Have you visited Folly Beach, SC? No matter what kind of beach trip you are looking for, you can find it on the barrier islands of Charleston, South Carolina. Folly Beach is your best bet for the perfect mix of relaxing beaches and spots to dine. Folly Island is 18 square miles of sand and sun and offers a beach town vibe just 20 minutes from the tourist attractions of Charleston.
This article includes:
Public Beach Access on Folly Island
Folly Island Places to Eat
Take A Trip To Visit More Beaches That Are Located Not Far From The Upstate!
Folly Island On The Coast Of South Carolina
The beaches of the Low Country offer something for everyone when it comes to a beach trip. For a quiet, non-commercialized beach experience, Kiawah Island’s Beach Walker Park is my go-to option. However, if a tourist-heavy, commercialized expertise is what you seek, Isle Of Palms fits the bill.
If a sandy spot somewhere in the middle of both is what you want, then the beaches of Folly Island are perfect. They are family-friendly, quiet, and some access points have restrooms and showers for beachgoers to use. The downtown area of Folly Island offers a funky beach town vibe that’s solidified its place in the history of the SC coast.
Here’s a Great Map of Folly Island To Show The Kids
Where to Stay Near Folly Beach, SC
This Stay 22 Map contains affiliate links that will help you find the perfect place to stay near Folly Beach!
Accessing The Beach On Folly Island
With six miles of shoreline, there’s no shortage of sand to spread out on when visiting Folly Beach. Finding beach access isn’t difficult, but depending on your family’s needs, one access might be more suitable than another.
Folly Beach County Park
Located on the southern tip of Folly Island, the county park offers families all of the amenities they might need including showers, restrooms, a seasonal concession stand, seasonal lifeguards, and chair rentals.
The parking fees range from $5-$20, depending on the season, and are $20 on weekends and summer holidays. Park gates are open from 8 am to sunset.
Folly Beach Ocean Park
The Folly Beach Ocean Park is located at the end of West Arctic Avenue. It offers beachgoers restroom and shower facilities that are free and open to the public (currently only open during the summer.)
Folly Beach Beach Access
At the end of nearly every block on the island there is a beach access pathway. Some spots include parking if space permits, otherwise you can park streetside.
The further you drive away from the pier, the less the metered parking costs. By quite a bit. If you aren’t trying to be right next to the pier and center street, drive a few miles north to find cheaper meter rates. The parking meter fees can be paid through a kiosk, or with the PARK Folly Beach app.
The Folly Beach Pier
The centerpiece of Folly Island is the Folly Beach Pier. The pier was recently renovated. Amenities at Folly Beach Pier include the gift shop, restrooms, showers, changing rooms, and wheelchair beach access.
The Pier 101 Restaurant is open Wednesday through Monday, and offers seafood, sandwiches, and more!
Swimming is permitted on the beach that flanks the sides of the pier, however, the undertow can become dangerous near the pier causing unsafe conditions. Also, people throw baited hooks off of that pier looking to catch “a big un”. I don’t know about you, but I would prefer not to be swimming near where people are reeling in jaws.
The parking fees range from $5-$20, depending on the season, and are $20 on weekends and summer holidays. Pier hours vary by season, so be sure to check the park’s site before venturing out.
Places To Eat On Folly Island
There are plenty of spots to choose from when it comes to meals on Folly Island. These are just a few of our favorites when we head out to spend the day on Folly Beach.
Taco Boy
Ameri-mex style food with a kid’s menu, and a full bar. Great spot for nachos and margs after a day on the beach.
The perfect spot for breakfast or brunch, The Lost Dog has sandwiches, burgers, breakfast (all day), and more.
Saint James Gate Proper Irish Pub & Three Monkey’s Ice Cream
The menu here has a little bit of everything, including tacos. It’s kid & dog-friendly! Plus they have some delicious dessert options.
The Pineapple Hut
If you spend any time on Folly Island, you are bound to see people walking down the street with a pineapple in their hands. This food truck is where it came from, filled with Dole Whip, or one of their weekly special flavors of soft-serve style ice cream. (March through November).
If you want to extend your trip, head over to Mount Pleasant for a bunch of free things to do while you’re there!
For More Information, Check Out The Kidding Around Travel Guide to Charleston, SC: Things to Do, Where to Stay, and Places to Eat