Monday, Oct. 19, 2009

Rolling at Myrtle Beach area Skate Parks

Recreation around here isn't limited to sand and sea. Extreme athletes such as skateboarders take on the pavement ... concrete, ramps and rails as well. If you've packed your board for your visit to the Grand Strand and you're Jonesing to use it, here's where to find area public skate parks:

Surfside Beach. A recent addition, this parking lot has been designated for skaters only on 13th Avenue South between Ocean Boulevard and South Dogwood Drive. Skaters can bring their own ramps or rails between 8 a.m. and dusk. Safety equipment is encouraged. This is a temporary park until construction of a new skate park in Surfside Beach has been approved by the town.

Matt Hughes Memorial Skate Park. Located in Myrtle Beach between Pepper Geddings Recreation Center and Doug Shaw Memorial Stadium at 3205 Oak St. Hours are 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Features include four-foot quarters, wood obstacles, banks, and rails on asphalt, plus a street course. Helmets are required. This skate park is named in memory of Matthew Reed Hughes, a local skateboarder who died after a skating accident near his home.

Stability Skate Park. Located behind North Shore Surf Shop at 1100 U.S. 17 S., North Myrtle Beach. An $8 all-day pass gives you access to a skateboard street course, half pipe and bowl.