Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve — Attraction in Folly Beach

Absolutely spectacular! What a stunning way to spend the most perfect Sunday morning. It was around 70 degrees, the calmest breeze and not a cloud in the sky. There was some street parking left, but there is also a public pay lot. Unfortunately this is one of the very few places in Charleston where you CAN’T bring your dog; it is a protected bird and nature sanctuary and you risk a fine of $500 if you bring Fido, FYI. The walk is short and enjoyable. Bring some spray paint and add some love to the blacktop mural you walk on throughout the way. You can ride your bike, and once you hit the sand toward the beach, there is a bike rack station where you can lock up and walk barefoot the rest of the way. The beach with Morris Island Lighthouse lookout is fantastic! This is the closest view you can get to the lighthouse without being on a boat. My new favorite spot. The driftwood and graffiti art add to the sentiment. If you need some zen time, this...

Pretty nature preserve. Definitely worth going to see. Parking on street is free or there is a lot with beach access for $2 per hour plus service fee.

Information sign with a small toll box is in front. Rate is $1 per person. Honor system as nobody there to collect.

Blacktop path leads back to preserve and beach where you get a closeup view of the lighthouse. Lighthouse is approximately 1600 feet or so off shore.

The hidden gem here is the preserve.

Starting with graffiti black top roadway. Bring your spray paint it appears to be acceptable. Nobody saying don’t do that.

Frown that some people get carried away and painted some of the trees. Seriously people use the little brain god gave you and don’t spoil a good thing.

Lots of driftwood on the beach and lots of natural areas to explore. Well...

Not sure why others are so disgruntled about having to walk through a preserve instead of being able to drive a car that burns fossil fuels..... also, it is not a long walk but be prepared to walk a longer distance than you would usually have to walk if you were going to, let's say, Walmart on a busy day. Yes the gate is closed for a reason. Park your car and just know it will take about 10 to 25 minutes to walk. The "graffiti" on the ground in my opinion is actually a nice touch. Oh, also make sure you bring $1 per person and deposit it in the honor system box before the walk. Goes to a great cause, so please feel extremely guilty if you don't. But the reward is worth it when you get to the end. Beautiful sunrise and...