Welcome to Folly Beach
Folly Beach is Charleston’s effortlessly cool, bohemian island neighbor—equal parts beach town and community hideaway. Known for its wide sandy shores, iconic fishing pier, and colorful cottages, Folly draws people who want to enjoy the coast without pretension.
It’s a place where flip-flops are standard, sunsets are events, and life slows down just enough to remind you what matters. While it still holds onto its roots as a surf-centric destination, Folly Beach has evolved into a blend of relaxed energy, elevated coastal living, and a distinctly local spirit.
From oceanfront homes to marshview bungalows, Folly Beach offers a range of real estate that mirrors its lifestyle—casual but curated, easygoing but full of personality.
Locals often refer to it as “The Edge of America,” and it truly feels like the best of both worlds: removed from the rush of the city, yet just 25 minutes from downtown Charleston. Whether you’re here for a second home, a full-time escape, or an investment in the good life, Folly welcomes you with sand between your toes and a cocktail in hand.
What to Love
- Laid-back beach lifestyle with strong local character
- Iconic surf spots and a walkable town center
- A unique blend of retro charm and modern updates
- Lively events, music, and festivals year-round
- A strong sense of community woven into coastal living
Local Lifestyle
Life on Folly Beach is casual, connected, and tuned into the tides. Mornings often begin with a sunrise surf or a beach walk, coffee in hand from a nearby café.
Afternoons might include paddleboarding through the marsh, fishing off the pier, or meeting neighbors at a local watering hole. It’s a social place, but connection happens naturally—no planning required.
No one’s in a hurry here. Errands, meals, and plans unfold with spontaneity, creating a rhythm that feels refreshingly unstructured.
The community is a mix of longtime locals, creative professionals, and newer residents, all drawn to Folly’s relaxed spirit and unmistakable coastal energy.
Dining and Shopping
Folly Beach may be small, but its food scene is big on personality and flavor. Chico Feo is a local favorite that perfectly captures the island’s free-spirited vibe, serving globally inspired street food, fresh tacos, and cold beer in an open-air setting.
For brunch or a mid-week pick-me-up, Lost Dog Café is a beloved institution offering Southern comfort food with a Folly twist—strong coffee included.
Jack of Cups Saloon is a must-visit for globally inspired cuisine in a laid-back environment, with rotating specials that range from Thai curries to seasonal pastas.
For oysters, cold drinks, and live music, The Washout delivers a classic Folly experience, especially at sunset. And when you’re craving something sweet, Shoobies Ice Cream Shop or The Pineapple Hut offer nostalgic treats with plenty of local character.
Shopping on Folly is quirky, creative, and refreshingly local. Surf shops like McKevlin’s and Ocean Surf Shop have outfitted beachgoers for decades, while independent boutiques feature beachwear, handmade jewelry, and one-of-a-kind gifts.
It’s not about luxury labels here—it’s about finding pieces that feel personal and connected to the island lifestyle. For everyday essentials, Folly’s small grocers and markets keep life simple and convenient.
Things to Do and Entertainment
The beach is the undeniable centerpiece of life on Folly Beach. Whether you’re surfing the Washout, fishing off the iconic Folly Pier, or setting up a chair with your toes in the sand, the ocean is part of the daily routine.
Beyond the shoreline, kayaking through tidal creeks and spotting dolphins is a favorite pastime, especially near Folly River and Lighthouse Inlet.
The island also offers plenty of open space to explore by bike or on foot, including the peaceful Folly Beach County Park at the southern tip of the island.
Evenings take on their own rhythm. Live music drifts from open-air bars, impromptu jam sessions pop up, and community events like Folly Gras, the Sea & Sand Festival, and the New Year’s Flip-Flop Drop bring the island together.
When you want something more elevated, Charleston’s world-class dining and arts scene is just a short drive away. But often, the best nights are spent under string lights, sharing seafood and stories just steps from the shore.
