Best Places to go for Food, Drink, and Activities on Folly Beach

Folly Beach isn’t just about sandy shores and ocean waves – it’s a vibrant coastal community brimming with incredible culinary experiences, refreshing libations, and exciting activities that capture the true spirit of South Carolina’s beach town charm. Whether staying with us at Water’s Edge Inn or just visiting for the day, this guide will help you discover the best places to eat, drink, and play on our beloved island. From fresh seafood served with panoramic ocean views to laid-back bars where locals gather to watch the sunset, Folly Beach offers an authentic beach town experience that keeps visitors returning year after year.

 

Located just steps from the iconic Folly Beach Pier, Rita’s Seaside Grille delivers the quintessential beach dining experience with casual American cuisine and house-smoked BBQ. Their waterfront location provides stunning ocean views, perfect for a romantic dinner or family gathering. The restaurant’s unforgettable beach bar atmosphere captures everything that makes Folly Beach special.

A local favorite that embodies Folly’s laid-back vibe, Lost Dog Cafe has earned rave reviews from visitors and locals. With consistently high ratings and a reputation for excellent food and service, this spot offers the authentic beach town dining experience that makes Folly Beach special.

Recently named one of Yelp’s 100 Best Places to Eat in 2025, Jack of Cups perfectly captures Folly’s bohemian spirit. Known for serving some of the most unique and flavorful dishes you’ll ever experience, this restaurant offers creative cuisine that reflects the artistic soul of our beach community.

Just off Folly Road, Bowen’s Island Restaurant is a rustic Lowcountry landmark known for its unbeatable marsh views and seriously fresh seafood. This no-frills eatery is as authentic as it gets, serving up oysters, shrimp, and frogmore stew in a casual, scenic setting that locals love.

If you’re in the mood for something other than seafood, Taco Boy offers bold flavors and festive vibes. This lively cantina provides an array of tacos, nachos, and fresh margaritas in a colorful courtyard setting perfect for groups or a laid-back lunch.

Chico Feo is an open-air gem tucked off Center Street known for its live music, inventive drinks, and globally inspired food. Whether you’re sipping on a cold beer or snacking on their rotating taco specials, this spot radiates Folly’s signature free-spirited energy.

This newer addition to Folly’s bar scene quickly became a local hotspot. Lowlife Bar offers excellent food and exceptional cocktails in a relaxed, open-air setting off Center Street. The combination of quality drinks, delicious food, and a walkable location makes it perfect for exploring Folly’s nightlife scene.

The Bounty Bar transforms into one of Folly Beach’s most energetic nightlife destinations when the sun goes down. Known for its bumping atmosphere and lively crowd, it’s the perfect place to experience Folly’s vibrant after-dark scene.

A Folly favorite with a funky surf shack vibe, Surf Bar is the go-to for strong drinks, grilled eats, and an always-hopping atmosphere. The music is good, the drinks are stiff, and the walls are decorated with surfboards and island relics.

 

Folly Beach is renowned as one of the best surf spots on the South Carolina coast, with “The Washout” as the prime location for catching waves. Thanks to Hurricane Hugo’s reshaping of the coastline, this jettied beach break provides ideal surfing conditions that attract wave riders from across the region.

The waters around Folly Beach offer incredible fishing opportunities year-round. Whether you prefer surf fishing, pier fishing, or deep-sea sport fishing, local charter companies provide expert-guided trips that showcase the area’s abundant marine life.

Explore the calm waters behind Folly Beach with SUP or kayak rentals. Companies like Wind Land & Water Sports offer both rentals and guided tours, perfect for spotting dolphins and enjoying the peaceful side of our coastal environment.

One of the best ways to explore Folly is on two wheels. With bike rental shops located throughout town, you can pedal along the beachfront roads, cruise past colorful cottages, and enjoy the island breeze without a schedule.

Located at the island’s west end, Folly Beach County Park offers ample beachfront, shaded picnic areas, and seasonal amenities like chair rentals and lifeguards. It’s a great spot for families or anyone seeking a quieter beach day.

 

For even more dining options and activities, be sure to explore the comprehensive directories at VisitFolly.com, where you’ll find detailed information about every restaurant, bar, and adventure waiting for you on Folly Beach.

 

Folly Beach’s unique blend of relaxed coastal living, exceptional dining, creative cocktails, and endless outdoor adventures creates an experience you simply can’t find anywhere else. Every moment on our island offers something special to discover, from sunrise surf sessions to sunset cocktails. After a full day of exploring everything Folly Beach has to offer, there’s nothing quite like returning to the comfort and hospitality of Water’s Edge Inn, where our complimentary breakfast, happy hour with our famous Folly Punch, and luxurious amenities provide the perfect end to your ideal beach day.