Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Easy! Go to the Beach Rules page on this website, and there you go!
Check out our Uniquely Folly page on the website for locations of showers and restrooms, a list of public beach accesses, parking information, and more.
If you’re looking for the lay of the land, including businesses, landmarks, parks and more, go to the Map & Visitor’s Guide page on the website. Here you’ll find downloadable maps of the whole island, the downtown section, and a visitor’s guide.
There are lots of parking options. Click on the links below for a couple of parking resources.
The City of Folly Beach parking website has a list of city parking locations and a map, plus parking rules and other info from the City of Folly Beach.
The Folly Beach Parking app has Apple and Android downloadable apps listing parking locations, rules, traffic cameras, and more.
This link has an interactive map showing parking as well as beach accesses, ADA accessibility, and more.
Additionally, several private parking lots offer hourly or daily rates. Most are on the West side of Center Street up to about the third block.
Please note that if you are parking on a roadway, all four tires must be off the pavement, or it will result in a ticket.
One of the best surf areas on the East Coast, the famous Washout is the best place to surf on Folly. Located along East Ashley Avenue near 12th block, The Washout earned its name after Hurricane Hugo in 1989 wiped away a handful of beachfront homes, opening up the landscape and creating ideal wind conditions for consistent, rideable waves. Additionally, you can find great waves to ride near the Pier.
Please visit our Public Safety department (106 W Cooper) any time of the year to inquire about free beach wheelchair rental (credit card deposit required). For more information about wheelchairs and ADA beach accesses, go to this City of Folly Beach webpage.
While you can’t walk to the lighthouse itself, you can view it from the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve. A short trail at the far East end of the island leads to a scenic overlook.
Loggerhead turtles nest on Folly Beach from May through October. During this time, it’s important to keep lights off the beach at night and avoid disturbing nests. Click here to learn about Folly’s Turtle Season Rules.
Yes, Folly Beach is part of the Atlantic Flyway, making it a great location for birdwatching. You can spot species like herons, egrets, and osprey. Click here for more info on Folly’s Birding Hotspots.
Yes, there are several rental companies offering boats, jet skis, paddleboards, and kayaks.
Yes, a South Carolina fishing license is required for most types of fishing, whether from the shore, pier, or boat. The Folly Beach Pier offers fishing access and on-site licenses.
No, fireworks are strictly prohibited on the beach and throughout Folly Island.
No, open fires and grilling are prohibited on Folly Beach. However, some designated picnic areas in parks may allow grilling.
No, camping is not allowed on the beach or public areas on Folly Island.
Yes, you can bring umbrellas and tents 10’x10′ or less, but they must not obstruct emergency access or other beachgoers’ views.
Lifeguards are stationed at Folly Beach County Park seasonally, but the majority of the beach does not have lifeguards.
No, alcohol is not allowed on Folly Beach. Open containers are prohibited, and violators may face fines.
Yes, we have a handful of parks on the island. Click here and search “Parks” for more details.
Yes, Folly Beach is a great destination for families, offering safe swimming areas, picnic spots, and kid-friendly activities like dolphin tours and paddleboarding.
Yes, dogs are allowed on Folly Beach, but there are specific rules:
- Dogs must be on a leash at all times.
- Between May 1 and September 30, dogs are not allowed on the beach between 10 AM and 6 PM.
Folly Beach is about a 20-30 minute drive from downtown Charleston, depending on traffic.
