Located at the far west end of the island, Folly Beach County Park is one of the best places on the island to spend a sunny Lowcountry day. Managed by Charleston County Parks, this scenic spot offers easy access, family-friendly amenities, and some of the most peaceful beach views Folly has to offer. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’ve been coming for years, this park captures the laid-back charm that makes Folly Beach so special.
Stretching between the Folly River and the Atlantic Ocean, the park features a wide stretch of beach, framed by dunes and tidal marsh. It’s an ideal destination for families, couples, or anyone looking for a quieter alternative to the Center Street area. Beach chair and umbrella rentals are available daily for a reasonable rate — two chairs and an umbrella make for a perfect setup to relax on the soft sands while soaking in panoramic ocean views.
Over the years, Folly Beach County Park has seen its share of change. In 2011, the area took a heavy hit from Hurricane Irene, which flattened dunes and washed away infrastructure. In response, the Charleston County Parks Department invested roughly $3 million in restoration efforts, pumping in new sand and adding rock groins on both ends to help stabilize the shoreline. Thanks to those efforts, the park reopened in 2013 — stronger and more resilient than ever — and continues to stand as a model for coastal preservation on Folly.
Beyond the beach itself, the park offers a variety of amenities that make a day here comfortable and convenient. Lifeguards are stationed along the main half-mile stretch during peak season, and outdoor showers make rinsing off easy before heading home. There’s a snack bar and small retail shop on-site, offering sunscreen, beach toys, and other last-minute necessities. Parking is available just inside the gates, and local residents can take advantage of the Gold Pass, which provides free parking at county park properties throughout the year.
One of the park’s standout features is Pelican Watch Pavilion, a two-story venue overlooking the river and marsh. This scenic space is available for private events, weddings, and reunions — complete with grills, restrooms, and picnic tables. The upper deck is a favorite for live music and dancing under the stars, with unbeatable sunset views as the Folly River winds toward the sea.
Charleston County Parks also oversees the nearby Folly Beach Pier, located beside the Tides Hotel at the end of Center Street. The recently rebuilt pier features panoramic ocean views, a tackle shop, and Pier 101 Restaurant & Bar, which serves up seafood, burgers, and live entertainment. While alcohol is not permitted on the beach itself, drinks purchased from Pier 101 are allowed on the pier’s deck area. Fishing passes are available daily or in multi-day increments, and the shop is fully stocked with gear, bait, and tackle for anglers of all levels.
Throughout the year, the pier hosts a variety of events including the popular Shaggin’ on the Pier series, Moonlight Mixers, and seasonal fishing tournaments. These gatherings bring together locals and visitors for a taste of that classic Folly Beach energy — music, dancing, and good company by the sea.
Whether you’re looking to spend a relaxing afternoon by the water, plan a family picnic, or drop a fishing line off the pier, Folly Beach County Park has everything you need for a perfect coastal day. From sunrise to sunset, it’s one of the best ways to enjoy the beauty and spirit of the Edge of America.
