A Perfect Day on Folly Beach

Sunrise stroll on the beach – Start your day early with a peaceful walk along the sand. Folly Beach’s 6-mile stretch of beach is ideal for catching morning light, listening to waves, and maybe even hunting for shells or shark-teeth souvenirs. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins in the surf.

Breakfast downtown – After your walk, head to one of Folly’s cozy breakfast cafés. Rita’s Seaside Grille, Lost Dog Cafe, and Lowlife Bar all have full breakfast/brunch menus. Or grab some coffee and a snack from Roasted in the Tides Hotel lobby, Dead Low Cafe, or Bert’s Market.

Catch some waves or chill in the water – Folly Beach is considered one of the top surf spots on the East Coast. If you’re up for it, rent a surfboard (or grab some beach gear) and hit the waves. There’s plenty of surfing right at The Pier, but the best area to surf or watch the action is a stretch of beach called The Washout.

Or Just Relax on the sand – If surfing’s not your thing, set up a spot on the beach to sunbathe, swim, or read. The calm Atlantic waters and expansive shoreline make it easy, whether you want action or chill time.

Grab lunch downtown or by the beach – Folly has a fantastic mix of locally loved restaurants and laid-back beach bars where you can refuel and take in the island vibe. From fresh-caught seafood and shrimp baskets to tacos, burgers, and classic Lowcountry dishes, there’s something for every appetite. Add in some fruity por frozen cocktails, and it’s the perfect midday break after a morning of sun and surf.

Paddleboard / kayak / boat cruise – The marshes along the Folly River are absolutely breathtaking—alive with birds, dolphins, fish, and the quiet beauty of winding tidal creeks. For a different vantage point, consider renting a paddleboard or kayak, or hopping on a small-boat cruise through these serene waterways.

Or dolphin or wildlife tour – If you prefer a guided experience, dolphin and wildlife tours are another unforgettable option. Depending on the season and tides, you might spot playful dolphins, wading birds, or other local wildlife as you explore the creeks and river. It’s a memorable way to see the coast from the water and connect with the natural side of Folly Beach.

Dinner & drinks downtown or beachside – As the sun starts to dip, Folly shifts into a whole new rhythm. Freshen up and head out for an evening filled with fresh seafood, cold cocktails, and that unmistakable nighttime island energy. With twinkling lights, live music drifting from patios, and ocean breezes rolling in, dinner on Folly feels less like a meal and more like an experience. It’s the perfect way to unwind and savor the magic of a Folly Beach night.

If your timing works, prepare to be awestruck – Folly sunsets are some of the most spectacular you’ll ever see. Time your dinner so you can slip over to the riverside or Sunset Cay Marina to watch the sky light up in shades of pink, gold, and fire. Prefer a shoreline view? You can simply walk back out to the beach and catch the sun sinking below the horizon. However you choose to experience it, a Folly Beach sunset is an appropriate finale to a day on the island.