Beach renourishment is coming to the Grand Strand in 2025 to 2026. If you own in Ocean Lakes, this guide explains what it means for access, rentals, and your property. We summarize the official timeline, what to expect on the sand, and simple steps to prepare with less stress.
You will also find links to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Ocean Lakes updates so you can track progress in real time. Our goal is to help you plan early, set good guest expectations, and protect your investment.
What Is Beach Renourishment — The Basics for Homeowners
Beach renourishment adds sand to widen and protect the shoreline. Crews use dredges offshore, pump sand through pipes, then shape it into a wider beach. The goals are simple: reduce storm damage, support recreation, and protect public infrastructure.
Here is what that looks like on the Grand Strand:
- Sand is pumped from an offshore borrow area.
- Work moves in short sections, about 1,000 feet at a time.
- Each section usually takes 1 to 3 days before crews move along.
- Most of the beach is open outside the fenced work zone.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers leads the 2025 to 2026 project and reports the work is federally funded under emergency authorization with an award value around 72 million dollars. See the project page for scope and updates at the USACE Charleston District.
Typical 2025–26 Project Timeline & Phases
Official Corps materials state the Grand Strand work starts in late fall 2025 and runs into mid summer 2026. The order is expected to be North Myrtle Beach first, then Myrtle Beach, then the final reach in Garden City and Surfside Beach around spring 2026. Timing can shift due to weather or equipment. Track updates on the USACE project page.
A simple phase-by-phase view:
- Pre-construction
- Permits and environmental plans are confirmed.
- Public notices go out with timing windows and safety rules.
- Staging areas and access routes are set. You may see equipment delivered and pipes placed on the sand before work begins.
- Construction window
- Crews work 24 hours when conditions allow, except for certain holidays or unsafe weather.
- A 1,000 foot section is fenced while sand is pumped and graded. This usually lasts 1 to 3 days for that section.
- Temporary pipes may cross the beach. Contractors place sand ramps so people can cross safely except inside the fenced work zone.
- Expect noise from pumps, lights at night, and active machinery.
- Post-construction
- Grading and fine shaping of the new berm continue for days to weeks.
- Access points reopen as crews move along.
- Natural processes and beach grooming help the new sand lighten in color and settle. Some dune planting may follow.
Public communications you can expect
What the Timeline Means for Ocean Lakes
Ocean Lakes reports that when crews reach its mile of oceanfront, the active work window on that frontage should last about 1 to 2 weeks. Exact dates are not yet posted. Ocean Lakes says they will notify leaseholders and guests once known. Follow the Ocean Lakes updates and the USACE project page for schedule shifts.
During active days on the Ocean Lakes section, expect some walkovers to be closed, equipment on the hard-pack sand, and temporary fencing around the 1,000 foot work zone. Access points typically reopen as the crew moves past your area.
Direct Impacts on Ocean Lakes Properties and Residents
Here is what owners usually experience while the crew is working nearby:
Beach access and views
- A short stretch of beach will be fenced during active pumping. Outside that zone, the shoreline stays open.
- Temporary pipes can cross the beach. Crews install sand ramps so people can cross them safely. Follow signs and crew directions.
- Newly placed sand may look darker at first due to shells and fine material. It lightens over time.
Noise, lighting, and activity
- Dredging equipment and onshore pumps create continuous noise while a section is active. Work can run day and night.
- Lights are used at night for safety. If you have sensitive guests, prepare them for a few nights of activity.
Parking and nearby streets
- You may see occasional trucks or loaders at access points used for staging. Plan for periodic congestion in those areas.
- Most roads and parking remain open, but follow any posted detours.
Safety and signage
- Respect fencing and stay clear of pipes and machinery. Keep children away from the work zone.
- If in the water, stay well away from the active discharge area. Lifeguards and local staff will guide swimmers.
Mobility and accessibility considerations
- For elderly or mobility impaired residents, plan for alternate beach entries during the short window when your closest access is fenced.
- Ask guests to use the provided sand ramps over pipes, not step on pipes or fencing.
Where to find official guidance
Rental and Occupancy Considerations for Owners and Managers
Most Ocean Lakes owners will have only a short disruption when the crew passes. Even so, clear guest communication protects reviews and revenue.
How to communicate with booked guests
- Send a simple heads-up email 30 days out and again 7 days out. Share the goal of the project and link to the USACE updates and Ocean Lakes notices.
- Explain that work occurs in small 1,000 foot sections that reopen in 1 to 3 days. Most of the beach stays open nearby.
- Note possible noise at night and adjusted access points. Include a map to alternate entries if you have one.
Policies and rebooking strategies
- If your exact frontage is active during a guest’s stay, offer options like early check-in, late checkout, or a small credit for impacted days.
- Allow flexible cancellation or rebooking if the guest is highly sensitive to noise.
- Update listing copy for those dates to set expectations and emphasize benefits of a wider beach afterward.
Marketing tips during construction
- Highlight pools, playgrounds, fishing, golf carts, and nearby attractions when the beach is fenced in front of your section.
- Share that renourishment protects the shoreline and improves beach width for seasons ahead. Tourism offices and the Corps explain the benefits well: see Visit Myrtle Beach’s overview.
Operations and cleaning teams
- Coordinate with cleaners and vendors so they avoid delivery times that overlap the active work window on your block.
- Ask teams to use alternate entries if your nearest walkover is closed.
Financial & Insurance Implications to Review
Funding
- The Corps states the 2025 to 2026 Grand Strand project is fully federally funded under emergency authority. That means no new local cost share for this cycle, based on public Corps materials. See the USACE project page.
Easements
- Many Corps projects have historically required easements from upland owners, which can vary by location. For this emergency project, public materials have not indicated new perpetual easements for Ocean Lakes owners. Policies can evolve, so monitor official notices from the Corps and local government before signing any documents. Background on national easement practices is available in public sources such as Pinellas County’s explainer.
Insurance and FEMA mapping
- A wider beach reduces risk during storms, but it does not automatically change FEMA flood zones. Any change comes only through a formal FEMA process like a LOMA or LOMR-F. Learn more at FEMA’s map change page.
- Review your policy for loss of rental income and construction impacts. Ask your insurer how they treat short-term disruption from public works.
Property value
- In the short term, expect minor inconvenience during your 1 to 2 week window. Over time, a wider, healthier beach is a plus for curb appeal, guest experience, and marketability. The Corps notes the project protects billions in property value and supports millions of annual visitors. See the USACE overview.
Owner Action Checklist — Practical Steps Before, During, and After Work
Use this step-by-step list to reduce disruption and keep guests happy.
Before construction
- Subscribe to alerts: bookmark the USACE page and Ocean Lakes’ updates. Follow @CharlestonCorps on social media.
- Update your rental calendar notes for April through July 2026. Add a short disclosure about possible short-term work nearby.
- Prep guest messaging: draft a friendly FAQ with safety tips, alternate access points, and links to official updates.
- Photograph your property, walkovers, and beach view for your records.
- Review your insurance and any loss-of-rent coverage.
- If you receive any easement or access request, consult counsel before signing.
During construction on your section
- Post simple instructions by the door: beach access detour, safety reminders, and links to the USACE tracker.
- Remind guests to avoid fenced areas and to use sand ramps over pipes.
- Coordinate deliveries and repairs to avoid peak work periods.
- Keep outside lights shielded and low during turtle nesting months. Learn more at SCDNR’s turtle guidance.
- If a problem arises, contact the Ocean Lakes office and check the USACE updates for the latest status.
After construction passes your frontage
- Walk the property and nearby access points. Note any maintenance needs.
- Update listing photos to show the wider beach when conditions settle.
- Keep your renourishment FAQ handy for guests until the full reach is complete.
- File any needed insurance documentation if you had a covered issue.
Who to call first for urgent issues
How Coastal Beach Homes Can Help
We live and work along the Grand Strand and stay tuned to local updates. Here is how we can support Ocean Lakes owners during this project:
- Help craft clear guest messaging and listing updates so you protect reviews and bookings.
- Provide quick valuation and rental checks if you are considering a sale or rate change after renourishment.
- Share neighborhood-level timing updates as we see them posted.
- Offer a property check for out-of-area owners and connect you with trusted local vendors.
Need a hand with planning or market questions? Start Your Coastal Home Search or reach out for a quick call.
Conclusion — What Ocean Lakes Owners Should Take Away
- Prepare smartly: follow the USACE and Ocean Lakes updates, and plan for a short 1 to 2 week window on your frontage.
- Communicate early: set clear guest expectations and share safe access options.
- Lean on local help: use trusted pros and official guidance to make the most of a wider, stronger beach.
If you want a personalized plan for your Ocean Lakes property, we are here to help. Connect with Jan and Dan Sitter | Coastal Beach Homes for local insight and next steps: https://coastalbeachhomessc.com.
FAQs
What is the schedule for Ocean Lakes specifically?
- Exact dates for the Ocean Lakes mile are not posted yet. Ocean Lakes expects about 1 to 2 weeks of active work when crews reach its frontage. Track the USACE page and Ocean Lakes updates.
How much of the beach closes at one time?
- Work occurs in roughly 1,000 foot sections that usually take 1 to 3 days. Outside that fenced area, the beach remains open.
Will this change my flood zone or insurance right away?
- No. A wider beach does not automatically change FEMA maps. Zone changes only occur through a formal FEMA process like a LOMA or LOMR-F. See FEMA’s guidance.
Is the project funded locally?
- The Corps states the 2025 to 2026 Grand Strand renourishment is fully federally funded under emergency authority. See the USACE project details.
What about sea turtles and nesting season?
- Crews coordinate with wildlife monitors. Expect lights-out guidance and nest protections or relocations if needed. Learn more at SCDNR sea turtle guidance.
Will there be new easements to sign?
- Public materials have not indicated new perpetual easements for this emergency cycle, but policies vary. Monitor official notices and consult counsel before signing any easement documents.
How do I track daily progress?
