Parking near Cowels in SC

That is a whole lot of "NO". 

    Year ago, someone else, who I believe was later banned from this board, posted that he launched off the rocks from near the only house on West Cliff on the ocean side.  Every time I've been by there I can't see how I could safely do it.  Maybe with a small light kayak and minimal gear.
   

Not sure who that was, but I did the "Getchells launch" exactly once with a partner in 2010 and we used ropes to lower the yaks down.
It was sketchy, especially with people filling in that tiny beach as the day progressed. Would not recommend, and it would only take one accident to have it posted no boat launching, if it hasn't been already. I've looked at it since and can't believe we got away with it.

Check out the City of SC website. https://www.cityofsantacruz.com/government/city-departments/parks-recreation/parks-beaches-open-spaces/beaches-aquatics

Says launches are allowed at the West end of the beach and at life guards discretion.

“You may launch from Cowell Beach as follows:
Launches are permitted depending upon launch conditions, and at the discretion of the Lifeguard on Duty
Launches, as allowed, shall be performed at the far west end of Cowell Beach to the right of the post marked “SUP”
Once launched, watercraft shall proceed upon the most direct course out of the designated swim area marked with swim buoys
Upon returning to shore the same route shall be followed
No Launching is permitted when the “Black Ball Flag” is flying from Lifeguard Tower”

Seems pretty straight forward and clearly allowable.

Says launches are allowed at the West end of the beach and at life guards discretion.

That's good to know. So, launch early before any lifeguards are present and hope that they don't use their discretion to prevent you from landing...