Saturday afternoon felt similar to many on Myrtle Beach's 9th Avenue Beach Access. The sun was shining, the temperatures were warm. One thing was missing though, the large numbers of people in the water.
Just 24 hours prior, Hurricane Irene was making it's way offshore past the Grand Strand. Even though the hurricane was well out of the area, no swimming restrictions were still in place in North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach.
Dozens of people were out picking shells on the beach, letting there feet go into the water, but for the most part, staying away from the waves that would sometimes be knee high as they came in.
Becky Cain and her two children were out picking shells Saturday afternoon among others.
"I am too afraid to go too far out," she said.
Horry County closed all sections of beach in the unincorporated part of the county Friday. Surfside Beach and Myrtle Beach have also closed their beaches.
Lifeguards patrolled and flags saying "no swimming" were hung. Waves were visibly rough and picking up a lot of surf.
Despite that, a few were trying to brave the waves. Among them, Gary and Sherry Sanboron from Sumter, North Carolina.
"We came down for the day. It's been great because we got a front space in the parking lot and it's just a great day at the beach," Sherry said.
When asked if he was worried about the rough waters or the restriction, Gary said no.
"We're not going too far out there," he added.
But not Becky Cain. She's still going to wait before going back in the water.
"Maybe next week, but not until they say it's safe."
