Folly Beach Bucket List: End of Summer Edition
Folly Beach Bucket List: End of Summer Edition
Summer might be winding down, but Folly Beach is still buzzing with salty air, sunshine, and plenty of adventure. Think surf breaks, sunset cocktails, dolphin spotting, and your next best beach story. Here’s your guide to soaking up every golden minute before fall fully arrives.
1. Catch the last waves
Folly’s surf scene never really takes a break, but late summer waves have their own magic. Spots like the Washout, 10th Street, and the Pier keep locals and visitors paddling out, while shops like McKevlin’s are on hand with rentals and lessons for anyone ready to try. Even if you never stand up, watching surfers ride the swells against a glowing sunset feels like Folly at its best.
2. Fishing off the Pier (or the surf)
Few things feel more classic than tossing a line into the Atlantic at the Edwin S. Taylor Pier. Whether you reel in something big or just pass the time with friends, it is the kind of Folly tradition that never gets old. Surf-casting along the beach works just as well, and the mild late-summer weather makes it easy to stay out for hours.
3. Set sail in dolphin territory
The waterways around Folly are home to pods of bottlenose dolphins that love to put on a show. Dolphin tours with local operators like Charleston Outdoor Adventures and Flipper Finders bring you close to the action while offering a front-row seat to the marsh and barrier island scenery. Seeing a dolphin leap out of the water in the glow of a summer sunset is something you will never forget.
4. Stand-up paddle or kayak your way through the marsh
Not into waves? The calm creeks behind Folly are perfect for a paddleboard or kayak. Rentals and guided tours make it simple to explore, whether you want a peaceful float through the marsh or a sunset paddle that feels like pure magic. These waterways are also teeming with birds, crabs, and even the occasional shark tooth waiting to be discovered.
5. Climb aboard a quirky watercraft
Folly is full of ways to get out on the water, from tiki boat tours to sunset sailing charters. Choose a lively cruise with music and friends, or opt for a quiet sail where the sound of the water does all the talking. Either way, you will end the day with the wind in your hair and Folly’s skyline glowing in the background.
6. Watch the light fade over Center Street
When the day winds down, head to Center Street for dinner and drinks. Grab seafood at Rita’s, enjoy tacos at Chico Feo, or start your night with brunch vibes at Lost Dog Café. The rooftops and patios are perfect for watching the last colors fade out of the sky while live music drifts from nearby bars.
7. Shell the beach, spy on birds, or just chill
Folly’s six miles of sand give you endless room to wander, hunt for shells, or just stretch out with a book. It is also a well-known birding destination with great spots to see pelicans, herons, and other coastal wildlife. Every walk feels a little different, and every tide brings something new to the shoreline.
8. Discover local character: Folly Boat, history, or lighthouse views
No Folly bucket list is complete without a stop at the Folly Boat, a community canvas covered in layers of colorful paint. History buffs can head north to explore Civil War sites, while beach lovers can stroll to the end of the island for a view of the Morris Island Lighthouse. Each landmark captures a different side of Folly’s charm, and each is worth the trip before summer closes.
Why this Bucket List Works
This list pulls together everything that makes Folly Beach unforgettable. It is active with surfing and paddling, wild with dolphins and birds, and local with history and funky Center Street flavor. At the same time, it holds onto Folly’s laid-back, “Edge of America” spirit that makes every visit feel like an escape.
So before summer slips away, cross a few of these off your list and make Folly part of your story.
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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.
