A Day on Folly
Ask any local what to do on Folly and 99% of them will say, "Get a hot dog from Bert's and plop down in your beach chair at the Washout," but that's hardly all Folly Beach has to offer.
While the Washout is a relaxing sandy spot due to the distance from the hustle and bustle of the center of the island, sitting on the beach near the newly renovated fishing pier is just as relaxing (during the off season) and closer to public restaurants and restrooms. There you may have the pleasure of witnessing a wedding ceremony or a child reeling in their first fish!
If you are a morning beach person, grab some coffee and breakfast at Dead Low Cafe located one block off the beach and very close to the pier. They open at 7:30 a.m. with fresh cinnamon rolls, avocado toast, acai bowl, smoothies and more. Take your grub out on the beach and enjoy the day in paradise.
After your last drop of Dead Low coffee, try something new - maybe beach yoga or surf lessons. Folly is known as the best local surf spot while also offering all things "active" like kayaking and SUP (stand-up paddleboarding). Many local fishing charters are run out of the marinas along Folly Road. Ask if the captain will include a drive-by of the Morris Island Lighthouse!
Be sure to stop by McKevlin's Surf Shop to grab some gear. McKevlin's bumper stickers are seen all over town, and it proudly has name recognition nationwide. Fun fact: it's the oldest surf shop in SC and one of the oldest in America.
Now it's time for lunch! Chico Feo is a must mainly because you have to see the decor or lack thereof - who needs decorations when you have live oaks dripping with spanish moss? Known for hosting live music year round and unique events open to the public, be prepared to grab a drink at the bar and wait for a table. Lowlife Bar is also a fun atmosphere and known for their Old Bay seasoned waffle fries. The last time I ate here was with some girlfriends, and we all either ordered the chicken sandwich or the shrimp roll.
Night-time on Folly is great for people-watching! You can witness all the beachgoers weighing their dinner options. "Do we go casual, somewhere in our wet bathing suits and towels or go home and shower first?" Good luck with that decision -- just know there isn't a wrong choice. If you end up at Jack Of Cups Saloon around dinner time, you'll have the best selection of draft beer on the island (and they have sake, too). Their food menu, inspired by Asian and Indian flavors, is designed for sharing, so don't forget to invite your favorite real estate agent to join you!
When asked about a rooftop bar or restaurant with a view on Folly, the go-to answers are Taco Boy, LoLo's and Bowen's Island. Taco Boy for the breeze you get from being 3 stories up (and check out the artwork made from recycled ocean litter), LoLo's for the 360 view of the waterways and seafood menu, and Bowen's Island for the "off the beaten path" vibe.
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