Charleston Weekly

Being a coastal town, much of Charleston's culture sprang up around water. Even today, people come from miles away (or just down the road) to tan and spend time with their families on Charleston's white sandy beaches. But not every beach is a good fit for every person. Like people, the beaches all have different personalities and things to offer. So before you dive in, check out these descriptions of Charleston's different area beaches!

Folly Beach: Folly Beach was once the hip, young place to be. This was largely because alcohol was allowed on the beach, provided it was in a plastic bottle or cup. But recently alcohol was banned on Folly. Does that mean the beach is going to change? Not likely. It is still a very popular beach destination--and it still offers a multitude of bars and restaurants only blocks from the ocean. Folly provides the Edwin S. Taylor Fishing Pier, which is perfect for fishing or just walking. Parking can be extremely hard to find, even in the 'beach access points,' where spots cost a dollar per hour; if you can find a coveted free spot on the street, be sure your car's tires are completely off the roadway or risk getting a ticket. If you're not deterred by big crowds and packed beaches, or want to partake in some adult beverages, Folly may be the place to catch some rays.

Isle of Palms: Isle of Palms--called IOP by locals--is the more family friendly of the popular beaches. Those looking for adrenaline are advised to go to Folly, because waves at IOP are often underwhelming, even at tide changes. There is much more parking at IOP, but there also tend to be more tourists. IOP is more of a vacation spot that Folly. Therefore, there are plenty of hotels for out-of-towners. IOP also boasts a stretch of boutique shops just back from the beachfront, as well as several restaurants that offer a laid-back, friendly feel. IOP has many rules and many tourists, but it's a sure spot for families to have some fun.

 

Sullivan's Island: By far the most residental (even though Isle of Palms has about 5,000 full-time residents) of the nearby area beaches is Sullivan's Island. There are few tourists--those that come may do so to visit Poe's Tavern, a locally-known restaurant in the theme of Edgar Allan Poe, who lived on the island for some time, or to visit Fort Moultrie--and the atmosphere is relaxed. Sullivan's is a thoroughly residental beach. There are no big shops, no real parking lots, and no public restrooms. If crowds ruin your beachgoing experience, look no further than the calm of Sullivan's Island.

These are the three main beaches for those living on the Penninsula or points north, but they are not the only ones the Atlantic coast has to offer in the surrounding area. Kiawah Island boasts a public Charleston county Park, but in general caters to visiting golfers or wealthy vacationers. Seabrook Island offers similar circumstances, without the park. These two beaches are large and beautiful, but can be out of reach for the average beachgoer. There is also Edisto Island, about an hour from metro Charleston. It is also a residental area beach, but offers some stores and restaurants and is a family-friendly location.

No matter your interests or desires, there is a beach in or near Charleston to suit you. So pack up the car, put on the sunscreen, and spend a day on the shore!