Description
General information about the beach
Folly Beach, known as the "Edge of America", is a lively spot with a bohemian atmosphere, popular among surfers. It has a pier, numerous restaurants and bars, and equipment rentals for water sports.
Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
pale tan
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
9 656 m
Frequently asked questions
Folly Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity moderate, average temperature +21.9°C, warms up to +28.5°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Folly Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.8 m.
Folly Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Folly Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — pale tan. Texture — fine. Beach length — 9 656 metres.
Folly Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in May, June. It ends in September, October. The best month for a holiday is June. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Folly Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — moderate. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Folly Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: jellyfish. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Folly Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, kids playground, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Folly Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Folly Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Taco Boy, Lost Dog Cafe, The Crab Shack. Cuisines available: Local, European. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Folly Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash.
Folly Beach: when is the best time to swim?
Morning has fewer people and calmer water. Evening — beautiful sunsets.
Folly Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swim only in lifeguard-supervised areas. Dogs prohibited from 10:00 to 17:00 from May to September.
Folly Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Folly Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children, surfers and lovers of quiet holidays with a relaxed atmosphere. Not suitable for those seeking a lively resort atmosphere.
Folly Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Folly Beach is the only beach in South Carolina known as the "Edge of America". It is home to the second-longest pier on the US East Coast (1,045 feet) and the historic Porgy House, where George Gershwin wrote his famous opera.
Folly Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: 6 miles of wide sandy beach, Second-longest pier on the US East Coast, Relaxed and friendly atmosphere, Developed infrastructure with restaurants and bars, Breathtaking sunsets, Suitable for surfing. Cons: Paid parking ($5-10), Can get crowded in high season, Jellyfish in late summer, Limited space for seclusion, Dogs prohibited in season, Water is not always clear.
Folly Beach: how do I get to the city of Charleston?
The beach is located near the city of Charleston. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Charleston.