ABOUT FOLLY BEACH:

Folly is but a short drive from Charleston but seems light years away. It is laidback and rustic, casual to the core. It has a long distinguished history dating to the 1600's, and it played a major role in the Civil War.

The name Folly Beach comes from an old English word meaning "Heavily Wooded".

Cottages started springing up on Folly Beach along its pine-straw dunes in the 1920's, but Folly's heyday is fairly recent, really getting started in the 1930's and 40's, while George Gershwin spent weeks there in the 1930's when he helped compose Porgy and Bess.

Old-timers recall the Folly Pier, where famous singers entertained. Gone is the old pier and Atlantic Pavilion, with a beautiful long fishing pier and the newly renovated (to be completed as of March '09) Holiday Inn Hotel replace earlier attractions.

Numerous old-fashioned cottages dot the strand, while a re-nourished beach lures vacationers. Visitor will find many good seafood restaurants and colorful bars.  All in all, Folly is a beachcomber's delight.

Directions:
If you cross the Ashley River Bridges and follow Folly Road, you will soon come to Folly Beach, located south of Charleston.

Leash Laws: Year-round leash law in effect on the beach. $500 fine if cited. Same goes for not picking up droppings. Leashed dogs are welcome year-round.  Dogs are NOT allowed on the beach from May 1st to September 30th 10am - 6 pm.