CARTA’s free beach shuttle returns for season

CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) – A shuttle that takes people to the beach for free is set to return for the season.

The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority, or CARTA, is kicking off its fifth season of the Beach Reach shuttle service Friday with a press conference to discuss the program.

The free shuttle provides transportation from Mount Pleasant Towne Centre to the Isle of Palms, which often sees limited parking during the summer months.

According to CARTA, the service operates on Saturdays and Sundays from May 24 through August 21, and buses will run on Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.

HOW IT WORKS

The Beach Reach shuttle is scheduled to run every hour starting at 9:15 a.m. on Saturday, with the last trip from the beach at 5:30 p.m. On Sunday, the first trip is around 9:40 a.m. and the last trip from the beach is at 5:55 p.m.

Beachgoers can board the shuttle from Mount Pleasant Towne Centre at stop ID #715 on Market Center Blvd., and it will travel directly to the Isle of Palms stop located at Ocean Blvd., and then return to Towne Centre.

WHAT CAN YOU TAKE?

No alcoholic beverages are allowed on the shuttle. All other drinks must be in a spill-proof container. “A simple cup with a lid is NOT sufficient; it must be spill-proof,” CARTA said.

Riders can bring up to four regular shopping-sized bags, and all items must be able to be loaded onto the bus in a single trip.

You can bring beach equipment on the bus; however, large and bulky items are not allowed, like tents, large beach umbrellas, and surfboards. Items like foldable chairs, small umbrellas, boogie or body-boards, and coolers are allowed.

For a full look at what can be taken on the shuttle and other rules, please click here.