Because Folly Beach is practically in my backyard (and since we’re “beach people”), my family spends a lot of time on this 6 mile island. A funky little beach town with a low key vibe, Folly is a unique place to visit. With delicious dining options, great surf waves and beautiful beaches, it draws a mix of surfers, hippies, families and college students. While a mere 20 minutes from downtown Charleston, it feels a world away tucked into the overgrown palms and lush greenery.
Folly Beach Restaurants
Breakfast: The Lost Dog Cafe
The Lost Dog Cafe is a Folly Beach institution. The menu has a little something for everyone for breakfast, brunch or lunch…even your dog! There’s often a wait for a table, but it is worth the extra time and you can explore the Folly Beach Library next door or Folly River Park around the corner.
Lunch: Chico Feo
Stop by Chico Feo after a morning at the beach for an unforgettable experience. The outdoor only, dirt-floor-and-picnic-tables restaurant and bar serves a small but tasty (seasonal) menu of tacos, noodle bowls, pulled pork and kimchi sandwiches and more under the palms, usually to the live tunes of a funky local band. Kids can grab a corn dog or burger at Bert’s Market next door if they aren’t into the eclectic menu.
Dinner: Jack of Cups
Jack of Cups is the unassuming gem of Folly Beach, drawing foodies away from Charleston for “globally-inspired comfort food.” There’s a full bar and large back deck so there’s plenty of space to spread out with a bigger group or the whole family.
Weekends: Crosby’s Food Truck
On weekends, the local seafood store Crosby’s Seafood opens their food truck in the parking lot. Feast on local fish tacos, fried shrimp and seafood chowder, eaten on their fishing dock out back. It doesn’t get any fresher than that!
My family at Folly Beach! My girls are 10, 8 and 2 years.
Folly Beach with Kids
State Park
Folly Beach State Park is a great beach park for the whole family! With easy parking, restrooms, showers and even a snack bar, it is incredibly convenient with small children. There are ramps (hello, beach wagons and strollers!), lifeguards and dressing rooms. The park covers the western tip of the island and is a beautiful beach for swimming, playing, fishing and sunset walks!
Pirates Cove Playground
Pirates Cove Playground is located on E. 5th between Erie and Hudson. It’s a pirate themed playground for all ages with a climbing structure and tall lighthouse slide for big kids, smaller ship structure for little kids and swings for everyone! There’s also a public dog park, tennis courts and pickle ball courts for whole-family fun!
Wave Watch Playground
Wave Watch Playground is another fun, gated playground located on the opposite side of town. Situated at the end of West Cooper Avenue, it’s a colorful playground with clean bathrooms and even a little lending library.
Folly Beach Sights
Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve
Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve is located at the far east end of the island and is the best place to view the Morris Island Lighthouse. Fish off the beach or walk or bike down the graffiti covered pathway to the end of the island. There’s a trail around the island to the river that’s fun to hike with the whole family.
Morris Island
If you’re on the hunt for shells or shark teeth, hire a boat or kayaks to Morris Island! Pack your walking shoes and a picnic lunch for a day of exploring… and maybe even megladons!
Rainy Day
Charleston Aquarium
Head downtown to the Charleston Aquarium for an incredible experience! From the touch tank to hands-on exhibits, it’s full of interactive fun for all ages.
King Street
When the weather won’t cooperate (or you need a break from the beach!), explore all the shopping on King Street! There’s an endless array of iconic local shops, with award-winning restaurants throughout when you need a shopping break.
Patriots Point
A visit to the Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum is both educational and exciting for kids and adults alike. Tour the enormous USS Yorktown aircraft carrier and more.
My husband and 2 year old! ♡
