7 Amazing Things to Do in Folly Beach, SC

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Sun, sand, and surf – what more could you ask for from a small beach town on the South Carolina coast? 

I grew up in a coastal city on the southeast coast of Florida. Of course, as many of us do, I took for granted several of the experiences I had in my childhood–including living in such a small, quaint beach town. I remember wanting to get as far away from the beach as possible once I turned 18. 

Yet, as an adult, I often yearn to go back to what reminds me of home, and of my childhood. For me… that place is the beach. The irony of it all never fails to make me chuckle, especially considering my relocation to the Pacific Northwest in 2021. 

During my recent visit to Folly Beach, South Carolina, I fell in love with the beach all over again. The warmth, not just from the sunshine but also from the locals, was enough to remind me so fondly of home. 

Folly Beach is the perfect spot to get away from the stressors of daily life and indulge in an idyllic tropical paradise. Whether you’re visiting for the afternoon from nearby Charleston, or planning to spend a weekend soaking up the sun, Folly Beach is the perfect spot to relax and unwind.

This list is inspired by my recent trip in November, but can be replicated and implemented any time of year. Without further ado, here are the top 7 things to do in Folly Beach, South Carolina!

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Spend a day at the beach or pier 

There is no better way to escape the chaos of everyday life than to lay out on the warm, sandy shores of Folly Beach. Or, if you’re looking to enjoy a more active, adventurous activity, you can test your surfing skills around the Folly Beach Pier or at The Washout. There are plenty of surf shops on the island to purchase or rent boards, surfing supplies, or snorkeling gear. You can also find instructors who host surfing lessons for anyone looking to shred the gnar. 

There are six miles of beaches, and they’re very accessible and easy to enjoy even if you’re not staying at a rental or hotel on the oceanfront. There are several access points (40+ access points!) where the public can easily walk out onto the beach! Many of the access points have parking available for a fee, or you can locate other parking around the island and walk or bike to the access points. 

Rent bikes and explore around the island

Another great way to soak up the sun and spend a day at Folly Beach is to rent bikes and ride around the island. Most of the island is residential and low-traffic, which makes it a great spot to safely ride bikes. Just remember to wear high-visibility clothing and bicycle lights if you’re planning to ride at night or in the early morning before sunrise. 

Sample seafood at the Crab Shack

You can’t possibly visit the coast without sampling some of South Carolina’s best seafood offerings! When I visited, I loved the steamed seafood bucket and the hot crab & artichoke dip. I’d order both again in a heartbeat! You can check out the menu HERE before your visit.

Search for marine wildlife during low tide

This activity requires a bit of advanced planning to know when to expect low tide on the coast, but the extra planning is well worth it. If you’re on the beach during low tide, don’t ignore the rock structures that might be visible and exposed. If you get closer, you’re likely to see colorful starfish and other tiny sea creatures. These tidepools are small and temporary, but it’s a fun time if you can explore one during your visit! Check out the tide chart HERE for Folly Beach, SC. 

Enjoy the local nightlife

If you’re of legal drinking age and staying on the island, you might want to check out the local nightlife. Though it’s not as bustling as in downtown Charleston, Folly Beach has its own fun available to visitors and locals alike. Many of the bars and restaurants in Folly Beach often feature live music in the evenings. This makes for a fun, relaxing night out on the town. We specifically hung out around The Bounty Bar and St. James Gate, but there are several other options such as the Sand Dollar Social Club and Lowlife Bar.

Experience the lowlands from the water

On the other side of the island, you’ll be able to experience one of South Carolina’s gems. The Carolina lowlands are a fascinating ecosystem absolutely worth exploring via kayak, boat, or canoe. There are several ways to book a tour or rent equipment to venture out on your own. Be careful, though, as it is easy to lose track of time and direction if you’re not paying close attention. Once out on the water, you’ll have the opportunity to see a variety of birds and marine animals! For rentals and tours, check out Charleston Paddle Company or Charleston SUP Safaris. You can also book paddle boarding tours on Viator like the Charleston SUP Eco Tour operated by Charleston SUP Safaris.

Do absolutely nothing

One of the most fabulous things to do during your trip to Folly Beach? Absolutely nothing. Enjoying the sound of the waves rolling onto the shore with a cold drink in your hand is more than enough to keep you entertained for a few hours. One of my favorite things I did the whole trip was sit out on the sand while reading my book. I recommend spending at least a few hours of your trip to Folly Beach enjoying the dolce far niente.

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Where to Stay in Folly Beach

Folly beach rentals on oceanfront with pool

• Private Oceanfront Cottage with a Heated Pool (this is such a great find if it’s available during your travel dates!)
• Oceanfront Villa with Pool Access in Charleston Oceanfront Villas (4th floor oceanfront balcony villa perfect for families or friends!)
• The View Oceanfront 4-Bedroom House with Infinity Pool (this is a FABULOUS option for larger travel parties looking to stay together!)

Folly Beach Rentals for Couples

• Romantic Cottage with a Sunroom (this rental is only 1 block away from the beach!)
• Fully Renovated Classic Beach House (located just a block away from the downtown Folly Beach area, and also very close to the beach!)
• Nautical-themed Studio (this studio is less than a block from the beach!)

Hotels in Folly Beach

• Tides Folly Beach (this hotel is perfectly located to put you in the middle of everything to enjoy about Folly Beach!)
• Regatta Inn (adorable Bed-and-Breakfast hotel!)
• Water’s Edge Inn (this B&B includes free breakfast and a daily happy hour!)

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Looking for more fun things to do in and around Folly Beach? Check out more tours, excursions, and things to do! Folly Beach and neighboring Charleston are both so fun to explore and you’re sure to have a great time no matter what you choose to do.

Below are a few of the tours and excursions offered on GetYourGuide for the Charleston and Folly Beach areas:

• Charleston: Fort Sumter Ferry Ticket and Ferry Ride
• Charleston: Historic Walking Tour
• Folly Island: Guided Dolphin Boat Tour in Folly Beach

Have you ever been to Folly Beach, South Carolina? What did you enjoy most? Let me know in the comments below or send me your thoughts via email at sydney@sydneybrowntravels.com.

Looking for more inspiration for your next trip or vacation? Check out these other posts on my blog!

• 30 Things to Do in Memphis, TN
• The Palms Hotel and Spa Miami Beach Review
• What to Pack for a Trip to Seattle in February

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