Plan an Unforgettable Beach Getaway in Folly Beach, South Carolina

Plan an Unforgettable Beach Getaway in Folly Beach, South Carolina

Pack up the car, slather on some sunscreen, and head out to Folly Beach — it's waiting for you just outside Charleston.

Where to Stay in Folly Beach for a Perfect Beach Vacation

Skip the crowded hotels and book one of Folly Beach's charming bungalows instead. You'll enjoy more space, privacy, and personality while being just steps from the ocean. A few top options include a Rustic 1940s Beach Bungalow that sleeps five and is near all the key restaurants and bars or Blackbeard’s Folly, a set of three apartments (sleeping 24!) with a fabulous shared patio bar. The Smile is a quirky, cute cottage that used to be a dentist's office.

Top 5 Things You Can't Miss in Folly Beach

Kick back and relax on six miles of wide, sandy beaches. Let the sound of rolling waves melt your stress away.
Learn to surf with a local instructor. It's a rite of passage in this funky surf town! Photograph the Morris Island Lighthouse across the water at sunrise or sunset. Hunt for ancient shark teeth and fossils along the shore with an expert guide. Wander down Center Street to shop for beachy souvenirs by day and eat fresh seafood by night.

Insider Tips: The Best Time to Visit Folly Beach

Summer brings perfect beach weather, but also larger crowds. For a more relaxed vibe, come in the off-season between October and March. The beaches open up, costs drop, fossils emerge, and you'll feel like you have the island to yourself!

Getting to Folly Beach from Charleston or Beyond

The Charleston International Airport is about 20 miles from Folly Beach. Travel time varies greatly depending on traffic coming over the sole bridge onto Folly Island. Avoid gridlock by planning your arrival carefully around weekends and holidays. Consider alternative transportation like biking, walking, or renting a golf cart once on the island. Parking spots fill up fast!

Spending a Day Soaking Up the Sun in Folly Beach

Once you secure parking or beach access, stake out your spot in the sand. Be sure to understand and follow all beach rules and regulations. Pack food and drinks in non-glass containers and take all trash with you. Then sit back, relax and enjoy six miles of sandy beaches meeting the rolling Atlantic Ocean. Go for a swim, try out those new boogie boards, read a book ― whatever helps you slow down and savor the seaside.

Where to Grab a Bite in Folly Beach

Recharge with a hearty Southern breakfast at Lost Dog Cafe, acclaimed for its fluffy biscuits and gravy. Enjoy fresh wood-fired pizza on the back patio at Jack of Cup's Saloon. For dinner, indulge in homemade pastas and sauces at Alfredo's on Folly or tacos and margaritas at the funky, eclectic Chico Feo. You can't go wrong with the food in Folly Beach!

Don't Leave Folly Beach Without Some New Beachy Souvenirs!

Searching for the perfect Folly Beach memento? Browse the t-shirts, tervis tumblers, fishing gear and more at the colorful shops lining Center Street. Pop into beach boutiques like Palms, Mr. John’s, and Islander. Folly Sol offers locally-made art, jewelry and gifts with bohemian flair. And no trip is complete without a stop at Bert’s Market, the legendary 24-hour shop carrying everything from groceries to hardware to hot turkey wraps.

More Things You Won't Want to Miss in Folly Beach

• Sign up for surf lessons with a highly-rated local company like Shaka Surf School, Carolina Salt Surf, or Isla Surf School. They'll have you riding waves in no time!
• Take an early morning or sunset walk out to the Morris Island Lighthouse. It's only accessible by boat tour, but you can still admire it from shore.
• Let a Charleston Fossil Adventures guide help you hunt for prehistoric shark teeth and fossils. This is one of the best spots in Charleston for treasures from the past!
• Wander down the Folly Beach Fishing Pier with some snacks. Cast a line or simply appreciate the views of frothy waves and salty marshland.

  Insider Tips from the Locals

  Take Advantage of Off-Season Perks

  "Spring and fall are great times to visit Folly Beach with smaller crowds," says Jenny Brown of Shaka Surf School. Cooler temperatures coupled with thinner crowds make for a delightful getaway.

Look for Prime Fossil Hunting Conditions

October through March storms often shift more sand, revealing ancient fossils and shark teeth, explains Ashby Gale of Charleston Fossil Adventures. Book a guided hunt for the best chances of finding a unique souvenir.

Absorb the Authentic Atmosphere

"Folly Beach welcomes people from all walks of life to experience the true essence of South Carolina," says Stephanie Dasher of Warrior Surf Foundation. Wander the eclectic shops and mingle with locals for a sense of Folly's "quirky charm."

Don't Forget to Have Fun!

Take Jenny Brown's advice when she says, "Slow down and relax ― you're on Folly!" Leave room in your itinerary for lounging on the beach, playing in the waves, watching a sunset or simply doing nothing at all.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Folly Beach

Q: What is there to do in Folly Beach?

A: Top activities in Folly Beach include relaxing on six miles of sandy beaches, taking surf lessons, shopping and dining on Center Street, visiting the Folly Beach Fishing Pier, going on a Morris Island Lighthouse tour, hunting for shark teeth and fossils, and exploring local art galleries.

Q: Where should I stay when visiting Folly Beach?

A: Some top accommodation options in Folly Beach include rental homes like beach bungalows, cottages, and condos rather than big resorts. This allows you to enjoy charm, privacy, space for gatherings, and easy beach access.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Folly Beach?

A: The summer sees the nicest beach weather, while spring and fall have thinner crowds. For the lowest costs and most solitude, visit between October and March.

Q: Is Folly Beach good for families?

A: Yes! Folly Beach offers plenty of kid-friendly activities like playing in the waves, building sandcastles, searching for seashells and shark teeth, mini golf, paddle boarding, eating ice cream, and more.

Q: How far is Folly Beach from Charleston?

A: Folly Beach on Folly Island is located about 20 miles from downtown Charleston by car, normally a 30-45 minute drive depending on traffic.

Q: How do I get to Folly Beach from Charleston?

A: To reach Folly Beach, take I-526 East to exit 18. Follow Folly Road (SC-171) for around 9 miles until it turns into Folly Beach Road. Take this across theJames Island Connector Bridge onto Folly Island.

Q: Where can I park in Folly Beach?

A: Street parking and small public lots are available in Folly Beach, but fill up fast, especially on summer weekends. Some accommodations offer private parking. Alternatively, rent golf carts or bikes once on the island and leave cars on mainland.

Q: Are there beach wheelchairs available in Folly Beach?

A: Yes, Folly Beach county park at 1100 W. Ashley Avenue offers beach wheelchairs with large wheels to borrow free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Call +1 843-763-4303 for availability.

Q: Are dogs allowed on the beaches in Folly Beach?

A: Dogs are welcome on Folly Beach but must be leashed between 10am-6pm from April 1st through September 30th every year. There are also designated pet-friendly areas to take dogs swimming.

Q: Where can I find the best seafood restaurants in Folly Beach?

A: Some top-rated seafood restaurants in Folly Beach include Lost Dog Cafe, Jack of Cups Saloon, Chico Feo Tacos and Tequila Bar, and Blu Restaurant and Bar, right on Center Street.

Start Planning Your Escape to Folly Beach Today!

With warm sunshine, gentle waves, and good times around every corner, Folly Beach serves as the perfect place to soak up South Carolina’s coastal culture. Gather your crew and start booking that beachy bungalow ― adventure awaits just outside Charleston!

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