Where is Folly Beach,Charleston, South Carolina?

Written by | Updated On: December 03, 2025, 14:30 ET

Folly Beach is located in South Carolina, USA. It lies between Charleston and Morris Island and is situated along the southeastern Atlantic coast. The beach is famous for its wide sandy shores, surfing, fishing, and relaxed island atmosphere.

Folly Beach Location Map,Charleston, South Carolina

Top Attractions Inside Folly Beach

  • Folly Beach Pier – Popular fishing spot and scenic viewpoint over the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Beaches & Surfing Spots – Wide sandy beaches ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.
  • Battery Island & Lighthouse Views – Historic coastal sites offering photography and scenic vistas.
  • Hiking & Nature Trails – Coastal trails through dunes, marshes, and maritime forests for wildlife observation.
  • Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Water activities in nearby creeks, estuaries, and ocean waters.
  • Local Shops & Restaurants – Beachfront dining, seafood spots, and surf shops catering to visitors.
  • Wildlife Observation – Opportunities to see shorebirds, dolphins, and coastal wildlife along the beach and marshes.

Folly Beach Facts

Official NameFolly Beach
LocationFolly Beach, Charleston County, South Carolina, USA — barrier island along the Atlantic Ocean
Latitude & Longitude32.6583° N, 79.9417° W
Total Area≈ 10 miles (16 km) of coastline — part of a barrier island ecosystem
Established / OpenedDeveloped as a public beach community — dates back to early 20th century (official city incorporation 1938)
Managed ByCity of Folly Beach / Charleston County Parks & Recreation (beach management & services)
RegionSouth Carolina Lowcountry / Atlantic Coast barrier island
Main Theme / ConceptCoastal recreation, surfing & fishing, tourism, family beach destination, barrier island ecosystem
Main Sections / AreasFolly Beach Pier, Center Street & commercial area, East End / Lighthouse Inlet, West End beaches, Surfside and Marshfront areas
Famous AttractionsFolly Beach Pier, surfing spots, fishing areas, bird watching, sunset views, local shops & dining, barrier island nature
Visitor ActivitiesSwimming, surfing, fishing, sunbathing, kayaking, paddleboarding, beachcombing, birdwatching, nature photography
Entry Fee / Access TypePublic beach — free access; parking fee at certain lots or city-maintained areas
Ticket Price RangeParking fees: ~$2–$5 per hour or flat daily rates at public lots; beach access free
Ticket OptionsDay-use, parking passes, seasonal permits for certain areas
Best Time to VisitSpring–Fall (April–October) for beach weather, surfing, and outdoor activities; summer for peak tourism
Nearby AirportCharleston International Airport (CHS) – ~12 miles (19 km)
TransportationCar / parking, bicycle, walking, occasional shuttles, kayak / small boat access
Time ZoneEastern Time (ET) – UTC−5 Standard / UTC−4 Daylight Saving
Official Websitehttps://www.cityoffollybeach.com

Distances from Folly Beach to Nearby Landmarks

  • Folly Beach Pier – 0 km (0 mi)
  • Center Street, Folly Beach – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Folly Beach County Park – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • James Island County Park – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • Charleston, SC – 12 km (7.5 mi)
  • Charleston Harbor – 12 km (7.5 mi)
  • Fort Sumter National Monument – 14 km (8.7 mi)
  • Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum – 20 km (12.4 mi)
  • Isle of Palms – 18 km (11.2 mi)
  • Wild Dunes Resort – 22 km (13.7 mi)
  • Magnolia Plantation & Gardens – 15 km (9.3 mi)
  • Charleston International Airport – 22 km (13.7 mi)
  • Battery Park, Charleston – 13 km (8.1 mi)
  • King Street, Charleston – 12 km (7.5 mi)
  • Morris Island Lighthouse – 7 km (4.3 mi)
  • Seabrook Island – 25 km (15.5 mi)
  • Folly River – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Stono River – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • Isle of Palms County Park – 20 km (12.4 mi)
  • Mount Pleasant, SC – 18 km (11.2 mi)