Folly Beach Dog Rules, SC | New Laws 2025
Folly Beach is a famous dog-friendly beach in South Carolina. However, if you bring pets to this beach, you must abide by some rules and restrictions.
The beach has been there for nearly 50 years. It is an excellent place to organize weddings, bachelor parties, and other functions. Popular events at this beach are Ice Skating, the Christmas Parade, the Sea & Sand Festival, the Bill Murray Polar Plunge, and live music shows.
This dog-friendly beach offers a variety of enjoyable sports, including kayaking, swimming, paddle boarding, biking, and surfing, as well as stunning scenery for mesmerizing photographs.

Learn about Folly Beach dog rules in SC! Discover leash regulations, pet-friendly times, and seasonal restrictions to enjoy a hassle-free visit with your furry companion.
Folly Beach Dog Rules and Laws, SC
- From 1 May to 30 September, dogs are prohibited on this beach from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. During this time, dogs are allowed only on a leash between 6 p.m. and 10 a.m.
- Leashed dogs are permitted on the beach from 1st October through 30th April.
- Animals should never be confined and unaccompanied in a vehicle.
- On the island’s eastern side, near Old Coast Guard Station, dogs are prohibited at any time.
- Pet owners should be careful about pet waste and dispose of it correctly.
- Members of FIDO may have unleashed dogs per FIDO membership regulations only.
Note:- Breaching these rules might result in a maximum $500 fine.
Folly Beach Rules and Guidelines for Dogs, SC
Folly Beach Dog License
Dog licenses are available for Folly Beach residents who have lived there for more than 30 days. Permits can be applied for through the city’s official website, and licenses must be renewed annually.
About Dog-Friendly Folly Beach, Charleston, South Carolina
Folly Beach in South Carolina is among the true-last beaches of America. It’s in close vicinity of downtown Charleston. The history of Folly Beach comprises stories about pirates, soldiers, shipwrecks & dancing.
After facing many hardships, the beach has transformed into a thriving community. This famous 12 sq mi barrier island attracts tourists throughout the year. Folly gives out a laid-back and funky vibe.
The beach is a mecca for fishermen, surfers, and beach lovers. Thousands of visitors visit Folly Beach to enjoy live music, bars & restaurants, a beautiful pier, and other fun indulgences. Activities like kayaking, fishing, sailing, surfing, paddle boarding, and photography are enjoyed on the beach.
- Dog-friendly Restaurants: Lost Dog Cafe, Rita’s Seaside Grille, Loggerhead’s Beach Grill
- Oceanfront Dog-Friendly Hotels: Hotels with pet-friendly atmospheres include Tides, Hotel Folly, Best Western Charleston Inn, Laa Quinta Inn, and Hampton Inn.
- Rentals: Charleston SUP Safaris, Folly Beach Golf Carts, Folly Beach Chair Company, and Mike’s Bikes.
- Parking: Folly Parking, Parking Charleston
- Beach Hours: January – March, October – December: 8 AM – Sunset, April: 7 AM – 10 PM, May – September: 6 AM – 11 PM.

Things to Do in Folly Beach
- Enjoy walking & strolling along the fishing pier on Folly Beach.
- Indulge in private sightseeing, cruise rides, tasty wine, and sunset-watching with family.
- Sail along the salt marshes on the barrier islands.
- Explore the restaurants in the city serving delicious seafood.
- Enjoy picnics, outdoor showers, and relaxing swims at Folly Beach County Park.
- Take a tour of Magnolia Plantation & Garden and Charleston Water Taxi with your pet.
- Enjoy ghost tours conducted at Old Charleston.
- Enjoy bird watching at Bird Key. Species like herons, pelicans, black skimmers, and gulls are glimpsed.
- Indulge in water activities & sports such as kayaking, fishing, sailing, surfing, paddle boarding, para-gliding, windsurfing, and more. Lucky tourists also get to glimpse the endangered North Atlantic right whale.
- Enjoy food, booze, music, and entertainment at various events & festivals organized on the beach. The Sea and Sand Festival, FollyPalooza, Taste of Folly, etc., are famous events.
- Visit the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve and stroll amidst nature.
Folly Beach Rules
- Smoking is prohibited on the beach, in walkovers, in parking lots for paid beach access, or at beach access points.
- Alcohol use or possession is prohibited on the beach.
- No glass, plastic bags, open flames, balloons, or Styrofoam are permitted on the beach.
- No littering; Remove personal items from the beach after sunset.
- Camping is not allowed anywhere, including on the beach, within the City of Folly Beach’s boundaries.
Are there any restrictions on Folly Beach?
Yes, though the beach is pet-friendly, there are some rules and regulations to abide by if anyone wants to bring their pet to the beach. The rules have already been discussed above in detail.
What are some dog-friendly beaches of Charleston?
There are many dog-friendly beaches in Charleston, such as Morris Island, Sullivan’s Island, Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, etc.
Is Charleston beaches dog-friendly?
Though there are several beaches in Charleston, only some are dog-friendly. The dog-friendly beaches of Charleston are Morris Island, Sullivan’s Island, Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, etc.
What time can dogs go to Folly Beach?
Leashed Dogs are permitted on the beach from 1 October to 30 April. From 1 May to 30 September, dogs are prohibited on the beach from 10 am to 6 pm. You can take dogs on the beach at other times of the day, but they must be on a leash.
Can you drink on Folly Beach?
No, drinking on the beach is prohibited.

Conclusion
Folly Beach attracts folks from around the world for its nature. The beach is spread across six miles and is ideal for surfing, fishing, biking, and kayaking. The place is also home to endangered species, mainly loggerhead sea turtles and Wilson’s plover. The sunset on this beach is mesmerizing to view in the evenings.
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