The Best Folly Island Guide

Folly Island SC is a mecca for surfers, fishermen and all lovers of the laid-back beach lifestyle. Visitors head to Folly Beach for the same things the locals enjoy. You’ll find excellent pier and surf fishing, an wonderful variety of restaurants and bars, live music, and some of the best surfing on the east coast. Folly Beach embraces the low-key surfing lifestyle that welcomes everyone to “come as you are”. Enjoy fishing, paddle boarding, surfing or simply relaxing on the sun-kissed beach. Folly’s business district features a variety of eateries, watering holes and shops to designed to please any beach goers. Visit all of the best beaches on our South Carolina Beaches guide.

Folly Island SC Weather – When to Visit

Folly Beach is a great year-round destination, but some months are better to visit than others. June, July, and August can get very hot and crowded in Folly Beach. In September, crowds begin to taper off as kids go back to school and temperatures begin to slightly cool down. The average high is 81 degrees and the average low is 73 degrees. You can also take advantage of the Sea and Sand Festival happening in September.

Folly Beach

Also known as the Edge of America, Folly Beach is a barrier island on the front lines of the Atlantic, with nothing but ocean stretching out before it. Despite its popularity, the place has managed to retain its small-town character. You won’t catch too many chains here, and instead funky restaurants and bars in abundance.

You can also grab your surfboard and head for the pier or The Washout, Folly’s two most popular surf spots. The Pier tends to primarily attract those riding long boards (surfboards over 9 ft. in length), while The Washout is a mecca for the more maneuver-oriented short board riders. Rentals and lessons are available.

Best Folly Island Tours & Activities by Viator

Charleston Stand-Up Paddle Board Eco Tour

The calm waters of the Folly River are one of the most popular spots in Charleston for water sports. Have a go at stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) on this tour suitable for all levels. Master the basic techniques under guidance of an expert instructor, then take to the water for a thrilling SUP tour. Along the way, stop to swim at a private beach and look out for wildlife including bottlenose dolphins. Learn more about this paddle board tour.

Learn to Surf Charleston!

Surfing is unlike anything else. Only those who have experienced it can truly understand. It’s exciting, surreal, and calming all at the same time. With a locals professional instruction you get a short cut to successfully surfing. Within minutes you go from a complete beginner to showing skills only an advanced surfer could perform. Learn more about Surfing Charleston here.

Dolphin Sunset Paddle Board Tour

Enjoy a relaxing evening paddle boarding down the folly river while we spot dolphins and watch a beautiful sunset. Local tour guide with 15 years of experience accompanied by his dog (Breezy) provide information on wildlife, nature and attractions. Learn more about this Dolphin Sunset Paddle Board Tour.

Charleston’s Tidal Creeks Eco Boat Cruise with Stop at Morris Island Lighthouse

Cruise through Lowcountry tidal creeks and marshes en route to the uninhabited Morris Island on this boat cruise from the Charleston area. A private boat company launches from Bowens Island for the scenic ride through an estuary rich in biodiversity before a soft landing on Morris Island. Spend free time to taking photos of the historic Morris Island Lighthouse, combing for seashells, and looking out for birds, sea turtles, and dolphins before your return. Learn more about this Eco Boat Cruise.

Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour

Experience more than 300 years of history on this guided carriage tour of Charleston. See the many mansions, churches, and gardens as your horse-drawn carriage tour covers more than 2.5 miles and 30 blocks of historic Charleston. Belgian and Percheron draft horses will you lead you through the streets while you learn about this “Holy City” and its role in the Civil War. Learn more about this Historic Horse & Carriage Tour.

Best Folly Island Restaurants

Lost Dog Cafe $11 – 30

Before a day at Folly Beach, hit up Lost Dog for brunch. The café has something for everyone on their menu, from huevos rancheros to fresh fruit parfaits. Relax with a mimosa before hitting the waves and sand. Telephone: 843-588-9669 Web: Lost Dog Cafe

Jack of Cups Saloon Under $10

Full of surfers and deal-seekers, Folly Beach stop Jack of Cups offers filling ramen, dahl, and a highly-addictive red curry macaroni and cheese. The menu is a mash-up of different cuisines, including nods to the South, which is always good while sipping a few craft beers. Telephone: 843-633-0042 Web: Jack of Cups Saloon

Black Magic Cafe $11 – 30

They strive to only serve the best quality food and drinks in a family friendly atmosphere. Each and every dish is made fresh to order. They offer breakfast and lunch daily, complemented by a large variety of gourmet coffee and cocktails. Telephone: 843-633-0025 Web: Black Magic Cafe

The Crab Shack $11 – 30

The friendly staff, relaxed atmosphere, and delicious food attract locals and visitors alike. Add to this an owner, Ron Hill, who is relentless in his dedication to offering huge portions of uniquely prepared seafood at reasonable prices, and you have what the locals will tell you is the best restaurant on the beach. Telephone: 843-588-3080 Web: The Crab Shack

Rita’s Seaside Grille $11 – 30

Casual beach restaurant, open at 11am Mon-Fri and Brunch on Sat & Sun, starting at 8am. Chef Billy makes the most delicious burgers, sandwiches, salads and fresh catch daily specials. Indoor and outdoor seating. Live music. Come straight from bed or the beach! Telephone: 843-588-2525 Web: Rita’s Seaside Grille

Best Folly Island Bars

Lowlife Bar

Folly’s Finest, with a fun, laid back vibe, nightly specials & friendly bar staff. Monday Wing Night * Wednesday Taco Night * Saturday Ribs &Reggae. Here…it’s always summer! Telephone: 843-633-0460 Web: Lowlife Bar

Wiki Wiki Sandbar

Beautiful beaches. Solid surf (we dig our small, rideable waves). A laidback, slower pace. Palm trees and pineapple worship. A collaborative spirit – and a warm, inviting energy the South calls hospitality… Hawaii calls aloha spirit… and they call Wiki Wiki Sandbar. Telephone: 843-588-9454 Web: Wiki Wiki Sandbar

The Washout

Get into the Folly state of mind at The Washout! Come feel the ocean breeze on our huge outdoor patio while enjoying beach eats, ice cold drinks, and live local music. Telephone: 843-633-0143 Web: The Washout

Best Folly Island Hotels