- Mini fridge and coffee maker
- Flat-screen TV and complimentary Wi-Fi
- Heated oceanfront swimming pool
- Poolside tiki bar and gift shop
- Pet-friendly accommodations (fees apply)
- Guest services available, including On the Coast Concierge
Folly Beach Hotel Amenities: Eat, Drink & Play
You’re in for a built-in beach experience. Not all hotels near Charleston, SC, beach areas put you this close to the sand, the Folly Beach Pier, and Morris Island Lighthouse, and still offer fun amenities and full-service dining.
Plan Charleston Beach Days, Your Way
As the only full-service oceanfront hotel in Folly Beach, Tides keeps the sand, views, and Lowcountry attractions close so you can spend your vacation doing what you love best:
- Explore nearby sights—Morris Island Lighthouse, Folly Beach Pier, and the beach town—plus Charleston is just 20 minutes away.
- Book one-of-a-kind adventures, such as surf lessons, a fishing charter, or a kayak safari, then hit up the Folly
- Beach nightlife to keep the fun going after sundown.
- Enjoy days-long hangs on the scenic oceanfront, where you can stroll the shoreline and walk to the pier, indulge in beachfront dining, and sip drinks poolside.
Steps Away …
Everything’s nearby.
The beach starts at your door.
Folly Beach is the kind of place you sink into and forget to leave. Good thing the best of it — the sand, the pier, the surf — is all right outside your door.
- Toes in the sand
- 0 steps
- Center Street shops & eats
- 1 block
- Folly Beach Fishing Pier
- 2 min walk
230 feet
2.5 miles
Tides Folly Beach is proud to offer the only true oceanfront dining experience in Charleston. Expect the restaurants at Tides to live up to the locale, providing beach-party atmospheres complete with live music, coastal comfort food, creative cocktails, and always-on service.
- Pinky’s on the Beach: This bold Folly Beach restaurant feels like a 1950s beach hangout with pinball, live music, and spot-on food. Try the delectable crab cakes, fresh seafood tacos, or stone-baked pizza with a specialty frozen drink. Dine alfresco on the oceanfront patio or inside in a pink Cadillac booth!
- Koko’s on the Pier Tiki Bar and Kitchen: Brings a Lowcountry Luau to the Folly Beach Pier, just steps from the hotel. This oceanfront restaurant serves Southern food with a Polynesian flair and tropical cocktails. The live music and events are worth planning around.
- Roasted Coffee + Shop: Start each day off easy at the hotel’s coffee shop that serves hot breakfast sandwiches and grab-and-go pastries, plus hot and iced coffee that you can enjoy on your private patio or at a spot on the sand.
Near Charleston for
Weddings & Gatherings
Say yes to Tides Folly Beach hotel for a take-your-breath-away oceanfront location for your big day. See how our ceremony packages and indoor and outdoor venues can make your wedding the event of the season.
Special Events
If you’re looking for a Charleston beach hotel for a team-building event, a meeting, or a family celebration, Tides is the perfect place to host. With connections for catering and activities, and indoor and outdoor banquet spaces, you’ll enjoy a seamless event in Folly Beach.
Plan Your Folly Beach WeddingFrequently Asked Questions
Hotel Overview
Why should I stay at Tides Folly Beach?
Tides Folly Beach is the only full-service oceanfront hotel on Folly Beach, offering guaranteed ocean views from every guest room, direct beach access, a heated oceanfront pool, beachfront dining at Pinky’s on the Beach, and a tiki kitchen located nextdoor at the Folly Beach Pier. Tides is within walking distance of Folly’s nightlife and shopping. Located only 20–25 minutes from historic downtown Charleston, Tides lets you experience both the beach and the city during one unforgettable getaway.
Is Tides Folly Beach the only oceanfront hotel on Folly Beach?
Yes. Tides Folly Beach is the only full-service oceanfront hotel on Folly Beach. Every guest room features a private balcony or patio with a direct view of the Atlantic Ocean, giving every guest a true beachfront experience.
What is Tides Folly Beach known for?
Tides Folly Beach is known for its unbeatable oceanfront location, guaranteed ocean views from every room, direct beach access, heated oceanfront pool, Pinky’s on the Beach, Koko’s on the Pier, and its walkable location in the heart of Folly Beach. It’s also the closest beach hotel to historic downtown Charleston.
What makes Tides Folly Beach different from other Charleston beach hotels?
Unlike other Charleston-area beach hotels, Tides is located directly on Folly Beach and is the island’s only full-service oceanfront hotel. Every room faces the Atlantic Ocean, and guests enjoy beachfront dining, a heated oceanfront pool, direct beach access, and the convenience of walking to Folly Beach’s shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
Should I stay in downtown Charleston or on Folly Beach?
If you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation without giving up Charleston’s historic attractions, Tides offers the best of both worlds. Guests enjoy an oceanfront escape on Folly Beach while remaining just 20–25 minutes from downtown Charleston’s restaurants, shopping, museums, and historic sites.
Plan Your Stay
What are your check-in and check-out times?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM, and check-out is at 11:00 AM. Guests are welcome to arrive early and enjoy the beach, restaurants, or luggage storage while we prepare their room.
Can I check in early?
Early check-in may be available based on occupancy and room availability. We recommend contacting the Front Desk on the day of your arrival, and our team will do everything possible to accommodate your request.
Can I request a late check-out?
Yes. Late check-out requests are accommodated whenever possible based on availability. Please contact the Front Desk during your stay to inquire.
Can I store my luggage before check-in or after check-out?
Yes. Complimentary luggage storage is available before check-in and after check-out, allowing you to maximize your time enjoying Folly Beach without carrying your bags.
Do you offer on-site parking?
Yes. On-site parking is available exclusively for registered hotel guests for a fee and is restricted to one vehicle per reservation. Please contact the hotel for current parking rates and details.
Eats & Drinks
What dining options are available at Tides Folly Beach?
Tides offers three unique dining experiences just steps from the ocean. Enjoy coastal-inspired favorites and tropical cocktails at Pinky’s on the Beach, seafood and tiki drinks over the Atlantic at Koko’s on the Pier, or coffee, breakfast, and grab-and-go items at Roasted Coffee + Shop, proudly serving Starbucks®.
Where can I get breakfast at Tides Folly Beach?
Guests can start the day at Roasted Coffee + Shop, proudly serving Starbucks® coffee, breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and grab-and-go favorites.
Does Tides Folly Beach have beachfront dining?
Yes. Pinky’s on the Beach offers oceanfront dining just steps from the sand, serving coastal-inspired casual cuisine, island cocktails, and relaxed beach vibes throughout the day.
Can you eat on the Folly Beach Pier?
Yes. Koko’s on the Pier offers one of Folly Beach’s most unique dining experiences, serving seafood, coastal favorites, and tiki-inspired cocktails with panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean.
What is Pinky’s on the Beach known for?
Pinky’s is known for its fun, laid-back atmosphere, colorful cocktails, wood-fired pizzas, fresh coastal cuisine, full moon parties, and unbeatable beachfront setting. It’s a favorite gathering place for hotel guests, locals, and visitors alike.
Charleston & Folly Beach
What is Folly Beach known for?
Folly Beach is known for its laid-back beach town atmosphere, wide sandy beaches, surfing, fishing, vibrant local restaurants, colorful shops, and iconic fishing pier. Located just 20–25 minutes from historic downtown Charleston, it’s the perfect destination for travelers seeking a relaxed coastal escape.
Is Folly Beach worth visiting?
Absolutely. Folly Beach combines beautiful Atlantic beaches, outdoor adventure, local restaurants, live music, surfing, fishing, and easy access to Charleston’s history and culture. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, romantic getaway, or weekend escape, Folly offers something for everyone.
Should I stay in Charleston or Folly Beach?
If you’re looking for the best of both worlds, stay at Tides Folly Beach. You’ll enjoy a true oceanfront vacation while remaining just a short drive from Charleston’s renowned restaurants, shopping, museums, and historic attractions.
Can I walk to restaurants and shops from Tides Folly Beach?
Yes. Tides is located at the end of Center Street, putting guests within easy walking distance of Folly Beach’s restaurants, surf shops, boutiques, bars, coffee shops, and entertainment.
What is Center Street on Folly Beach?
Center Street is the heart of Folly Beach, lined with locally owned restaurants, surf shops, boutiques, ice cream shops, live music venues, and beach outfitters. It’s just steps from Tides Folly Beach.
Weddings & Groups
Can I host my wedding at Tides Folly Beach?
Yes. Tides Folly Beach offers a beautiful oceanfront setting for weddings of all sizes. From barefoot beach ceremonies to elegant receptions overlooking the Atlantic, our experienced events team will help create a celebration that’s uniquely yours.
Why choose Tides Folly Beach for a beach wedding?
Tides combines breathtaking ocean views, direct beach access, exceptional coastal cuisine, oceanfront guest rooms, and personalized service to create one of the Charleston area’s most memorable wedding destinations.
Can I have my ceremony on the beach?
Yes. Beach ceremonies can be arranged directly in front of Tides, subject to local permitting requirements and tide conditions. Our events team can help coordinate every detail of your oceanfront celebration.
Can Tides host an entire wedding weekend?
Absolutely. Many couples host welcome parties, rehearsal dinners, beach ceremonies, receptions, farewell brunches, and guest accommodations all at Tides, creating a seamless destination wedding experience.
Surf, Sun & Sea
Is Folly Beach a good place to surf?
Yes. Folly Beach is one of the East Coast’s most popular surf destinations, welcoming everyone from first-time surfers to experienced riders. Consistent waves, warm water during much of the year, and a laid-back surf culture make it a favorite destination for surfers of all skill levels.
Where can I take surf lessons on Folly Beach?
Several local surf schools and outfitters offer lessons for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Our team is happy to recommend trusted local instructors and help arrange lessons during your stay.
What is The Washout on Folly Beach?
The Washout is Folly Beach’s most famous surf break, attracting experienced surfers from across the country. Located on the eastern end of the island, it’s known for producing some of South Carolina’s best waves when conditions are right.
Can I go paddleboarding near Tides Folly Beach?
Yes. Paddleboarding is one of Folly Beach’s most popular activities. Guests can rent equipment nearby or join guided tours through the island’s scenic marshes, tidal creeks, and waterways.
Where can I go kayaking on Folly Beach?
Folly Beach offers excellent kayaking through its tidal creeks, salt marshes, and estuaries. Guided eco-tours provide opportunities to see dolphins, shorebirds, and other Lowcountry wildlife.
Fall & Winter Escapes
Is Folly Beach worth visiting in the fall and winter?
Absolutely. Fall and winter are some of the best times to experience Folly Beach. Guests enjoy mild coastal temperatures, peaceful beaches, spectacular sunrises, fewer crowds, and easy access to Charleston’s festivals, holiday events, and acclaimed dining scene.
What is Folly Beach like in the fall?
Fall brings warm ocean breezes, comfortable daytime temperatures, smaller crowds, and some of the year’s most beautiful sunsets. It’s an ideal season for beach walks, surfing, fishing, outdoor dining, and exploring Charleston without peak summer crowds.
Is Folly Beach a good winter getaway?
Yes. Winter offers a peaceful coastal escape with uncrowded beaches, mild temperatures compared to much of the country, oceanfront dining, and the opportunity to pair relaxing beach days with Charleston’s holiday celebrations and cultural attractions.
Can you still enjoy the beach during the winter?
Absolutely. While swimming depends on personal preference and the weather, many guests spend winter days walking the shoreline, collecting shells, photographing wildlife, surfing, fishing, relaxing by the ocean or one of our firepits at Pinky’s on the Beach.
Is fall a good time for a romantic getaway to Folly Beach?
Yes. Cooler temperatures, quieter beaches, oceanfront sunsets, and cozy dinners at Pinky’s on the Beach or Koko’s on the Pier make fall one of the most romantic times to visit Folly Beach.
Pet Friendly
Is Tides Folly Beach pet-friendly?
Yes. Tides Folly Beach welcomes dogs in designated pet-friendly accommodations, making it easy to enjoy an unforgettable beach vacation with your four-legged family member. Please contact the hotel for current pet fees, availability, and policies.
Are dogs allowed on Folly Beach?
Yes. Dogs are welcome on Folly Beach year-round, but the City of Folly Beach has seasonal regulations. From May 1 through September 30, dogs are not permitted on the beach between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Outside of those hours—and throughout much of the fall and winter—dogs are welcome on the beach while leashed and under their owner’s control.
Do dogs have to be on a leash at Folly Beach?
Yes. The City of Folly Beach requires dogs to be leashed and under their owner’s control while on the beach. Owners are also responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Please note that local ordinances can change, so we recommend reviewing current city regulations before your visit.
When is the best time to visit Folly Beach with a dog?
Fall and winter are wonderful times to bring your dog to Folly Beach. Cooler temperatures, fewer visitors, and expanded beach access make it easier to enjoy long walks along the shoreline together. It’s one of the best seasons for a pet-friendly coastal getaway.
Can I bring my dog to the beach during the summer?
Yes. During the summer season (May 1–September 30), dogs are welcome on the beach before 10:00 AM and after 6:00 PM. These cooler hours are often more comfortable for both pets and their owners.
