Electric Golf Cart Rental Guide | Beach Better - Operating Instructions & Charging

Electric Cart Rental Guide

Complete operating instructions for your Beach Better electric Low Speed Vehicle

01. Lockbox Access - 4 Passenger Electric

For lifted and non-lifted electric 4-seater golf carts

1 Find the Lockbox

Most Common Location: Floorboard on passenger side

  • Located in the front row on the passenger's side
  • From the driver's seat, look down and to the right
  • You'll see it below the glove box, near where the passenger's right foot would be

Alternative Location: Under the driver's seat

  • For some 4-seaters, check under the driver's seat
  • Using the armrest, lift the seat up
  • You'll see it next to the battery
2 Open the Lockbox
  • Line up the four digits using the code emailed to you
  • Slide the black button downward
  • The lockbox will pop open, revealing the key
When You Receive Your Code

The lockbox code is emailed the day before your rental begins and again on the day your rental starts.

02. Lockbox Access - 6 Passenger Electric

For lifted and non-lifted electric 6-seater golf carts

1 Key Location

The key is stored in a lockbox secured to the cart. The lockbox code will be emailed to approved drivers the morning before your rental begins. It will also be texted to the primary renter when your rental starts.

2 Finding the Lockbox

Most Common Location:

  • The lockbox is usually visible in the middle row
  • Attached to the floorboard on the passenger's side

Alternative Location:

  • If your cart doesn't have a large silver charging box under the driver's seat, the lockbox will be under the middle seat
  • Lift the middle seat to find it attached to the floorboard
  • Look near the yellow charging cord
3 Access and Start
  • Enter the provided code on the lockbox keypad
  • The lockbox will open, revealing the key
  • Take the key and close the lockbox securely

03. Charging Must-Knows

Essential charging information for electric golf carts

⚠️ Critical Warning

A cart depletes from 50% to 0% much faster than from 100% to 50%. If your cart is below 50%, don't leave until it has time to charge more.

Important Charging Guidelines

  • Plug in your cart whenever you're back at the condo
  • Charge it overnight every night to ensure it's ready for the next day
  • Your cart must charge on its own dedicated circuit/outlet with nothing else plugged into it
  • This is especially important if you're staying in a place built more than 5-10 years ago
  • Always bring the charging cord with you in case you need to plug in
  • If you've rented multiple carts, stagger their charging times
  • Plugging two carts into the same outlet will trip the breaker
  • Check the ends of the extension cord to ensure they're lit up, indicating the cart is charging
Need a Tow?

If your cart went dead quicker than expected and needs to be towed back to recharge, click here to schedule a tow appointment.

04. How to Check Your Battery Level

Monitor your charge to avoid getting stranded

Finding Your Setup

To locate your cart's unique charging instructions, scan the QR code on the Beach Better sticker on your cart's windshield. Each cart has one of three charging setups described below.

Setup 1: Eco Battery with Lester Charger

Sit in the driver's seat and look forward above the steering wheel to locate the SOC number.

  • SOC 99% means the cart is fully (99%) charged
  • Monitor this number to track your battery level

Setup 2: Eco Battery with Eco Charger

Look above the glove box on the passenger side front seat at the round gauge.

  • The gauge shows your current charge level
  • Full needle deflection indicates 100% charge

Setup 3: Trojan or US Battery

Sit in the driver's seat and look to the left of the steering wheel at the black triangle with colored bars.

Red
There is a problem or error
Slow Blinking Orange
Charging has just begun
Fast Blinking Orange
Charging is progressing and nearing completion
Solid Orange
Almost fully charged; preparing to transition to green
Blinking Green
Nearly full, but not quite there yet
Solid Green
Fully charged (100%) and ready to use

05. Speaker System

Entertainment system for your electric golf cart

1 Power On the System
  • Turn the key to ON position to power the cart
  • Press the POW/MOD button (labeled as button 1)
Speaker Control Panel

The POW/MOD button is typically the first button on your speaker control panel. Look for the control unit mounted on or near the dashboard.

2 Connect via Bluetooth
  • On your device, search for Bluetooth connections
  • Connect to "BEYOND"
  • When pairing is successful, "BT AUD" mode will show in the MOD function display
3 Using BT AUD Mode
  • Play music through your connected device
  • Answer phone calls by pressing the Volume button
  • Hang up calls by pressing the BND button

06. LED Party Glow Lights

Light up your evening drives with customizable LED lights

Your Cart Glows!

Transform your night drives into an unforgettable experience with your cart's built-in LED glow system.

1 Activate the Glow System
  • Start your cart by turning the key
  • Press the power button on the glow system remote control
  • The remote is the shiny silver fob attached to your cart's dashboard
2 Customize Your Glow
  • Use the remote to change colors
  • Adjust modes for different effects
  • Control glow speeds to match your mood
  • Make it as vibrant or as chill as you like!
Troubleshooting LED Lights
  • If the glow kit doesn't activate, flip on the black switch with the blue light located low on the dashboard
  • This enables power to the LED system
  • Important: Do not adjust the toggle switches on the cart's dashboard - this will cut off power to your party lights

07. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Solutions to frequently encountered problems

"My Cart Won't Charge"

1 Multiple Cart Charging Issues

If you've rented multiple carts, stagger their charging cycles. Each cart needs its own outlet to avoid tripping the breaker.

  • Separate Outlets: Use different circuits for each cart
  • Alternate Charging Times: If separate outlets aren't available, charge one cart at a time
2 Check the Cord Ends

If the ends of your extension cord are not lit up, the outlet might be faulty, or the GFI might be tripped.

"My Cart Won't Turn On or Move"

1 Tow (Kill) Switch

Ensure the tow switch is flipped to the RUN position, not the TOW position.

2 Ignition

Turn the ignition twice to the right. If you only turn it once, the dashboard will light up, but the cart won't move.

3 Eco Battery Carts Only

Check if the green button on the side of the Eco Battery is lit up. If the cart has been unused for a while or the button was bumped, the Eco battery may have gone to "sleep" to conserve energy.

Solution: Press the small button on the side of the battery until it lights up green, and you'll be ready to cruise!

Fault Codes - Wrench With Number on Dashboard

The cart will display fault codes when something needs attention. Here are the most common codes:

Fault Code 23

Cause: Cart was in Forward or Reverse when you put the key in the ignition.

Solution: This will clear in 30-90 seconds. No action needed.

Fault Code 92

Cause: Battery is LOW. Cart urgently needs charging.

Solution: Plug it in immediately and leave untouched until it's fully charged.

Fault Code 40

Cause: Parking brake is not fully released.

Solution: Lift the brake back up and then hold the button while gently pressing the hand brake all the way down until it stops.

Note: Heavy rain or water on the sensor can occasionally activate this fault. Wait 30-45 minutes for the sensor to dry.

Fault Code 68

Cause: Gear Fault - cart thinks it's in reverse and forward simultaneously.

Solution:

  1. Put cart in neutral
  2. Remove the key
  3. Flip the kill switch from RUN to TOW
  4. Wait 30 seconds
  5. Flip switch back to RUN position
  6. Ensure cart is in neutral when reinserting key

08. Driver Must-Knows - Safety & Legal Requirements

Essential rules for safe and legal operation

You're Driving a Low Speed Vehicle

This is not just a golf cart - it has a Florida license plate. You're subject to the exact same laws as when driving your truck or minivan. We want you and your loved ones to have a blast while staying safe and legal on the roads!

Operating Requirements

Prohibited While Driving
  • No alcohol or drugs while operating the LSV
  • No cell phone use - prohibited by Florida law while driving
  • No headsets or earbuds for music or mobile devices while driving
  • No pets permitted in the LSV
  • No items on the roof (chairs, coolers, or any objects)
  • No standing in the cart when in motion or parked
Required Safety Practices
  • Seatbelts: Every passenger must be secured before moving
  • Children under 3: Must ride in their car seat (lap riding is illegal)
  • Weight distribution: Maintain proper balance of passengers
  • Headlights at night: Must be manually turned on after dark
  • Report damages immediately: Text photos to 850-830-4699 when they occur

Where You Can and Cannot Drive

Emerald Coast Parkway (Business 98)

It's illegal to drive along the main 40-45 mph, four-lane highway that runs through town. Stay off Emerald Coast Parkway and its sidewalks/pedestrian paths.

However: You CAN cross over it at any traffic light to enjoy restaurants, shops, and attractions on the north side.

Remember This Simple Rule

Over Business 98, you can cross with care,
To enjoy the shops and restaurants there.
Cross north or south, it's a breeze,
East or west, avoid it please!
Scenic 98 or 30A, the way to go,
And to all sidewalks, just say no!
Follow the rules every day,
To keep those tickets far away!

❌ PROHIBITED AREAS
  • Emerald Coast Parkway (east-west)
  • Any sidewalks
  • Beaches
  • Grass areas
  • Walking/bike trails
  • Any road over 35 mph
✓ ALLOWED AREAS
  • Scenic 98 (beach road)
  • 30A
  • Crossing Business 98 at lights
  • Roads 35 mph or less
  • Marked parking spots only
  • Neighborhood streets

Important Policies & Consequences

⚠️ Zero Tolerance - Immediate Confiscation

We do not give warnings. The following violations result in immediate vehicle confiscation with NO REFUND:

  • Driving on US Highway 98/Emerald Coast Parkway or its pedestrian paths
  • Operating without seatbelts, lap-riding, or double-buckling
  • Transporting children 3 or under without a car seat
  • Any violation of traffic laws or rental agreement rules
Insurance & Liability

Your car insurance is primary while operating our LSVs. The primary renter and authorized drivers accept responsibility for all charges to their credit card.

Weather Policy

In cases of severe weather or hurricanes, we reserve the right to pick up the vehicle for indoor storage until it's safe to return it to you.

Fees & Charges

All fees are billed to the card on file:

Operational Fees
  • Late Return: $100/hour
  • Lost Key: $50
  • Missing Extension Cord: $50
Service Fees
  • Citations: Ticket + $35 admin fee
  • Recharge Service: $100
  • Damage: Actual repair costs
Legal Notice

Failure to return the LSV upon expiration of the rental period and failure to pay all amounts due (including costs for damage) are prima facie evidence of intent to defraud, punishable in accordance with section 812.155, Florida Statutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do I receive my lockbox code?

You'll receive your 4-digit lockbox code via email the day before your rental begins, and again when your cart is ready for pickup.

How often should I charge my electric golf cart?

Plug in your cart whenever you return to your accommodation and charge it overnight every night. Never let the battery drop below 50% before charging.

Can I plug multiple carts into the same outlet?

No, each cart needs its own dedicated circuit. Plugging two carts into the same outlet will trip the breaker and neither cart will charge.

What should I do if my cart runs out of power?

Always carry your charging cord with you. If you get stranded, try to find a place to plug in for a while. If you need a tow back to your property, book a tow appointment online.

How do I know if my cart is actually charging?

Check the ends of the extension cord - they should be lit up when charging. If not, the outlet might be faulty or the GFI might be tripped.

Where is the lockbox on a 4-passenger electric cart?

Most commonly on the passenger side floorboard in the front row, below the glove box. Some models have it under the driver's seat next to the battery.

Where is the lockbox on a 6-passenger electric cart?

Usually visible in the middle row on the passenger's side floorboard. If not there, check under the middle seat near the yellow charging cord.

How do I connect my phone to the cart's speaker system?

Turn the cart on, press the POW/MOD button, then connect to "BEYOND" via Bluetooth on your device. When connected, "BT AUD" will show on the display.

Can I take phone calls through the cart's speakers?

Yes! In BT AUD mode, press the Volume button to answer calls and the BND button to hang up.

How do I activate the LED party lights?

Start your cart, then press the power button on the silver remote control fob attached to the dashboard. Use the remote to customize colors, modes, and speeds.

What if the LED lights won't turn on?

Flip on the black switch with the blue light located low on the dashboard to enable power. Important: Don't adjust other toggle switches as this will cut power to the lights.

What does fault code 23 mean?

The cart was in Forward or Reverse when you inserted the key. This will clear automatically in 30-90 seconds - no action needed.

What does fault code 92 mean?

Your battery is critically low. Plug in immediately and leave the cart untouched until fully charged.

Why won't my cart move even though it's on?

Check three things: (1) Tow switch must be in RUN position, not TOW. (2) Turn ignition twice to the right, not just once. (3) For Eco batteries, press the green button on the battery if it's not lit.

Can I charge multiple carts at once?

Yes, but each cart needs its own dedicated outlet on a separate circuit. Never plug two carts into the same outlet or circuit - this will trip the breaker and neither will charge.

How do I schedule a tow if my cart dies?

If your cart needs to be towed back to your property, click here to book a tow appointment online.

When will my rental golf cart be delivered?

We're committed to having your rental delivered by the start time of your reservation, and often it may arrive a little earlier. Due to the number of deliveries we manage each day, the delivery might occur in advance of your scheduled start time. Your golf cart will be parked neatly to the side, out of the way, and will never interfere with property management's turnover activities.

Can I delay the delivery based on property manager preference?

No, we cannot delay a delivery based on property manager's preference. To stay on schedule for all customers, Low Speed Vehicles are often delivered in advance of the scheduled start time.

When will my rental be picked up after my rental ends?

We will never retrieve the golf cart before your scheduled end time. Pickup will occur sometime after your rental concludes, depending on our route and schedule. Please don't expect our driver to arrive exactly at the moment your rental ends.

How does self-pickup work if I'm collecting my rental myself?

All drivers will receive a text and two emails with the 4-digit lockbox code—one the morning before the rental begins and another when your cart is ready. The pickup location is 76 N Holiday Rd, Miramar Beach, FL 32550, next to Cumberland gas station and across from Smith's Antiques. If you see Culver's and CVS, you're very close!

Can I pick up my rental after store hours?

Yes! Even if we're closed, you can still get your Low Speed Vehicle. Use the code we texted and emailed to all drivers to access the key. Come at your convenience—our lot is well-lit for after-hours pickup.

What do I need to do before picking up my rental?

Make sure to sign your Rental Agreement before heading over. Otherwise, you'll need to enjoy the golf cart as a passenger only and won't be able to drive it.

What's the difference between a Low Speed Vehicle and a golf cart?

You're driving a Low Speed Vehicle (LSV), not a golf cart, because it has a Florida license plate. You're subject to the exact same laws as when driving your truck or minivan. LSVs must follow all standard traffic laws.

Can I drive on Emerald Coast Parkway (Business 98)?

No, it's illegal to drive along the main 40 mph, four-lane Emerald Coast Parkway or its sidewalks. However, you can cross over it at any traffic light to enjoy the restaurants, shops, and attractions on the north side of the highway. Remember: cross north or south is fine, but east or west along it is prohibited.

What roads should I use instead of Emerald Coast Parkway?

Use Scenic 98 or 30A for east-west travel. These roads are LSV-friendly and will get you where you need to go safely and legally.

Can I drive on sidewalks, beaches, grass, or trails?

No, it's illegal to drive on sidewalks, beaches, grass, or walking trails. Park only in marked vehicle parking spots. The county issues tickets for illegally parked Low Speed Vehicles, so don't be tempted to follow the crowd if you see others doing it.

Are seatbelts required in a Low Speed Vehicle?

Yes, every passenger must be secured in a seatbelt. Children under 3 must ride in their car seat. Lap riding is illegal. These are the same safety requirements as any other vehicle on the road.

What happens if I violate traffic laws with the rental?

If traffic laws are violated, we'll have to confiscate your Low Speed Vehicle without refund. You're also responsible for any tickets or fines issued. Please follow all traffic laws to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.

Where can I legally park my Low Speed Vehicle?

Park only in marked vehicle parking spots, just like you would with a car. Never park on sidewalks, grass areas, or any non-designated areas. The county actively tickets illegally parked LSVs.

Store Location

Beach Better

76 N Holiday Rd
Miramar Beach, FL 32550