A Folly Beach vacation is calling your name — and one of the best parts of planning your trip is choosing where to stay. From oceanfront homes with sweeping sunrise views to cozy cottages tucked along the Folly River, there’s a perfect rental for every kind of traveler. The key is knowing where to look and what each area of the island offers.
Start with Trusted Rental Sources
Folly Beach vacation homes are available through reputable booking platforms such as VRBO, major local property management companies, and direct-owner listings on trusted regional websites like FollyBeach.com. Avoid unverified sources like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, where fraudulent listings occasionally appear. A good rule of thumb: if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Before you book, take a few minutes to Google the property’s address to see if it’s listed across multiple legitimate sites. Reading past guest reviews can give you an honest sense of what to expect — from the quality of furnishings to neighborhood noise levels.
The Different Sides of Folly: Choosing Your Ideal Location
One of Folly’s charms is how distinct each area feels. Depending on what kind of trip you want, your perfect stay might be in the heart of the action or tucked away on a quiet stretch of sand.
- Center Street and the Nearby Blocks
Staying close to Center Street means you’re within walking distance of Folly’s restaurants, live music, and the iconic Folly Beach Pier. Rentals in this area include upstairs apartments above shops, small beach cottages, and a few townhomes. This is the best spot for those who want to park the car and walk everywhere — to the beach, bars, or the Lost Dog Café for breakfast. Keep in mind that parking can be limited, and nightlife means it may not be the quietest option. - East Arctic Avenue and the Eastern End
East Arctic Avenue runs parallel to the ocean, offering some of the most classic beachfront rentals on Folly. These homes sit just steps from the sand, many with private boardwalks, porches facing the Atlantic, and easy access for morning walks. The closer you are to Center Street, the higher the price tag, but if you walk a few blocks down toward 13th or 14th East, you’ll often find quieter homes at slightly lower rates — still beachfront, but with fewer crowds. - West End / West Ashley Avenue
The western side of the island, closer to Folly Beach County Park, offers wider beaches and a more relaxed pace. Homes here range from charming beach bungalows to larger family vacation houses, often at a better value than central or pier-front locations. It’s ideal for families who want a mix of peaceful beach time and easy access to the park’s amenities, like restrooms, outdoor showers, and seasonal lifeguards. - Folly River and Deep-Water Homes
For a different experience, look for riverfront or deep-water access homes along Folly Creek or Shadow Race Lane. These rentals are perfect for boaters, kayakers, and anyone who loves sunsets over the marsh. Many have private docks for fishing, crabbing, or simply relaxing with a view. While these homes aren’t directly on the beach, they’re often just a short walk or golf cart ride from the ocean — and they tend to rent for less than oceanfront properties of similar size.
What to Ask Before You Book
Every rental is different, so never assume details from past trips will apply again. Before confirming, ask about:
- What’s included in your stay (towels, linens, beach gear, Wi-Fi, parking)
- Cleaning fees or pet deposits
- Beach access points and distance from the ocean
- Accessibility for guests with mobility needs
- Refund policies and security deposit details
And always get your rental agreement in writing, double-check your travel dates, and confirm check-in and check-out times.
Tips for the Best Experience
- Book early for summer and holiday weeks — prime rentals fill quickly.
- Consider shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for great rates and fewer crowds.
- Bring or rent bikes to explore Folly’s quiet side streets and marsh views.
- Stay flexible — sometimes moving just a few blocks from the beach saves hundreds without sacrificing the Folly vibe.
Whether you want a family-friendly house steps from the surf, a romantic marsh-view retreat, or a lively spot near Center Street, Folly Beach has something for everyone.
