Did you know that Folly Beach is an Audubon Birding Hotspot? It’s true! Home to over 400 different species of birds, Folly Beach offers incredible birdwatching opportunities from end to end. On the North End, you’ll find species like the American Oystercatcher and the Least Tern, while the South End is home to White Pelicans and Spoonbills. No matter where you go, Folly Beach is a haven for bird enthusiasts!

The North End

The North End is an ideal spot to observe some of Folly’s more unique species. With its Maritime Forest and the Lighthouse Inlet, this area is a prime destination for local birdwatching. The Maritime Forest alone is home to over 200 bird species, while the nearby Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve serves as a nesting habitat for many coastal species. Follow the dedicated birdwatching path to take in the stunning scenery and encounter some of Folly’s incredible avian residents.

The South End

On the other side of the island, the South End offers another fantastic birdwatching experience. Charleston County Park provides a perfect setting for a picnic while you watch birds soar overhead—just keep an eye on your lunch, as the seagulls might be just as interested in it as you are! Just off the coast, Bird Key, a large Heritage Preserve Island, serves as a critical seabird sanctuary and nesting habitat for both sea and shorebirds.

Spreading Your Wings

With hundreds of bird species calling Folly Beach home, there’s always more to discover. Want to learn more? Click here to meet some of our local species and find out exactly where to spot them!