First, you state, "The problem is you cannot put e z ups on the beach any longer." This is not entirely correct. You can use the "EZ up" tents on the beach from the day after Labor day until the day before Memorial day provided it is 12x12 or smaller, and less than 9 feet tall. You space it 10 feet from any other tent or umbrella, don't block lifeguard, and it is allowed and legal.
During the summer, you can not have the tents but beach umbrellas as large as 7.5 feet in diameter are allowed. Any shading device has to be behind the umbrella line.
You state that "you can take your dogs out with you at certain times of the year I agree" and that is not correct either. Dogs are allowed on the beach at any time from the day after Labor day till April 30. During peak summer they are not allowed on the beach between 10 am and 5 pm. There is no time of year that they are restricted completely from the beach as you suggest. That gives you approximately 4 hours in the morning and 4 in the evening of daylight during this time of year plus any night time hours year round. The Myrtle Beach is not dog friendly thing that is being pushed just does not wash at all.
I have been to the Outer Banks and it is certainly less crowded no matter what time of year I go. I like most beaches but I understand that every place is unique and special in one way or another.
It could be that the facts are just not known but sounds like someone had a bad experience in this area.
