Parking at Folly Beach County Park: Tips and Information

Folly Beach is a beloved destination for both visitors and locals alike. However, during the peak summer months, finding parking can be a challenge, especially on weekends. If you find yourself struggling to secure a spot, there is a solution that might just save the day.

Instead of driving around aimlessly or settling for a less-than-ideal parking situation, consider heading south on W. Ashley Avenue until you reach Folly Beach County Park. This park offers ample parking for a fee per vehicle and is a great option for those who want to avoid the hassle of searching for a spot.

Folly Beach County Park: One of Charleston’s Hidden Gems

As a frequent visitor to Folly Beach, I can attest to the fact that finding a parking spot can be a hassle. However, Folly Beach County Park offers a large parking lot that can accommodate many vehicles, making it a great option for those who want to avoid the stress of finding a spot.

Operated by the Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission (CCPRC), Folly Beach County Park is well-maintained and offers several amenities. Multiple beach access points provide visitors with easy access to the ocean, and there are bathrooms and outdoor showers available for public use. Additionally, there is a small concession stand and picnic area near the entrance, making it a great spot for a day at the beach.

While parking fees vary depending on the season, they are reasonable compared to other parking options on the island. The CCPRC provides a list of current parking fees on its website, and visitors pay the fee upon entering the park. The best part is that there are no meters to feed, so visitors can enjoy their day at the beach without worrying about moving their vehicle.

For Charleston locals, the CCPRC Gold Pass is a great option for frequent visitors to Folly Beach County Park. This pass provides free parking at the park and most other CCPRC facilities, making it a worthwhile investment for families who enjoy spending time outdoors.

Overall, Folly Beach County Park is a hidden gem that offers a stress-free parking experience and several amenities for visitors. Whether you are a local or just visiting Charleston, this park is definitely worth a visit for a relaxing day at the beach.

5 Reasons to Visit Folly Beach County Park

If you’re planning a trip to Folly Beach, you might be wondering where to go and what to do. While there are many options available, Folly Beach County Park is definitely worth a visit. Here are five reasons why:

1. The Parking

Finding parking at Folly Beach County Park is generally much easier than finding parking anywhere else on the island during peak season. The parking lot has 225 parking spots, and while it can fill up, your chances of finding a spot are much better than elsewhere. If you get there early, you are almost guaranteed to find parking.

2. The Space

Since Folly Beach County Park isn’t as heavily trafficked as other areas of the island, you can expect to have more space on the beach to yourself. This is especially true if you head past the end of the parking lot to the southern tip of the island. You can even walk around the tip of the island to the river side; and, while you won’t have ocean waves crashing on the sand, you may have the sand all to yourself. For those who like peace and quiet, the southern tip of Folly is the place to go.

3. The Views

The views at Folly Beach County Park are pretty spectacular. Instead of endless rows of condos and beach homes, you will be surrounded by Folly Island’s natural beauty. At the southern end of the island, you can look across the water to Bird Key, and further in the distance you can see the undisturbed north beach of Kiawah Island.

4. The Amenities

While you might not be able to walk to Center Street for lunch, you will have access to the amenities you need for a comfortable day at the beach. The bathrooms and outdoor showers are in good shape, and the access points through the dunes are accessible for individuals of all ages and abilities. As noted above, there is a seasonal snack bar in the park as well, and there are equipment rentals if you need them.

5. The Option to Head Back Toward Center Street Later in the Day

While it can be difficult to find parking in Folly Beach during the peak season, the island’s parking challenges start to subside toward the end of the day. So, you can enjoy the beach in the morning and afternoon, and then you can head back toward Center Street and the Folly Beach Pier later in the day. At this point, people are starting to go home, and fewer visitors are coming onto the island. This means that there is a decent chance you will be able to find a free parking spot within walking distance of the restaurant of your choosing.

Overall, Folly Beach County Park is a great option for those looking for a quieter, more natural beach experience. With ample parking, plenty of space, beautiful views, and all the amenities you need, it’s definitely worth a visit.

Planning Your Trip to Folly Beach County Park

If you’re planning a trip to Folly Beach County Park, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make the most of your visit. Based on my experience, here are some tips for planning your trip:

• Park Hours – Folly Beach County Park opens at 8:00am every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day, when it is closed. If you plan to get to the park when it opens, you will have your pick of places to park.
• Parking Fees – The parking fee varies depending on the season. From May to Labor Day, the fee is $15 on weekdays and $20 on weekends and holidays. From March to April and September to October, the fee is $10. From January to February and November to December, the fee is $5. There is also public parking available in the lots at the beach access points on most city blocks. Parking in these lots costs $2 per hour or $10 daily, which can be paid in the parking meter pay stations. Note that the rate varies for special events. Meters are enforced from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Sunday, excluding Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
• Beach Access Points – There are several beach access points with public parking available. You can park in the lots at these access points for a fee or find street parking nearby. However, be aware of fire hydrants and other no parking zones, as well as limited parking on some streets.
• Operation – Folly Beach County Park has a capacity of 225 parking spots and usually fills to capacity by 10:30 a.m. on weekends and holidays, with spots becoming available again more consistently late-afternoon. When the parking lot is full, look for City of Folly Beach parking lots on West Ashley Avenue to prevent the blocking of roads and driveways.
• Holidays – Folly Beach County Park is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
• Meters and Paystations – Meters are enforced from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Sunday, excluding Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Paystations are available for parking fees at the public parking lots.
• Buses and Campers – Buses and campers are not permitted in the park.
• City of Folly Beach Parking Ordinances – Be aware of the city of Folly Beach parking ordinances, including no parking in certain areas and limited parking on some streets.
• Department of Public Safety – The Department of Public Safety enforces parking regulations and can issue citations for violations.

By following these tips, you can plan a successful trip to Folly Beach County Park. Remember to respect the park’s rules and regulations, and enjoy your time at the beach.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the parking rates at Folly Beach County Park?

As of the current date, the parking rate at Folly Beach County Park is $10 per vehicle per day. Visitors can pay using the parking meter pay stations located at the beach access points. The rate may vary for special events, so visitors are advised to check the official website for updates.

Is overnight parking permitted at Folly Beach County Park?

No, overnight parking is not permitted at Folly Beach County Park. The park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset, and all vehicles must be removed from the park by the time it closes.

Where can visitors find the least crowded parking areas at Folly Beach?

The parking areas at Folly Beach County Park tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak season. However, visitors can try parking at the far end of the park, near the river, as it is usually less crowded. Visitors can also try arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon to find available parking spots.

How can I obtain a parking pass for Folly Beach County Park?

Visitors can purchase an annual parking pass for Folly Beach County Park online or in person at the park office. The pass costs $100 and is valid for one year from the date of purchase. Visitors must provide proof of residency or property ownership in Charleston County to be eligible for the pass.

Are there any designated areas for free parking near Folly Beach?

No, there are no designated areas for free parking near Folly Beach County Park. All parking areas in the park require payment of the daily parking fee.

What are the parking regulations to be aware of when visiting Folly Beach?

Visitors must park with the flow of traffic and not park in a crosswalk or within 20 feet of an intersection or 30 feet of a stop sign. Visitors must also obey all parking signs and pay the daily parking fee at the parking meter pay stations. Failure to comply with the parking regulations may result in a fine or towing of the vehicle at the owner’s expense.