A day at the beach isn’t always, well, a day at the beach. If you find yourself sitting in the wrong section of sand say, next to rowdy guys tossing a frisbee that somehow keeps hitting you in the face your whole day could be ruined. Luckily, you can avoid that problem at Folly. We’ve put together a cheat sheet that will help you find your perfect spot on the beach!
If you want to play sports
If you’re at the beach to socialize and play volleyball or frisbee, you’ll want to set up to the right of the pier, in front of Blu, the always crowded beach bar. There’s always plenty of twenty-somethings in this area, and plenty of hot beach bodies to stare at.
If you want to bring the kids
There are definitely families sprinkled all over the beach, but the best place to play with your kids is on the the left side of the pier. The drinkers are mostly over in front of the bar so this is the perfect spot to stay clear of rowdy frat boys. Plus, the bathrooms are still close by.
If you want to catch a wave
The Washout has been called the best place to surf in the state. To get there, turn left at the end of Center Street and drive until there are no more houses around. Parking is on the side of the road, but you still have to pay. It’s all surfers at this spot, so you’ll be in good company.
If you want to have some privacy
If you don’t like crowds, stay away from the middle of the beach by Blu and the Tides Hotel. Instead, take a right at the end of Center Street and drive until just before you hit Folly Beach County Park. This end of the beach always has far fewer people on it and the surfers are down on the other end.
If you want to enjoy the view
There is a lovely portion of the beach with a view of the Morris Island lighthouse. It’s a little secluded area that never seems to be too crowded, despite its quaint feel. Turn left at the end of Center Street and drive until you can’t go any farther. Park, get out of the car and walk up the path to the beach. The beautiful inlet has big rocks, a wooded area and, of course, an amazing view.
FAQs
All of the beaches on Folly Island are superb, but, arguably the Folly Beach County Park, at the island's west end, is perhaps the best with amenities like 2,500 feet of ocean frontage, picnic areas and boogie board, bicycle, umbrella and chair rentals available between Labor Day and Memorial Day.
Where is the least crowded part of Folly Beach? ›
If you don't like crowds, stay away from the middle of the beach by Blu and the Tides Hotel. Instead, take a right at the end of Center Street and drive until just before you hit Folly Beach County Park. This end of the beach always has far fewer people on it and the surfers are down on the other end.
Is Folly Beach nicer than ISLE of Palms? ›
The overall atmosphere of these two beach towns can be very different at times. Folly Beach is known as a funky, laid-back town with vibrant people. Lively restaurants and bars line Center Street as the main strip guides you to the beach. Isle of Palms is just as laid-back but with more of a classic beachy vibe.
What are people looking for on Folly Beach? ›
Ocean Treasures
Common local shells include whelks, angel wings, arks, pen shells, augers, co*ckles, slipper shells, jingles, coquina, and olive shells. Starfish, sea urchins, and sand dollars also can be found on Folly Beach and Morris Island. Searching for fossils is another popular pastime.
Which beach is better Folly Beach or Sullivans island? ›
Though it is the smallest of Charleston's beaches, Sullivan's Island beach is among the most pristine. Less frequented than Folly Beach, the beach at Sullivan's Island remains unspoiled and is often uncrowded, ideal for locals' morning walks on the beach, or picnics on the sand.
Why is the sand black at Folly Beach? ›
The opaque minerals are responsible for the patches of black sand on beaches (sometimes mistaken for oil pollution)—concentrations of heavy minerals that are examples of natural placer deposits. The heavy minerals are dispersed through the entire beach, but under the right conditions, placer deposits form.
Is Tybee Island or Folly Beach better? ›
Tybee Island offers up a bit more space to roam than Folly Beach but maintains that relaxed vibe that keeps visitors returning year after year. It's considered the northernmost barrier island in Georgia and is popular for its fresh seafood, sandy beaches, and ocean waves that are ideal for surfing.
Is Folly Beach a hippie town? ›
Folly Beach is technically a city on Folly Island, although its personality and attributes are more akin to your classic Southern beach town. “Folly is a funky, hippie, surfy, small barrier island that has a warm vibe and beautiful views,” Jenny Brown, founder and owner of Shaka Surf School, tells Travel + Leisure.
Is it hard to find parking at Folly Beach? ›
Limited yet very convenient parking is available at the Folly Beach Pier, another must visit place while you visit Folly. Parking here comes at a fee and can be full certain times of the year. This location is also great for acessing the beach, Center Street and all of the great local businesses that call it home.
What beach do locals go to in Charleston SC? ›
Sullivan's Island
With its unspoiled views and terrific dining options, Sullivan's is a favorite among Charleston area locals. The beach has few short-term rentals and no hotels so plan a day trip to this beach, also located just a few minutes from the Isle of Palms.
Strategically located south of Charleston and close to Fort Sumter, Folly became a stronghold for Union soldiers during the Civil War. There wasn't much fighting on the island, rather it became covered with tents, and some streets, that are still used today, were built.
Is Folly Beach a party beach? ›
And when the sun goes down, Center Street becomes a lively mix of beach-casual nightlife and rooftop dance clubs. Whether you need a beach front home for a large group or a romantic room for the two of you, Folly Beach is the perfect spot for vacations, reunions, beach weddings, or just a quick weekend get-away.
What are the night rules at Folly Beach? ›
No lights are allowed that illuminate the front beach between 10 pm and dawn from May 1st to October 31st. Hatchling turtles are disorientated by artificial light. Fill holes dug in sand before you leave the beach. If you see any adult sea turtles or hatchings call 843-588-2433 to report your sighting.
What is the best time of day to go to Folly Beach? ›
Stick to Early Mornings and Evenings
There is also no traffic or beach goers (especially swimmers) and lighter crowds. However, you may run into the pre-work morning crowds especially around the Folly Pier or main jetty at the Washout, so just be aware of that.
Can you take shells from Folly Beach? ›
Where empty shells are concerned, you're probably OK. Not only are they plentiful and essentially supplied by the ocean in never-ending rotation, but the general consensus is that the coastal ecosystem isn't upset too much when these shells go missing.
Does Folly Beach have a downtown? ›
The sunrises and sunsets on Folly are legendary, so make sure you have plenty of space on your camera or smart phone … seriously, free up lots of space! A few steps from the beach, downtown Folly features an eclectic array of locally owned stores and restaurants.
Is Folly Beach a party town? ›
Folly Beach is definitely very touristy in the summers and spring time. This is a place you should stay at if you want to party and want beach. There are plenty of fun bars and restaurants to go if you are staying out here.
Is Folly Beach SC expensive? ›
How do Folly Beach prices compare to other US cities? Folly Beach is ranked 94 out of 273 cities across the US in terms of cost of living. The cost of living in Folly Beach is 99.4% of the national average.
