kitchen countertopsNear Folly Beach, SC

Few local referendums have stirred as much passion, especially on a per-voter basis, as has Folly Beach’s upcoming vote in which city residents will decide whether short-term rental licenses should be capped at 800. We urge them to vote “yes,” because we believe every community should seek a responsible balance in its neighborhoods between full-time residents and commercial use.

While visitors from near and far have always made up a large part of Folly’s identity, many residents fear the balance is tipping permanently away from those wanting to live there full time. The island has about 2,600 properties, of which more than 1,000 — or about 40% — are now licensed and registered short-term rentals. More ominously, the city’s population has dropped sharply, from 2,617 in 2010 to only 2,071 a decade later, a 20% decline during a decade when our region saw a surge of new people moving in.

Folly residents took their concerns to City Council last summer, specifically asking it to consider this cap, and they were shut down within minutes. They then turned to a little-known and even less-used state law allowing them to put a proposed ordinance up for a binding public vote, provided they collect enough voters’ signatures. They did, and election day is Feb. 7.

Folly is far from the only municipality that has been seeking a proper balance between the economic vitality of short-term rentals and the relative stability and quietude of neighborhoods with mostly full-time, year-round residents. We have consistently urged local leaders to heed residents’ reasonable concerns about commercial encroachments along their residential streets and the problems with noise, parking and litter that some rentals bring.

Most cities allow short-term rentals, but with restrictions. Some have capped such rentals at a far lower number than Folly, while others have allowed homeowners to rent out only a room or two, provided they continue to live in their home. It’s an ongoing balancing act. Meanwhile, Folly has seen an increase in whole-house rentals that are altering the feel of its residential neighborhoods and creating mini-hotels in what once were single-family homes. If the trend continues unchecked, it’s reasonable to wonder if Folly will become so popular a place to go for a week that no one will want to live there year-round.

It’s important to note what this ordinance will and will not do. Those with short-term rental licenses may continue to operate, but it could be difficult or impossible to pass their license on to a new owner unless the city’s overall number of rentals dips below 800, which may take years. It’s unclear what effect it might have on homes currently under construction with the anticipation of getting such a license. In essence, investor-owned short-term rentals will remain a huge chunk of Folly’s housing stock in the years to come; the question voters will answer is whether those rentals gradually decline or continue to climb toward 50%, 60% or 70%.

But Folly voters should understand the Feb. 7 vote is by no means the final say. Even if voters put the ordinance on the books, Folly Beach City Council could amend it or repeal it down the road. And there certainly will be legal challenges.

While very few South Carolina municipalities have used this state law to set a binding vote on a proposed ordinance, the Folly Island Residents’ Association petitioned in 1984 for referendums on setting a height limitation of 40 feet in the commercial district and on rezoning a 57-acre tract for single-family homes, although no public vote was held until the balance of power on City Council shifted a year later.

Commercial interests and some individuals who own a beach house they rent out part time to help pay its expenses are urging residents to vote “no” on Feb. 7, arguing that a new cap of 800 short-term rentals could limit how fast Folly’s home prices climb. Voters ultimately must decide what they value most: their potential financial gain or their desire to ensure that most Folly homes remain places where people live for more than 30 days at a time.

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South Carolina is a southeastern state featuring miles of subtropical coastline. The area is a perfect getaway for families wanting fun in the sun or anyone who loves a good pastel-colored house. And the state has so much to offer when it comes to beaches, whether you are looking for luxury resorts on the water or a laid-back beach-bum vibe. Your perfect summer spot may be one of these top 10 best beaches in South Carolina. Find out where they’re located, what they offer, and the activities nearby.

1. Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island offers some of the best beaches on the East Coast. Plus, it’s a recreator’s paradise, from hiking, biking, boating, horseback riding, golfing, paddling, and more. But, most importantly, Hilton Head offers a year-round paradise for beachgoers. The Hilton Head Island Beach offers swimming, fishing, and water sports. And there are lifeguards on duty from April through September. If you’re looking for a more secluded spot with fewer tourists, check out Driessen Beach. When you’re not sunning in the sand or splashing in the water, you can schedule a sunset dolphin cruise, visit a coastal museum, or eat delicious seafood on the docks.

2. Folly Beach

Located south of Charleston on Folly Island, this beach offers miles of sandy beaches, charming shops and restaurants, picnic areas, plentiful wildlife, and historic places. Folly Beach is also known for its pier that stretches over 1,000 feet into the ocean, giving you an excellent view. Swimming is allowed at the beach, with access down every block. There are multiple beaches on the island, but Folly Beach County Park is a favorite. You will find many amenities for your vacation, such as boogie boards, umbrella rentals, and places to ride your bike along the beach. There are also boardwalks, shopping pavilions, eateries, and hotels.

3. Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is a golf resort and beach destination near Charleston. The area is known for its luxury resorts and beach homes for Hollywood celebrities, such as George Clooney and Reese Witherspoon. The beaches on Kiawah Island aren’t as open and accessible as Folly Beach, but they are definitely worth the visit. The public access beach is at Beachwalker County Park on the island’s west end. And if you stay at one of the resorts or rental properties, you will have access to the private beaches. The area is a natural paradise, featuring many parks for recreation and wildlife viewing. And, of course, a plethora of golf courses.

4. Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is easily one of the most popular and well-known beaches in South Carolina. But after one visit, you’ll see why. There is nothing quite like a summer vacation to Myrtle Beach. You can chill near the ocean, hang out at the resorts, dine at delicious restaurants, attend an annual event, or play at an amusement park. While summers are crowded, it is still an excellent time of year to visit if you want the full experience. All of the beach access areas are perfect for swimming, sunning, and water sports. However, the city has strict rules about swimming too far out. If you visit during the summer, you will experience fireworks on the water, fair rides, and plenty of fun events.

5. Sullivan’s Island

At the entrance of Charleston Harbor lies a long barrier island called Sullivan’s Island. While the beaches at Sullivan’s Island are smaller than Folly Beach, there are also less crowded and feature more natural unspoiled beauty. It is home to over two thousand residents who enjoy the area with fewer tourists than other South Carolina beaches. Stay at one of the nearby hotels and take a sunrise stroll along the beach. Or visit the Spoleto Festival and eat delicious food. If you’re looking for a popular swimming spot, check out the Cove behind the island. There are also plentiful public beach access points throughout the island.

6. Huntington Beach State Park

Located in Murrells Inlet, Huntington Beach State Park is the perfect destination for nature and wildlife lovers. Along with the beach, the area has numerous wetlands housing birds, turtles, and alligators. You can hike along trails that feature boardwalks over a lagoon or hang out at one of the many beaches. It offers preserved beaches, where you can really take in the beauty and rich wildlife of the area. But the state park also offers the usual vacation activities, such as swimming, fishing, surfing, boating, and camping. You can swim at your own risk throughout the park. But there is also a designated swimming area at South Beach with lifeguards on duty.

7. Isle of Palms

The Isle of Palms is a quaint yet lively resort community. There are miles of beaches, parks, trails, restaurants, and live music venues. The area has an upscale vibe, perfect for families or couples looking for a relaxing and quiet getaway without all of the partying teenagers. It offers world-class resorts and spas and clean, pristine beaches. You can spend the day shopping, dining, and enjoying the wildlife. Or lay in the sand and splash in the water. It’s a place where you can golf, visit a farmer’s market, and listen to live music near the water, all on the same day.

8. Edisto Beach

Edisto Beach is in Coleston County and is known for its gently developed beaches. The area is also very family-oriented, so it’s an excellent spot for those who prefer a more quiet, laid-back setting. However, swimming is at your own risk, as there are no lifeguards on duty. But the beaches are famous for their sea shells, which you can collect as you stroll along the sand. There are also plenty of areas for hiking and biking, with some trails crossing over boardwalks in the marshes. These trails are perfect for viewing wildlife, such as herons and egrets.

9. Pawleys Island

25 miles south of Myrtle Beach is a barrier island known as Pawleys Island. The island is four miles long and known for its pristine beaches, sand dunes, wetlands, historical areas, and gardens. This is another area that has a very laid-back vibe. You will find people walking barefoot, lounging in hammocks, and catching crabs in the creeks. There are also casual eaters with twinkling outdoor lights, featuring cuisines like shrimp creole, fried seafood, and oysters on the half shell. Pawleys Island is great for families, couples, and singles who want a fun, casual beach experience.

10. Surfside Beach

Nicknamed “the family beach,” Surfside offers two miles of coastline, hotels, restaurants, and a popular fishing pier. The area features family fun events all year, and their beach hotels have swimming pools and water parks right by the ocean. Ocean swimming is allowed in designated areas, and you can participate in water sports. It’s a short drive from Myrtle Beach but offers a quieter, family-oriented vibe. The beaches are also less crowded, giving you more space for your family to enjoy.

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About the Author

Niccoy is a professional writer and content creator focusing on nature, wildlife, food, and travel. She graduated Kappa Beta Delta from Florida State College with a business degree before realizing writing was her true passion. She lives in the Triangle area and enjoys hiking, reading, and cooking!

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The New Jersey high school graduate who went to college in South Carolina -- and sped into the back of a golf cart carrying a couple leaving their wedding reception, killing the bride in her wedding dress late last month -- allegedly had a blood alcohol content more than three times the legal limit, according to a redacted toxicology report.

Jamie Lee Komoroski had a BAC of 0.261 when she allegedly slammed her rental car into the back of a golf cart escorting 34-year-old Samantha Miller, of North Carolina, and her new husband, Aric Hutchinson, around 10 p.m. on April 28, according to the report.

It says she told a responding officer she thought she had been hit by something as she was heading toward her house, which was in the opposite direction.

Eventually, Komoroski told the officer she had "two drinks, one beer and a drink" -- and clarified upon questioning that the drink was "like a tequila pineapple an hour ago or so."

Data retrieved from the car indicated Komoroski was driving 65 mph and only briefly hit the brakes before she hit the golf cart on Folly Beach, an island near Charleston, investigators have said. Her car was destroyed, an image released along with the redacted toxicology report shows. The speed limit is 25 mph.

Miller was pronounced dead in her wedding dress. Hutchinson suffered a brain injury and multiple broken bones, and while he is expected to survive, the recovery will be long, according to his mother. She established a GoFundMe page to support her son as well as her son-in-law and grandson, who were the couple's golf cart escorts from the reception.

Komoroski, a 25-year-old who attended North Hunterdon High School and worked at a Flemington diner before launching her college career at Coastal Carolina University, refused sobriety tests at the scene, police said. She has hired a top former Garden State prosecutor to assist in her defense.

Christopher Gramiccioni, who stepped down as Monmouth County prosecutor in June 2021 after years in the position, released the first public statement on Komoroski's behalf last week.

"We cannot fathom what the families are going through and offer our deepest sympathies. We simply ask that there not be a rush to judgment," he said. "Our court system is founded upon principles of justice and mercy and that is where all facts will come to light."

Komoroski, who wasn't hurt in the crash, is charged with reckless vehicular homicide and three counts of driving under the influence causing death. She faces one to 25 years in prison on each DUI count.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Folly Beach has contracted a team of engineers to design a plan for more accessibility on Arctic Avenue, the beachfront road that Center Street runs into.

Published: Fri May 12 2023|Updated: Sat May 13 2023

FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCSC) - The city of Folly Beach has contracted a team of engineers to design a plan for more accessibility on Arctic Avenue, the beachfront road that Center Street runs into.

The engineers who were hired by the city are in the initial planning period to find ways to better accommodate all users of what the city says is a busy road.

Officials say that includes pedestrians, bicyclists, golf carts and cars.

A. Morton Thomas and Associates INC., the contracted firm, is looking to find solutions to what they have identified as a crowded area.

South Carolina Program Services Lead and Project Manager Richard Turner says the goal is to find a way to better utilize the space available so that everyone can enjoy it and do so safely.

“You think about Arctic Avenue, and you’ve got parking for the most part up and down both sides of the road, so pedestrians during the summer tend to walk in the road where your automobiles are, or your golf carts, or your bikes are, so they’re all trying to use the same space,” Turner says.

They want more separation between motor vehicles and other forms of transportation, striving to make things flow smoother on the one-way road and decrease traffic incidents.

“We do have a lot of close calls on a daily basis,” Director of Public Works for the city of Folly Beach Eric Lutz said. “We have reports very recently from residents on Arctic that said people are going the wrong way down the street.”

Lutz says it’s a project that is long overdue.

“It is actually something we’ve been talking about for probably 20 years, and it feels good to see that we’re getting close to make something happen,” he said. “It won’t happen overnight; we hope this year we get the plans figured out and get a concept that we can work toward.”

Walking inspections on Arctic Avenue with several experts will start next week to collaborate on ideas for this plan to come.

Turner says they expect to have a public meeting at the end of June to present the community with the different options for this project.

He expects there to be an additional meeting in October or November to nail down a final plan with the public.

“That’s where we will provide a number of options for the citizens to come in and look at and kind of give us feedback on what they like and what they dislike,” Turner said. “That will really help us understand what their desires, needs, or concerns are and how we can best move forward to find the best fit for Folly.”

From there, official plans will be presented to the city at the beginning of 2024.

For more information, click here.

Copyright 2023 WCSC. All rights reserved.

While some travelers head to beach to party, others prefer quiet and peaceful beach destinations. There is something special about choosing a spot where beaches are less crowded and the atmosphere is relaxing. Fortunately, South Carolina boasts numerous laid-back beaches to have this kind of vacation, and they wouldn't disappoint.

As much as some vacationers love South Carolina's bustling beaches like Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head, sometimes a more secluded spot in the sand to relax and unwind is what one needs. Here are 14 of the least-crowded beaches you should add to your South Carolina vacation bucket list.

Visit these quiet beaches in South Carolina for a relaxing vacation

In case 10 of the least crowded beaches in South Carolina wasn't enough, this list has now been updated with four more delightfully peaceful destinations for those looking to unwind.

Isle Of Palms Beach

Isle of Palms is reachable from Charleston via a 17-mile drive. Believed to have been originally inhabited by Sewee Indians, this beach has existed for at least 25,000 years. Isle of Palm Beach is an amazing tourist destination, suitable for families with pets and every other traveler looking for a peaceful spot to have a good time. Travelers will experience fun-filled activities, such as parasailing, jet-skiing, swimming, and sunbathing. This place is packed with beautiful hotels, golf courses, and parks.

RELATED: These Are The Best Times To Visit Charleston (& What To Do There)

13 Garden City Beach

Garden City is one of the best least-crowded beaches near Myrtle Beach that vacationers should add to their South Carolina bucket lists. Praised for its incredible family-friendly atmosphere, the beach offers breathtaking ocean views along the southern coast. Nestled to the south of Surfside Beach, Garden City Beach is a hot spot for watersports, crabbing, and fishing. The beach boasts a pier, a perfect fishing spot during the day, which turns into an entertainment and live music paradise by night.

12 Edisto Beach State Park

Dirt road to Botany Bay on Edisto Island

Situated on Edisto Island, this beach is in one of South Carolina’s four oceanfront state parks, offering an array of fun activities, including hiking, camping, biking, and more. After a long day of exploring the mind-blowing unspoiled environment, the wide-open beach at the park welcomes travelers to have a relaxing, where they may pick some shells here and there.

There are no lifeguards at Edisto Beach. While the sea is generally calm, be cautious when swimming and be sure to supervise small children at all times.

11 Fripp Island Beach

Sunrise over the ocean

Fripp Island beaches are some of the most pristine in South Carolina. They are also the perfect spots to go golfing and experience southern hospitality. The island has been a top destination for romantic getaways, weddings, and family vacations. The beaches are some of the least crowded in the state, and offer endless kayaking opportunities. There is a kiddie pool at the seaside waterpark on the island, with slides for children to enjoy. Travelers will find several bikes and golf carts, as most vacationers prefer them as modes of transportation.

10 Folly Beach

Located between Folly River and the Atlantic Ocean, Folly Beach is one of the best parts of the history and charm of South Carolina's coast. The beach is reachable in about a 15-minute drive from downtown Charleston. Also referred to as ‘’The Edge of America’’, Folly Beach is a dream come true for tourists looking for an impressively relaxing beach destination. Sunrises and sunsets spent here are some of the most unforgettable! On the eastern side, a spectacular view of the Morris Island Lighthouse awaits.

RELATED: Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island, And Folly Beach: Get To Know Charleston's Beaches

9 Huntington Beach State Park

Huntington Beach State Park is an excellent getaway for vacationers looking to experience the wild side of South Carolina on a less-crowded beach. Boasting over 300 species of birds, Huntington Beach is one of the best birdwatching spots in the state. Travelers will also spot alligators, pelicans, sea turtles, spoonbill, and more. There is a wildlife education center at the park, as well as several land animals to explore.

8 Burkes Beach

Shell in the sand on a secluded beach

Located on Hilton Head Island, right next to Chaplin Community Park, travelers can easily get to the beach on bikes thanks to the sandy pathway. There are other paved pathways vacationers can use to reach the beach. Burkes is not always crowded, and vacationers will be pleased at the relaxing atmosphere. There are numerous basketball and tennis courts as well as large fields to explore within the park.

7 Kiawah Island

Located just off Charleston's coast, Kiawah Island is a favorite among golf enthusiasts and known for having hosted multiple PGA Championships. The luxury island boasts five of the most impressive golf courses in South Carolina and some of the quietest yet most exciting beaches in the state. There is over 10 miles stretch of beaches, along with magnificent forests, sand dunes, and incredible wildlife, including bobcats, sea turtles, alligators, and whitetail deer.

Kiawah Island is gated and not all areas have public access. A guest or owner's pass is required for accessing restricted areas.

6 Mitchelville Beach

natural souvenirs from the sea

Even during peak travel periods, Mitchelville is still one of the least crowded beaches in South Carolina to add to the bucket list. Mitchelville Beach is lined with beautiful trees and some grass in the water that make the place look incredibly magnificent in the mornings and evenings. This is the best place to search for seashells and track some animal steps in the sand. The beach has picnic tables, an outdoor sand shower, and a bathroom.

5 Litchfield Beach

outstreched hand with a sea shell in the palm on a beach

Litchfield beach is recognized for boasting an incredibly quiet charm with beautiful golf and tennis courses. Travelers will also find some private clubs along the beach, giving them a range of options for entertainment. Surrounded by Huntington Beach to the north, Litchfield features lavish resorts with fantastic amenities and public access areas families can use for picnicking. This is the best spot to have a stylish beach vacation in a quiet environment.

4 Sullivan's Island

Small catamaran on the beach with Sullivan's Island lighthouse in the background

Out of Charleston's three nearest and most popular beaches, Sullivan's Island is the most tranquil. This quaint barrier island is only 3.3 square miles, and has intentionally worked to retain its reputation as one of the most quiet beach towns in South Carolina through restricting short-term rentals. Sullivan's Island is a great option for a relaxing day at the beach while visiting Charleston thanks to its proximity to downtown.

Stroll or bike along the wide, flat shores, or visit historic Fort Moultrie. Dating back to the 1700s, it of the oldest forts on the East Coast and fabled author Edgar Allan Poe was based there. Grab a bite to eat on Middle Street and take advantage of al fresco dining at one of the charming restaurants.

3 Seabrook Island

Oceanfront vacation rentals on Seabrook Island

Seabrook Island is another one of the barrier islands that are situated off the coast of Charleston. Anyone looking for low-key beaches in South Carolina should consider heading here for their next vacation. This charming island offers a serene beach environment, lots of upscale accommodation options, and a stunning natural environment of ocean, marsh, and maritime forest.

This quiet South Carolina beach is enticing to birders, having won recognition as Audubon International Certified Sustainable Community. It is also a favorite of equine enthusiasts thanks to its full-service equestrian center offering beach and trail rides.

2 Bulls Island

Sun and Salt bleached trees on Boneyard Beach

Anyone looking for a unique beach experience should be sure to check out Bulls Island. Situated within the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, the uninhabited island remains pristine and virtually untouched. Bulls Island boasts some of the most secluded beaches in South Carolina, and is home to tons of wildlife. It is world-renowned for bird life, with close to 300 different species found on or near the island.

Be sure to visit Boneyard Beach on Bulls Island for an other-worldly experience. The bleached oak, pine, and cedar trees on the northern end of the island, surrounded by miles of empty shores, give an almost haunting feel.

1 Morris Island

Aerial view of Morris Island lighthouse

A tiny sand island in the Charleston Harbor, Morris Island is most famous for its iconic lighthouse. It is a popular beach for boating, kayaking, fishing, and photography, or simply an undisturbed stroll along the shoreline.

While it is located just a stone's throw away from the very Fido-friendly Folly Beach, dogs are not allowed on Morris Island. While it can appear to be within walking distance from Folly at low-tide, the currents are strong and dangerous so don't attempt to wade across.