The city of Folly Beach is a small barrier island approximately 6 miles long and 1/2 mile wide, located 8 short miles from historic downtown Charleston. The Atlantic Ocean borders it's south shore, while the Folly River runs along the northern bank. Morris Island is separated by Lighthouse Creek on the East end and Bird Key and the Stono River lie to the West. Originally called Folly Island, it is primarily a residential and family vacation beach. Folly is home to interesting restaurants, bars and shops, most of which are located on Center Street. Folly offers a variety of environmental sites, recreation activities and a unique flavor of island living. Also known as 'The Edge of America', Folly's reputation as a classic beach community dates back to the 1950's where the pavilion and pier stand today was a small amusement park with a sign that read 'Folly's Playground,' Folly still carries that laid back feeling, flip flops are appropriate for any outing.
Charleston (8 miles from Folly): South Carolina Aquarium, Historic Carriage Rides, Splash Zone Water Park (James Island County Park), Golf Courses, The Hunley (Historic Submarine), Historic Homes Tours, Charleston Market, Ghost Tours, Downtown Farmer's Market, Fine Dining, Patriots Point (USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier), Fort Sumter. Within 20 minutes: Cypress Gardens, Drayton Hall Plantation, Magnolia Place Plantation, Middleton Plantation, Boone Hall Plantation, Charleston Tea Plantation, Charleston Towne Landing, and more
