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Skip the hassle of beach parking with this free, convenient shuttle

The Beach Reach is back May 27 through Sept. 4 — here’s how to catch it from Mount Pleasant to Isle of Palms.

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Driver giving a thumbs up in front of bus with front display reading "Beach Reach"

Beach parking can be expensive, stressful, and time-consuming — the Beach Reach is convenient, easy, and free to use.

Photo provided by CARTA

IOP is calling, and the Beach Reach can get you there. Operated by CARTA in partnership with Mount Pleasant and Isle of Palms, this free, seasonal shuttle is back for its third season starting this weekend.

No bus passes are necessary — you can just hop on. Here’s how it works:

  • Beach Reach riders park for free at Mount Pleasant Towne Centre, then board the shuttle at stop No. 715 on Market Center Blvd.
  • Ride the shuttle (which has air conditioning, wi-fi, and bike racks) and get dropped off at 14th Ave. and Ocean Blvd.
  • Enjoy a day at IOP and ride back when you’re done.

Here’s when locals can catch the Beach Reach this summer:

  • Saturdays and Sundays from May 27-Sept. 4
  • Memorial Day, July 4, and Labor Day included
  • Saturdays: Shuttle runs every hour from 9:15 a.m. (first departure from Towne Centre) to 5:30 p.m. (final departure from Isle of Palms).
  • Sundays: Shuttle runs every hour from 9:40 a.m.-5:55 p.m.

Full route details and bus tracking can be found in the Transit App, available for download via Apple and Google Play. Riders can also view traffic conditions and municipal information for all area beaches with the Beach Reach app (on Apple + Google Play).

Ready to skip the hassle of beach parking (and save time and money)? We’ll see you on the Beach Reach.*

Ride to the tide

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