Water’s Edge Inn is a nine-room bed and breakfast on the marsh on the west side of Folly, a few blocks from the ocean. It opened in 2007, founder Paul Lauer still lives on site, and it has long been one of the best-reviewed places to stay on the island, with a AAA Three Diamond rating.
Mornings start with a hot breakfast buffet, and every evening brings a happy hour with beer, wine, hors d’oeuvres and the inn’s own “Folly Punch.” Rooms have gas fireplaces and screened porches or balconies, a hot tub looks out over the marsh, and a golf-cart shuttle takes guests to the beach and Center Street.
Typical rates are what we saw on major booking sites in September 2026 and change by season and date. FollyBeach.com may earn a commission when you book through our links, at no extra cost to you.
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Good to know before you book
- It is adults only, with a minimum check-in age of 21, and pets are not allowed.
- There is no elevator in the four-story building, so ask for a lower floor if stairs are a problem.
- There is no pool, but beach bikes, chairs and umbrellas are free to use. Parking is free.
- With only nine rooms, weekends book up well ahead, especially in spring and fall.
What’s nearby
- Free shuttle rides to the beach and Center Street restaurants
- Dolphin tours and kayak tours on the Folly River
- Surf spots and Folly Beach County Park on the west end
- Our Folly Beach weather page for your trip
Other places to stay on Folly
Boutique inn (adults only) · $$$
Ten king suites with fireplaces and porches overlooking the marina, with an evening happy hour on the sunset terrace.
- BeachShort walk or free golf-cart shuttle
- PetsNo
- Best forSunsets, romantic getaways
Typical rates about $240–$405 a night
Boutique inn and cottages · $$
One-of-a-kind rooms and cottages steps from the beach, with free bikes, a fire pit and a real soft spot for dogs.
- BeachSteps away
- PetsYes, cottages and select rooms (fee)
- Best forDog owners, quirky stays
Typical rates about $240–$420 a night
Inn and cottages · $$
Restored 1930s beach cottages and inn rooms on the marsh, with a shared deck over the river and big rainfall showers.
- BeachAbout a 6-minute walk
- PetsAsk (cottages may allow)
- Best forRiver views, small groups
Typical rates about $190–$380 a night
Typical rates are what we saw on major booking sites in September 2026 and change by season and date. FollyBeach.com may earn a commission when you book through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Still deciding? You can compare every hotel and inn on Folly Beach, with photos, a side-by-side comparison and links to check rates.
