Folly Beach

Folly Beach is broadly loved by Charleston locals for its laid-back, eclectic 'Edge of America' character — South Carolina's best surf, accessible public sand, and a walkable strip of bars and restaurants give it a personality that nearby beaches lack. Long-timers note it has shifted noticeably from a sleepy community toward a more crowded, commercialized scene, and the party/drinking crowd on weekends is a recurring gripe. Still, the beach itself stays clean and well-regarded, and on quieter evenings the dark-sky proximity makes for standout stargazing — including clear views of constellations, meteor showers, and the Milky Way.