of your time on the beach! Contact us at Garretts Golf Cars to book your golf cart rental today.
