Sea, Salt & Ocean Breezes
Folly Beach: Shuckers and Sunsets
If you want a laid-back, eclectic atmosphere where flip-flops are the dress code, head to Folly Beach. It is a public access beach in the area, with plenty of walkovers and soothing waves.
From the sand to the shaded areas, this beach has an energetic and casual atmosphere that welcomes families and has some of the best shucked oysters. If you want amazing views, there is also the Morris Island Lighthouse.
- For parking there are paid lots on Center Street and a dedicated County Park lot on the West End.
- Grab a table at Rita’s Seaside Grille for a classic beach burger or Taco Boy for some of the best street-style tacos in the Lowcountry.
- The Pineapple Hut is known for their famous Dole Whip served in a pineapple.
Whether you like surfing, people-watching, or a relaxing post beach happy hour, Folly has options for everyone.
Isle of Palms (IOP): Sun and Family Fun
The Isle of Palms is the perfect middle-ground. It’s wider and slightly more manicured than Folly, offering plenty of public parking lots near the front beach area.
Take some space to spread your blankets and enjoy family time or layout with a good book. Whatever you choose to do Isle of Palms makes the process a little easier.
- There are large municipal paid lots at “Front Beach” (Ocean Blvd) and kiosks for designated street spots.
- Make a pit stop at The Co-Op. Their famous frosé and gourmet sandwiches are the ultimate grab-and-go lunch for beachgoers.
- Enjoy Ben & Jerry’s in Mount Pleasant.
Sullivan’s Island: Low-key Luxury
Sullivan’s Island is where the locals go when they want a quiet, pristine beach without the tourist congestion. It is charming, historic, and undeniably cool.
- Parking is strictly enforced here, so arrive early. The town has license plate readers to help enforce laws so pay attention to signage!
- Poe’s Tavern is an island icon; You haven’t truly done Sullivan’s until you’ve had a burger on their porch. Also, Home Team BBQ is a must-visit for smoked wings and a game-changing frozen cocktail.
- Visit BeardCat’s Sweet Shop for artisanal handmade gelato, located beneath The Obstinate Daughter.
Kiawah Island: Fine Sand, Open Shore
If you are looking for untouched beauty, head to Beachwalker Park on the west end of Kiawah. It is the only public access point on the island, and it is well worth the drive for its natural dunes and miles of pristine, wide-open sand.
- Paid lot price varies on the month and vehicle type. This lot often reaches capacity by mid-morning on weekends. There is sometimes a wait time for parking so be prepared to explore if there’s no room for your car at that time.
- Kiawah is a private resort island, so head just outside the main gate to Freshfields Village. It’s a beautifully designed shopping area with great options like Cantina 76 or The Station Deli for a quick, quality bite.
- Check out Vincent’s Soda Fountain for classic shakes or Marble Slab Creamery.
The Beach Picnic : Coastal Etiquette
We want you to enjoy the perfect beach picnic. To ensure you avoid any fines and keep the beach safe for everyone, including our local sea turtles, please keep these local ordinances in mind:
- No Glass Allowed: Glass is strictly prohibited on all beaches for your safety and the turtles. Please transfer any drinks into reusable plastic bottles, aluminum cans, or tumblers before you head out.
- Alcohol Ordinances: Public consumption of alcohol is not permitted on Charleston area beaches. Keep the refreshments non-alcoholic while on the sand.
- Ditch the Styrofoam: Many of our local beaches have strict bans on Styrofoam coolers and single-use plastics. Opt for a reusable, hard-sided or soft-insulated cooler instead.
- Leave No Trace: Our dunes are fragile ecosystems and protected nesting grounds. So we ask that you pick up and leave with the items you bring to the beach.
- Off of the Dunes: Boardwalks and established paths are set up for your safety. Please stick to the marked walkways to protect the native vegetation and local wildlife habitats.
If you’re looking for a picnic-friendly experience, head to the County Parks of Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, or Beachwalker Park on Kiawah. They offer convenient picnic tables, restrooms, and facilities, making it easy to enjoy your lunch comfortably without worrying about the sand.
Where the Tide Meets Tradition
Whether you choose the eclectic surf of Folly or the quiet dunes of Kiawah, the beach is the best place to truly feel the rhythm of the Lowcountry.
After the sun sets on your coastal adventure, there is no greater comfort than returning to your lodgings. Transition from the wide-open sands to the historic, quiet elegance of 27 State Street. As you shake the last of the sand from your shoes and prepare for an evening of delicious food and entertainment, you’ll find that there’s nothing quite like a trip to Charleston this summer.
Ready to hear the rhythm of the tide? We’ll be waiting in the Holy City.