Which Beach is Best? The Beaches of Charleston SC
What beaches are near Charleston?
Three public beaches are in close proximity to downtown Charleston: Folly Beach, the Isle of Palms and Sullivans Island.
How far are they from downtown Charleston and how do I get to them?
They are all about a 20-minute drive. Reference our maps for driving directions.
Which Beach Is Best?
That all depends on your need and preferences.
Folly Beach
- This barrier island is laid back and known as the “Edge of America,” with a unique culture and the best waves of all the beaches.
- It is the only beach where alcohol is permitted (in plastic containers).
- A great pier - you can see the Morris Island Lighthouse from the northern end of the island.
- Parking can be a problem if you arrive after 11am during the busy season, but it’s still manageable.
- There are many beach shops, restaurants and bars within walking distance.
Isle of Palms
- The most commercialized beach with many shops, places to eat, bars and public restrooms.
- Certified as a Blue Wave Beach because it meets the criteria related to cleanliness, safety and access to the public for the tenth year in a row.
- Parking is more abundant, $6 or $7 per day.
- More families frequent IOP because of their strict alcohol rules and atmosphere.
Sullivans Island
- Good mix of locals and visitors.
- Best described as undisturbed and natural.
- Parking can be a problem if you arrive after 10am. There are no public parking lots - street parking only.
- No public restrooms and alcohol is not permitted.
What about dogs?
- All dogs must be on a leash at all times on all beaches.
- Folly: Allowed if leashed - prohibited from May 1 - Sept 30 between 10am-5pm.
- Isle of Palms: Allowed if leashed.
- Sullivans - Must have a Sullivans issued dog license. Sunday mornings is a doggie “free for all”, may be off leash but within voice command of the owner.
- Clean up bags are available at all beaches. Please use them or risk receiving a hefty fine.
Three public beaches are in close proximity to downtown Charleston: Folly Beach, the Isle of Palms and Sullivans Island.
How far are they from downtown Charleston and how do I get to them?
They are all about a 20-minute drive. Reference our maps for driving directions.
Which Beach Is Best?
That all depends on your need and preferences.
Folly Beach
- This barrier island is laid back and known as the “Edge of America,” with a unique culture and the best waves of all the beaches.
- It is the only beach where alcohol is permitted (in plastic containers).
- A great pier - you can see the Morris Island Lighthouse from the northern end of the island.
- Parking can be a problem if you arrive after 11am during the busy season, but it’s still manageable.
- There are many beach shops, restaurants and bars within walking distance.
Isle of Palms
- The most commercialized beach with many shops, places to eat, bars and public restrooms.
- Certified as a Blue Wave Beach because it meets the criteria related to cleanliness, safety and access to the public for the tenth year in a row.
- Parking is more abundant, $6 or $7 per day.
- More families frequent IOP because of their strict alcohol rules and atmosphere.
Sullivans Island
- Good mix of locals and visitors.
- Best described as undisturbed and natural.
- Parking can be a problem if you arrive after 10am. There are no public parking lots - street parking only.
- No public restrooms and alcohol is not permitted.
What about dogs?
- All dogs must be on a leash at all times on all beaches.
- Folly: Allowed if leashed - prohibited from May 1 - Sept 30 between 10am-5pm.
- Isle of Palms: Allowed if leashed.
- Sullivans - Must have a Sullivans issued dog license. Sunday mornings is a doggie “free for all”, may be off leash but within voice command of the owner.
- Clean up bags are available at all beaches. Please use them or risk receiving a hefty fine.
Folly Beach
Isle of Palms
Sullivans Island
How to Choose the a beach that serves your needs best
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