Swimmer Safety
As a barrier island on the South Carolina coast with 4-miles of coastline, the Town of Pawleys Island is committed to educating residents and visitors about swimmer safety. The beaches in the Town of Pawleys Island are not patrolled by lifeguards, so swimmers must take extreme caution while swimming at their own risk. Call 911 immediately if you suspect there is a swimmer in distress. Below are several resources, including a rip current awareness video created by the Town, to help ensure a safe visit to the island.
Pawleys Island Rip Current Awareness Video
National Weather Service Resources
Pawleys Island Resources
The Pearce Street beach access is in the process of being redesigned for emergency vehicle access. Pearce Street will serve as the primary access for emergency vehicles to access the beach on the north end of Pawleys Island. Please be sure to not block this access in any way to ensure emergency vehicles can efficiently access the beach.
Life rings are located at each beach access on the island. In the event of a swimmer in distress, please locate the nearest life ring or flotation device before entering the water.
Midway Fire and Rescue
Midway Fire and Rescue serves as a crucial partner for the Town of Pawleys Island. In the event of a 911 call, Midway Fire and Rescue is quick on the scene with necessary equipment, such as jetskis, rescue boats, stretchers, etc. Below is a link directly to their website:
Tidelands Pawleys Family YMCA
The Tidelands Pawleys Family YMCA recently implemented a rip current simulator, a valuable resource to teach kids and adults alike the dangers of rip currents and what to do if caught in one. The Tidelands YMCA also provides swim lessons and various activities. Below is the website for the Tidelands Pawleys Family YMCA, where you can find information on the resources provided and location of the facility: