A breakdown of Charleston’s best beaches
Driftwood Beach
Not too far outside of Charleston, on the north side of Edisto Island, is Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve and Wildlife Management. Worth the drive, and about a half mile walk through the marsh and hammock islands, you’ll come to a preserved beach crowded with gigantic deadwood trees scattered among the sand. Other-worldly, you’ve likely never seen, nor will anywhere else, a beach like this before. Heavily protected — leaving or removing items is prohibited, and swimming is not advised due to dangers under the water — there’s no sign of human interference, aside from conch shells delicately balanced on the trunks of a select few trees.
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Morris Island Lighthouse
If you’re feeling up for a short hike, drive to the north end of Folly Beach, where a quarter mile stroll will lead you to a view of Morris Island Lighthouse. One a thriving island, erosion and rising tides has left this lighthouse abandoned and isolated about a half mile off-shore. Though low-tides expose sandbars, don’t walk on them due to swift currents and rapidly-changing tides. Instead, for a closer look, consider a boat or kayak tour.
Sullivan’s ISland
A quiet beach town, Sullivan’s Island is a favorite among the locals. Off street parking is easy to find, and publicly accessible boardwalks leading to the beach are commonly found. Station 22 1/2 is the main beach access, or drive to the south end of island to Station 12 where you can explore Fort Moultrie or dolphin watch with views of Fort Sumter in the distance. On the main road, you’ll find a stretch of restaurants, but the one’s you have to try are The Longboard and The Obstinate Daughter, both great options for happy hour or dinner.
Isle of Palms
Just north of Sullivan’s Island is Isle of Palms, locally-known as IOP. The Isle of Palms County Park hosts beachfront views, picnic areas, a playground, and a pier. Palm-tree lined streets have an abundance of free parking, with public beach access every other block, or so.
FOLLY BEACH
Folly Beach is small island beach town with laid-back vibes. The only surfing beach in the area (most of Charleston’s beaches are dangerous to swim in due to strong rip tides and sudden deep spots — be sure to always follow the signs), head to The Washout or grab your longboard to surf at The Pier, which stretches over 1,000 feet into the ocean. Go parasailing, ride bikes, or dine at one of the several restaurants and bars in the area.
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