Curator’s statement
Folly Beach was long ago dubbed “The Edge of the America” and after a few moments watching the sunrise, with a hot coffee, and the waves crashing, I certainly came to realize why. For me, it was based on a feeling, a vibe, rather than anything tangible. For such a popular destination year-round, it still feels incredibly underrated. It is a classic American, coastal island that almost seems frozen in a simpler time since there is nothing that is too overstated about it, yet it stands out for so many. As it normally is true with anything, the best things do often come in small packages. I’ve always appreciated the simplicity and nostalgia of the area and how it has been able to maintain its small, rustic, beach town vibe. Sprinkled in are a few hidden gems, some gorgeous murals, with endless places to enjoy an amazing view. I don’t think you can ask for much more when it comes to a relaxing, laid-back beach vacation.
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Where to stay in Folly Beach
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Things to do in Folly Beach
Morris Island Lighthouse
Beach walks - Folly Beach offers 6 miles of shoreline — perfect for a refreshing walk or simply soaking in the salty air and ocean waves.
Surf lessons — If you don’t already know how to surf, then there is no better time to learn than at the beach. The local Isla Surf School is top-rated and great for beginners.
Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding- get up close and personal with all the natural beauty of the waterways that all lead out to the ocean for best chances of seeing wildlife such as birds & dolphins. Coastal Expeditions has a Folly Beach launch point & they are as knowledgeable and reputable as they come.
Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve to see the Morris Island Lighthouse — this is the unique, hidden gem of Folly Beach! Take E Ashley Avenue all the way until it becomes a dead-end. Pack a lunch, ride bikes or walk, but wear good shoes, and take it all in. There is so much that makes this landmark so unexpectedly memorable.
Shark tooth hunting — For the best chances of finding the ever-elusive shark teeth on the beach, go early in the morning or at low tide, head to my favorite hunting spots near the pier and around the rocky jetties.
Live music — for the late-nighters out there, while you’ll probably hear the DJ at Taco Boy at night, the best spots for live music performers will be at Chico Feo, Lowlife Bar, Loggerhead’s, The Drop-in and The Washout.
Places to eat & drink in Folly Beach
Center Street Restaurants & Shops
Revelry Brewing - Folly Beach: With an almost speakeasy-style entrance given you would miss it if you weren’t looking for it. This little beach bar & brewery features trendy, pristine open seating with low tables & long couches with pillows in its open-air courtyard in addition to bar seating. A perfect breezy, relaxed setting for enjoying their craft beers.
Lowlife Bar: My favorite feature of any restaurant is if they can open up patio doors or garage door windows for an open, airy vibe. Enjoyable for all who wish to stay connected to the outdoors. I love being able to still catch a breeze while drinking, sitting on a barstool, and this spot delivers! They have fabulous cocktails, craft beers, upscale bar food and live music often.
Jack of Cups Saloon: This restaurant truly meets the qualifications for me for an unexpectedly amazing menu. They specialize in globally-inspired cuisine with a clever twist that equals happiness for your taste buds. On top of that, they have crafted very cool cocktails and a wonderful whisky selection, too.
Bowen’s Island Restaurant — Alright, so this is technically off-island from the main Folly Beach strip, however, I can assure you for the sunset views alone, it will be worth it. Tucked into a little corner of an inlet facing west with fresh-catch fried seafood bar grub makes this a perfect, casual, but unforgettable little dining spot off the beaten path.
Lost Dog Cafe - Pet-friendly & homey with great beachside diner vibes open for breakfast/brunch and lunch
Rita’s Seaside Grill — A bright, upbeat but casual restaurant located near the Folly Beach Pier and beach access point that often features live music in its outdoor seating area
The Pineapple Hut - Food Truck: serves vegan, dairy & gluten-free, pineapple whipped soft-serve beverages on-the-go. Try the Paradise Whip for a special treat served inside of a fresh pineapple!
Need to know
Tips for Rental Accommodations:
Folly Beach offers many large, multi-bedroom rental homes via Vacasa, VRBO, Airbnb, etc.
Ideal for big families or groups wanting shared space, as most rentals include ample parking, beach gear storage and gathering areas like decks, porches, and/or rooftops.
Most homes are elevated & stilted with steep stairs — consider mobility needs for pets and elderly guests.
Outdoor showers or hoses are handy for rinsing off sand — available at many rentals, The Tides Hotel, Folly Beach Pier and County Park beach accesses.
Traveling with Dogs:
Be advised & Plan ahead: From May 1–Oct 1, dogs are only allowed on the beach before 10 am or after 6 pm. This is for safety as the Summer heat can be harmful to dogs & the sand too hot for their paws.
Look for rentals with grassy areas and shaded porches for pet comfort during your stay. Again, ones with outdoor showers/hoses would come in handy for them as well.
If your dogs are older or do not do well with stairs, some larger homes & condominiums buildings do have elevators. However, most rental homes are elevated with steep stairs. The homes further away from the beach will likely be more ground-level, though.
Getting Around:
Folly Beach is ~20–25 minutes from downtown Charleston (traffic dependent) & no public transit — rent a car or use Uber/Lyft for off-island trips. The island technically has everything you need for a full stay — no need to leave unless you want to.
Fun local on-island transport options: golf carts, mopeds and bikes.
Biking is best for visiting Morris Island Lighthouse (easier parking).
Avoid riding bikes, mopeds or golf carts at night — limited visibility and traffic can be risky.
Travel Advisor
Lorraine Whetstone
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