beachsideboutiqueinn-u4t6

4 Waterfront Seafood Restaurants Worth Exploring Near Folly Beach

Thu, 15 Oct 2026 15:21:26 GMT

Fresh seafood, scenic creekside dining, and unforgettable Lowcountry sunsets

Folly Beach has no shortage of fantastic restaurants, from casual beach bars to delicious local seafood spots. But if you're looking to venture beyond the island during your stay, there are some incredible waterfront dining experiences waiting just down the road.

Within 10–15 minutes of Folly Beach, you'll find four local favorites offering fresh seafood, laid-back atmospheres, and beautiful views of the surrounding creeks and marshes. Whether you're craving freshly steamed oysters, a waterfront happy hour, or a delicious seafood lunch, these spots are well worth exploring.

1. Ellis Creek Fish Camp — Waterfront Dining & Happy Hour

1243 Harbor View Road, James Island

Tucked along Ellis Creek, Ellis Creek Fish Camp is a laid-back seafood spot with a casual, coastal atmosphere and beautiful marsh views. With plenty of outdoor seating, it's an ideal place to enjoy fresh seafood and a cold drink while taking in the Lowcountry scenery.

One of the biggest draws is the restaurant's happy hour, especially if you're visiting during the week. Specials have included discounted house cocktails, beer, wine, frozen drinks, and appetizers like catfish bites, fried pickles, hushpuppies, and pimento cheese.

The restaurant is also dog-friendly, making it a great option for visitors traveling with their four-legged companions.

Local Tip: Stop by during the afternoon happy hour, typically 3–5 PM, to enjoy great deals before settling in for a relaxing evening by the creek. Check the restaurant's current specials before heading over.

Visit Ellis Creek Fish Camp

2. Bowen's Island Restaurant — A Lowcountry Oyster Tradition

1870 Bowen's Island Road, Charleston

If you're an oyster lover, Bowen's Island Restaurant deserves a spot at the very top of your list.

Established in 1946, this legendary seafood restaurant has become a Lowcountry institution, earning national recognition and appearances in food and travel coverage over the years. It was even honored with a James Beard America's Classics Award in 2006.

But don't expect anything fancy. Part of Bowen's Island's charm is its rustic, no-frills atmosphere, graffiti-covered walls, and incredible views overlooking the surrounding marshes.

The restaurant is particularly famous for its locally harvested steamed oysters, served by the tray during oyster season. You'll also find Southern seafood favorites like fried shrimp, fish platters, hushpuppies, and Frogmore stew.

Local Tip: Don't miss the oyster room downstairs! Rather than simply eating in the main restaurant, head to the dedicated oyster area to experience one of the Lowcountry's most beloved traditions. Grab an oyster knife, dig into a tray of freshly steamed oysters, and enjoy the atmosphere.

And if you can time your visit around sunset, even better. Bowen's Island offers some truly spectacular marsh views as the sun goes down.

Visit Bowen's Island Restaurant

3. LoLo's — Fresh Seafood with a View on the Way to Folly

2293 Folly Road, Charleston

If you've driven onto Folly Beach, chances are you've passed LoLo's without even realizing what a great little waterfront spot is tucked along the road.

Located just before the bridge onto Folly Island, LoLo's (short for Locklear's on Little Oak) sits alongside a scenic tidal creek, offering beautiful waterfront views and a relaxed, coastal dining experience.

It's a great stop for fresh local seafood, Southern-style favorites, and daily specials. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with outdoor seating where you can enjoy the scenery while digging into a seafood platter.

Whether you're stopping for lunch on your way to the beach or heading out for dinner after a day in the sun, LoLo's is a convenient and delicious choice.

Local Tip: Save room for dessert! The homemade key lime pie is a favorite and the perfect way to finish off a seafood dinner.

Learn More About LoLo's

4. CudaCo. Seafood House — Fresh Seafood, Creekside Picnics & a Local Market

765 Folly Road, James Island

CudaCo. offers something a little different from your typical seafood restaurant.

Part seafood market, part casual eatery, this James Island favorite focuses on fresh, thoughtfully sourced seafood and creative coastal dishes.

The menu features options such as fresh fish sandwiches, ceviche, seafood bowls, and other rotating specialties, making it a fantastic spot for a casual lunch or early dinner.

One of its hidden gems is the outdoor picnic area overlooking a scenic tidal creek. Grab something delicious from the counter, find a picnic table, and enjoy a relaxed meal surrounded by the natural beauty of the Lowcountry.

What makes CudaCo. especially unique is its fresh seafood market. The team prioritizes locally and regionally sourced seafood whenever possible, with a focus on sustainability and quality.

You can even purchase fresh fish, shrimp, and other seafood to take home and prepare yourself.

Local Tip: CudaCo. is a great stop for a casual creekside lunch, but don't leave without checking out the seafood market. You might find something fresh and local to cook for dinner later!

Visit CudaCo. Seafood House

Experience More of the Lowcountry During Your Folly Beach Stay

One of the best things about visiting Folly Beach is having so much to explore just beyond the island. While Folly's own restaurants are certainly worth enjoying, venturing a few minutes down the road opens the door to even more authentic Lowcountry experiences.

From the oyster traditions of Bowen's Island to the creekside picnic tables at CudaCo., these four waterfront seafood spots offer something special beyond a great meal. And with beautiful marsh views, relaxed atmospheres, and plenty of fresh seafood, they're wonderful additions to any Folly Beach getaway.

Planning a visit? Make Beachside Boutique Inn or Riverside Inn & Cottages your home base for exploring everything Folly Beach and the surrounding Lowcountry have to offer.

Come for the beach, stay for the seafood, and don't forget to catch a sunset along the way!

Folly Festival Season

Mon, 07 Sep 2026 18:52:55 GMT

a little more local, a lot of fun

Summer may get most of the attention on Folly Beach, but some of the most fun weekends of the year happen after the summer crowds begin to thin.

Throughout the fall and winter, Center Street regularly transforms for festivals that bring together locals, visitors, restaurants, artists, makers and musicians. Taste of Folly, Sea & Sand Festival and Mermaids & Mateys are some of the island’s annual favorites, along with traditions like the Christmas Parade, New Year’s Eve festivities and the Bill Murray-themed Polar Plunge on New Year’s Day. In fact, many of Folly’s annual festivals take place between early fall and early spring.

There have been a few changes over the years, too. Longtime Folly visitors may remember Folly Gras , the island’s Mardi Gras celebration. After 11 years—and a final event that had simply grown too large and unruly for the little beach town—organizers retired the festival in 2019. Folly's festival tradition continued, with an emphasis on events that better fit the community and island.

Next Up: Mermaids & Mateys ��‍♀️��‍☠️

On Saturday, October 3 , Mermaids & Mateys takes over Center Street from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. This year's festival includes live music and performances, 80+ local art, craft and fashion vendors , costume contests, a kids' area, games and plenty of mermaid-and-pirate fun.

Admission is free, but advance registration is required, and entry is first-come, first-served up to capacity.

Festival weekends are a great excuse to experience Folly outside of peak summer—when the beach is a little quieter but Center Street comes alive. It's a chance to shop local, grab something good to eat, spend some time on the beach and get a taste of the more local side of Folly.

5 Reasons Fall Is the Perfect Time to Visit Folly Beach

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 19:13:16 GMT

Less crowded. Just as beautiful.

When most people picture a beach vacation, summer is usually the first season that comes to mind. But ask almost any local, and you'll likely hear a different answer—fall is one of the best times of year to experience Folly Beach. As the summer crowds begin to fade, the island settles into a slower pace while still offering everything that makes it such a special destination. Here are five reasons we love this time of year.

1. Enjoy the Beach Without the Crowds

One of the biggest advantages of visiting in the fall is simply having more space to enjoy everything Folly Beach has to offer. The beaches become noticeably quieter after summer vacation ends, making it easier to find the perfect spot in the sand, stroll the shoreline, or enjoy dinner at your favorite local restaurant without the long waits. The island takes on a more relaxed atmosphere that's perfect for slowing down and unwinding.

2. The Ocean Is Still Warm

Many visitors are surprised to discover that the Atlantic Ocean stays warm well into the fall. September—and often much of October—still offers very comfortable swimming temperatures, making it easy to spend the afternoon in the water, paddleboarding, or simply cooling off after relaxing on the beach. You get all the benefits of a beach vacation without the peak summer heat.

3. Comfortable Weather for Exploring

Fall brings some of the most enjoyable weather of the year. Warm sunny days and cooler mornings and evenings create ideal conditions for exploring the island, biking around town, walking to local shops and restaurants, or enjoying breakfast and coffee outdoors before heading to the beach. It's the perfect balance between beach weather and sightseeing weather.

4. Better Waves for Surfing & Boogie Boarding

As weather patterns begin to shift, Folly Beach often sees more consistent wave activity than during the middle of summer. While conditions vary from day to day, fall frequently provides better opportunities for surfing, boogie boarding, and body surfing, making it a favorite season for both experienced surfers and families looking for a little more excitement in the water.

5. Experience Folly Beach at Its Most Relaxing

Perhaps the best reason to visit in the fall is the feeling of the island itself. Mornings are quieter, sunsets are even more enjoyable without the large crowds, and it's easier to slow down and appreciate everything that makes Folly Beach unique. Whether you're sipping coffee on the porch, watching dolphins from the shoreline, or ending the day with dinner by the water, fall offers a peaceful coastal getaway that's hard to beat.

Sea Turtle Nesting Season Has Arrived on Folly Beach

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 18:11:11 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Each summer, Folly Beach welcomes some very special visitors. Loggerhead sea turtles return to our shoreline to build nests and lay eggs, continuing a tradition that has taken place for thousands of years.

Sea turtle nesting season runs from May through October, and Folly Beach plays an important role in helping protect these incredible animals. During this time, visitors may notice marked nesting areas along the beach where eggs are safely protected until hatchlings emerge and make their journey to the ocean.

One of the biggest ways beachgoers can help is by reducing artificial light at night. Hatchling sea turtles naturally use moonlight reflecting off the water to find their way to the ocean. Bright beachfront lights can confuse them and send them in the wrong direction.

When visiting Folly Beach during nesting season, remember these simple tips:

Turn off unnecessary beachfront lights at night
Avoid flash photography near nesting areas
Respect all marked sea turtle nests
Remove chairs, toys, and beach equipment before leaving the beach
Dispose of trash properly to help keep wildlife safe

Seeing a sea turtle nest is one of the many things that makes Folly Beach such a special place to visit. By taking a few simple precautions, we can all help protect these amazing animals for future generations.

We hope you'll enjoy your time on Folly Beach this summer and join us in supporting the conservation efforts that help keep our island beautiful.

The Perfect 3-Day Folly Beach Itinerary (Stay Like a Local, Not a Tourist)

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 03:49:48 GMT

A local’s guide to making the most of your time on Folly Beach

Planning a trip to Folly Beach? Whether it’s your first visit or a return getaway, knowing where to go—and when—can make all the difference.

This 3-day Folly Beach itinerary is designed to help you experience the island like a local. From laid-back beach mornings to sunset boat rides and hidden dining spots, here’s how to make the most of your stay.

Day 1: Settle In & Explore the Heart of Folly

Start your trip by easing into the relaxed pace that makes Folly Beach so special.

After arriving, take time to get settled and enjoy your surroundings. Explore the property and outdoor hangout spaces. Then head out for a casual stroll on the beach and pier.

What to do:

Walk the Folly Beach Pier
Grab a drink or light bite at Koko's (on the pier)
Explore Center Street shops

Dinner recommendation:

Head to a casual local favorite like Chico Feo for great food, drinks, and live music.

Day 2: Get on the Water

Folly Beach is best experienced from the water, and day two is perfect for it.

Whether you’re into adventure or something more relaxed, there are plenty of ways to get out and explore.

Top options:

Boat tours for dolphin spotting
Kayaking or paddleboarding through marshes and waterways
Private fishing charters for a more guided experience

If you’re looking for something unique, consider a fossil or shark tooth hunting excursion—it’s one of the most memorable things you can do in the area.

Afternoon:

Spend the rest of the day at the beach. Bring a chair, relax, and enjoy the slower pace.

Day 3: Slow Morning & Local Favorites

By your final day, you’ll start to feel the rhythm of Folly Beach—and this is when it really clicks.

Start your morning slow with coffee from Dead Low and a walk, or rent bikes to explore more of the island.

Ideas:

Bike around Folly Beach neighborhoods or all the way to the north side of the island (with lighthouse views)
Visit the Medi-spa for a relaxing treatment
Grab brunch at Lost Dog and enjoy a laid-back sendoff

If time allows, take one last walk along the beach before heading out.

Where You Stay Matters

Your experience on Folly Beach depends just as much on where you stay as what you do. Staying in a locally owned boutique property offers a completely different, more local experience than a large hotel.

At Beachside Boutique Inn and our nearby cottages, guests enjoy:

Walkable access to the beach and town
Unique, individually styled spaces
A more personal, relaxed stay

Plan Your Folly Beach Stay

Ready to experience Folly Beach for yourself?

Skip the crowded hotels and enjoy a more local, laid-back stay just steps from everything that makes this island special.

�� Check availability and book your stay directly

Finding Sharks’ Teeth with Flipper

websites@guesty.com — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 13:38:08 GMT

Finding Sharks’ Teeth with Flipper Finders Boat Tours on Morris Island

If you’re looking for a unique adventure that combines history,
science, and the thrill of treasure hunting, then look no further than
Flipper Finders Boat Tours on Morris Island, South Carolina. This
captivating destination offers an opportunity to discover ancient
sharks’ teeth while exploring the stunning coastal environment. Let’s
dive into the fascinating world of sharks’ teeth, including the
legendary Megalodon, the history behind these fascinating relics, the
types you might find, and the science that explains why these
magnificent creatures lose their teeth.

The History of Sharks’ Teeth

Sharks have inhabited our oceans for over 400 million years, long
before the dinosaurs roamed the Earth. Throughout this time, they have
evolved into some of the most successful predators in marine history.
One of the key aspects of their survival is their unique dental
structure. Sharks continuously lose and replace their teeth, a process
that is both fascinating and essential for their survival.

Among the most famous of prehistoric sharks is the Megalodon
(Carcharocles megalodon), which lived approximately 23 million to 3.6
million years ago. These massive sharks, often regarded as the largest
predators to have ever existed, could grow up to 60 feet long. The
ancient sharks’ teeth that you can find on Morris Island are remnants
of these prehistoric creatures, including the formidable Megalodon.
Fossilized sharks’ teeth can date back millions of years, providing
insights into the types of sharks that once roamed these waters. The
teeth often tell a story—where they came from, what they ate, and how
they lived.

Types of Sharks’ Teeth You Can Find

When you join Flipper Finders Boat Tours for a sharks’ teeth hunting
adventure, you may encounter a variety of sharks’ teeth, including:

Megalodon Teeth: The iconic Megalodon teeth are some of the most
sought after by collectors. They can measure over 7 inches in length
and are characterized by their broad, triangular shape with serrated
edges. These teeth are a testament to the size and power of the
Megalodon, making them a prized find.
Mako Teeth: These teeth are long and narrow with sharp edges. Mako
sharks are known for their speed and agility, and their teeth reflect
this predatory prowess.
Great White Teeth: The triangular shape of Great White sharks’ teeth
is easily recognizable. These teeth are robust and serrated, designed
for gripping and slicing through prey.
Tiger Shark Teeth: With a unique, more curved shape and pronounced
serrations, Tiger Shark teeth are often found on the beaches of Morris
Island. These sharks are generalist feeders, which is reflected in the
diversity of their teeth.
Hammerhead Teeth: The distinctive shape of Hammerhead sharks’ teeth is
flat and serrated, which helps them catch a variety of prey.
Whale Shark Teeth: Although Whale Sharks are filter feeders and have
very small teeth, you may still come across their tiny, flat teeth,
which serve more purpose than just catching prey.

Each type of tooth you find offers a glimpse into the prehistoric
ecosystem of the area and the types of sharks that once ruled these
waters.

The Age of Sharks’ Teeth

The age of sharks’ teeth can vary widely. Fossilized teeth found on
Morris Island can date back millions of years, often to the Miocene
and Pliocene epochs, which occurred roughly 23 million to 2.6 million
years ago. During these periods, the climate and geography of the
region were vastly different, contributing to a rich marine
environment that supported a variety of shark species.

The process of fossilization occurs when organic material is buried
under sediment, where it undergoes mineralization over time. This
transformation allows the teeth to withstand the test of time, making
them valuable artifacts for both collectors and scientists alike.

Why Do Sharks Lose Their Teeth?

Sharks have a unique dental adaptation that allows them to maintain
their predatory efficiency. They are not like mammals, which have a
set number of teeth that develop throughout their lives. Instead,
sharks are equipped with multiple rows of teeth that continuously shed
and replace themselves throughout their lives.

Here’s how it works:

Continuous Replacement: Sharks have thousands of teeth throughout
their lifetime. When one tooth falls out—usually due to wear and tear
or loss during feeding—it is quickly replaced by another from the row
behind it. This process can occur many times a year, with some species
losing over 30,000 teeth in their lifetime.
Adaptation for Survival: The ability to shed teeth is a crucial
survival strategy. As sharks consume prey, their teeth can become
damaged or worn down, making it necessary for them to have a constant
supply of sharp, functional teeth. This ensures they can efficiently
hunt and eat, maintaining their role as apex predators in marine
ecosystems.
Fossilization: The teeth that you find on Morris Island, including
those of the Megalodon, are remnants of this natural process of
shedding. Over time, some of these teeth were buried and fossilized,
creating a link between modern-day sharks and their ancient ancestors.

Morris Island: A Treasure Hunting Paradise

Morris Island, situated just south of Charleston, is a barrier island
rich in history and natural beauty. Known for its pristine beaches and
stunning landscapes, it’s a popular destination for beachcombers and
nature enthusiasts. The island is also home to the historic Morris
Island Lighthouse, built in 1876, which adds a touch of historical
charm to your adventure.

Flipper Finders Boat Tours provides an exceptional experience for
those looking to explore this coastal treasure. The knowledgeable
guides share insights about the local ecosystem, the history of
sharks, and the best techniques for finding fossilized teeth. As you
navigate the waters surrounding Morris Island, you’ll have the chance
to learn about the unique marine life that inhabits this area, the
role that sharks play in maintaining ecological balance, and the
significance of the Megalodon in the evolutionary history of sharks.

Conclusion

Finding sharks’ teeth with Flipper Finders Boat Tours on Morris Island
is more than just a fun activity; it’s an opportunity to connect with
nature, learn about marine history, and uncover the mysteries of these
incredible predators. From understanding the age and types of
teeth—including the legendary Megalodon—to exploring the science
behind why sharks lose their teeth, this adventure is both educational
and thrilling.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a treasure hunt for ancient sharks’
teeth, gather your family and friends, and set sail with Flipper
Finders Boat Tours. You never know what fascinating discoveries await
you on the shores of Morris Island!

You can book a drop off or a guided tour via this link.

Chico Feo for excellent music and great food!

websites@guesty.com — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 13:38:08 GMT

Nestled in the heart of Folly Beach, Chico Feo is the perfect spot to unwind with great food and live music. This lively local bar captures the island's laid-back vibe, offering a menu full of mouth-watering dishes that feature fresh, local ingredients. Whether you’re sipping a Samarai Sling on the deck or dancing to the sounds of talented musicians, Chico Feo delivers an unforgettable experience for both locals and visitors. After a day of beach fun, it’s the ideal place to relax and soak in the Folly Beach atmosphere!