While some say it traces its name to an old English term for dense vegetation and others point to an equally old French term meaning delight, there’s no doubt that Folly Island – usually just referred to as Folly Beach for the town that encompasses virtually the entire island – is both lush and appealing. But judging by another name it was once known by, you’d certainly think neither was the case.
Once commonly referred to as Coffin Island, even appearing that way on some maps of the time, Folly Island was one of several barrier islands on which ships were required to deposit sick passengers before moving into Charleston Harbor, thereby reducing the risk of disease epidemics there. On their trip out of the harbor, ships would stop and pick up those passengers that were still alive and bury those that weren’t.
Being the closest beach to the heart of Charleston (just 10 miles away), it was only natural that Folly Beach would ultimately develop into a playground instead of a cemetery. Known by Charlestonians as “the edge of America,” the island was already a popular vacation destination when noted American composer George Gershwin and author DuBose Heyward came there in 1934 to work on the acclaimed Porgy and Bess folk opera. The island continues to be a popular vacation destination and offers a wide variety of housing for those looking to make the Carolina coast their home.
Homes, townhomes, condos and villas can be found along the island’s six miles of beaches as well as miles of miles of river and Intracoastal Waterway frontage, marshes and tidal creeks. A favorite destination for returning vacationers year after year, the island offers some of the state’s best values in coastal property and is typically a hot Charleston real estate market for those looking to invest in a vacation rental.
One of the East Coast’s more popular surfing spots, Folly Beach offers a laid back vibe with a classic beach community’s “downtown” and a wide variety of recreational opportunities. For fishermen there’s the Taylor Fishing Pier, one of the longest on the coast, as well as numerous charter fishing companies. The island also offers excellent bird watching, canoeing, beachcombing, shrimping and bike riding. Be sure to check out the Morris Island Lighthouse, which dates to 1693, as well as numerous Revolutionary War and Civil War sites.
Folly Beach is one of the finest places to live or vacation in the Charleston area. If you're wanting to see more, call us! We'll be happy to take you on a tour!
Slip C-12 has a 30' dock and accommodates a 33' boat. The marina has electrical, water, a full time dock master, showers, restrooms and private parking. Private, gated co...
Imagine a life where the ocean breeze is part of every morning, the marsh becomes your backdrop at sunset, and the best days end gathered with the people you love. This r...
Folly Beach living under $500,000! Discover the laid back coastal lifestyle at Marsh Winds with this spacious 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom condo offering 1,392 square feet of co...
Located on a prime Folly Beach corner lot just steps from the beach, 720 W Ashley Ave is a newly completed coastal retreat that blends timeless Lowcountry architecture wi...
Welcome to 919 East Ashley, affectionately known as ''Follynesia'', a sophisticated coastal retreat offering a rare combination of luxury, privacy, and effortless access ...
Newly completed on approximately 1.22 acres, this private Folly Beach retreat offers ocean, marsh, and river views just one block from the beach and near Sunset Cay Marin...
This might be the best Back Bay condo. It's situated on the marsh and has an awesome top floor deck in the tower that is unique/private to this unit. Three large bedroom...
1A - Pearl A rare opportunity to own a luxury private oceanfront retreat on Folly Beach, perfectly positioned directly on the Atlantic with extraordinary views of the Fol...
1B - Opal Set directly on the ocean at 115 E Arctic Avenue, Opal is a luxury private oceanfront retreat offering spectacular views of the Atlantic and the iconic Folly Be...
Rare buildable homesite on Folly Beach's sought-after east end with tidal creek frontage and ocean, marsh and Ravenel Bridge views. A recent survey and soil test are alre...
Adorable 2-bedroom, 1-bath cottage located just three blocks from the beach with convenient public access. From the vibrant, island-inspired decor to the beautiful hardwo...
Your serene beach house has arrived. Located just steps from the ocean and a short stroll to local dining, this beautifully renovated bungalow is the ultimate Folly Beach...
A true Folly Beach gem! This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath Mariners Cay villa is one of the finest you will encounter, offering amazing views, thoughtful design, ...
Experience the beauty of Folly Beach from this oceanfront retreat with panoramic Atlantic views and private beach access just steps from the back door. Thoughtfully desig...
Perfectly tucked away on Michigan Avenue, this centrally located townhome offers the ideal combination of island living, convenience, and Lowcountry charm. Located just a...
Welcome to Mariners Cay Marina! Located on the Folly River. Private and gated with easy access to Lighthouse inlet, Kiawah/Seabrook, Morris Island, and the Stono River. D...
Welcome to Marshview Villas, where Lowcountry living meets convenience, recreation and coastal charm. This gated waterfront community offers one of the most amenity-rich ...
High Wooded Lot in the Middle of the Block (10' walk right of way for beach access on northside). Utilities Are Available at Lot. Mature Palms near the front of the Lot...
FULLY RENOVATED & OFFERED FULLY FURNISHED -- THE ULTIMATE TURNKEY FOLLY BEACH RETREAT!Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a beautifully updated condo in the gated com...
Rare opportunity to acquire Cole Island, a privately owned barrier island gracefully positioned at the confluence of the Folly River and Stono Inlet, just minutes from Fo...