Most people flock to Folly when it’s warm and sultry. Understandably, the beach is the big draw, and it’s fun to frolic in the ocean and lounge like a lizard on the sand. But, it can be really hot. And sticky. And crowded.
Locals and those in the know have a favorite season - the off-season. For one, it’s quieter. No lines of traffic to get on to the island. No need to wait forever for a table at your favorite restaurant. You can still visit the beach - maybe not to swim - but November through February is mild in South Carolina, and it’s fairly normal for temperatures to be in the 50s and 60s. Add the sun that sparkles on the ocean and miles of open beach, and …well, it’s pretty perfect.
We have open dates at our Water’s Edge town home for the rest of January and most of February. Our rates until March 1 are the lowest of the year, and winter season is a great time to experience Folly.
What to do?
Head to the beach! Stroll - Take a morning or afternoon run. Fly a kite. You’ll see plenty of locals with their dogs. And isn’t it true that any time of year it’s soothing to hear waves break on the shore and smell the salt air?
Look for shark teeth - The best time find them is early in the morning, after high tide, or after a storm.
Take a bike ride - Head to the east end of the island (about 5 miles from our home). Once you’re there, you will have a great view of the Morris Island Lighthouse and can explore the driftwood-strewn beach.
Try a new restaurant - Several have opened, including Wiki Wiki Sandbar - a mid century modern restaurant with five unique artist-inspired rooms that combines Hawaiian food with Southern eats.
See Charleston - If you’re here on a weekend, head into Charleston where you can take a tour, head to a show, shop along King Street, or just explore the unique and historic neighborhoods of this beautiful city.
Experience local festivals - There’s always a festival or event. For example, Sunday January 27 is the Lowcountry Oyster Festival, rated one of the top 20 events in the Southeast. Highlights include the oyster shucking and oyster eating contests, live music, a food court with top-rated Charleston restaurants, a children’s area - all in the lawn and gardens of Boone Hall Plantation, a historic antebellum home on the banks of Wampacheone Creek.
Like jazz? - The 5th annual Charleston Jazz Festival from Jan. 24-27 will bring talented jazz artists to a number of venues to perform everything from swing to salsa, blues to Brazilian.
Wildlife enthusiast? - Those who love wildlife will want to be here from Feb 15-17 for the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition. This is a huge event in Charleston and brings together anyone who loves nature. Fine art, conservation education, demonstrations (sheep and duck herding among them), Jeff Corwin, fashion, petting zoo, food… Tickets are $50 for all three days or $25 per day; Sunday is $15.