Heres what it’s crucial that you know to plan a trip to Folly Beach, South Carolina.

Meet the Expert

Jenny Brown is the founder and owner of Shaka Surf School in Folly Beach.

Stephanie Dasher is the executive director of Warrior Surf Foundation, a nonprofit that provides surf therapy to veterans.

Teenage girls relaxing on the beautiful beach, People enjoying summer vacation by the ocean.Girls walking on the beach. Cloudy sky and pier in the background. Folly Beach, South Carolina USA.

Credit:MargaretW/Getty Images

Ashby Gale is the owner and lead paleontologist of Charleston Fossil Adventures.

While each apartment has a different layout, they share a picture-perfect patio and beachy bar.

The patio features three outdoor showers, where you could wash any sand off before coming inside.

Backyard bar in Blackbeard’s Folly

Courtesy of AirBnb

One recent traveler described it as clean, close to everything, and filled with character.

In the words of Brown, Slow down and relax… youre on Folly.

This is especially pertinent advice for a beach day.

Family relaxing on the beautiful beach, People enjoying summer vacation by the ocean. Family sitting under beach umbrella. Cloudy sky and pier in the background. Folly Beach, South Carolina USA.

MargaretW/Getty Images

Take a surf lesson.

For Dasher, taking a surf lesson is a must-try activity for anyone seeking memorable experiences on Folly Beach.

Get a good look at Morris Island Lighthouse.

Seen through golden grass

Daniela Duncan/Getty Images

Daniela Duncan/Getty Images

Hunt for shark teeth and fossils.

We have adventures that leave by boat directly from Folly and other boat locations within a 30-minute drive.

As a bonus, youre more than welcome to bring your dog along for the experience.

Exterior of Alfredo’s on Folly

Courtesy of Alfredo’s on Folly

As you stroll down the street, keep an eye out forMr.

John’s Beach Store,Beachwear & Gifts,Islander, andPalms.

you could also turn onto East Avenue, where youll findFolly Sol, a local artisan boutique and gallery.

Aerial view of Folly Beach at sunset

Chris Marinaccio/Travel + Leisure

The off-season months, however, contain their own brand of magic.

Spring and fall are great… with smaller crowds, says Brown.

Plan your arrival carefully, as holidays and weekends frequently see traffic gridlocked 3 miles from the beach.

Folly Beach Fishing Pier, South Carolina.

Daniela Duncan/Getty Images

If youre staying overnight, Dasher recommends biking and walking.