Folly Beach is not only one of Charleston’s most popular beaches but is also one of the most popular beach destinations along the east coast. Though we don’t quite draw the crowds of other massive destinations like Myrtle Beach or Virginia Beach, families and couples alike flock to the Folly shores to enjoy the quaint, small town feel that our beach offers.
Summer is without a doubt the most popular time to visit Folly, but the fall is actually our personal favorite time of the year, and the popularity of the “shoulder season” is growing.
See why more and more visitors are choosing a fall vacation at Folly Beach!
1.) Exciting Fall Events
The Charleston area offers several exciting events throughout the fall season. From festivals right here on Folly to tempting food events on the peninsula, the area comes to life with the cooler weather.
National Night Out | Tuesday, August 1st
Join us at Folly River Park from 5 pm – 8 pm on Tuesday, August 1st to celebrate our local service men and women as well as strengthen our community by generating support for local anti-crime programs. Paul Lauer, one of the owners, served on Folly Beach Public Safety and will be attending the event. The event is FREE and open to the public! To find out more, please go to https://natw.org/.
James Island Reggae Nights | Friday, August 4th
Craving a good night out on the town? If so, kick back and relax right up the road at James Island County Park for the year’s final Reggae Nights event. The event runs from 7:30 pm – 11 pm and will feature live entertainment from Mystic Vibrations. Admission is only $10 / adults and free for children. Food and beverages will also be available for purchase.
Eclipse On A Warship | Monday, August 21st
Charleston is one of the last spots on the United States for viewing this year’s famous full solar eclipse and Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is hosting a special event just for the occasion! The day will include exclusive lectures from renowned physics and astronomy experts and space themed exhibits and events appropriate for guests of all ages. And, of course, there will be a viewing of the eclipse in the afternoon. All special events are included with regular museum admission. Tickets are limited and the first 3,000 guests will receive a free pair of specialized sunglasses for safe eclipse viewing.
Moonlight Mixers | August 18th & September 15th
The famous Folly Beach Pier is excited to host the summer’s most anticipated music and dancing event, “Moonlight Mixers”. This monthly event runs from 7 pm – 11 pm on select dates and features upbeat, live beach music and plenty of room for busting out your best dance moves. Tickets are only $8 / person in advance or $10 / person on-site. Guests will also be able to enjoy food and beverages at the pier.
Lowcountry Boil Excursion | Sunday, September 24th
Get out and enjoy the gorgeous fall weather and enjoy signature Lowcountry cuisine by snagging tickets for the popular Lowcountry Boil Excursion courtesy of Tideline Tours. Once a month, Tideline hosts guests for a succulent Charleston treat as the boat cruises out to the historic Morris Island lighthouse. The cruise departs at 4:30 pm and returns at 7 pm, allowing guests the perfect opportunity to take in a gorgeous Charleston sunset. Call (843) 813-5009 for more information.
Charleston Artwalk | Friday, October 6th
Art aficionados and neophytes alike are sure to enjoy the eclectic offerings at the annual Charleston Artwalk. Interested guests are invited to take a tour of the town’s 40 unique art galleries and enjoy complimentary refreshments. Many of the featured artists will be in attendance and are happy to answer questions or discuss their works. This event is free to attend and will run from 5 pm – 8 pm at various galleries downtown.
FollyPalooza | Saturday, October 22nd
2017 marks the 9th anniversary for this annual event that draws an impressive crowd of visitors and locals alike! This family-friendly affair features several events throughout the day, including carnival games, arts and crafts, local vendors, face painting, a silent auction, and live entertainment from Burnt Wood, Forty Mile Detour, Saluda Shoals, and much more! The festival runs from 11am – 5pm along Center Street in downtown Folly. Wristbands are $2 and tickets for carnival games are $1. Proceeds from this event benefit local cancer patients.
The Folly Jazz Festival | November 5th & 6th
Music lovers, rejoice! Make plans to attend the annual Folly Beach Jazz Festival, a free musical event created to celebrate the culture and education of the Lowcountry. The two-night event will feature national, regional, and local performers, including area high school and university ensembles. Folly will host several stages that will feature more than 20 performances over the weekend, all of which are free to the public!
2.) Empty Beaches, Fewer Crowds
Gone are the summer crowds that set up camp for weeks on end during June and July. The end of summer means that kids are back in schools and families are back in work mode, leaving plenty of room for couples and groups of friends to move in and spread out. Not only will you find the beach to be a bit more enjoyable with the smaller crowds, but you will also notice fewer lines at local restaurants and shops. And, speaking of crowds, the dreaded summer traffic will be a thing of the past after Labor Day; trips to downtown of other parts of Charleston are a breeze! Fall is definitely the perfect time of year for guests who like to enjoy all that the beach has to offer but who don’t enjoy the hustle and bustle of the summer crowds.
3.) Ideal Lowcountry Weather
Fall in Folly Beach welcomes more than just a drop in crowds. Temperatures in the fall average in the 60’s and 70’s, a welcomed change from the 80’s and 90’s of the summer. The water is still warm enough to enjoy a full day at the beach and is comfortable enough for other outdoor activities, like al fresco dining (check out these great Folly Beach restaurants for inspiration) or enjoying our on-site Jacuzzi. You really can’t beat the fall weather in Folly!
4.) Fantastic Fall Deals
Fall also welcomes great, affordable rates on our scenic bed and breakfast rooms. Each room features unique, cozy decor and furnishings to help you feel right at home. Additionally, guests will enjoy either a private balcony or patio and upgraded tubs and showers that provide a spa-like retreat. Rates for our rooms begin to fall after summer, allowing guests to enjoy a longer, more affordable Folly Beach vacation!
Peruse our guest rooms here to find your perfect getaway.
It’s not hard to figure out why Fall is such a popular time to visit Folly Beach! The ideal beach weather, exciting local events, and affordable rates keep guests flocking back year after year.
Be sure to check out our fantastic fall rates to start planning your fall getaway!