Please be sure to follow all Folly Beach rules and regulations for beach use. These rules are designed to help everyone have a great day at the beach while keeping it clean and reducing environmental impact. Following the rules will keep Folly Beach an incredible place for many years to come. Enjoy your visit!
Environmental Protection
- SAND DUNES are protected and fragile. Beach Sea Oats and grass help protect the dunes. Stay off the dunes and use public walkovers, located at every block, to access the beach.
- NO PLASTIC BAGS, BALLOONS, OR STYROFOAM are allowed on the beach.
- NO LITTERING. Please take trash to the containers found at each beach access. Help us keep our beach clean so you and others can enjoy it now and in years to come.
- SEA TURTLES are an endangered species. Do not interfere with them. Lights are not allowed that illuminate the front beach between 10 pm and dawn from May 1st to October 31st. Hatchling turtles are disoriented by artificial light. Fill holes dug in sand before you leave the beach. If you see any adult sea turtles or hatchlings, call 843-588-2433 to report your sighting.
Public Safety
- STRONG RIP CURRENTS are common, so swim with caution. Lifeguards are provided at designated areas from May through Labor Day.
- NO OPEN FIRES or FIREWORKS are allowed at any time.
- NO GLASS is allowed on the beach.
- SURFING without a leash is prohibited. From May 15th to Sept. 15th, surfing is prohibited between 10 am and 6 pm from 2nd Street East to 3rd Street West, known as the swimming zone. From Sept. 16th to May 14th, surfing is allowed in any area except 200′ from the fishing pier.
Activities and Personal Items
- CAMPING IS PROHIBITED within the City of Folly Beach’s limits/jurisdiction, including on the beach.
- Also, PERSONAL ITEMS LEFT ON THE BEACH after sunset, such as tents, canopies, coolers, volleyball nets, and umbrellas, shall be considered abandoned. The City has the right to take possession and dispose of these items. Please ensure all personal property is removed when leaving the beach.
- WATERCRAFT can be stowed on the beachfront for 12 hours without a permit. They must not be pulled into the dunes or sand fences. Permits to stow watercraft can be obtained at Public Safety: 843-588-2433.
Folly Beach Dog Rules
- DOGS are not allowed on the beach from 10 am to 6 pm from May 1st to Sept. 30th. At all other times, they must be on a leash.
- DOGS are prohibited on the pier at all times.
- Additionally, Service Animals are allowed on the beach but must have proper documentation and identification. Emotional Support Animals are not allowed on the beach outside of regular dog hours.
Is Alcohol Allowed on Folly Beach?
No. Alcohol is not allowed on Folly Beach. Open containers of beer, wine, liquor, and other alcoholic beverages are prohibited on the beach and at public beach access areas.
Glass containers are also prohibited. Visitors should follow all local beach regulations and check current Folly Beach rules before visiting, as regulations and enforcement policies can change.
If you’re planning a beach day, bring water, snacks, and sunscreen, but leave alcoholic beverages and glass containers at home to avoid potential fines. Smoking is not allowed on the beach.
Explore More Folly Beach Guides
Visitors planning a trip to Folly Beach often explore these helpful guides:
Folly Beach Guide
Folly Beach Parking and Beach Access Guide
Charleston Beaches Guide