When booking a vacation on the Charleston Coast, one rarely thinks of snow, even in the colder winter months. But, a snow-filled beach vacation is exactly what our guests received to start 2018.
Snowstorms on the Charleston Coast are rare, but not unprecedented. Typically the storms consist of small flurries, leaving only a light dusting of snow and never lasting more than a day. However, there have been three record-breaking snowstorms in Charleston’s history. The last big snowstorm followed just months after hurricane Hugo, arriving over Christmas in 1989. The ‘89 snow storm dumped a record eight inches of snowfall over a two day period. Southerners not used to plummeting temperatures or frozen water were treated to their first white Christmas.
1989 Christmas Snow. Photo: The Post & Courier
This year, the Charleston Coast rang in the New Year with a storm. Snow began falling on the first Wednesday of 2018 and left the Lowcountry buried under five inches of snow! Now, since the Charleston Coast is not used to even minor snowfall, let alone five inches, roads, businesses, and schools, were all shut down. Putting safety first, our small but buzzing city came to a complete halt.
Most of our guests that stayed with us through the storm were visiting from much colder areas of the US. For many of these “snowbirds,” escaping to the Charleston Coast is a means of evading the freezing temperatures back home. Boy, were these guests in for a surprise this year! Here’s what one lucky guest had to say about the unexpected snow:
“We actually had a GREAT time. There was something about expecting 60 degree weather (or better) and then instead spending a week at a cold beach that turned out to be perhaps our best vacation in Folly ever. We come fairly often (right after Christmas), to get away from cold Virginia (and Colorado for my dad). Instead, we (and everyone else) struggled with terrible weather and we had a blast:…Making snow angels on the beach…Making little snowmen on our balcony…We’ll be back next year…we would be a very lucky family to have half as much fun as we did this year.” – Karen E
Photo credit from left to right: Facebook User Dave’s Dogs, Facebook User Logan D.Photo Credit (clockwise): Janice J., Karen E., Paul B.
Wish you were Beer:A semi-regular posting on charleston’s hoppin’ craft brewery scene
This week’s feature: Low Tide Brewing on John’s Island.
Photo: Facebook User @Lowtidebrewing
20 years ago, John’s Island had one stop light. It was the way to get to Kiawah but was overlooked as a destination in its own rite. Now, John’s Island is on the up and up with real estate development through the roof, and a restaurant scene that draws crowds away from the famous eateries of downtown Charleston. This rural island is quickly becoming home to many must-do attractions. Recently, we went to one of our favorite craft breweries, Low Tide, for a lowcountry oyster roast and the opportunity to talk to the owner, Mike, about what makes this destination so special.
Charleston’s love for oysters is as deep rooted as our live oaks and southern hospitality. Anyone lucky enough to visit our lovely city during the “off season” is in fact visiting during peak oyster season. Low Tide Brewery takes advantage of this, hosting a monthly, all-you-can-eat oyster roast with live music and unique beer pairings at an unbeatable price of $15 – $20 per ticket. The time tested rule with oysters: they’re best to eat during months that contain the letter “r.” This means September through April, you’d be hard pressed to visit during a weekend when there isn’t a lowcountry oyster roast somewhere. While Low Tide is not the sole venue to catch a great oyster roast, it stands out from the crowd as a guaranteed good time with great drinks.
Photo: Facebook User @Lowtidebrewing
Lowtide is unique in how their beer connects and exemplifies the things that make Charleston great: the people, the food and the environment. From the conception of the brewery’s name (which came to Mike while kayaking in Charleston’s tidal rivers), to the everybody’s-a-local atmosphere in the taproom, to the packed events and sought-after food trucks, the connection to this great city is enhanced by their beer. It’s a can’t miss destination for locals and newcomers alike.
Reflecting the mix between classic styles and fusions of flavors that the Charleston culinary scene is known for, Low Tide has produced over 120 distinct beers since opening. Mike gives a lot of credit to the “liquid engineer” of the operation, his partner, Andy. After accepting resumes from across the globe, Andy stood out from the crowd. Receiving a 4 year degree in fermentation, brewing was never a hobby to him but a profession. Because of Andy’s expertise, he is no one beer pony and a key ingredient in Low Tide’s success.
Photo: Facebook User @Lowtidebrewing
While other breweries might have one or two experimental beers that are good or focus all their attention on one variety of beer, Low Tide strives to provide a range in styles and ace every one. They are constantly rotating and releasing new brews with names like “Gingerly Squeeze My Lemons”, “Coconut Pete’s Chai Ale”, and “Hush Your Mouth Triple IPA”, but typically only 12 or so are on draught in the taproom at a time. This keeps things fresh in the tap room, there is always something new to try.
Andy’s prowess allows Mike’s vision for Low Tide to become a reality through their beer. The “Coastal Harvest Gose” was a great example of the ingenuity going on behind the scenes. A gose is a sour beer originating in Gosland, Germany dating back 1000 years. While the original gose historically owes its unique flavor profile to the River Gose’s high saline content, Low Tide used “sea pickles” harvested by Mike from some of Charleston’s salt marshes to emulate the salty element of the classic. The beer was a unique twist on the classic and emphasized Low Tide’s ties to Charleston’s environment.
Photo: Facebook User @Lowtidebrewing
While there has been talk about future plans for bottling, currently, you can only get their beer at the brewery itself or at restaurants lucky enough to have it on tap. It isn’t particularly rare to find them on tap at restaurants featuring craft brew selections because they ship kegs statewide. If you’re looking for a restaurant in Charleston that has them on tap we would recommend trying Bohemian Bull, Bay Street Biergarten, or Loggerheads. There are even some restaurants around Charleston that are lucky enough to have their exclusive, signature brew created by Lowtide as a compliment to their menu and atmosphere. So, only at Triangle Char & Bar can you find the delectable “Triangle Char & Bar Welcome Wheat” and out on Kiawah, the infamous Ocean Course Clubhouse features its very own “Ocean Course Ale”.
Mike’s original concept was to create a brewery to cater to Charleston’s rich restaurant scene focusing on creating those signature brews and the taproom was meant to be more of a bonus. Less than two years after opening the doors of the large converted warehouse that calls home, there are times when Mike wishes that there was more space. As the brewery evolved, it gained a dedicated following of both locals and visitors alike. The extent of their popularity is most astounding during their events, like their Oyster Roasts, when the whole front lot is closed off to allow for the crowds overflowing out of the taproom.
Apart from great beer and great times, the crowds grow because everyone is welcome here. No matter where you’re from you are treated like a local. Mike mentioned how important it is to him to make everyone feel comfortable, and it shows. When scanning the crowd at the oyster roast there wasn’t an obvious archetype for the typical low tide patron. Young, old, a number of families with their kids, people who have lived on John’s Island their whole life, others visiting for the first time, and (in the Charleston way) everyone brings their dogs. While Mike admits that he never thought that he would be so happy to have dogs and kids running around his brewery, it means a lot to him to see that there is such a sense of community that has developed around the taproom and their brews.
Photo: Facebook User @Lowtidebrewing
Take a trip out to John’s Island and stop by Low Tide Brewing next time you’re in town. You can follow them and check out all their upcoming events on their facebook page and find more information about them on their website. Hope to see you there!
Feature Friday highlights at least one spectacular property each week! This week’s feature Friday highlights the Charleston Oceanfront Villas on Folly Beach.
The Charleston Oceanfront Villas is a community of condos ranging from 3-4 bedrooms but not all condos are rentals, there are full-time residents in the building. The community is gated with no assigned parking and the option for covered or open-air parking. There are two elevators and two pools in the community. The pools are seasonal and are the place to be in the summer! Head down to the pool early to snag your lounge chairs and set yourself up for a day of relaxation.
The proximity to Center St. makes these condos ideal for those who simply want to park their car and walk everywhere on vacation! In the mood for some seafood? Great! Walk across the street to Loggerhead’s for local oysters and music on the deck. If you prefer oceanfront dining then walk over to Blu for a spectacular dining experience.
You can easily go fishing for the afternoon on the Folly Beach Fishing Pier. Take the short two block walk to the pier, grab your fishing license from the pier store, then head out for an afternoon of sun and fun! After a long afternoon fishing, end the day with a cocktail and an appetizer at Pier 101.
Every condo at the Charleston Oceanfront Villas has an oceanfront view but the exact view depends on the condo’s location in the building. Some villas have better views of the pier while others have a better view of the sunsets. All condos have an oceanfront balcony or sundeck, the perfect place for your morning coffee.
The villas range in prices, just as they range in the number of bedrooms and decor. The get the best price available, always book directly through Charleston Coast Vacations. We are local and can provide answers to all your questions about the condos or about the area. In addition, we love Folly and the Charleston Coast, let us help make your vacation a breeze.
We invite you to make yourself at home at the Charleston Oceanfront Villas. Sit back, relax, and slow down. It’s Folly, y’all!
Today, we cover Dewees Island Frequently Asked Questions!
Photo: Donnie Whitaker
What time is check-in? Check-out?
Check-in and check-out times are house specific. Please refer to the “Important Check-In Information” email that we send to you 15 days prior to your check-in date.
Occasionally, early check-in is available for a $100 fee. To arrange early check-in, please call or email us at least 72 hours prior to check in.
Do we have to bring all our groceries on the ferry?
Yes, but you don’t have to bring them all on the same run you are arriving on. Some families choose to have part of their group take all the luggage on the check-in ferry, while the rest of the group then shops and returns on a later boat. It is entirely up to you. We will assist the first group of arriving renters in each home; subsequent arrivals need to be greeted by your party.
Watch this video for helpful tips on how to pack for Dewees Island!
Does everyone in my party need to check in at the same time?
No, but you are responsible for picking up and orienting guests who arrive on later ferries.
Where should we stand while waiting for the ferry?
Please wait at the top of the ferry waiting area, and not on the dock. Be aware that your luggage carts should be under the awning and out of the way in order for passengers to disembark (think airplane).
Do I wheel my own cart down onto the dock?
Unless the mate tells you otherwise, able-bodied passengers should wheel their own carts on the dock to the loading zone of the ferry. The mate will help you get the cart onto the boat.
What’s with the Ferry Passes?
Dewees Island is a private island and access is provided via a ferry system. Ferry passes allow you to come and go as you please. It is a $53 pass, per person, for the week. Day visitors pay $27 (good up to 2 nights).
We will have called in all the names for the ferry. Board the ferry and find a seat. You will sign in on a clipboard once the boat pulls away. Sign in for Lot 200 – that’s the code for Charleston Coast Vacations! Please send names of all members of your party by 30 days prior to check in. You may add names here. Name additions within 72 hours of your check-in date are not guaranteed.
Ferry charges of $53/person for the weekly pass will be charged prior to your arrival. For more information regarding ferry fees, refer to your signed rental agreement.
What are the Ferry hours?
The Dewees ferry runs hourly. The first run to the island on weekdays is 6:00 am and off the island is 6:30 am (there is no 1:00 pm run to and from the island on weekdays). Saturday, the first run to the island is 7:00 am and off the island is 7:30 am. On Sunday, the first run to the island is 8:00 am and off the island is 8:30 am. The last run to the island is 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday. On Friday and Saturday, it runs until 12 midnight. To save money and fuel, the ferry does not run is there are no riders.
Ferry runs off the island are “on demand” on the half hour. Be sure to call the ferry at 843-568-3990 at least 45 minutes before you want to leave the island. For example, if you want to go off the island at 10:30 a.m., call the ferry BETWEEN 9:30 and 9:50 am and say, “I’d like to be picked up on the 10:30 am ferry.” Tell them how many people, carts of luggage, dogs, and wheelchairs/strollers you may be bringing. The captain will then decide which boat to bring. If you have not called for a reservation, then you may have to wait until the next ferry. Here is a link to the latest video about catching the ferry.
Can we ride on the top deck?
Yes! Be sure pets are leashed and kids are supervised. Hang onto your hat and have fun watching for dolphins, turtles, and manatees!
What if we are late catching the ferry?
The ferry leaves Isle of Palms on the hour and departs from Dewees Island on the half hour (as long as you’ve called to reserve). You are late if you arrive one minute after your scheduled ferry check-in time. It takes a few minutes to unload your cart and get your gear onto the boat. Please don’t stress out the captain by arriving at the parking lot exactly at departure and expect to get on the ferry. It is his job to depart on time. If you miss your scheduled ferry, Charleston Coast Vacations cannot guarantee there will be room for your party on the next ferry. Bottom line: if you’re not early, you’re late.
How much bottled water will I need for the week?
NONE! Please don’t stress out our resources by bringing bottled water to the island. The water on the island is perfectly safe to drink, and there is a great tasting R-O filtration system at the landings building. If you must, bring your own 3-gallon bottle– and leave it behind for the next guest to refill. Cases of individual bottles of water should not be on the ferry: you will be subject to a fine.
Speaking of water, can I take a 20-minute outdoor shower on Dewees Island?
Water is EXTREMELY expensive on Dewees! I know you’re on vacation, but being on an island with its own recycled water makes it unique. Only shower when needed and make it quick. Only do laundry when you have a full load. Only run the dishwasher when you have a full load. Make sure all outdoor hoses, showers, and fish cleaning sinks are OFF. If you notice a running toilet, shut that toilet off and email vacations@dunesproperties.com or call us at (888) 250-8730 IMMEDIATELY. If the owner is billed for excessive use of water, it’s possible that the bill will be passed along to you, the guest. So please be mindful of water usage!
How should I pack?
Please pack lightly. Most homes have basic beach gear and chairs. Don’t hesitate to call if you have questions. You can use one or two of the rolling hand carts at the Dewees Marina to load your groceries and other belongings onto the ferry. Handcarts are limited to two per property so please be mindful. If you arrive at a crowded time, your luggage may need to wait for the next boat, or you can choose to hand carry your luggage onto the ferry. Click here for more packing tips.
Where do we go when we get off the Ferry at Dewees?
Once you land on Dewees, roll your luggage cart up the ramp and out of the way. Find your assigned golf cart and drive it up towards the front of the dock. Load your luggage onto your golf cart and return the luggage cart to the top of the ferry landing. Use your map to locate your lot number. If you will be arriving after the sun has set, please bring a flashlight to see the lot numbers.
Will we have house keys?
You will receive house keys in your check-in packet. Two keys are provided per property.
Where do we find the golf carts?
When the ferry arrives at Dewees, the mate will take your handcart off the ferry. You then roll it to the top, past the covered dock and out towards the golf carts. Leave the handcart at the golf cart loading and unloading area. Golf carts will be labeled with the Lot Number of the property you are renting or the reservation holders last name. They are labeled on the front and driver side. The golf carts are all individually owned. Please only drive the carts designated for your home.
BE SURE to plug the golf carts in overnight, every night. When plugged in correctly, the meter on the charger will move to the right and show how many amps are being used. If the meter doesn’t move, try plugging in the cart again. It can be a little tricky when you first learn to plug in the carts as it sometimes takes force to get the plug completely in.
Renters must have a valid driver’s license. All drivers must have a license on them while behind the wheel. Absolutely NO children behind the wheel of a golf cart. It is a motor vehicle and you are subject to a fine.
Dewees Island Golf Carts. Photo: Donnie Whitaker
Does the house come with linens?
The house comes with sheets and towels. Clean towels and sheets will be stacked on the beds when you arrive.
What grocery items does the house have?
Each property has two rolls toilet paper in each bathroom, one roll of paper towels in the kitchen, a kitchen towel, dish sponge or brush, hand soap in the bathrooms, two dishwasher tablets, laundry detergent, dryer sheets, a standard coffee maker, coffee filters, and a few garbage bags.
These items are meant as a starter supply to get your vacation off on the right foot. If you are staying longer than a few nights, you will likely need to provide your own supplies to last the duration of your trip.
Does the property have wifi?
Every private house offers internet access through AT&T. As the island is remote, this service can be intermittent at times and should not be expected as an amenity.
Can I have a bonfire on the beach?
No. Bonfires, fireworks, and firearms are strictly prohibited on Dewees Island. If these items are found, you will be fined and asked to leave the island.
Does the property have a grill?
Propane grills are accessible for every property. Houses offer private grills and suites share a community grill. Public Safety refills propane as needed. They can be reached at 843 296 4952.
Where do I put my garbage and recycling?
Please separate and deliver all garbage and recycling to the on-island facility. Please reference your map for the garbage and recycling location.
Will my cell phone work on Dewees Island?
Cellular service is intermittent on the island, however, all private homes offer a phone for local calls.
Are there restaurants on Dewees Island?
Dewees Island does not offer restaurants or stores, however, excellent options are available on the Isle of Palms and surrounding areas.
The beach is great for biking! Photo: Judy Fairchild
What is there to do on Dewees Island?
Our Environmental and Social Committees have scheduled a wide variety of programs on the island, particularly in the summer. If there are events happening during your stay, they will be posted on a sign hanging from the Dewees dock as well as our Facebook page.
Check out our Sea Turtle conservation program. Every day a volunteer walks the island to look for turtle tracks and report to the island’s turtle conservation team. If you are interested participating in this, please call Judy at 843-259-1713. Here is a video about walking with the turtle team.
FISHING: Click here for specific tips. Anyone fishing on Dewees is required to have to a South Carolina Saltwater Recreational Fishing License. This includes anyone recreationally harvesting fish, oysters, clams, shrimp, and crab. For additional details, please see SC DNR’s website. Fishing licenses can be purchased online or by telephone, 1-866-714-3611, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; or by visiting fishing gear stores.Fishing gear and bait can be purchased at Haddrells Point Tackle, Charleston Angler, or the Isle of Palms Marina Store.
If you are not sure what you are doing and would like to rent a kit for a crabbing or fishing lesson, let us know and we can schedule that for you. Or you can hire a captain for a private inshore fishing lesson. Captains Ben Floyd and Chad Ferris will both pick you up at the Dewees Dock for a day of fishing.
Photo: Donnie Whitaker
Here is a link to ourisland map. Print a copy and bring it along!
As always, if you haven’t liked us on Facebook or followed us on Instagram, be sure to do so! And don’t forget to download the Dewees Island app for the most up to date information.
Today, we cover your frequently asked questions when renting with Charleston Coast Vacations!
When is check in? What time is check out?
Check-in is at 4 pm. Early check-ins are not available. Checkout is at 10 am. Late checkouts are not available as we must prepare the property for incoming guests.
Yes, departure housekeeping is included with your stay. Linens for the beds and baths are provided for your stay. Plan to purchase or bring pool and beach towels.
Does the property have beach chairs?
At most properties, beach equipment like chairs and umbrellas are not guaranteed with the rental. Occasionally, previous guests or the homeowner will leave some equipment behind. We recommend bringing, purchasing, or renting these items for your vacation.
Are paper products included?
A starter pack of paper products is included with your vacation: 1-2 rolls of toilet tissue per restroom, 1-2 rolls of paper towels in the kitchen, a liner in each trash bin, a few dishwasher tablets
If you’re staying for more than a few days, you will likely need to bring or purchase these items from the grocery store.
Are pantry items in the property? Salt and pepper? Spices?
Pantry items like salt, pepper, oil, and spices are not guaranteed. Occasionally, previous guests or the homeowner will leave some behind. We recommend bringing or purchasing these items for your vacation.
Does the property have a crockpot?
Specialty cooking items like crockpots, large steamer pots, and gravy boats are not included with every rental property. If you need a particular kitchen item for your vacation please plan to bring it with you.
Does the property have a hair dryer?
Hair dryers are often provided by the homeowner but, due to their small size, they often go missing. If a hair dryer is important, we recommend bringing one with you.
Does the property have internet?
Yes! All properties managed by Charleston Coast Vacations have wireless internet. Please note, during times of high occupancy on the islands, the internet speeds will vary.
For more information and additional frequently asked questions, check out our welcome video!
This feature Friday we are featuring Too Sandy, located at 2 Sand Dune Ln, Isle of Palms, SC. Our featured property, Too Sandy, is located in the quiet Beachside community, centrally located to everything Isle of Palms has to offer.
Too Sandy, 2 Sand Dune Ln
Too Sandy is a quaint, 3-bedroom, 2 bathroom ocean view beach cottage. Located just across the street from the beach, a quick 3-minute walk will have your toes in the sand. The Beachside neighborhood boasts a community pool and community tennis court.
Too Sandy, 2 Sand Dune Ln
The first thing you notice about Too Sandy upon arrival is the beautifully landscaped yard and ample parking. The second thing you notice is the large sun deck. This deck has comfortable Adirondack chairs and gets plenty of light. Enjoy your morning coffee or afternoon nap on the deck, all while looking out at the ocean. If a screened porch is more your style, don’t worry, Too Sandy has you covered! The screened porch features outdoor dining and is located off the living room and master bedroom.
Too Sandy, 2 Sand Dune Ln
Inside the glass front door, you are welcomed into the relaxing cottage. Too Sandy’s open floor plan allows you to lounge in the living room while you hold a conversation with someone in the kitchen. Speaking of the kitchen, it is huge! Plenty of space for cooking, eating, and a card game all at the same time.
Too Sandy, 2 Sand Dune Ln
The master bedroom is on the right side of the house and features a beautiful king bed. The master has an en-suite bath with a walk-in shower and private access to the screened porch. The two remaining bedrooms sit on the opposite side of the home and share a bathroom. Each bedroom has two twin beds, a flatscreen TV, and lots of natural light.
Too Sandy is a cozy beach cottage perfect for families or a few friends who want a quiet getaway at the beach. Once at Too Sandy, you will not want to leave. Families and friends return to this cozy beach cottage year after year to rest and relax. Start your tradition and book your stay today!
Thanksgiving on the Charleston Coast is the start of a wonderful holiday season. The weather is idyllic, the food is world-class, and the relaxation is top-notch! Read below for our recommendations on what to do, where to eat, and, most importantly, where to relax!
Folly Beach, SC
First things first, let’s discuss the weather. The best weather in Charleston is in late fall/early winter. The average temperature is 67°F with sunny skies. This may sound cold to us Charlestonians, but we all know that if the sun is shining it can feel closer to 70°F or higher! That’s splendid weather for a long walk on one of the Charleston Coast beaches. Fun fact: Thanksgiving day in 2016 produced a high of 76°F with sunny skies – pretty perfect if you ask us!
Photo: Wild Blue Ropes
To take advantage of the beautiful Charleston Coast weather, head outside! Your first stop (besides the beach!) should be Wild Blue Ropes for the annual Make Room for Turkey Day climb! Held the Wednesday before Thanksgiving (November 22), this event encourages people to get outside and be active! Located just a short drive from Folly Beach, Wild Blue Ropes is a fun adventure for the entire family.
Photo: Turkey Day Run & Gobble Wobble
Before indulging in the Thanksgiving feast, head downtown for the 40th Annual Turkey Day Run & Gobble Wobble 5K. Considered a Lowcountry Thanksgiving tradition, the Turkey Day Run & Gobble Wobble loops through Historic Charleston, beginning and ending with a party in Marion Square! Take in the sites of Historic Charleston and the fun costumes many people wear.
After running (or walking) the streets of Charleston Thanksgiving morning, it’s time for a feast! If you don’t feel like cooking, Charleston has many fabulous restaurants that are open for Thanksgiving dinner. Check out Eater Charleston for their list of open restaurants. We recommend making a reservation to ensure you have a table!
Isle of Palms, SC
On Saturday, head downtown to Marion Square for the Charleston Farmers Market or venture to one of the many plantations. If relaxation is more your style, head to the beach! Grab a beach chair or a blanket and your favorite book and set up shop on your own slice of paradise. For relaxed dining after a day at the beach, head to one of the local restaurants on Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, or Sullivan’s Island!
The Charleston Coast is your oyster for Thanksgiving week. Part of the Lowcountry lifestyle is enjoying good food with those you love and Thanksgiving is the perfect holiday to embrace this tradition!
1603 E Ashley Ave is a spacious oceanfront home with 5 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms that sleeps up to 13 people. 1603 E Ashley Ave is perfect for large family vacations, offering ample gathering space.
You are welcomed to 1603 E Ashley Ave, Pride & Joy, with a grand staircase that leads to the front door of the raised home. Once inside, the open floor plan allows your eyes to look straight out to the Atlantic Ocean. The renovated kitchen is spacious and features a breakfast bar for enjoying a quick bowl of cereal before heading to the beach! Continue through to the dining area then to the living room which holds comfortable, modern couches. The subtle coastal decor and floor to ceiling windows and doors allow your mind to switch to “Island Time”.
Photo: Donnie Whitaker
Just off the living room in Pride & Joy is the expansive screened in porch. Relax in one of the rocking chairs while you watch surfers up and down the beach. Step out of the screened in porch to the small sundeck and continue walking down your private beach access to the beach! At 1603 E Ashley Ave, you are just steps from enjoying a morning hunt for shark teeth or an afternoon romp in the Atlantic Ocean.
Photo: Donnie Whitaker
Back inside, the first floor holds 4 of the 5 bedrooms: 2 on the left and 2 on the right. Each set of bedrooms is connected with a Jack & Jill bathroom. It’s difficult to miss the subtle pops of color in the bedrooms – from the deep blues to the seafoam greens, the bedrooms at 1603 E Ashley Ave invite you to relax!
Head up the stairs in 1603 E Ashley Ave to the final bedroom. This bedroom holds a king bed and 3 twin beds with an en-suite bathroom and outstanding views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Photo: Donnie Whitaker
1603 E Ashley Ave, Pride & Joy, is located within walking distance of the eastern tip of Folly Beach. This deserted area will transport you to a different time: less crowded beach, bone trees, and shelling galore. The views of the Morris Island Lighthouse, whether on a clear or cloudy day, are worth the short walk.
Book your next family vacation at 1603 E Ashley Ave, Pride & Joy. Want to enjoy a winter weekend at Folly Beach? Visit our website or calls us to book 1603 E Ashley Ave for 20% off a stay of 4 nights of more for the remaining open dates in November & December 2017!
The age-old question you ask yourself, your family, and your friends, when packing for the beach! Here is a list of our recommended items plus our must-haves at the beach.
Linens, Towels, & Toiletries
All vacation rentals have standard bed and bath linens. The beds will be neatly made and towels will be nicely placed in the bathrooms. We recommend bringing any toiletries you will need during your stay. If a hair dryer is a must, toss it in your suitcase. Bring or plan to purchase your beach and pool towels.
Kitchen
Kitchens are stocked with plates, silverware, glasses, cooking utensils, pots and pans, and mugs. Coffee makers and toasters, as well as blenders, are found in most rentals.
The type of coffee maker, 12-cup or Keurig, depends on the property. If this is important to you, check the amenity list for your property or send us an email! Special cookware items, such as crock pots, gravy boats, and large steamer pots, are not always provided.
If special cookware items are important to you please plan to bring or purchase them. Items like salt, pepper, and olive oil are not guaranteed but are often left behind by the previous guest.
Paper Products
A starter pack of items such as dish soap, dishwasher detergent, paper towels, toilet paper, and bin liners will be present at check-in.
Plan to purchase extras of these items or bring them with you.
Beach Equipment
Beach chairs and umbrella are not provided with every rental. We strongly recommend bringing any necessary beach equipment or planning to rent or purchase upon arrival.
You can rent all beach items, including games, from the Things To Do section of our website!
Our Beach Day Must-Have’s
Packing for a day at the beach should be a no-brainer. Here are our favorite items to when beaching on the Charleston Coast!
Let’s start off with the most important item, both on and off the beach: SUNSCREEN! The sun on the Charleston Coast is strong and no one likes getting a sunburn. Remember to apply sunscreen on overcast days, too!
And don’t forget your beach towels. These are the second most important item at the beach. We love extra big, fluffy beach towels. And, if you want to sit on the sand or sunbathe without getting your towel sandy, bring a beach blanket with you! An old sheet, blanket, or even a huge old scarf or sarong work well as beach blankets.
Beach chairs & umbrellas, do you use them? Everyone is different. Some people swear by beach chairs, some only go to the beach if they can sit under an umbrella or canopy. Whatever your fancy, make sure you grab it on your way out the door. Beach carts and wagons are handy for transporting bigger items. If you don’t feel like lugging beach equipment on vacation with you, check out the Things To Do section of our website for rentals!
A visit to the beach with family or friends (or both) is always more fun with beach games. You can play bocce, volleyball, or bring a soccer ball or football for a quick game of pass.
If you prefer a more mellow beach trip, bring a good book.And don’t forget your sunglasses and hat so you can read the pages! Check back soon for our list of favorite beach reads!
When packing for a beach day, snacks are of the utmost importance. Packing plenty of water, Gatorade, and seltzer is important. It’s good to have a balance of snacks: potato chips (we love Cape Cod!), fresh fruit, carrots, and pretzels are a few of our go-to’s. Remember, alcohol is not permitted on any of the Charleston Coast beaches.
And finally, you have all your stuff together, now you need something to carry it in! A good, sturdy beach bag, sometimes more than one, is important to a solid beach trip. We love canvas bags or our Blue Dunes tote bags (you can pick up extras from our office!)
There is no way around it, we LOVE the beach! Our must-have lists evolve and change each year, so be sure to check back for more tips!
What are your beach must-have’s? Let us know in the comments if there is something we just HAVE to try!
Okeanos is the Titan God of fresh water, and The Okeanos is aptly named for the private pool. You can enjoy the relaxation of the pool in one of the comfortable lounge chairs or at the Tiki Bar. The pool is perfect for an evening swim after a long day at the beach while you wait for dinner to cook on the grill.
Photo: Donnie Whitaker
Inside, the professionally decorated The Okeanos has an inviting, relaxed atmosphere that will immediately put you at ease. The large, open living room features a comfy couch and side chairs, perfect for curling up with a good book or watching a movie. The large windows and double porch doors let in immense amounts of natural light. Step out onto the screened in patio for your morning coffee or evening cocktail!
Photo by: Donnie Whitaker
The living room at The Okeanos flows easily into the dining room and open kitchen. The dining table seats up to 10 – perfect for a large family meal after a long day of touring Historic Charleston. And the kitchen is impeccable. From stainless steel appliances, seemingly endless counter space, and well-stocked cookware, The Okeanos kitchen has everything you will need while on vacation.
Photo: Donnie Whitaker
The Okeanos boasts four beautifully decorated bedrooms. The master bedroom, located on the first floor, offers privacy with a large king-sized bed and private, en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower and separate soaking tub. The remaining three bedrooms are located on the second floor. The first guest room offers a queen bed with an en-suite bathroom. The second and third guest bedrooms each hold two beds. The second guest room offers two queens and the third guest room offers two twin beds. These two guest rooms are connected via a jack and jill bathroom.
Folly Beach, SC
The beach is only a five-minute walk from The Okeanos! Simply pack your beach bag, grab your chair, turn right on East Ashley Ave, and then turn left on East 10th Street. The public beach access is located at the end of East 10th Street.
The Okeanos is centrally located to some of the best features of Folly Beach: Center St, the beach, and The Washout. If you’re looking for the ideal spot for your next family vacation or weekend getaway, The Okeanos is it! Book your stay us today!
