While it’s well-known that Charleston is one of the top destinations in the South for mouth watering cuisine it’s a common misconception for visitors to assume they need to travel to downtown Charleston for a top notch culinary experience. For vacationers who’ve chosen to vacation on the slower-paced, small town island of Folly Beach, this couldn’t be further from the truth. While the dining scene on Folly may cater to a “flip flop and shorts” kind of clientele, that doesn’t mean that they are serving up only corndogs and baskets of burgers & fries – delicious food can be found pretty much everywhere on Folly. From shrimp & grits at breakfast, to Spam sliders (yes! that’s even on a Folly Beach menu) and Kimchi Beef tacos, you’ll find the local dining spots on Folly Beach serving up some taste-bud-pleasing, delectable fare. You’ll definitely enjoy the casual, laid-back atmosphere of the area plus the diversity of food offerings awaiting you at each amazing restaurant. We’re sharing our guide for where to eat on Folly Beach.
And, before you plan your next trip to Charleston, don’t forget to request access to our Charleston Insider’s Guide. We’ve pulled together a guide to “where the locals go” for the best in dining, spas, parks, golf – you name it! Local recommendations can be invaluable when planning your itinerary and trying to make the most of your time in the Lowcountry.
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Your Guide for Where to Eat on Folly Beach
Chico Fei
From Vietnamese inspired Bun Cha, to a classic Cuban sandwich and an array of tacos, this local spot is a favorite among the surfer crowd – they even provide an up-to-the-minute surf report on their website. A go to for those in search of the perfect beach break.
Lost Dog Café
Indulge in traditional Southern cuisine with a twist! Lost Dog Café is one of the most delicious stops if you’re searching for breakfast to power up for a long day on the beach, or if you need a go-to eatery for a family brunch. With a diverse menu full of both classic favorites and innovative creations, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The Folly Benedict is a real crowd-pleaser, and you’ll be blown away by the Graham Cracker Peanut Butter French Toast.
Jack of Cups Saloon
Get an authentic taste of Folly’s food scene at Jack of Cups Saloon. As a long-standing local favorite, there’s a reason visitors and locals alike flock to this unique café in the heart of Folly. Here you can enjoy Asian Fusion, Indian cuisine, and Italian plates all in one seaside joint. Each plate offers a unique taste, so much so that it may even turn into a highlight of your trip.
The Crab Shack
Calling all seafood lovers! Experience some of Charleston’s freshest seafood at The Crab Shack on Folly Beach. After all, what’s a beach trip without a dozen oysters and a Lowcountry boil? That’s not all! You can often find live music at this Folly favorite while enjoying creative frozen cocktails and great times with family.
Taco Boy
With more than one location in Charleston, Taco Boy is considered a local legend for margaritas and tacos. The team at Taco Boy elevates the street taco of West Coast, beachside food trucks and adds a lowcountry twist. And with an all new location on Folly Beach Taco Boy now features an updated taco menu, frozen drink bar, festive décor, and a roof top mezcal and tequila bar with ocean views.
The Bounty Bar
A neighborhood bar and restaurant brought to you by the folks from The Royal American, the Bounty Bar provides a great backdrop to enjoy simple bar fare and a beach-centric cocktail plus catch Lowcountry rock ‘n’ roll all while the surfers catch the last rides of the day. Try the crispy fried fish sandwich, loaded nachos or a frozen creative beach cocktail menu. It will easily become your favorite spot to relax and wind down the day.
Bowens Island
While this long time, locally loved restaurant isn’t “technically” on Folly Beach, we think it’s close enough. Located at the tip of a 13-acre island, 5 minutes from Folly Beach, Bowens Island is famous for its locally harvested oysters, fried shrimp, hushpuppies, cold beer, and its undisturbed view of the river, marshes, islands, and wildlife. When the locals say “there is no place else like it in Charleston” well, they’re not kidding. It doesn’t even have air conditioning, but the food is so good, you won’t even notice.
Loggerhead’s Beach Grill
Loggerhead’s Beach Grill offers a classic beachy atmosphere with plenty of outdoor seating, so you don’t have to say goodbye to the sunshine, even on a lunch break! The atmosphere is only made complete by the old bright blue Volkswagen bus parked outside and the frequent live music found here. Don’t forget to try the conch fritters for a true taste of Charleston’s seafood offerings.
Find Your Charleston Getaway with Luxury Simplified Retreats
When you’re looking for a vacation that delivers all the rest and relaxation mixed with once-in-a-lifetime experiences Luxury Simplified Retreats is here to help craft your unique Charleston vacation. Whether you’re staying on Folly Beach, Downtown, Isle of Palms or even a luxury destination like Palmetto Bluff in Bluffton, SC, you can rest knowing that you’ll be in good hands. From a friendly, professional concierge service team to assist you every step of the way, to exquisite rental homes in Charleston’s most desirable areas, you’ll find everything you need when staying with Luxury Simplified Retreats. Contact us to begin planning your uniquely tailored getaway and book your stay in one of our luxury Charleston rentals homes.
What is your ideal vacation? Whether you enjoy biking under ancient oak trees or indulging in delicious Southern cuisine, there is an endless selection of things to do in Palmetto Bluff.
Just roughly ninety minutes from Charleston down Hwy 17 gets you to Palmetto Bluff, or “The Bluff ” as it’s affectionately known. No matter the season, there is no better place to be than The Bluff, located in Bluffton SC. The whole place is on a physical bluff some 20 feet above the May River almost guaranteeing a steady pleasant breeze even in mid-summer. This lowcountry getaway just drips old southern charm and hospitality, designed as an ode to the days when life was slow and easy.
Palmetto Bluff is 20,000 or so acres of old southern woodland stand, deer hunting tracks and timberland turned in to a resort and a surrounding planned community. Like many of the exclusive resort communities along the coastal Carolinas it has its mix of permanent residents, returning vacation home owners and transients in a similar manner to many of the Barrier Island communities of Kiawah or Hilton Head. While there is something to do for everyone who vacations at Palmetto Bluff, for those that particularly enjoy the outdoors and a sporting lifestyle, there is simply no place like it along the Southern coast. From exploring the quaint downtown restaurants and shops of Wilson Village, to an unforgettable cruise along the May River aboard the restored 1913 60-foot antique motor yacht, Grace, and gathering around the fire pit for nightly s’mores with the neighbors, Palmetto Bluff offers a vacation experience unlike any other.
Make the most of your trip to our beautiful coastal oasis by including these activities in your itinerary when you plan a Palmetto Bluff getaway for your next vacation to the Lowcountry.
The Best Things to Do in Palmetto Bluff
Go for a Bike Ride
The towering oak trees draped with Spanish moss provide a gorgeous backdrop for your bike ride in Palmetto Bluff. You can add bike rentals to your stay, and have them waiting for you when you arrive. Not only is it an easy and convenient family activity, it’s the absolute best way to explore the Bluff.
Book a Fishing Charter
The Lowcountry is home to some of the best fishing in the Southeast. There are a handful of charters in Bluffton that are exceptional experiences, especially May River Excursions. It’s one of the best things to do near Palmetto Bluff during your stay.
Kayak Through the Marshes
Kayaking through the beautiful Lowcountry marshes is one of the best things to do in Palmetto Bluff. What better way to learn about the wildlife, plant life, and natural habitats of some of the most spectacular native plants and animals of the Lowcountry than paddling through the rivers, tidal creeks and marshes in and around the May River. You’ll see some incredible fish, birds, and other animals and plants closer than you might have ever thought you’d experience. Our Concierge team can help with kayak rentals or help to plan a kayak excursion with one of the local outfitter groups.
Indulge and Shop at Wilson Village and Moreland Village
There are two charming villages in Palmetto Bluff that are home to a collection of fantastic places to eat and shop. View some of our favorite boutique shops and restaurants.
Wilson Village
- Buffalo’s
- Canoe Club
- Melt
- The River House Lounge
- Peter Miller Palmetto Bluff
- The Paris Market
Moreland Village
- Cole’s
- Canteen
- Boundary Bottle Company
Palmetto Bluff Shooting Club
There is a long-standing tradition of outdoor sports in the Lowcountry, especially clay shooting. You can test your abilities at the Palmetto Bluff Shooting Club. Here you’ll find 13 sporting clays stations throughout an expansive 40-acre hardwood bottom tract of land. They also offer private lessons if you wish to learn how to shoot clays during your trip.
Venture Into Bluffton
The historic town of Bluffton is only a quick 20-minute drive from Palmetto Bluff and is a great place to spend a day or afternoon during your trip. The quaint village is full of shops, art galleries, and Southern-inspired restaurants. You’ll also find a wealth of history in the form of architecture and nature. Ancient oak trees and museums take you back to simpler times, offering a detailed perspective into the Lowcountry’s past.
Plan Your Lowcountry Retreat
You’re sure to enjoy your stay in Palmetto Bluff when your trip includes all the comforts offered in our Luxury Simplified Retreats – Palmetto Bluff vacation homes. Our collection of luxurious rentals features incredible amenities and superb locations. The scenic, breathtaking backdrop of the Lowcountry surrounds you in Palmetto Bluff, with gorgeous oak trees, vast waterways and a laid-back, serene lifestyle.
Charleston is known for dishing up incredible cuisine and has come to be known as quite the foodie town, but it’s also a popular destination for those in pursuit of the perfect libation. After sunny days spent exploring the streets of the Holy City and experiencing the iconic sites that are the foundation of this historic, coastal city, it’s only natural you’ll want to stop in at a local spot to enjoy some of the city’s most innovative cocktails. With a beverage scene that includes a wealth of breweries, spirit distilleries, flavorful frosés, and even alcohol infused ice creams, be sure to include these in your itinerary to indulge in the best cocktail bars in Charleston. There are many to choose from, but we have a few recommendations to ensure you enjoy every sip along the way.
The fun doesn’t have to stop there! Request access to our complimentary Charleston Insider’s Guide to find even more recommendations for everything food, fun, sips, and more. It has everything you need to navigate the city like a local.
Here Are the Best Cocktail Bars in Charleston That You Have to Experience
Proof
Take a stroll down charming King Street to find Proof nestled into the city’s trendiest restaurant and bar district. With an expansive cocktail menu, along with wines and beer, you can sip and enjoy in an atmosphere that feels like Charleston’s ode to a 1930’s speakeasy. You’ll also find a short menu of appetizers to satisfy any cravings before dinner. If you visit in the evening, you can enjoy each glass by candlelight.
Gin Joint
With a cozy, intimate bar tucked along a quiet stretch of East Bay Street, at the Gin Joint you’ll find nothing but innovative cocktails here with intriguing concoctions and creative garnishes. Order the “Your Killing Me Smalls” for a roasted marshmallow atop the glass, or the “Hollaback Girl” for a hibiscus flower decorating the creamy drink.
Cocktail Club
Cocktail Club is yet another King Street location serving up show-stopping cocktails with a side of romantic ambiance. The outdoor patio offers couches and benches to lounge around while enjoying every sip of your order.
Husk Bar
Husk is an infamous restaurant around Charleston for its spectacular food, which has even been featured on a Netflix Original series. So of course, it comes as no surprise that they also over–deliver when it comes to drinks. You’ll find unique cocktails made by a friendly, professional staff and a twist on every presentation.
Bar Mash
You don’t have to venture very far away from the heart of the downtown historic district to experience another wonderful cocktail lounge, Bar Mash, located on East Bay Street. As part of the restored Cigar Factory, with its rustic, industrial vibe and laid-back atmosphere it’s a quiet spot to relax and enjoy a cocktail with friends. You can often find live music here!
Find Your Lowcountry Luxury Rentals with Luxury Simplified Retreats
Are you ready to start planning your getaway to Charleston, SC? There is so much to see and do in Charleston, it’s hard to know where to begin. But, with the help of our professional concierge team, they will be there every step of the way to help you handcraft a unique getaway just for you. Plus, when you book your stay with Luxury Simplified Retreats, you’ll find access to exclusive amenities in our top rated Charleston vacation rentals. Take it from us! Start planning your trip today by booking your stay.
Each year as the weather warms and spring approaches, it isn’t uncommon to be struck with the travel bug. If you’re traveling from Charlotte, NC, there are a variety of opportunities to take a road trip that deliver breathtaking scenery and unique, local attractions, but one destination in particular sticks out from all the rest. Here are four reasons why Charleston, SC, is the best spring getaway from Charlotte, NC.
Discover Why Charleston is a top City for a Getaway from Charlotte NC
Proximity
At roughly 200 miles apart, you will enjoy the short three-hour drive along I-77 and I-26 to experience all of the southern charm that this historic coastal city has to offer. What other city can offer a world-class culinary scene, gorgeous beaches, and rich history within such a short drive of Charlotte?
Beaches and Outdoor Activities
When you vacation in Charleston, SC, you can rest assured there won’t be any shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy any time of year. In addition to the miles of beautiful beaches stretching along the coastline, you’ll find endless ways to explore Charleston and an array of activities to experience. Whether you choose biking through the residential streets to admire the architecture, walking the Ravenel Bridge, or even kayaking and paddleboarding through the Charleston Harbor, you’ll never run out of things to see and do.
Mouthwatering Dining and Cocktails
Another perk of exploring Charleston in the spring is the abundance of outdoor dining. Whether you choose to dine on the water or on an outdoor patio tucked along a cobblestone street in downtown Charleston, you’re sure to savor every last bite. Plus, check out some of our favorite upscale bars in Charleston, SC, that also feature outdoor sipping.
Lowcountry Lifestyle
There’s something about the Lowcountry lifestyle that invites and tempts you to slow down and appreciate the beauty around you. Perhaps it’s the locals relaxing on elegant piazzas while sipping an ice-cold glass of sweet tea, or maybe it’s the sound of horse hooves trotting down the cobblestone streets. While there’s plenty to do around the city and we know you’ll be eager to fill your itinerary, you’ll still find yourself especially relaxed as you embrace the slower pace of life that comes from days spent in this wonderful city.
Don’t forget to request a complimentary copy of our online Insider’s Guide. Using this guide, you can put together the ultimate Charleston itinerary to ensure you take advantage of every moment during your getaway.
Experience only the Best of Charleston with Luxury Simplified Retreats
After long days of soaking up the Lowcountry sunshine and exploring all that Charleston has to offer, make sure you have somewhere comfortable to rest your head. After all, you’ll want to feel refreshed and rested for what the next day might hold. Booking your vacation with Luxury Simplified Retreats ensures comfort and ease for the duration of your stay with a team of dedicated area experts to lend a hand whenever necessary. You’ll find yourself wrapped in luxury, hotel quality linens and all the comforts of home.
Explore our collection of Charleston properties and contact us today to start planning the ultimate spring getaway this year.