This last week, it was announced that one of the surfing institutions in Isle of Palms, Beachtown Surf Shak, would be closing it’s doors effective July 31. An IOP staple for decades, the owners of Beachtown decided to move in another direction and sell the beloved surf shop in the heart of Isle of Palms Ocean Boulevard.
Upon hearing about the closing of one of our favorite places, we at Surf LC almost didn’t want to share the news. After all, it was only a year ago that the knowledgeable folks at Beachtown rented us our first boards, lined up our first lessons and, in effect, carved out our love for surfing – forcing us to move closer to the beach. We knew the fantastic equipment, clothes, suits and shoes they had and, admittedly, were feeling a little selfish.
But Beachtown’s light was not meant to be kept under a bushel. With hot bathing suits for $10-$40, Sanuks on sale for $8 (retailing for $50 or more), surfboards going for $100 a piece and 50% off everything in the entire store, this deal was too good to pass up. Carrying everything from Billabong to O’Neill and Hurley…Analog, Casbian, Paul Frank and many others, you need to stop in and take a look as product is moving fast.
We spoke to Chris, one of the sales associates there, who has worked in or around the store since he was 12 years old. “I can’t believe it,” Chris told us. “I loved talking to people and meeting new ones, and I don’t want it to end. I loved my job.” We’re sad too, Chris.
While it is under wraps what the property will be in the future, it has been sold and the new leasers will take over August 1. If you get a chance in the next few weeks, stop in and give Beachtown the farewell it deserves.
Surf Low Country 