Celebrate Independence Day with one of South Carolina’s most unique patriotic traditions.
Salute from the Shore returns on Saturday, July 4, 2026, bringing a military flyover the entire length of the South Carolina coastline to honor the men and women of the United States Armed Forces. Families, friends, and beachgoers are encouraged to gather along the coast wearing red, white, and blue while waving American flags in a unified salute.
Beginning at 1:00 PM, F-16 fighter jets from Shaw Air Force Base will fly south along the coastline, starting near Cherry Grove in North Myrtle Beach and continuing all the way to the Beaufort and Bluffton area in the Lowcountry. Following the active military aircraft will be a formation of historic Warbirds, including vintage T-34, T-6, and T-28 aircraft flown by volunteer civilian pilots.
Whether you’re watching from Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, Kiawah Island, Edisto Beach, Hilton Head, or anywhere in between, this annual flyover provides a meaningful opportunity to celebrate America’s 250th Birthday while honoring those who have served our country.
Bring your American flag, gather with family and friends, and keep your eyes on the sky as the aircraft make their way down the South Carolina coast.
While this listing uses Folly Beach Pier as a recommended viewing location for our readers, the Salute from the Shore flyover can be viewed from public beaches all along South Carolina’s coastline as the aircraft travel from Cherry Grove to the Beaufort and Bluffton area. Choose the beach that’s most convenient for you and look to the sky as the aircraft pass overhead.
Tips for Attending
- Arrive at your beach location early, especially on the busy holiday weekend.
- Bring chairs, umbrellas, sunscreen, and water.
- Wear your red, white, and blue.
- Wave your American flag as the aircraft pass overhead.
- Have your camera ready and share your photos using #SalutefromtheShore.
This annual tradition is free to attend and can be enjoyed from virtually any public beach along South Carolina’s coastline.
