Best Jewelry Store in Folly Beach, SC

At a place known as the Edge of America, where the Atlantic whitecaps roll in and meet the sands of Folly Beach, finding seafood on restaurant menus is a given. Even so, executive chef Todd Garrigan was aiming to conjure up something a little different at BLU Beach Bar and Grill, the flagship restaurant of Tides Folly Beach hotel at 1 Center St.

The result was a scallops and fried rice dish that helps meet the insatiable demand Folly Beach visitors have for seafood, but adds a few unique and refined surprises along the way.

“We have a section of our menu that is used for grains and pastas, and it can be hard to find good fried rice,” said Garrigan, who arrived at BLU in 2020, and has worked in Lowcountry kitchens for nearly two decades. “We wanted to add something to our menu with a unique profile, and this dish has proved to be a great addition.”

Although oysters remain the king of the bivalves along the South Carolina coast, scallops gradually became more popular on American dinner plates beginning from the mid-1900s. Dredged from the deep, cold waters of the Atlantic, scallops feature a hint of sweetness that helps them stand out from their brinier seafood brethren.

At BLU Beach Bar and Grill, Garrigan begins by steaming jasmine rice. Separately in a hot pan, he sautés diced vegetables, garlic and fresh herbs. The cooked rice is then added to the pan along with scrambled eggs. The scallops meanwhile are seared, and when ready are placed on top of the fried rice. The dish is capped with a garnish of cashews, scallions and hot chili.

The scallops and fried rice dish was introduced on the first day of spring this year, and it has since become a crowd-pleasing complement to the other seafood dishes offered by BLU Beach Bar and Grill, which features a large outdoor patio overlooking the ocean and the Edwin S. Taylor Fishing Pier.

“It’s been very popular,” Garrigan said. “Beach crowds love seafood, and the rice component of the dish is very flavorful, making for a dish that’s always a hit.”

Building Blocks of Charleston Cuisine is a series that celebrates the connection between the Lowcountry and its vibrant food scene. Each week features a dish, restaurant, or chef that’s played a role in keeping the region’s culinary history alive.

FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCBD)- Tired after a long day of sun, surf, and sand? Talk a walk down Center Street and pop into a popular local restaurant for a quick bite and refreshing beverage.

We compiled a list of the most popular eateries on Folly Beach. In order to qualify, the restaurant must have at least 50 reviews.

Here are the top 10 highest-rated establishments, according to Yelp:

Jack of Cups Saloon, which serves mainly Hungarian-Czech-inspired dishes, comes highly recommended by Yelp reviewers. Customers describe the ambiance as “quirky” and “quiet and removed from the Folly craziness/hustle and bustle.”

Popular Dishes: Halupki, Pierogi Lasagna, and Hungarian Lentil Dip Location: 34 Center St. Rating: Five stars out of 404 reviews

Four-legged friends are always welcome at this small, local hot spot on Folly Beach. Because this cafe is so popular, you can expect it to be pretty crowded on the weekends. What could be better than breakfast all day?! “Worth the drive!” as one Yelp reviewer said.

Popular Dishes: Huevos Rancheros, French Toast, Folly BenedictLocation: 106 W Huron St.Rating: Four and a half stars out of 874 reviews

Fair warning: Yelp reviewers say the place can get crowded and it’s “a bit confusing figuring out how to order.” But, if you do figure out how to order you won’t be disappointed as the tacos have been described as “next level.” Plus, it’s open late so consider it a must-stop on the way home from the Folly Beach bars!

Popular Dishes: Chicken Tacos, Mahi Tacos, Bun ChaLocation: 122 E Ashley AveRating: Four and a half stars of out 270 reviews

“Best food and best prices on the island,” wrote one Yelp user. The Drop In is known for its deli favorites and specialty sandwiches which are perfect to pack in your beach bag or scarf down after a long day in the sun.

Popular Items: Little Havana Sandwich, Pasta Salad, the War Pig Location: 32-B Center St. Rating: Four and a half stars out of 73 reviews

While visitors praise the menu variety and “beachy vibes” at Rita’s, what really shines is the staff. One Yelp user said it best: “They made a Painkiller specifically for my grandmother even though it wasn’t on the menu! Now that’s service!”

Popular Items: Fish & Shrimp Tacos, Pulled Pork Sandwich, Grouper SandwichLocation: 2 Center St. Rating: Four stars out of 920 reviews

“Classic American Irish styled pub. They poured the Guinness correctly and the atmosphere is just right,” one Yelp reviewer wrote. Need we say more?

Popular Items: Fish and Chips, Frozen Irish Coffee, Irish Tater Tots Location: 11 Center St. Rating: Four stars out of 216 reviews

Reviewers love Loggerhead’s proximity to the beach and weekday happy hour specials. “What more could one ask for in a beachside restaurant?” one reviewer asked. “If your answer is a friendly staff, live music, and a place that supports local causes, then Loggerhead’s Beach Grill is the joint you’re gonna want to hit up when on Folly Beach!” You can even listen to live music while you stare out over the Atlantic Ocean.

Popular Items: Conch Fritters, Onion Rings, Lowcountry Alfredo Location: 123 W. Ashley AveRating: Four stars out of 363 reviews

Affectionately nicknamed LOLO may not be right on the main strip of Folly Beach, but according to Yelp reviewers, it is a “must stop.” If you’re hoping to avoid the lines on Center St, try LOLO. One Yelp user even said it has “best she-crab soup in all of South Carolina,” but we’ll let you be the judge of that!

Popular Items: She Crab Soup, Shrimp Burger, Fried/Grilled ScallopsLocation: 2293 Folly RoadRating: Four stars out of 87 reviews

Bowen’s Island is a can’t miss spot when visiting Folly Beach. It’s a little off the beaten path (meaning you’ll have to drive down a dirt road to get there), but once you arrive you’ll be met with delicious seafood and spectacular views. You have to order at the counter before sitting, so prepare to wait in long lines. It’s no wonder Yelp users call Bowen’s Island “a truly amazing local dining experience” and “THE REAL THING.”

Popular Items: Fried/Grilled Shrimp Platter, Steamed Oysters, Frogmore Stew Location: 1870 Bowens Island Rd Rating: Four stars out of 562 reviews

Pizza and the beach may not seem like the most classic combination, but Yelp users believe Woody’s is up to the task. The slices are pretty large, so you may be headed home with leftovers. Quick tip: Woody’s only delivers on the island!

Popular Items: the Woody, Homemade. Ranch. Dipping. Sauce.Location: 39 Center St.Rating: Four stars out of 178 reviews

FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCBD) – A Sunday evening rescue mission of an osprey stuck on a Folly Beach cell phone tower turned into a Monday afternoon recovery.

Wildlife advocates on the island got called on Sunday evening after people reported a bird stuck in the tower. Some say there were two birds stuck, but only one was there when News 2 arrived on scene.

At first, it was believed to be caught in a fence, a more simple rescue for wildlife advocates Carol Linville and Vanessa Oltmann who have rescued dozens of birds on the bird sanctuary that is Folly Beach.

“So I came over here with my towels, my gloves, and a carrier ready to get him off the fence, and low and behold he was up in the tower on the grid plank,” said Oltmann, a nature lover and wildlife advocate.

Oltmann and Linville called the fire department for assistance in helping the osprey to safety, but the ladder wasn’t tall enough.

“It was gut-wrenching to watch him for over an hour struggle to break loose. But he just couldn’t. He was caught by one foot in the grid hanging upside down,” said Carol Linville, the CEO of Pet Helpers and a wildlife advocate.

Oltmann was able to arrange an emergency tower crew to come and help recover the bird. Two men with Southern Tower Services drove up from Atlanta on Monday morning and arrived just after noon.

Another concern from Linville and Oltmann was what was going on in the nest at the top of the tower.

“Best case is that the babies are okay,” said Linville. “Maybe they’ve hatched and they’re circling that nest because we have some circling.”

“We’d rather nature take its own course and then we don’t have to worry about recovering the eggs, making sure they’re incubated correctly, and you take that risk of injuring the babies inside,” said Oltmann.

The nest is reportedly empty.

“We determined the nest was empty. So the eggs hatched and we believe the three or four that are flying around the nest are probably the babies,” said Linville.

A bittersweet story ending on a positive note. Oltmann says this is an opportunity for people to learn about the protected species as well as other wildlife.

“I’m happy that the babies are safe and I’m sad about this bird,” said Oltmann. “It takes a community of people learning about how important it is for us to take care of our wildlife and marine life.”

South Carolina is a stunning place to visit not just for its rich history and mesmerizing landscapes but also for its magnificent beaches. The state's coastline, which stretches for 187 miles along the Atlantic, is home to some of the most splendid and pristine beaches in the United States. The Grand Strand includes some of the most dazzling and popular beaches for summer tourists. In addition to all this clear blue wealth, South Carolina also possesses enchanting islands. Here are the 10 most popular beaches in the state.

Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is characterized by its 10 miles (16 kilometers) of wonderful beaches harmonized by splendid lush marshes, breathtaking white sand, and exceptional maritime forestry. Tourists will enjoy the beautiful water beaches of South Carolina by visiting Kiawah Island, which offers them exciting aquatic activities such as kayaks and SUP rentals. They can also play golf at the resort and satisfy their food cravings at the Bohicket Marina Market.

Coligny Beach Park, Hilton Head Island

The enchanting sea breeze in Coligny Beach will carry all tourists' worries and allow them to explore one of the most popular and astonishing beaches in South Carolina. Visitors can spend time in the spectacular public garden equipped with amazing amenities. It is important to note that the location is the safest beach for children due to the presence of active lifeguards. Around Coligny Plaza, visitors can enjoy tasty food and buy beach accessories and clothing as well as unique souvenirs.

Seabrook Island

Tourists will explore the quiet beaches and spectacular wetlands of Seabrook Island, known for its marvelous and greatest swimming beach in South Carolina. Incredible coastline and beautiful trail rides, a health center with aquatics and fitness, mesmerizing beachfront pools, and a hypnotic deep-water marina are all available on the lovely island. Vacationers do not want to miss the most wonderful sunset seen from Pelican Beach. Moreover, friends and families can gather around mouth-drooling food in award-winning eateries.

Myrtle Beach

In terms of the number of visitors, Myrtle Beach is, without a doubt, the most popular aquatic destination in South Carolina. People from all over the world and the country are attracted by this dazzling beach due to its amazing tourist attractions, various exciting entertainment activities, fancy beachfront resorts, and family-friendliness. Moreover, the emerald blue beach's superb white sand keeps tourists coming back. Those looking for a calmer destination should head toward the North Myrtle Beach coast.

Folly Beach, Charleston

Folly Beach is another beautiful sun location that is easily accessible from Charleston. It has a great fishing pier (fishers shall bring their rod), serving as the ideal scenery for a romantic selfie. The beach is also popular for thrilling outdoor activities such as paddle boarding, surfing, sea kayaking, and dolphin spotting excursions. It's also a wonderful beach to simply wander along while admiring the sights of the splendid ocean.

Front Beach, Isle of Palms

A nice 40-minute journey east of Charleston will take tourists to the Isle of Palms, a lovely coastal spot popular with both locals and visitors of the area. The majority of visitors flock to Front Beach, which is known for its ample public parking and quick beach access. Aside from kayaking, surfing, fishing, paddle boarding, and other aquatic activities, the beach serves as a vital stopover for sea turtles. Therefore, visitors shall watch the warning signs because turtles nest and lay their eggs in the dunes.

Pawleys Island

Travelers looking for the finest place with magnificent sculptures, splendid local plant gardens, and astonishing zoos should visit Pawleys Island's white powdery sand beach. This beach has the most pristine shoreline and is well-known for its calm waves, which are ideal for bicycling, shelling, kayaking, and canoeing with family, friends, and loved ones. Pawleys Island offers a gorgeous view of the area's famed waterway, so tourists shall not miss it!

Huntington Beach State Park — Murrells Inlet

The impressive Huntington Beach State Park is one of South Carolina's most well-known sites. With over 2500 acres of outstanding open area to explore, tourists will enjoy the delightful sea-breeze camping with magical sea waves, charming exotic birds, and bewitching sunsets on the East Coast. Art and environment enthusiasts may see endangered creatures such as loggerhead turtles and flora, as well as visit the neighboring Atalaya Arts and Crafts.

Litchfield Beach

The distinctive Litchfield Beach is another excellent option south of Myrtle Beach. The beach is known to be a quiet destination and is full of charming cottages and a nice 1.5-mile stretch to enjoy. Aside from excellent sunbathing and swimming, people looking for water sports can choose various activities from Jet Skis to sea kayaking, as well as fishing. While parking is limited and it is recommended to arrive early, the fact that only two beach access points are available almost assures a peaceful experience.

Family Beach, Surfside

On Family beach, tourists can stroll with their families down the famed 1.2-mile boardwalk that runs along the magnificent coastline of Surfside Beach and immerse themselves in the awesome landscape while dining, shopping, and participating in exciting festivals. The town provides a variety of coastal activities for people of all ages, including music performances and a water park, as well as excellent dining and shopping. Surfboard rentals and lessons are also available for thrill-seekers. Next:

FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCSC) - High tides at Folly Beach that led to flooding and erosion this past weekend reached eight and a half feet, Folly Beach Officials said.

Photos taken on Wednesday show the waterline up against the dunes. The dunes along the beach were put in place to protect the seawater from rushing further inland, Folly Beach Coastal Consultant Dr. Nicole Elko said.

Rising sea levels and climate change are to blame for the tidal flooding, Elko said.

“We are experiencing bigger spring tides – that’s what they used to be known as,” Elko said. “Nowadays, people call them king tides, so these are our larger tides that occur during the new moon, particularly during this time of year.”

For every dollar spent on beach restoration, six dollars get put back into South Carolina’s economy because of increased visits to the state’s beaches and parks, officials said.

South Carolina’s accommodation taxes help fund beach restoration efforts, officials said.

“The past weekend’s flooding event was very impactful to the beach and dune system,” Elko said. “The higher waters drove large waves over and flooded the entire beach system, and the dunes were also overtopped.”

Elko added that the dunes helped retain the encroaching water that threatened the nearby marshland and inland communities.

“Previous dune and beach restoration projects have increased the elevation of the beaches and dunes on places like Folly Beach,” Elko said. “So while the dunes are eroded and while the beach went underwater during the storm, we didn’t have those waves and flooding impacting the infrastructure, so these natural projects actually are protecting and serving as flood mitigation.”

As the sun started to set and the tide receded, the extent of the erosion on Folly Beach came into view.

The roots of trees, previously battling waves, were visible, and the wounds created by Mother Nature have scarred the shoreline.

Cale Shipman calls West Ashley home during the winter.

“I feel lucky to be able to spend my winters here, and [flooding] is a big issue for all of these coastal areas, whether it be Charleston or anywhere along the coast,” Shipman said.

Shipman and his wife Marcia spent Wednesday on Folly Beach admiring the waves and discovering what was left behind after the tides rolled in.

“I think these king tides that we’re experiencing this week are unusual in the fact that they’ve had so many of them in a row,” Shipman said.

While the systems in place on the beach held up, those who ventured out on Wednesday witnessed Mother Nature’s power.

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