Folly Beach beach vacation rentals

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Popular amenities for Folly Beach vacation rentals

Stay near Folly Beach's top sights

Folly Beach581 locals recommend
James Island County Park234 locals recommend
Bowens Island Restaurant171 locals recommend
Lost Dog Cafe170 locals recommend
Morris Island Lighthouse119 locals recommend
Jack of Cups Saloon117 locals recommend

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Folly Beach

  • Total rentals

    1.2K properties

  • Total number of reviews

    58K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    990 properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    430 properties allow pets

  • Rentals with a pool

    340 properties have a pool

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    500 properties have a dedicated workspace

Your guide to Folly Beach

intro

This tiny barrier island outside of Charleston, South Carolina, has a spirited history: In the 1940s and ’50s, live musicians drew big crowds to concerts on its pier. But in recent decades, Folly Beach has embraced a more mellow spirit. Days here revolve around the water, whether that means kayaking along the river or bobbing on a longboard waiting for a wave, with funky surf shops and crab shacks catering to the beach lifestyle. The famous pier is being rebuilt, but when it reopens in 2023, it will stretch more than 1,000 feet into the Atlantic, with benches for fishing and quiet contemplation.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Folly Beach

June through August brings prime beach weather, with highs in the 80s Fahrenheit and humidity that lasts into the evenings. Like other parts of the Lowcountry, it rains frequently in the summer, but showers are usually brief. Fall is typically peak surf season, as the waves get bigger but the temperatures stay warm enough, in the 60s and 70s, to be in the water. Winter brings average highs in the 40s and 50s and lots of wind, and spring temperatures climb back up to the 60s and 70s.


Top things to do in Folly Beach

Folly Beach County Park

The waves at this beach on the western end of Folly are some of the gentlest on the island, making it ideal for boogie boarding and swimming (don’t worry about bringing gear; there are numerous rentals by the shore). Keep an eye out for loggerhead turtles and brown pelicans, both of which have protected breeding habitats in the park. If you want to surf, head up to the beach around Folly Pier for lessons, or to an area known as the Washout for expert-level swells.

Folly River Park

This park is your entry to Folly’s more tranquil side, the river that runs north of the island. Rent a kayak or paddleboard — or sign up for a guided tour — from an outfitter on nearby Center Street, and then spend the day slowly making your way around the marshes, accompanied only by seabirds (or, if you’re lucky, dolphins). You can also swallow up an entire day fishing or crabbing from the dock. Either way, stick around to watch the sunset over the river.

Morris Island Lighthouse

This lighthouse has suffered damage from a cyclone and an earthquake since it was built in 1876, but it still stands tall — albeit with a slight lean — a few hundred feet off Folly Beach’s shore. You can view the lighthouse, preserved as a historical landmark, by boat (tours often pass it as part of fishing trips) or by driving to the northern end of East Ashley Avenue and taking the 15-minute walk to the beach.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Folly Beach?

    Folly Beach, South Carolina enjoys a subtropical climate with warm, humid summers averaging around 80°F (27°C) and mild, cooler winters averaging around 50°F (10°C). Frequent rainfall keeps the environment lush and vibrant throughout the year.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Folly Beach?

    Visitors to Folly Beach often enjoy surfing, wildlife spotting at the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve, exploring the Folly Beach County Park, or strolling along the Folly Beach Fishing Pier. A walk down Center Street reveals an assortment of local shops and restaurants.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Folly Beach?

    The most frequented time to visit Folly Beach is during the summer months, from May to August. Visitors can enjoy events like the Folly Beach Farmer's Market and the Sea & Sand Festival, both showcasing local culture, food, and art.

  • What are the best places to stay in Folly Beach?

    Visitors often choose to stay near Center Street for its proximity to local shops, restaurants, and the beach. Staying near the Folly Beach County Park or the northern end of the island is often recommended for those seeking quieter, residential surroundings.

  • What are the best places to visit in Folly Beach?

    Travelers often explore the Folly Beach Fishing Pier, take a stroll along Center Street, or visit the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve. The Morris Island Lighthouse, located at the southern end of the island, is a frequently suggested historic site.

  • What are some hiking trails in Folly Beach?

    While Folly Beach is not known for traditional hiking trails, visitors can enjoy a scenic walk along the beach or explore the paths through the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve, which has views of the historic Morris Island Lighthouse.

  • What are some family activities to do in Folly Beach?

    Families visiting Folly Beach can enjoy a picnic at Folly Beach County Park, take a surf lesson, explore the marine life during a low tide beach walk, or attend a local event like the Folly Beach Farmer's Market.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Folly Beach?

    Day trip suggestions from Folly Beach often include a visit to the historic city of Charleston, just 12 miles (19 km) away, a trip to Kiawah Island, or a boat ride to see the dolphins in the Folly River and Stono Inlet.

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Folly Beach?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 500 vacation rentals in Folly Beach featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

  • Do guesthouse rentals in Folly Beach have a kitchen?

    Absolutely! We offer over 10 guesthouse rentals with a kitchen in Folly Beach. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

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