Folly Beach is known for its sunny skies and beautiful shorelines, but like any coastal destination, it’s not immune to the occasional rainy day. Luckily, there’s plenty to do even when the weather isn’t cooperating. From cozy cafés to unique indoor activities, you can still have an unforgettable day on Folly Beach, rain or shine. Here are some ideas to make the most of a rainy day on the island.
1. Cozy Up at Lost Dog Café
Start your day with a hearty breakfast or brunch at Lost Dog Café, a local favorite known for its warm atmosphere and delicious comfort food. Order a hot cup of coffee and settle in with one of their famous dishes like the crab cake benedict or biscuits and gravy. It’s the perfect spot to relax and wait for the rain to pass while enjoying some local charm.
Pro Tip: Bring a book or enjoy some quality time with friends while the rain pours outside. The cozy vibe at Lost Dog makes it a perfect rainy-day retreat.
2. Explore Local Art at Folly Beach Art Village
Rainy days are ideal for diving into the local art scene. Folly Beach is home to a vibrant community of artists, and many of them showcase their work at galleries and shops around the island. Folly Beach Art Village is a great place to explore one-of-a-kind creations, from coastal themed paintings to handcrafted jewelry.
Pro Tip: Pick up a unique souvenir or piece of art to bring a bit of Folly Beach home with you.
3. Sip Local Brews at The Charleston Pour House
A rainy day is the perfect excuse to unwind with some local craft beer. Folly Beach has a brewery called Reverly on Center Street but if you get in the car and drive to James Island you will find The Charleston Pour House or Low Tide Brewing. They offer a wide selection of local brews. Kick back, enjoy the live music (often scheduled regardless of the weather), and savor a drink as the rain falls.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on local brewery calendars for special events, live music performances, or food truck collaborations that can make your day even more enjoyable.
4. Indulge in a Relaxing Spa Day
What better way to spend a rainy day than by treating yourself to some serious relaxation? Several places around Folly Beach offer spa services, from massages to facials, so you can unwind in style. The Folly Beach Medi Spa is a bungalow oasis offering any treatment you may want, or call to book Book an appointment for an in-home massage with Folly Beach Massage or check out nearby day spas on James Island for a full pampering session.
Pro Tip: Make it a full wellness experience by booking a private yoga session or getting an in home massage to elevate your relaxation game.
5. Take a Cooking Class or Private Chef Experience
Rainy days are perfect for learning something new, and what better skill to sharpen than your cooking? Consider booking a private cooking class with a local chef or hiring a private chef for an in-home culinary experience. Many chefs specialize in coastal dishes, giving you a chance to learn how to make Lowcountry classics like shrimp and grits or crab cakes from the comfort of your rental.
Pro Tip: If you’re staying in a vacation rental with a kitchen, stock up on local seafood and have a DIY cooking session with fresh, regional ingredients.
6. Check Out the Folly Beach Historical Society Museum
If you’re a history buff or just curious about the area, a visit to the Folly Beach Historical Society Museum can offer a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past. Learn about Folly’s role in the Civil War, its transformation into a beloved beach town, and its quirky, laid-back culture that has attracted visitors for generations.
Pro Tip: This is a great way to stay dry while deepening your connection to Folly Beach’s unique history.
7. Catch Live Music at a Local Bar
Folly Beach has a great live music scene, and rainy days often spark impromptu performances at local bars and venues. Head to The Washout or Loggerhead’s Beach Grill for live tunes from local musicians. You can enjoy a drink, good company, and great music while keeping dry indoors.