BIRDING & WILDLIFE
Folly Beach is an Audubon Birding Hotspot!
Folly Beach is a dynamic place to bird! Both ends of our island have protected areas that allow opportunities for all nature enjoyers, including birders, to view our wildlife.
On the north end, you’ll find the Maritime Forest and Lighthouse Inlet. With 270* different species of birds, the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve is an important nesting habitat for coastal birds where you can view a variety of species, including the American Oystercatcher, the Willet, the Least Tern, and the Wilson’s Plover.
On the south end, you’ll find Charleston County Park, which has 212* species of birds, and a large Heritage Preserve island just off the coast called Bird Key. As you explore Folly Beach, watch for Spoonbills, White Pelicans, and so much more.
Come see for yourself why birders love Folly Beach … and don’t forget your binoculars!
*The number of species noted are according to eBird.org
Check out just a few of the birds you may see on Folly Beach:
American Oystercatcher
Wilson’s Plover
Least Tern
Willet
Spoonbill
White Pelican
Red Bellied Woodpecker
Caspian Tern
Osprey
Red Tailed Hawk
Ruddy Turnstone
Red Knot
See Six Folly Beach Birding Hotspots Designated by e-Bird.com
Our Beloved Loggerhead Turtles
Loggerhead Sea Turtle Nesting Season is
May 1 – October 31
— that means
LIGHTS OUT ON THE BEACH!
Our beloved Loggerhead sea turtles are an endangered species, and they need our cooperation in order for even a few of the precious hatchlings to survive. Hatchling turtles travel toward the brightest light, which should be the moon. If they are disoriented by artificial light coming from homes or flashlights, they will travel in the wrong direction and never make it to the ocean.
If you see a nest, please do not disturb it and ensure that your dogs are not allowed near it.
Thanks for helping us protect our Loggerhead turtles!
Discover the Magic of Folly’s Dolphins
Known for their intelligence, grace, and friendly nature, dolphins are a beloved part of the Folly Beach experience. Whether you’re strolling along the shoreline, casting a line, or cruising the waterways, these majestic creatures are sure to captivate your heart.
Why Dolphins Love Folly Beach
Folly Beach is one of the best places on the East Coast to observe dolphins in their natural habitat. These curious and social mammals are often spotted swimming in pods, leaping through the waves, or playfully riding the bow waves of boats.
The waters around Folly Beach are teeming with life, making it an ideal environment for dolphins. The tidal creeks, estuaries, and open ocean provide abundant food sources, including fish, shrimp, and crabs. Dolphins are frequently seen in the Folly River and along the coastline, especially during the warmer months.
Strand Fishing: Unique to Folly Beach
Don’t worry if you see several dolphins lying on the shore at the water’s edge. They’re not hurt … in fact, you would be witnessing something truly remarkable. The Folly area bottlenose dolphins engage in a rare and fascinating behavior known as strand feeding. In a perfectly timed maneuver, these intelligent marine mammals work together to herd fish onto the banks, launching themselves partially out of the water to feed.
This behavior is unique to only a few places in the world, and South Carolina is one of them.
Witnessing strand feeding in the wild is a breathtaking experience. It’s not just a display of dolphin intelligence—it’s a glimpse into a coastal ecosystem in perfect harmony.
Peaceful & Beautiful
This was my families first time at the ocean and I will never forget the look of joy on my youngest daughter’s face the moment the waves first came up on her feet. The beach was not over crowded, was clean, and was great for relaxing, swimming, and collecting seashells. There is a long pier for fishing off of and it is a beautiful sight at night. The town atmosphere was a nice mix between relaxing and having a good time and can work for the over 21 crowd as well as for families with small kids. There are plenty of great food stops and cute shops.
Fantastic & Peaceful
This beach is very relaxing and a great place to chill out. We saw several dolphins and enjoyed walking on the fishing pier. I would consider staying on the beach here next time we are in Charleston instead of downtown.
Cute, Calm & Peaceful
First time visitor to Folly Beach–loved it! Quiet and peaceful with many trees left on island.
What’s New?
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