There are few beach icons that symbolize the shore more than a lighthouse. For Folly Beach, the Morris Island Lighthouse is a true emblem of its coastline. Almost a century and a half old, this historic structure was completed in 1876 and provided navigational aid to ships traveling nearby.

During its time of operation, the Coast Guard quickly learned that the lighthouse was no match to the forces of the ocean and seafloor. The construction of jetties as well as natural causes such as storms and earthquakes eventually caused severe erosion. By 1930, the lighthouse was finally automated as it crept further and further off shore.

The Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, which is commonly known as “Charleston Light,” took over the responsibility of protecting ships out at sea by 1962, and continues to do so today. The Morris Island Lighthouse now stands alone, nearly 1,600 feet offshore, and is noted for its leaning stance toward the NE that was most likely caused by the earthquake of 1886.

The lighthouse is preserved by the non-profit organization Save the Light, Inc. under a 99-year contract to stabilize and maintain the structure. The historical site is now enjoyed by both locals and tourists. It serves as a reminder of the coastline’s past and provides a beautiful view from the beach as well as from the Lighthouse Inlet at the end of East Ashley Avenue. There are several boat tours that carry visitors out to the lighthouse for spectacular scenery of the shore and ocean, dolphin feeding and an exploration of Morris Island.