Beach canopies

Question

My family will be visiting SSI in August. I'm trying to determine if pop up canopy / shelters (similar to what you would expect at a tailgate gathering) are allowed on the beach during the day? This would be taken down and removed each day. Any help would be appreciated.

Answer

Yes, you can bring and use pop-up canopies or shelters (similar to tailgate tents) on the beach at St. Simons Island, but there are a few guidelines and rules to keep in mind:

Beach Regulations: St. Simons Island allows pop-up canopies on the beach, but they must comply with local regulations. Generally, you can set up tents and shelters as long as they are taken down at the end of the day. This means no overnight setups are permitted.
Size Restrictions: Canopies or tents that are too large may be restricted, as they can block views or impede access to other beachgoers. It's best to choose a smaller pop-up canopy, around 10x10 feet, to ensure you comply with the space requirements.
Placement: Set up your tent or canopy behind the line of umbrellas and other beach equipment to avoid obstructing the view or access to the water. This helps ensure that all visitors have access to the beach and ocean without interference.
Removal Each Day: You mentioned you plan to take the canopy down each day, which is exactly what's required. The beach must be cleared by sunset, and any personal items, including tents, must be removed before the beach closes for the night.

It's also a good idea to check with the local authorities or the St. Simons Island beach office closer to your trip to ensure no new restrictions are in place for your visit, as regulations can sometimes change. You can also inquire about designated areas for beach setups to ensure you're in a spot where canopies are allowed.

Overall, a pop-up canopy should be a great way to stay cool and protected from the sun during your visit to St. Simons Island beach in August, as long as you follow the rules for setup and removal.