Updated for 2025
When most people picture a Folly Beach getaway, they think of the height of summer—sun blazing, crowds buzzing, and rates soaring. But ask any local, and they’ll tell you: the real magic happens after the summer rush.
If you’ve ever dreamed of having Folly’s sandy shores, salty breezes, and vibrant food scene all to yourself (well, almost), the shoulder seasons—late spring and early fall—are your golden ticket. Here’s why these months offer the best blend of weather, value, and charm you’ll find all year.
Table of Contents
- What is the Shoulder Season?
- Weather That’s Still Beach-Worthy
- Folly Beach Monthly Weather & Rates Snapshot
- Rates That Leave Room in Your Wallet
- Less Waiting, More Living
- Activities That Shine in Shoulder Season
- Pro Tips for Shoulder Season Travelers
- FAQs
What is the Shoulder Season?
The shoulder season is that perfect window between peak summer and off-season—when the weather is still gorgeous, the crowds have thinned, and prices have come down from their summer highs.
On Folly Beach, there are two prime shoulder season windows:
- Late April to mid-May
- Early September to mid-October
Both are packed with perks that make them irresistible for travelers who want more beach for their buck.
Weather That’s Still Beach-Worthy
One of the biggest misconceptions about shoulder season is that the weather turns too quickly. Not in Folly.
- Early Fall (Sept–Oct): Air temps hover in the upper 70s to low 80s, and the Atlantic stays warm—around 75–80°F—thanks to summer’s lingering heat. Perfect for swimming, surfing, or paddleboarding without the summer humidity.
- Late Spring (Apr–May): You’ll find days in the mid-to-upper 70s and water temps climbing into the low 70s by May—ideal for barefoot walks and your first ocean dips of the year.
Humidity is lower, storms are less frequent, and the sunsets are just as jaw-dropping.
Folly Beach Monthly Weather & Rates Snapshot
| Month | Avg. High °F | Avg. Water Temp °F | Rain (in) | Rate Index* | Weather Score** | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 57 | 55 | 3.4 | 50 | 4 | Cool, quiet, lowest rates |
| Feb | 60 | 56 | 3.1 | 55 | 5 | Mild days, water still cool |
| Mar | 66 | 59 | 3.8 | 65 | 6 | Warmer, early spring vibe |
| Apr | 74 | 65 | 2.8 | 75 | 8 | Shoulder season begins |
| May | 80 | 72 | 3.3 | 85 | 9 | Warm air & water, pre-peak |
| Jun | 85 | 79 | 4.8 | 100 | 10 | Peak season begins |
| Jul | 88 | 82 | 5.3 | 100 | 10 | Hottest, busiest month |
| Aug | 86 | 83 | 6.5 | 95 | 9 | Warm but humid, storm risk |
| Sep | 84 | 80 | 5.8 | 80 | 9 | Best fall sweet spot |
| Oct | 76 | 75 | 3.1 | 70 | 8 | Warm enough, fewer crowds |
| Nov | 69 | 67 | 2.8 | 55 | 6 | Pleasant but cooler water |
| Dec | 61 | 59 | 3.0 | 50 | 5 | Quiet holiday escape |
* Rate Index: 100 = Peak summer rates. Lower = more affordable.
** Weather Score: 1–10 scale based on warmth, water temp, and rainfall.
Rates That Leave Room in Your Wallet
During peak summer, oceanfront rentals and hotels command premium prices. But once Labor Day weekend passes—or before Memorial Day arrives—you’ll notice a 20–30% drop in rates.
That means:
- More nights for the same budget
- Upgrades you might skip in summer (oceanfront instead of inland)
- Extra cash for Folly’s food scene and activities
Browse Folly Beach Vacation Rentals
Less Waiting, More Living
Summer in Folly has its charm—but it also has lines. In the shoulder season, you can:
- Stroll right into Lost Dog Café or Jack of Cups without a waitlist
- Find parking without circling the block
- Spread out on the sand without fighting for space
- Snag a last-minute dinner reservation and linger
Activities That Shine in Shoulder Season
- Surfing & Paddleboarding: Gentle spring swells for beginners, solid fall waves for pros
- Biking the Island: Cooler breezes for rides from the Lighthouse Inlet to Folly Beach County Park
- Fishing & Boating: More dolphin sightings without the summer boat traffic
- Live Music Nights: Enjoy tunes at Chico Feo or Pier 101 with room to breathe
Pro Tips for Shoulder Season Travelers
- Book early: Oceanfront fills fast even off-peak
- Pack layers: Warm days, cooler evenings—especially in October
- Watch for festivals: Should season brings unique events.
FAQs
When is the best time to visit Folly Beach for good weather and value?
Late April–mid May and early September–mid October offer warm air and water, fewer crowds, and lower rates than peak summer.
Is the ocean warm enough to swim in September and October?
Yes. Water typically stays in the mid-70s to around 80°F into early fall, making it comfortable for swimming.
Are restaurants and shops open in the shoulder season?
Absolutely. Nearly all eateries and shops remain open, with shorter waits.
How far in advance should I book shoulder season stays?
Book 4–8 weeks ahead for oceanfront; interior listings have more last-minute availability.
