Is Myrtle Beach, SC allowing cabanas on the beach? What we found with city’s beach rentals

This story is being updated to correct that Shibumi Shades are allowed in Myrtle Beach through Memorial Day. Updated 11:49 a.m. April 9, 2024

Blue cabanas have been popping up on the sands of Myrtle Beach ahead of the city’s peak season.

It’s a shift from the umbrellas that are usually seen dotting the beaches.

Tents and other canopy devices have become increasingly popular with beachgoers.

But do the cabanas violate the city’s rules about shading devices being allowed on the beach?

While the cabanas may not be rented all that often, they have been included in the rental franchise agreement that the city has with two businesses for years, according to city spokesperson Mark Kruea.

Myrtle Beach allows shading devices that measure less than 12 feet by 12 feet through Memorial Day. After that, which is considered peak season, only umbrellas are allowed through Labor Day.

In the county, however, shading devices, except for those designed for infants and small children, are not permitted year round.

Lack’s Beach Service and John’s Beach Service provides rentals in Myrtle Beach. Lack’s and John’s are responsible for different sections of beaches within the city limits.

A person answering the phone at Lack’s said that the business has been providing cabanas and tents for many years.

The cabanas are different from such products as Shibumi Shades, which the city has barred during the peak season for safety concerns. Shibumi is a canopy that is wind-driven with two poles on either side.

Cabanas have three sides with an entrance, much like a camping tent.

The city implemented its shading device rule in 2014 ahead of the summer months.