The Center Street Shark 

Folly Flashback

In 1991, the staff at Oceansports Surf Shop was struggling to find a way to get patrons down the street from the beach to their store. When owners Bill Perry and Betty Sue Cowsert spotted a giant fiberglass shark on its way to a delivery in Myrtle Beach, they made an offer for their own “half shark,” knowing it was just what the store needed to attract attention.

On a Sunday evening, Perry, his friend Ed Hollingsworth, and Ed’s two sons, Charles and Lee, arrived at Oceansports with a covert mission. Taking advantage of the building inspector’s day off, they stood atop a van backed onto the sidewalk to mount a shark head on the shop’s exterior wall, mere inches from City Hall.

“The next morning, we all showed up and said, ‘Well, look at that,’” recalls Perry. “Nobody from the city ever said anything about it.”

The shark remains in place on Center Street.

Photo Courtesy of Bill Perry and Betty Sue Cowsert

Folly Flashback Column By Stratton Lawrence of The Folly Current

Shop Til You Drop!

Just a few steps from the beach, downtown Folly features an eclectic array of locally owned stores. Stroll down Center Street and find fun casual clothes or any of those beach essentials you forgot at home. Funky boutiques, resort wear, unique artwork, souvenirs, beach necessities and so much more! And, when you’re done shopping – stop in one of our local restaurants for a fruity cocktail or some delicious food!

As the holiday season quickly approaches, we have lots of exciting events going on right on Folly Beach! Starting with the Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 12! Watch the parade and do some of your holiday shopping at the Arts & Crafts Show at Folly River Park. Local artisans and vendors will be selling their hand-crafted items, great for unique Christmas presents! The parade will start at 1 pm on 2nd and West Ashley Street with a special visit from Santa Claus himself!

You know what pairs perfectly with a day at the beach? A delicious meal. And as casual as the vibe is on Folly, you’ll find that we are serious about our food. From fresh local seafood & local oysters to big juicy steaks; traditional southern and American fare to sushi, Mexican and Mediterranean; breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night, we’re sure to satisfy you’re appetizer.

Check out all of the places to eat on Folly Beach here!

And, if you’re in the mood to take a short drive to downtown Charleston- there’s plenty of smokin’ hot restaurants there! From five-star restaurants to hole-in-the-wall joints, you simply can’t go wrong. Make sure to try some of Charleston’s signature dishes – namely Shrimp & Grits and She Crab Soup!