Isle of Palms parking fees increasing this summer

Parking fees are rising on Isle of Palms this summer, marking the first increase in five years. Fees will reach up to $25 during peak beach season. However, beachgoers can take advantage of a free shuttle service. The shuttle, operated by CARTA, will continue its Beach Reach route from Mount Pleasant Towne Centre to Ocean Boulevard, right outside Isle of Palms County Park. This is the fifth year for the service, which started after local officials decided against eliminating free beach parking for nonresidents. This year, the shuttle will use a new trolley bus purchased in late 2024. In 2024, the Beach Reach service had 703 riders, down slightly from 795 in 2023. CARTA board Chair Mike Seekings emphasized the convenience of the shuttle, especially as parking costs rise near the beach. CARTA board member Daniel Brownstein has suggested adding a stop at Sullivan’s Island to the route. He believes this change could increase ridership and help with parking issues there. Seekings is supportive of the idea, provided the shuttle remains quick and efficient. The Beach Reach service will begin on Memorial Day and run every weekend until Labor Day. It will also operate on both Memorial Day and Labor Day. The first shuttle on Saturdays leaves at 9:15 a.m., and the last at 5:15 p.m. On Sundays, the first trip is at 9:40 a.m. and the last at 5:40 p.m.