Enjoy fun in the sun at Folly Beach

Key Highlight

Overlooking the Atlantic – less than 15 miles south of downtown Charleston – this 6-mile stretch of coastline makes for a great day trip away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Experience Folly Beach

After a few days exploring Charleston's historic sites, take some time to kick back, relax and enjoy the Southern sun. Folly Beach offers the perfect escape with its nature and surfing opportunities. If you prefer a more relaxed pastime, head to the pier to sit and fish.

Folly Beach's friendly atmosphere attracts a variety of travelers: families usually stay close to the shore, while adults tend to gather in the nearby bars. To secure a good spot, arrive early since the beach can get crowded as the day progresses, although the crowds thin out farther from Center Street. If you forgot your beach chair, rentals are available near the beach, along with umbrellas and nonmotorized water sports equipment.

Facilities and Amenities

Along with casual beachfront bars and eateries, you'll find a few hotels near the shore, as well as restrooms and foot showers for cleaning off sandy toes. A bit further from the beach, you can enjoy popular dining spots like Taco Boy and Lost Dog Cafe. For a more local experience, surfers and locals hit Chico Feo for beer and tacos or Lowlife for delicious cocktails and shrimp rolls seasoned with Old Bay.

Fees

While it's free to lounge on the beach, be prepared to pay for parking. Lots near the beach charge between $5 to $15 (depending on the day and season) for all-day parking. Metered parking is available at $2.50 per hour or $10.50 for the full day.

Hours

The beach welcomes visitors from 8 a.m. to sunset daily, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. Lifeguards are on duty on weekends between mid-August and the end of September.

More Information

For further details, check out the Charleston County Parks website.