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Where Is the Best Place for Happy Hour in Charleston, SC?

Colorful cocktails at a bar with the best happy hour in Charleston, SC

Where is your go-to spot for a cold beverage after a fun-filled day in Charleston, South Carolina? If you ask five different locals, you might get five totally different answers. That’s because there are simply so many fantastic bars in our area! Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re looking to try something new, we can help. Check out the list of possibilities below and discover the best place for happy hour in Charleston, SC, for you!

We included several of our favorite bars below, but there are many more that you should visit while you’re here. Access our free Destination Guide to get the full list of our recommendations for bars, restaurants, outdoor activities, and so much more. It’s the key to an unforgettable Charleston vacation!

View Our Free Guide

Enjoy the Best Happy Hour in Charleston, SC

Folly Beach

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Isle of Palms

View Our Isle of Palms Rentals

Sullivan’s Island

View Our Sullivan’s Island Rentals

Mount Pleasant

Downtown

  • Barsa: every day from 4 to 7 p.m.

West Ashley

Book the Best Vacation Rentals in Charleston

Now that you know where to find some of the best happy hour deals in Charleston, SC, it’s time to find a vacation rental near your favorite spots! You can score some incredible deals on properties with Charleston Coast Vacations for your upcoming getaway. 

A property at the beach during sunset

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway with your special someone, a family reunion, or a group trip with old friends, we have an excellent townhouse or villa waiting for you. There are several beautiful options in Isle of Palms, Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island, and more. Browse all of our properties now!

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Everything You Need to Know About Folly Beach Fishing

Folly Beach Fishing

There’s something relaxing and magical about being out on the open water, fishing pole in hand. When you stay on the Charleston Coast, you have some of the best fishing in the South at your fingertips. It’s time to grab your pole and tackle box– here is everything you need to know about Folly Beach fishing. 

Are you thinking about planning a trip to the Charleston Coast? Take a look at our complimentary Destination Guide for a list of things to do and see in the area. It makes the planning process a breeze! 

Get the Destination Guide

3 of the Best Places to Fish on Folly Beach

The Folly Beach Fishing Pier

Editor’s Note: As of 2020, the Folly Beach Pier may be under construction during the time of your visit. The pier will be open during some of the construction, but there is a chance it will be closed during your visit. 

The Folly Beach Fishing Pier is arguably the most popular spot to go fishing on Folly Beach. Locals and visitors have been coming to the iconic pier since 1995 and have fond memories of casting a line from the many fishing stations. It’s such a popular attraction that they even hold fishing tournaments here!

Shore Fishing 

What’s better than sticking your toes in the sand as you sit back, relax, and wait for a fish to bite? Shore fishing is one of our favorite options for Folly Beach fishing. One of the best spots to cast a line is the Morris Island Lighthouse Trail. Not only is it beautiful, but it’s also a local secret known for great fish! The water between Morris Island and Folly Beach forms a sort of funnel that fish are forced to swim through. 

Folly Beach Fishing Charters

One of the main benefits of a fishing charter is that you get to be out on the water! There’s something special about feeling the sea breeze and being out on the ocean. Plus, going with a charter means that they provide you with all the gear you’ll need. Here are some of the most popular Folly Beach fishing charters: 

Book Your Getaway Today

view from condo

Are you ready for your Charleston getaway? Enjoy Folly Beach fishing and more when you book your stay with Charleston Coast Vacations! We offer stunning vacation rentals all over the Charleston Coast, including Folly Beach. Whether you’re looking for an ocean view condo or a large home on the beach, we have one for you! Browse our properties to start planning the vacation of a lifetime.

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3 of the Best Places to Get Folly Beach Kayak Rentals

Folly Beach Kayak Rentals

Charleston’s beautiful climate means that you can enjoy outdoor activities at nearly any time of year! There’s no shortage of things to do outside, and one of our favorites is to get out on the water. See the coast from a new perspective when you get one of these Folly Beach kayak rentals! Don’t worry about lugging your kayak from home to use during your vacation– we have plenty of options here. 

Start planning your Charleston Coast getaway when you access our complimentary Destination Guide! Inside, you’ll find our favorite things to do and see in the area. 

Get the Destination Guide

3 of the Best Places to Get Folly Beach Kayak Rentals

1. Folly Beach Adventures 

Directions to Folly Beach Adventures 

Folly Beach Adventures has it all! Whether you’re looking for a golf cart for the week or Folly Beach kayak rentals, you can find it here. You can choose to rent their sit-on-top kayaks by the half-day, full-day, or week. If you’re renting one of our waterfront homes, consider renting a kayak for the week so it’s readily available for a relaxing morning paddle!

2. Flipper Finders Boat & Sea Kayak Tours

Directions to Flipper Finders Boat & Sea Kayak Tours

Flipper Finders Boat & Sea Kayak Tours offers both kayak rentals and tours. They offer a variety of kayak options and everything that goes along with it. Don’t worry about getting life jackets or any prior instruction– they’ll do it all. They will even help with launch assistance in certain circumstances! Or, you can opt to get your kayak delivered to your vacation rental. If you have never been kayaking before or want an experienced guide to show you all the best places to go, consider a tour instead of a rental. 

3. Charleston Outdoor Adventures

Directions to Charleston Outdoor Adventures

Charleston Outdoor Adventures is all about getting out on the water. Not only do they have kayak rentals and tours, but they also have boat tours, paddle boarding, and fishing. They’re also right next to the famous Bowen’s Island Restaurant, so you can grab a bite afterward! You can either opt for a marsh tour or rent your own kayak to explore the beautiful area on your own terms. There aren’t any other rental locations in this area, so it’s truly a unique experience!

Book Your Getaway Today

Are you ready to book your stay with Charleston Coast Vacations? Don’t settle for a boring hotel– a vacation rental is the way to go. We have a variety of stunning homes all over the Charleston Coast, including Folly Beach. Take a look at our vacation rentals and see for yourself! We’re happy to suggest where to get the best Folly Beach kayak rentals, our favorite restaurants, or anything else that will make your getaway special. Book your getaway today and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime. 

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Everything You Need to Know About Folly Beach Surfing

father and son enjoying folly beach surfing

Surf’s up! If you’re a local on the Charleston Coast, you know that Folly Beach is one of the best places to go surfing in the area. However, if you’re visiting, it’s always a challenge to know where those rad barrels are. Luckily, we’re here to help! Here’s everything you need to know about Folly Beach surfing. 

If you’re planning on visiting the Charleston Coast, make sure you get a copy of our complimentary Destination Guide for a list of all the things to see and do in the area! 

Get the Destination Guide

Can You Surf at Folly Beach?

Yes! Folly Beach is one of the top places on the Charleston Coast to go surfing. There are a variety of good surf spots along the beach that we will explain below. 

Where Can I Surf at Folly Beach?

Here are some of the top spots to catch some waves on Folly: 

  • The Washout– The Washout, also known as Hollywood, has been named the number one spot to go surfing by the experienced surfers in our area. The Washout was created when the infamous Hurricane Hugo wiped out a block of beachfront homes. Now, the wind is able to push across the beach and onto Folly River. It is rumored that this wind creates these incredible swells perfect for surfing. 
  • Around the Folly Pier– While you are not allowed to surf within 200 feet of the pier (keep in mind that this might change during construction, maintenance, and repairs), the waters alongside the pier can be a great place to surf at. Surfing is also not allowed here from mid-May to September. 
  • 6th Street East– The waves are known for being fair to good here. 
  • 10th Street East– 10th Street East is a very popular spot for Folly Beach surfing. The waves don’t break as big as The Washout, but they come close!

Check the Surf Cams

Folly Beach is a surfing town, and there are plenty of surf cams you can use to check the swells. A surf cam is the best way to know the current conditions of the water. That way, you don’t have to pack up your board and get to the beach only to find out that the waves aren’t good that day! 

Rent a Board

When you go on vacation, you shouldn’t have to worry about lugging a surfboard around! There are plenty of places to rent a board on Folly Beach. Many of our vacation rentals come with a credit toward beach gear with VayK Gear. You can easily use this credit to rent surfboards for you and your entire family! 

Book Your Stay Today

tabby house

Are you ready to experience the beauty of the Charleston Coast? Our Folly Beach vacation rentals will be your home away from home during your getaway. From stunning oceanfront properties to villas overlooking the water, we have something for everyone. Browse our Folly Beach vacation rentals and book your stay today! Some incredible Folly Beach surfing awaits. 

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Foodies, This Is Why You Need to Go to Taste of Folly

food sample at taste of folly

The Charleston area is known for its incredible cuisine. Thousands of food connoisseurs visit our area each year to experience our local restaurants. If you consider yourself a foodie, make sure you’re in town for the Taste of Folly. This food-centered event showcases the beach town with an emphasis on food. Start planning your Charleston getaway today when you access our complimentary Destination Guide. Inside, you’ll find even more restaurants to check out!

Get the Destination Guide

About Taste of Folly

We can’t wait for Taste of Folly to come to town every year! Not only does this annual event exhibit all the food this beach town is known for, it also showcases other local businesses. You’ll truly get a taste of Folly! Walk around to the vendors, have a few bites from Folly-based food vendors, do a little shopping, and relax in front of the live bands. 

When Is Taste of Folly?

Taste of Folly takes place every year at the end of January. For the exact dates, you can check Folly Beach’s events page!

Where Is Taste of Folly?

Taste of Folly is right in the center of all the action on Folly Beach. Center Street is shut down and transformed into this awesome event. There are tons of businesses along Center Street you’re welcome to explore, and other vendors and artists set up along the main drag. 

How to Get Tickets

You can purchase tickets to Taste of Folly in advance or at the door. Part of the ticket price goes toward a cocktail competition– you get to taste samples and vote on the best cocktail! 

The Entertainment

You’ll never be bored at Taste of Folly! There are tons of traditions that festival-goers look forward to every year. The chili cookoff and hotdog eating contest are fan favorites, and the kids will love the carnival games. Grab a drink and a bite to eat, then make yourself comfortable by the stage to listen to live music.

Is It Family-Friendly?

If you’re wondering if the Taste of Folly is family-friendly, you’re in luck! It is! Locals and visitors of all ages love Taste of Folly– there’s truly something for everyone. There are even fun activities that have been designed to keep your little ones busy. Plus, everyone loves food! 

Book Your Getaway Today

charleston coast vacations home

Did you know that the Charleston Coast has beautiful weather year-round? Taste of Folly might be a little chilly in January, but it’s still warm enough to have a festival outside. Just pack a jacket and you’re good to go! If you’re planning on attending the festival, consider one of our rentals just moments away on Folly Beach. Or, you can browse all our listings! We have gorgeous properties located all over the Charleston Coast, and we’re sure we can find one for you and your family. From waterfront homes to villas perfect for two, we’ve collected some of the best rental properties in the area.

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Why You Need to Attend the Flip Flip Drop on New Year’s Eve

Friends celebrate at the Flip Flip Drop

You’ve probably heard about the annual Times Square Ball Drop. Did you know that Folly Beach, South Carolina, has its own version each year? Spend New Year’s Eve on the Charleston coast when you attend the Flip Flop Drop on Folly Beach. Make it a tradition and come back year after year! 

What Is the Flip Flop Drop?

Did you ever think you could count down to the new year as a giant pair of flip flops slowly falls from the air? You can at the Flip Flop Drop! Every year, more than 1,000 locals and visitors gather together to watch the illuminated pair of flip flops ring in the new year. Then, have a night out on the town at the many bars and restaurants of Folly Beach! 

Everything You Need to Know About Folly Beach’s Annual Flip Flop Drop

Your Itinerary for the Night

9:30 p.m. – The Flip Flops Are Hoisted

Every year, the famous flip flops make their debut around 9:30 p.m. Then, it’s time to have some fun before they drop! Center Street is closed to traffic, and there is a DJ, live music, and family-friendly activities to enjoy. 

Many of the restaurants on Folly Beach offer special menus, drinks, and pricing for this event. There is even live music at many of these venues! Go bar hopping or out to dinner, but make sure you’re ready before midnight. You’ll want to make your way to the flip flops with plenty of time to see them drop. 

11:59 p.m. – The Flip Flops Start Dropping

There’s nothing like the energy in the air when the flip flops start to drop! Just like the Times Square Ball Drop, the flip flops start slowly dropping at 11:59. Count down to midnight as they make their way down! 

12:00 a.m. – Fireworks Show

Immediately following the drop, the sky illuminates with a fireworks show to celebrate. Stay and watch before deciding whether or not to end the night. 

Many of the bars and restaurants on Folly Beach stay open later than usual so you can continue with your celebrations. Keep in mind that after midnight is best enjoyed by adults only. 

Where Is the Folly Beach Flip Flop Drop?

The Folly Beach Flip Flop Drop is on Center Street in Folly Beach. The entire street gets shut down for this festival! 

Book Your New Year’s Eve Getaway Today

folly beach house

Ring in the new year in the Lowcountry! Charleston Coast Vacations has a variety of homes just moments away from the Flip Flop Drop. Browse our rentals on Folly Beach to start planning your holiday getaway, or opt to browse all our homes located across the Charleston Coast. We have properties that all vary in size and location, so we are sure we have the perfect one for you! We can’t wait to host you for the holidays.

Book Now

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Everything You Need to Know About Folly Beach County Park

Folly beach county park

Not only is the beauty of the Charleston coast unparalleled, there are also countless things to do here. Take in the beauty of our oceanfront towns when you spend the day at Folly Beach County Park. Located on the west end of the island, you’ll want to come back to this beautiful beach day after day.

About Folly Beach County Park

Directions to Folly Beach County Park 

Folly Beach County Park has everything you need for a day of fun in the sun! The park spans for more than 4,000 feet along the ocean and 2,000 feet along the Folly River. Set up along the shore to spend the day at the beach or opt to discover a sandbar by the river. With amenities like picnic tables, showers, restrooms, and more, you’ll love coming to this beach during your vacation. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there lifeguards at Folly Beach? 

Yes! Lifeguards are stationed seasonally at the designated swimming area on Folly Beach County Park. Lifeguards are posted on the weekends during May and September and daily throughout the rest of the summer. 

How much does it cost to park on Folly Beach?

Parking on Folly Beach varies depending on the season. Here are the current rates:

  • November – February: $5 
  • March: $5 Monday-Friday and $10 Saturday-Sunday
  • April: $10
  • May-Labor Day: $10 Monday-Friday and $15 Saturday-Sunday
  • September: $10
  • October: $5 Monday-Friday and $10 Saturday-Sunday

Local tip: If you’re planning on visiting a lot of parks during your stay with Charleston Coast Vacations or coming back multiple times in one year, consider a Gold Pass. The pass costs $85 and gets you into all of our county parks for the year! 

Are dogs allowed on Folly Beach?

Pets are permitted at Folly Beach County Park during designated times. Dogs are not allowed on the beach from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. from May 1st to September 30th. If you bring your dog during an appropriate time, just make sure your four-legged friend is on a leash! 

Are there beach chair rentals?

Many of our properties actually come with a credit for beach gear when you make your reservation. You can use it for beach chair rentals and other gear you might need. There are also beach chair and umbrella rentals available at Folly Beach County Park during the summer. 

Start Planning Your Vacation Today

home

Are you ready to experience the beauty of Folly Beach County Park? Calming waves, soft sands, and gorgeous marshes come together to create this slice of Lowcountry paradise. We have vacation rentals available all over the Charleston coast, including Folly Beach! Wake up each morning just moments away from the shore. Browse our Folly Beach properties to start planning your getaway today. 

Book Now

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Yum! 6 of the Best Folly Beach Restaurants to Dine At

fish tacos at folly beach restaurants

When you’re on vacation, food isn’t just a necessity. It’s an experience! Dining at some local hot spots while you’re on vacation is one of the best ways to truly get to know an area, especially on the Charleston Coast. Here are some of our favorite Folly Beach restaurants to try during your getaway!

6 of Our Favorite Restaurants on Folly Beach

1. Jack of Cups Saloon

There’s no place like Jack of Cups. This small eatery is easy to miss, but once you know it’s there, you’ll want to come back for more. The menu offers an eclectic mix of Asian, Indian, and other global flavors. You can come back over and over again and get something different every time– it changes often based on the ingredients that are in season. You’ll always find some type of macaroni and cheese on the menu, but it always has a twist– the green curry mac is one of our favorites! 

2. Lost Dog Cafe

Lost Dog Cafe is a staple on Folly Beach. This cozy spot serves breakfast all day along with sandwiches and wraps. We’re partial to their huevos rancheros, but we’ve never had anything from their menu that we didn’t like! You’ll love grabbing lunch here after spending the morning at the beach. 

3. Taco Boy

What’s better than sipping a frozen margarita after a day in the sun? Taco Boy is known for delicious Mexican and drinks. We recommend splitting some chips, salsa, guacamole, and queso with the table before ordering a few tacos. If tacos aren’t your style, you can get platters, salads, and quesadillas, too! 

4. BLU

If you’re looking for Folly Beach restaurants on the water, head to BLU. The oceanfront dining experience here is casual yet elevated, and the views of the water are beautiful. The menu consists of mostly surf and turf. Indulge in grilled shrimp, scallop risotto, filet mignon, and more. 

5. The Crab Shack

Seafood lovers rejoice! The Crab Shack will serve you seafood by the bucket– literally. Get a bucket of steamed oysters for the table before indulging in the wide array of seafood dishes. If there’s a picky eater in your group that doesn’t like seafood, there are a few BBQ options! 

6. Chico Feo 

Chico Feo’s funky island vibes and delicious, cost-effective food will keep you coming back for more. The dishes here have many different influences, but mostly it’s the Caribbean. The owner spent 12 years in the Caribbean and wanted to bring those flavors to the Charleston Coast. He succeeded, and now we have Chico Feo! 

Book Your Getaway Today

home

Are you ready to try out all these Folly Beach restaurants? Book your stay with Charleston Coast Vacations! We have vacation rentals all over the Lowcountry. Choose to stay on Folly Beach for easy access to these incredible eateries or opt for Isle of Palms, another island just an hour away from Folly. We can’t wait to host you!

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Transformation Tuesday: Saylors’ Malibu

Last week, we discussed when and how to renovate your vacation property. This week, we are featuring the most amazing Transformation Tuesday we have ever seen! 1215 E Arctic Ave on Folly Beach, formerly known as “The Blue Lagoon”, underwent a total renovation between September 2017-March 2018.

1215 E Arctic Ave Folly Beach Vacation Rental Charleston Coast Vacations Before
1215 E Arctic Ave Before!

Now know as “Saylors’ Malibu”, 1215 E Arctic is a stunning oceanfront home which provides not just oceanfront views, but on the beach feels. The renovation was completed by one of the Lowcountry’s best teams and boy can you tell!

1215 E Arctic Folly Beach Charleston Coast Vacations Vacation Rental After
After! Check out the gorgeous new windows!

Custom pieces are plentiful in the home. From the custom 10-seat dining table to the live-edge hardwood custom bar in the kitchen, no piece of the home was left untouched. In the bathrooms, unique tiles on the floors and in the showers help make each room a little different from the next.

1215EastArcticAve Folly Beach Vacation Rental Charleston Coast Vacations
Custom Dining Table with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

“Saylors’ Malibu” is a home you will want to vacation in year after year. Secure your 2018 and 2019 vacation today!

Living Room 1215 E Arctic Folly Beach Charleston Coast Vacations

The cozy living room lacked cohesion before the renovation. Now, the living room radiates perfection. The sectional sofa ensures seating for the whole family while you watch tv, read your favorite book, or just stare out the gorgeous new windows!

 

Kitchen 1215 E Arctic Folly Beach Charleston Coast Vacations

The designers kept a similar, mostly white, open and airy feel in the kitchen. But, the custom cabinets and custom live-edge hardwood bar top enhance the natural beauty of the space. The new windows leave you feeling like you’re on the beach from the comfort of the kitchen.

Guest Bedroom 1215 E Arctic Folly Beach Charleston Coast Vacations

New furniture and simple, understated accent pieces tie together one of the guest bedrooms.

Master Bedroom 1215 E Arctic Folly Beach Charleston Coast Vacations

The master bedroom feels more sophisticated now. The new floor to ceiling windows provide natural light that balances the dark wood of the furniture.

Master Bath 1215 E Arctic Folly Beach Charleston Coast Vacations

In the master bathroom, a change in paint color and opening the walk-in shower changes the entire feel of the room. The textured tile in the shower provides depth to the space.

Porch 1215 E Arctic Folly Beach Charleston Coast Vacations

Updating the railings and porches, along with painting the exterior, makes the outside living spaces more desirable. Take an afternoon nap in the hammock “on the beach” without getting sandy!

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Things to Do: April

Looking for things to do on the Charleston Coast this April? We’ve gathered some of our favorite local events and activities. Check them out and let us know which one is your favorite!

Migratory Bird Walk

April 14 & 21, May 12

Charleston Things to Do Birdwatching (2)
Photo: Instagram user @centerforbirdsofprey

Visit the Center for Birds of Prey for a Migratory Bird Walk with experienced birding guides. Recreational birdwatching is becoming a favorite past time across the country. Be sure to bring your binoculars and camera!

Charleston Outdoor Fest

April 21-22

Charleston Things to Do Outdoor Fest
Photo: Instagram user @charlestoncountyparks

April is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors in the Lowcountry. Head to the James Island County Park for a weekend of canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, rock climbing, and more! Enjoy live music and vendors all weekend. And even try your hand at archery or mountain biking with the Try It Pass!

Shaggin’ on the Cooper

April 28

Charleston Things to Do Shaggin on the Cooper
Photo via Facebook: Charleston County Parks & Recreation

Put on your dancing shoes and head over the Mt Pleasant Waterfront Park for an evening of shag dancing and live music. The Carolina Shag is a descendant of the Jitterbug and originated in Carolina Beach, North Carolina. You don’t want to miss this fun-filled evening! 

Blessing of the Fleet & Seafood Festival

April 29

Charleston Things To Do Blessing of the Fleet
Photo via Facebook: Experience Mt Pleasant

Join locals and visitors alike for the Blessing of the Fleet. Spend the day celebrating the local fishing and shrimping industry. Watch the Boat Parade, enjoy delicious seafood tastings, and participate in a shag dance competition

The Charleston Coast is full of things to do year-round but things really amp up in Spring. What are some of your favorite Lowcountry events and things to do? Let us know in the comments!