Unless you've been living under a rock, you know that modern Americans are much fatter than they were just a few decades ago. Take one look around a shopping center or strip mall and it seems that half the people present are struggling with obesity. Recent data from the CDC supports those observations - more than 39% of adults in the United States were considered obese from 2015-2016. That number is up from 33.7 percent in 2007-2008.
Perhaps more alarming is the fact that severe obesity is on the rise as well. The same report from the CDC tells us that nearly 8% of Americans were severely obese from 2015-2016, which is up from 5.7% in 2007-2008. When you read between the lines, those statistics mean that almost 4 in 10 adults are obese in the U.S., and almost 1 in 13 are severely obese.
Unfortunately, "fixing" obesity isn't something that can be done overnight. There is no quick fix that is also safe and non-surgical. The obesity problem in the U.S. is only getting worse as more adults and children choose the ease and convenience of fast food sugar-packed products over healthy eating, exercise, and positive lifestyle choices.
Besides the challenges of being overweight, like clothes that don't fit and hurtful comments, the health risks are much more serious. Obesity can endanger your life, and those who rely on you may lose you earlier than expected. Over time, the likelihood of developing severe and life-altering health problems grows.
The good news is that a new medication called semaglutide in Folly Beach, SC, is available for people struggling with obesity. This game-changing treatment approaches obesity as a chronic metabolic disease rather than a problem that can be solved through willpower alone.
At VIP Cosmetic Surgery, we now ioffer semaglutide as part of our custom weight loss program. If you've been struggling with obesity and have tried other diets with little to no success, don't lose hope. With the help of our medical and nutritional providers, you can lose weight, keep it off, and take meaningful steps toward better health.
Our weight loss program with semaglutide starts with a comprehensive consultation and evaluation process. During this phase, we will determine the ideal semaglutide dosage for you and provide personalized nutrition and exercise guidelines. Once we have a better understanding of your body and your weight loss goals, you'll begin receiving regular injections of semaglutide in Folly Beach, SC.
It's your responsibility to incorporate lifestyle changes, specifically in your diet and exercise, to reach your weight loss goals. However, we'll be there every step of the way and conduct regular check-ins to help you stay on course. We'll also closely monitor your progress and overall health to ensure that your weight loss is safe and sustainable. The purpose of our semaglutide weight loss program is to offer a comprehensive weight loss treatment that helps you achieve natural, long-lasting results. That's the VIP Cosmetic Surgery difference.
Patients who sign up for our semaglutide weight loss program benefit from the following:
For semaglutide to have the biggest impact on your weight, you've got to make changes to your diet. When you eat nutrient-dense, whole foods that support weight loss and healthy living, you're setting yourself up for long-term weight loss. Our nutrition plans are comprehensive and customized to your needs and lifestyle. That way, when you're ready to make real changes in your life, we'll be there with a nutrition plan you can follow to make the journey easier and more sustainable.
One of the biggest reasons why people fail to achieve their weight loss goals is because they try to do it all on their own. When you sign up for VIP Cosmetic Surgery's semaglutide program, you benefit from monthly check-ins with Dr. Farr to see how your progress is going. During this meeting, you can talk to the doctor about your progress and what hurdles you're still trying to overcome. The doctor will give you advice and guidance based on his experience and - perhaps most importantly - help keep you on track so that you can lose weight and keep it off for good.
Our practitioners will provide tests to ensure that your body is healthy, hydrated, and well-fed. By checking your hydration and nutrition levels, we can help ensure you're losing weight in a healthy manner and not starving yourself. By maintaining optimal health throughout your weight loss journey, you're giving yourself the best shot at long-term weight loss.
For individuals working to lose weight and stay healthy, sticking to a consistent diet and exercise routine can be tough. Between work obligations and important tasks like picking your kids up from school, there just doesn't seem to be enough time in the day to eat healthy foods. After all, McDonald's is on the way home, and your little ones are screaming for food.
Fortunately, many busy people find semaglutide to be a valuable tool in their weight loss journey. This FDA-approved injection, used for treating both diabetes and obesity, functions by activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain to aid in weight loss and promote long-term health.
In more simple terms, semaglutide imitates glucagon in the body, signaling to the brain that you're full and don't need to eat more. When you take semaglutide and try to overeat, your body sends a message that says, "That's enough." In essence, it makes you feel full, so you're less likely to binge eat, especially at night when food tends to sit in your stomach.
Semaglutide also slows down digestion, reducing unnecessary snacking throughout the day. By minimizing glucose spikes after meals, it lowers inflammation, which is a crucial step in optimizing your overall health. Moreover, Semaglutide assists in insulin secretion by the pancreas regulates glucose levels in the body and even possesses anti-aging and longevity properties. If you're struggling with weight loss, treatments such as semaglutide can make a substantial difference for you.
In summary, semaglutide helps you lose weight in a few different ways, including:
At VIP Cosmetic Surgery, one of the most frequently asked questions our providers receive from curious weight loss patients is whether or not semaglutide is supported by clinical trials. As it turns out, many trials have been conducted measuring the efficacy of semaglutide for weight loss, and the results are very promising.
Semaglutide is designed for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher who are attempting to shed at least 10% of their total body weight without success with other methods. Clinical trials involving over 1,900 obese adults who were unable to lose five percent of their body weight after a year of treatment with other medications demonstrated that semaglutide increased average weight loss from 2% to 20% over a treatment period of just over one year compared to a placebo.
In a different trial involving 1,387 patients with obesity (but not type 2 diabetes), participants were randomly assigned to different doses of semaglutide: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or placebo for 104 weeks. The group that took the higher dose of semaglutide lost an average of 31 pounds, while those on the lower dose lost an average of 11 pounds.
According to the NCBI, the Semaglutide Treatment Effect in People With Obesity (STEP) trials have shown the efficacy of semaglutide, as well. In large randomized controlled trials, patients who received 2.4 milligrams of semaglutide lost a mean of 6% of their weight after 12 weeks and 12% of their weight after 28 weeks.
So, what do all these statistics mean for you? If you're looking to shed some pounds, it's worth giving semaglutide injections a shot. This type of treatment isn't a miracle drug, but it can significantly boost your chances of weight loss success. That's why, at VIP Cosmetic Surgery, we have incorporated semaglutide as a fresh treatment option for individuals grappling with obesity, especially those who have exhausted other remedies and are seeking something new.
As is the case with promising therapies like semaglutide, people considering the drug have a lot of questions about whether it's right for them. Keep reading to get answers to some of the most common questions relating to semaglutide.
If you're an adult dealing with obesity, excessive weight, or weight-related medical conditions such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure, semaglutide injections could be a suitable option for you. To qualify for semaglutide weight loss services at VIP Cosmetic Surgery, you must meet the BMI range criteria established by the FDA. If you're unsure whether semaglutide injections are the right choice for you, we recommend scheduling a consultation with one of our weight loss practitioners today.
Our doctors and practitioners often hear from patients asking whether semaglutide is safe for long-term use. It's natural to have concerns about a medication that impacts your body. Simply put, as long as you meet the criteria, it is safe to take this weight-loss medication. Even patients with endocrine, kidney, heart, and liver conditions can safely use semaglutide. As of June 4, 2021, the Food & Drug Administration has given the green light for semaglutide injections (2.4mg once weekly) for chronic weight management in adults with obesity and at least one weight-related condition.
Weight loss medications such as semaglutide may cause people to regain weight once the treatment is stopped. According to a clinical trial featured in Practice Update, participants regained 11.6% of their lost body weight within a year of discontinuing semaglutide medication and lifestyle intervention. Researchers suggest that this weight gain could be linked to the reversal of the cardiovascular benefits associated with semaglutide treatment, including stable blood sugar levels and blood pressure.
This data underscores the importance of continued medication and ongoing treatment for obesity as a chronic health condition to effectively manage its impact on quality of life and heart health. The key takeaway here is that due to its nature as a weight loss treatment, it's best to take regularly over time for the best results.
That length of time will vary depending on factors such as:
There's no question about it - semaglutide is making waves in the medical community. Thousands of obese men and women in the U.S. are using the treatment to get a handle on their weight and live healthy lives. With its ability to reduce blood sugar levels and facilitate weight loss, it makes sense that patients are looking for ways to get the most out of their regimen.
Keep reading to learn a few of the best tips to maximize your journey with semaglutide.
Before you start taking semaglutide or make any changes to your treatment plan, make sure to discuss it with your healthcare provider who prescribes semaglutide. They will evaluate your specific needs, determine the right dosage for you, and give you important instructions on how to use the medication properly. At VIP Cosmetic Surgery, our weight loss practitioners work one-on-one with every patient who takes semaglutide to ensure they're staying healthy, hydrated, and committed to our semaglutide program.
Make sure to keep a close eye on your blood sugar levels as recommended by your semaglutide provider. While semaglutide can assist in reducing blood sugar levels, it's important to regularly monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. When you begin a weight loss program at VIP Cosmetic Surgery, you can rest easy knowing we check your blood sugar levels periodically.
Regular physical activity can boost the effects of semaglutide. It's best to aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise 3-4 times a week to support weight loss and overall health improvements.
It's important to understand that results may not happen right away and could take some time to become noticeable. Try to be patient as you follow your treatment plan, maintain consistency with lifestyle changes, and have confidence that positive results will come gradually.
To maximize the effectiveness of semaglutide, it's very beneficial to eat a well-rounded diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Always try to choose nutrient-rich options over high-calorie, high-fat foods. That way, you can achieve your weight loss objectives quicker. When you work with weight loss experts like the doctors at VIP Cosmetic Surgery, you'll have access to customized nutrition plans that will help expedite your weight loss and keep off the pounds once you reach your goals.
Make sure to set up regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to track your progress, make any necessary changes to your treatment plan, and talk about any concerns or questions you might have. At VIP Cosmetic Surgery, follow-ups and check-ins are built into our semaglutide program, giving you one less thing to worry about as you lose weight.
Are you striving to reach a healthy weight and live a more fulfilling life? Are you eager to have a positive impact on yourself and your loved ones? Take the first step toward better health by contacting VIP Cosmetic Surgery. Our experienced, compassionate practitioners will collaborate with you to identify your weight-loss goals. Once we know more about you and your body, we'll create a custom plan and provide the cutting-edge strategies and treatments you need to see real results. If you're ready to make a meaningful change, we're ready to guide you on the path to success.
(Provided)FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCIV) — Event organizers with Folly Beach's New Year's Eve drone show apologized to patrons who witnessed the machines fall from the sky Tuesday night while promising to investigate the malfunction.On New Year's Eve, around 7 p.m., patrons at Center Street in Folly Beach tuned in to watch a drone show that was to replace the annual firework tradition. Three minutes into the show, spectators shouted at local authorities that drones were falling from the sky. During the roughly 30 seconds of cha...
(Provided)
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCIV) — Event organizers with Folly Beach's New Year's Eve drone show apologized to patrons who witnessed the machines fall from the sky Tuesday night while promising to investigate the malfunction.
On New Year's Eve, around 7 p.m., patrons at Center Street in Folly Beach tuned in to watch a drone show that was to replace the annual firework tradition. Three minutes into the show, spectators shouted at local authorities that drones were falling from the sky. During the roughly 30 seconds of chaos, one man was struck by a drone and needed on-site treatment for what public safety officials described as "non-life-threatening" injuries.
The drone show was supposed to offer a "unique alternative to our annual New Year's Eve firework display" while lessening the ecological impact on local beaches, The Folly Association of Business said in a statement Wednesday morning. The show didn't continue after the drone debacle.
"FAB would like to sincerely apologize for any harm and inconvenience our residents and visitors experienced at last night’s drone show," the statement continued. "FAB’s commitment to Folly Beach and the surrounding community is steadfast, and we will move forward to continue to serve you in 2025."
READ MORE | "Folly Beach NYE drone show halted after drones fall from sky, 1 person struck: reports."
The Folly Association of Business is working with local authorities and the drone operation company, Lightyear Drones, to provide information on what caused the malfunction, organizers said.
“The team at Lightyear Drones wants to express our sincere disappointment for not being able to complete tonight’s drone show," Lightyear Drones said in a statement. "The wellbeing of our audience is our utmost priority, and we regret any distress or inconvenience caused.”
The Federal Aviation Administration was notified of the malfunction and will head the investigation, a public safety official said Tuesday night.
A drone show in Orlando, Florida, was canceled on Dec. 22 when several drones reportedly fell during a holiday show, injuring one and prompting an investigation by the Federal Aviation Authority.
This was the City of Folly Beach's first year hosting a drone show to celebrate New Year's Eve.
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCBD) – Organizers behind a New Year’s Eve drone show that ended with at least one person injured on Folly Beach are investigating what caused the malfunction.The Folly Association of Business said in a statement Wednesday that it was excited to offer a unique alternative to its annual fireworks display and offer a drone show for celebrators.The show...
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCBD) – Organizers behind a New Year’s Eve drone show that ended with at least one person injured on Folly Beach are investigating what caused the malfunction.
The Folly Association of Business said in a statement Wednesday that it was excited to offer a unique alternative to its annual fireworks display and offer a drone show for celebrators.
The show, scheduled to start at 7 p.m., ended after only two displays when some of the drones began falling from the sky. An adult male was struck by one of the drones and suffered non-life-threatening injuries to his face.
Drone operators almost immediately began a controlled descent so that the drones could return to their designated landing zone.
“New Year’s Eve is a time to celebrate, and for reasons beyond our control, we were not able to deliver the spectacular drone show we had planned for the community,” the organization said. “At this time, we do not have details on what went wrong with the display. We do know that [one person] sustained light injuries as the drones dropped to the ground, but they were treated and released on-site.”
“FAB would like to sincerely apologize for any harm and inconvenience our residents and visitors experienced at last night’s drone show. FAB’s commitment to Folly Beach and the surrounding community is steadfast, and we will move forward to continue to serve you in 2025,” the organization added.
The Folly Association of Business said they are working with authorities and the drone operation company, Lightyear Drones, to provide information on what caused the malfunction and how they will address these kinds of challenges in the future.
“The team at Lightyear Drones wants to express our sincere disappointment for not being able to complete tonight’s drone show. The wellbeing of our audience is our utmost priority, and we regret any distress or inconvenience caused,” said Lightyear Dones in a statement about the incident.
Folly Beach’s public safety officials said the incident was reported to the Federal Aviation Administration for investigation.
News 2 spoke Stuart white who is a certified FAA drone operator and was watching the drone show. He said he immediately knew something was wrong when he says he began to hear drones colliding with each other and falling. He estimates he heard at least 15 drones fall, and told us he doesn’t think they should’ve gone up under yesterday’s weather conditions.
“As a responsible drone pilot, you have to assess the risks involved. Doing something like this is a very complicated system and we have a cold front coming in right now and so it’s been very windy, and it was very windy all day yesterday. These systems are not necessarily designed to work well in the wind, that’s in my opinion where the failure happened and honestly, I think it should’ve been canceled before they attempted to do it at all, but there’s immense pressure on the people who are providing that service to make it happen,” said White.
The beach community’s annual Flip Flop Drop continued without incident.
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Editor’s note: A previous version of this story mentioned two people were injured; however, the Little Dog Agency, which issued the Folly Association of Business statement, corrected their release to include only one person injured.
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCBD) — New beachfront lighting rules intended to help better protect sea turtle hatchlings are set to go into effect on Folly Beach next spring.City council members unanimously approved the second reading of an ordinance on Dec. 10 that amends the rules for artificial lighting on oceanfront property during turtle nesting season.The new regulations prohibit any lighting that illuminates the beach during nighttime hours from May 1 to October 31. Nighttime hours are defined as the period between sunrise a...
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCBD) — New beachfront lighting rules intended to help better protect sea turtle hatchlings are set to go into effect on Folly Beach next spring.
City council members unanimously approved the second reading of an ordinance on Dec. 10 that amends the rules for artificial lighting on oceanfront property during turtle nesting season.
The new regulations prohibit any lighting that illuminates the beach during nighttime hours from May 1 to October 31. Nighttime hours are defined as the period between sunrise and sunset as determined by the National Weather Service.
Officials told News 2 that changing the lights-out period — dusk to dawn previously — will account for varying hours of darkness as the seasons change.
It marks a notable change as house lighting requirements had not been updated in several decades despite changes to landscape and beach walkover lighting requirements over the years.
Motion-detection security and safety lighting will permitted during the restricted time but “low-profile luminaries” must be used and shielded so that the light does not illuminate the beach, per the ordinance.
Hatchlings instinctually rely on moonlight to find their way to sea and artificial lighting can cause them to become disoriented and wander inland. It can also deter females from coming onshore to nest.
Sea turtles already face daunting survival odds, with an estimated one in 1,000 — or as few as one in 10,000 — making it to adulthood, according to the National Oceanic Atmospheric Association. Coupled with natural predatory threats, disorientation can push those odds even lower.
“Folly Beach Turtle Watch (FBTW) is very appreciative of our turtle-friendly city council,” said program coordinator Dave Miller, who initially requested the law be modified.
“This season, they approved money to have our streetlights converted to turtle-friendly lights, and they proactively modified the ordinance so it will be in effect for the 2025 season,” he continued. “Both of these actions unquestionably will save the lives of a lot of hatchlings.”
There are seven species of sea turtles — all of which are considered endangered — but only loggerheads, Kemp’s ridleys, greens, and leatherbacks are found on South Carolina beaches.
FBTW recorded 44 nests on Folly Beach during the 2024 nesting season with an average emergence success rate of 72.7%.
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCSC) - A plan to improve safety on one Folly Beach road is moving forward to the next phase of the project.Council members approved a $360,695 contract with AMT Engineering to move forward with completing 30 percent of the designs for Arctic Avenue.Arctic Avenue is about two miles long and runs parallel to the beach.Officials say the plan for Arctic Avenue will enhance safety and accessibility for beachgoers whether they walk, bike, or drive.Richard Turner, the South Carolina Programs Services ...
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCSC) - A plan to improve safety on one Folly Beach road is moving forward to the next phase of the project.
Council members approved a $360,695 contract with AMT Engineering to move forward with completing 30 percent of the designs for Arctic Avenue.
Arctic Avenue is about two miles long and runs parallel to the beach.
Officials say the plan for Arctic Avenue will enhance safety and accessibility for beachgoers whether they walk, bike, or drive.
Richard Turner, the South Carolina Programs Services Lead for AMT Engineering, says the plan will feature better parking, a 10-foot-wide shared-use path along the entire road, and improved crosswalks at intersections and beach access points.
“If you go to Folly, you’re parking on the shoulder of the road, you’re parking on the dirt road, and you don’t have anywhere to walk. You have families that get out of their vehicles with their kids and they maybe have a buggy, a wagon, all the beach stuff, and you have nowhere to walk,” Turner says.”This is an opportunity to allow, you know, have that space for improved parking and then having actual space, a safe space, for them to walk.”
Turner says in 2023 during the first phase of this plan they spent time studying the area, how people were using it, and then came up with ideas of what this project could look like.
Now, he says they will be taking those ideas and turning them into real designs on paper. Turner says a significant part of this phase of the design process is surveying the area.
He says their survey team will be on-site to collect data points for the entire length of the road, including location, utilities, driveways, houses, and other important features. From there Turner says they will base their designs on those conditions.
“Arctic being the closest to the kind of central business district of Folly Beach it has the most foot traffic, so you know it’s really important to have safe places for folks on like I said bikes, cars, golf carts, and auto. They all need to be able to operate in a safe space,” Turner says.
One Folly Beach resident, Gabi Zeman, says that it would be helpful to have these safety measures when going to the beach.
“I’ve lived on Folly Beach for the last three years now and the summer months are super busy. So, it would be great to have more sidewalks and just I guess a safer city for a lot of residents coming in and then obviously all the visitors that come in in the summer months as well,” Zeman says.
Turner says that it will take nine to 12 months to complete 30 percent before progressing to the next phase of the design process.
Copyright 2025 WCSC. All rights reserved.
It's only 12 miles south of Charleston's historic homes and manicured window boxes, but the salty little town of Folly Beach ditches the Holy City's refinement in favor of an easygoing, barefoot sensibility that feels a bit more California than Carolina. Known to locals as the Edge of America, Folly is everything a ...
It's only 12 miles south of Charleston's historic homes and manicured window boxes, but the salty little town of Folly Beach ditches the Holy City's refinement in favor of an easygoing, barefoot sensibility that feels a bit more California than Carolina. Known to locals as the Edge of America, Folly is everything a beach town should be. Surf shops line the main drag; cover-ups count as appropriate lunch attire; and nobody takes themselves too seriously (they drop a pair of LED-lit flip-flops to celebrate New Year's Eve). Here's where to stay, eat, relax, and play in South Carolina's super chill surf town.
For a feels-like-home experience coupled with the charm and convenience of a boutique hotel, book The Regatta Inn. Complimentary breakfast and happy hour are provided daily, plus a free shuttle to the beach. Its best amenity of all, though, is the view: a spectacular vantage of Folly River and the surrounding marshland.
regattainn.com, 64 West 9th Street Extension, Folly Beach, SC 29439
Every single room at Tides Folly Beach comes with an ocean view. Perched at the end of Center Street, the town's main thoroughfare, the hotel is steps from both the beach and an array of local shops and eateries. There's plenty on-site for a relaxing getaway, including a heated oceanfront pool, tiki bar and lounge, and a beach bar and grill.
tidesfollybeach.com, 1 Center Street, Folly Beach, SC 29439
Looking for a stay with a kitchen and living space that feels like a home away from home? For families looking to stretch out a bit more, there are a boatload of rentals to choose from: Opt for oceanfront properties that will sleep a crowd or cozy cottages with marsh and Folly River views. And for people who wouldn't dream of traveling without their four-legged companions, there are plenty of pet-friendly rentals too.
You won't go hungry on this island. Fuel up for the day at Lost Dog Café, a local staple that serves coffee and all-day breakfast (so you can sleep in as long as you'd like). Don't miss their eggs Benedict, which they top with fried green tomatoes.
lostdogfollybeach.com, 106 West Huron Avenue, Folly Beach, SC 29439
Fish tacos, Vietnamese-inspired lettuce wraps, and Cuban sandwiches all have a place on the colorful menu at Chico Feo, where the vibe is equally colorful. Its menu focuses on food from local farmers and fishermen. If you're in town for the wave riding, be sure to check out their website's Surf Report, complete with a live video stream.
chicofeos.com, 122 East Ashley Avenue, Folly Beach, SC 29439
Don't let the easygoing atmosphere fool you: Rita's Seaside Grille is serious about its food and its cocktails. Order casual beach fare like burgers, sandwiches, tacos, and nachos, or opt for splurge-worthy entrees like steak, salmon, and seafood. Try one of the Signature Crushes, fruity sippers with flavored liquors that pack a punch.
ritasseasidegrille.com, 2 Center Street, Folly Beach, SC 29439
End the night at Sand Dollar Social Club, a dive bar where you're invited to come as you are, so long as you're a member; membership costs $1, so bring your cash (you won't find a credit card machine here). Order from the bar, play pool or Ping-Pong, and take in the live music.
7 Center Street, Folly Beach, SC 29412
Though technically not on Folly (it's about two miles away), you'd be remiss to make a trip all this way without carving out time for a meal at Bowens Island Restaurant, a family-owned joint where the walls are graffitied and the oysters are locally harvested. Start your meal with Southern favorites like pimiento cheese, fried green tomatoes, and boiled peanuts. Seafood platters are served with fries, hush puppies, and coleslaw.
bowensisland.com, 1870 Bowens Island Road, Charleston, SC 29412
The island's six miles of beachfront are its main attraction, and it'd be easy to while away a week with no plans beyond putting your toes in the sand. Spend a day shelling, sunning, surfing, or searching for shark teeth. The Folly Beach County Park has everything you need for a day at the beach: parking, restrooms, changing areas, a boardwalk, accessible ramps, a picnic area, and a snack bar.
ccprc.com/61/Folly-Beach-County-Park, 1100 West Ashley Avenue, Folly Beach, SC 29439
At the northern end of Folly Beach, the Morris Island Lighthouse provides a stunning backdrop from the shore. Get a closer look from the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve or via kayak. Several guided tours leave from Folly Beach to visit Morris Island for shelling, photography, and lighthouse history. The historic lighthouse is not open for viewing. How close you can get to the lighthouse depends on the tides.
ccprc.com/3149/Lighthouse-Inlet-Heritage-Preserve, 1750 East Ashley Avenue, Folly Beach, SC 29439
Pack your fishing poles (or rent one) to test your fishing luck off the beloved Folly Beach Pier, which reopened in December 2022 after extensive renovations. If you're visiting in the summer, put on your dancing shoes—flip-flops count—and head back to the pier for one of the Moonlight Mixers, a music-filled family event held once monthly May through September.
ccprc.com/1753/Folly-Beach-Pier, 101 East Arctic Avenue, Folly Beach, SC 29439
ccprc.com/1618/Moonlight-Mixers, 101 East Arctic Avenue, Folly Beach, SC 29439
For those looking to build an action-packed itinerary, there are plenty of activities that highlight the destination's natural beauty: Book a guided kayak tour with Charleston Outdoor Adventures, rent a stand-up paddleboard to explore the tidal creeks, or hop on a boat to discover uninhabited beachfront, where you can look for sharks' teeth and other fossils. You can also book a fishing charter or tour a Charleston oyster farm.
charlestonoutdooradventures.com, 1871 Bowens Island Road, Charleston, SC 29412
Stop by McKevlin's Surf Shop, South Carolina's oldest surfing outfitter, to peruse their selection of gear. You can also rent a surf or body board from the shop if you don't have one of your own; first-timers should consult their recommended list of surf instructors for lessons before heading out. Once you've got it down, catch some of the area's best waves at The Washout, a favorite local surf spot, or take a seat on the beach and see how the local pros do it.
mckevlins.com, 8 Center Street, Folly Beach, SC 29439