Visitors often ask whether cars are allowed on the beach in Surfside Beach, Texas.

The answer is simple. Some areas of Surfside Beach allow vehicles, while others are designated pedestrian zones. If you plan to drive onto the beach or park near certain beach access points, permits may also be required.

Understanding how vehicle access works helps visitors enjoy the beach while following local regulations in Surfside Beach, TX.

Where Cars Are Allowed in Surfside Beach, Texas

In Surfside Beach, Texas, vehicles are allowed only on the drive-on beach located east of Highway 332.

This is the section of shoreline designed for vehicles, where visitors can drive onto the sand and park near the water. Traffic on the drive-on beach moves one direction toward the east, and parking is allowed on the dune side of the beach.

This drive-on section is one of the features that makes Surfside Beach, TX unique compared to many other Texas coastal towns.

Where Cars Are Not Allowed

Not every part of the beach allows vehicles.

In Surfside Beach, Texas, the pedestrian beach west of Starfish Street is closed to vehicles, including golf carts. This section is intended for visitors who prefer a quieter beach experience without vehicle traffic.

If you are planning to spend time in the pedestrian area, you will need to park in designated parking areas and walk onto the beach.

Do You Need a Permit to Drive on Surfside Beach?

Yes. If you plan to drive onto the beach in Surfside Beach, TX, a permit is required.

The Village of Surfside Beach requires vehicles driven on the beach to display a beach pass or permit. Permits are typically available as annual passes or daily permits, depending on the season and city regulations.

Because permit rules can occasionally change, visitors should always check the official Village of Surfside Beach, Texas website before their trip.

What About Golf Carts?

Golf carts follow the same rules as other vehicles in Surfside Beach, Texas.

Licensed and insured golf carts may drive only on the designated drive-on beach areas. Drivers must also have a valid driver’s license, and beach permit rules still apply.

Golf carts are not allowed in the pedestrian-only beach zones.

Important Driving Rules on Surfside Beach

The speed limit on the drive-on beach in Surfside Beach, TX is 15 miles per hour.

During certain holidays, weekends, or high tide conditions, the Village may temporarily restrict vehicle access for safety reasons.

These rules help keep the beach safe for both drivers and pedestrians.

Final Thoughts

In Surfside Beach, vehicle access is straightforward once you know the difference between the two main beach sections.

The drive-on beach east of Highway 332 allows vehicles. The pedestrian beach west of Starfish does not. If you plan to drive on the beach or park in areas where permits are required, make sure your pass is current and visible.

For the most current rules, it is best to review the official Village of Surfside Beach pages before visiting.

Official Surfside Beach Rules

Beach Rules → https://www.surfsidetx.org/page/city.beach_rules

Official Visitor Information

Visitor Information → https://www.surfsidetx.org/page/city.visitor_info

Written by: Grace Reutzel | Broker, Land Shore Realty Group | Surfside Beach, Texas