Folly Beach welcomes everyone — including visitors with mobility challenges — to enjoy its beautiful sand, surf, and small-town charm. Over the past several years, accessibility has improved significantly thanks to new ramps, updated facilities, and a community-wide commitment to inclusion. Whether you use a wheelchair, walker, or simply need easier access to the beach, Folly has taken great steps to ensure everyone can enjoy the Edge of America.
Accessible Beach Access Points
While nearly every block on Folly offers public beach access, not all are equally accessible. The city has added several ADA-compliant ramps and accessible boardwalks to make reaching the beach easier for those using wheelchairs or mobility devices.
As of 2025, the most accessible entry points include:
- West 9th Street (West Ashley Avenue) – One of the best-known ADA access points, featuring a wheelchair-accessible ramp that leads directly from the public parking lot to the sand.
- East 2nd Street – Offers a concrete path from the street to the beach crossover, making it easier to navigate with mobility aids.
- Folly Beach County Park (at the west end of the island) – Managed by Charleston County Parks, this facility provides Mobi-Mats (portable beach-access mats that extend over the sand), accessible restrooms, picnic areas, and paved parking. Lifeguards are also on duty seasonally, making it a great choice for families and visitors who need a little extra support.
These access points are updated periodically, so check with the City of Folly Beach or Charleston County Parks for the latest ADA-accessible entry information before your visit.
Beach Wheelchair Rentals
Navigating sand with a traditional wheelchair is difficult, but several local companies rent beach wheelchairs with large inflatable tires that roll easily over the sand. Daily or weekly rentals can typically be delivered to your rental property or picked up nearby.
Local providers include:
- Charleston County Parks Beach Wheelchair Program – Offers free use of beach wheelchairs at Folly Beach County Park on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Charleston Medical Supply (843-554-7424) – Provides rentals and delivery of beach and mobility equipment across the Charleston area.
- Coastal Mobility Equipment (843-416-1006) – Offers delivery to Folly Beach vacation homes, hotels, and rentals.
Be sure to call in advance, especially during the summer months, as availability can be limited.
Folly Beach Fishing Pier
The Folly Beach Fishing Pier — completely rebuilt and reopened in 2023 — is now fully ADA accessible. The new structure includes wide walkways, smooth ramps from ground level to the pier deck, accessible rail heights for fishing, and ADA-compliant restrooms. Whether you’re casting a line or simply soaking up panoramic ocean views, the new pier design ensures everyone can experience this iconic Folly landmark.
Accessible Lodging and Rentals
Many Folly Beach vacation rentals and hotels now offer mobility-friendly features such as ramps, elevators, step-free entrances, and accessible bathrooms. While FollyBeach.com no longer lists properties directly, you can find a variety of accessible options through trusted partners like VRBO and local rental agencies. When searching, use filters for “wheelchair accessible” or “elevator” and confirm accessibility details directly with property managers to ensure the home meets your specific needs.
The Tides Folly Beach Hotel also offers ADA-compliant rooms with ocean views, roll-in showers, and accessible on-site parking — making it one of the easiest ways to enjoy a beachfront stay with peace of mind.
Other Helpful Tips
- Parking: ADA-designated spaces are available at beach access points, City Hall, the Community Center, and Folly Beach County Park. Always display your handicap permit.
- Dining: Many local restaurants — including Lost Dog Café, Rita’s Seaside Grille, and Loggerhead’s Beach Grill — have ramped entrances and outdoor patio seating suitable for wheelchairs.
- Sidewalks: Center Street sidewalks have been resurfaced and widened in recent years, improving access to shops, dining, and the pier area.
Folly Beach continues to make accessibility a priority so that everyone — no matter their mobility level — can enjoy its beaches, restaurants, and easygoing atmosphere. From accessible beach mats to friendly locals ready to lend a hand, the Edge of America truly welcomes all.
