The Edwin S. Taylor Folly Beach Fishing Pier is 24 feet wide, extends more than 1,045 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, and is 23 feet above sea level. Known as one of the best places to go saltwater fishing in Charleston, visitors and locals also take advantage of the miles of Folly Beach views, bird watching, and walking. Check out one of the best views of the “Edge of America” from the Folly Beach Pier. http://ccprc.com/index.aspx?NID=66
Where Is The Folly Beach Pier?
The Folly Beach Pier is centrally located, just off Center Street, the main entrance to our town. On your way in, just drive until you reach the water and look to your left, where you’ll find E. Arctic Avenue. Turn left and the pier will immediately be to your right. The complete address is:
101 E. Arctic Ave.
Folly Beach, SC 29439
There is a public parking lot at the Pier for a fee, or if space allows. on street parking is available free of charge first come, first serve. Keep in mind that parking can be frustrating on Folly Beach during the summer. Make sure to park legally to avoid a ticket.
Depending on where you’re staying, you’ll likely visit the pier multiple times. It’s an easy walk from a lot of places or you may decide to take a bike or golf cart if you’re further away.
When Is It Open? (Hours)
The Folly Pier is open for your enjoyment during the following hours throughout the year.
January & February
8 a.m. – sunset
March
7 am – sunset
April
6 a.m. – 10 p.m.
May – September
6 am – 11 p.m.
October
6 a.m. – 10 p.m.
November
7 a.m. – sunset
December
8 a.m. – sunset
Events
In addition to the views, the Folly Beach Pier hosts special events, fishing tournaments, and dining. At the end of the pier, a 7,500 square foot diamond-shaped platform is home to regular Moonlight Mixers.
Restaurants
The Folly Beach Pier is also home to Pier 101 Restaurant and Bar, offering beachfront dining with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Pier 101 serves classically inspired American and Southern dishes, seafood specialties and cocktails. Indoor and outdoor seating is available from 11 am – 10 pm seven days a week with live music on the weekends. Learn more here.
Fishing
Folly Beach Pier fishing tournaments are held monthly through the spring and summer. Register online for the fishing tournaments the day before the event or you can register at 6 a.m. the day of the tournament. You can purchase rental equipment for the fishing tournaments, and participants may only fish with two rods. Tournament fees and parking fees are subject to change. Prizes are awarded by a tournament in several different categories.
History
Before the current Folly Beach Pier and tackle shop were built in 1995, the Folly Beach oceanfront looked a lot different than it does today. According to the City of Folly, in the 1930’s the Pier, Atlantic Pavilion, Boardwalk, and the Ocean Hotel were completed. In 1937, 15,000 people celebrated the 4th of July on the Folly Beach Pier. In the 1960’s, also referred to as the Golden Era of Folly, Pat Thomas introduced the first surfboard, and Ocean Plaza opened with rides, shops, 1700 feet of boardwalk and the pier.
In 1977, the pier burned and arson was the suspected cause of the fire. On September 22, Hurricane Hugo, a category 4 hurricane, made landfall on Sullivan’s Island. Winds were estimated between 135-140 mph and devastated the South Carolina coast. Entire houses were flattened, blown away, and washed away by a massive 11.9-foot storm surge. In 1995, the current Folly Beach pier and tackle shop were built.
Pier Features
- Annual Events including dances & fishing tournaments
- 1400 Square Foot Covered Shelter
- Rod Rentals
- Restaurant
- Restrooms / Handicap Accessible
- Gift & Tackle Shop
