Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve
Explore the historic Morris Island Lighthouse via a vibrant graffiti path, with opportunities for beachcombing and wildlife viewing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Breathtaking views and golden hour magic
Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve
Best Time
Breathtaking views and golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the historic Morris Island Lighthouse via a vibrant graffiti path, with opportunities for beachcombing and wildlife viewing.
"Such a beautiful place that me and my beautiful wife decided to get married here."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk to the lighthouse is long; sturdy footwear is essential for the sandy terrain and graffiti path .
⏰ Check Tide Charts
Strong currents make swimming unsafe. Know the tides to avoid getting stranded .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Morris Island Lighthouse
Northern tip of Folly Beach
Iconic historic lighthouse offering stunning views and photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
Graffiti Path
Entrance to the preserve
A unique, colorful, and ever-evolving art walk leading to the beach, a local favorite.
Shark Tooth & Shell Hunting
The beach
Search for treasures like shark teeth, shells, and coral washed ashore on this natural beach.
Wildlife Observation
Preserve and surrounding waters
Spot dolphins, diverse bird species, and other coastal wildlife in their natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Walk to the Lighthouse
Tides and Currents: Know Before You Go
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk to the lighthouse is long; sturdy footwear is essential for the sandy terrain and graffiti path.
⏰ Check Tide Charts
Strong currents make swimming unsafe. Know the tides to avoid getting stranded.
🎨 Embrace the Graffiti Art
The path to the beach is a vibrant, local art project – enjoy the unique visuals.
🦈 Hunt for Shark Teeth
This beach is a prime spot for finding shark teeth and other beach treasures.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk to the lighthouse is long; sturdy footwear is essential for the sandy terrain and graffiti path.
⏰ Check Tide Charts
Strong currents make swimming unsafe. Know the tides to avoid getting stranded.
🎨 Embrace the Graffiti Art
The path to the beach is a vibrant, local art project – enjoy the unique visuals.
🦈 Hunt for Shark Teeth
This beach is a prime spot for finding shark teeth and other beach treasures.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Perfect for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking is limited; arrive early or be prepared for a bit of a walk from your spot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking scenery, especially the iconic Morris Island Lighthouse and stunning sunsets. The unique graffiti path adds a vibrant artistic touch to the journey. While parking can be challenging and swimming is not advised due to strong currents, the overall experience is described as beautiful, relaxing, and rewarding, with opportunities for shell hunting and wildlife spotting.
"Such a beautiful place that me and my beautiful wife decided to get married here. The scenery, the driftwood, the lighthouse, the water, and the sunset. Could not be more breathtaking. The place we decided to "tie the knot" was called "The Washout"! Definitely worth the long walk to reach this spot. Not as crowded as you would think and we had our ceremony on a Saturday, around 7:45pm, 8pm."
David Floyd
"Beautiful scenic area to take a stroll or to just relax. Parking is hit or miss, but we were lucky to find a great spot. Graffiti walkway makes for a fun interesting walk to the inlet. Once there, enjoy the views of the lighthouse and the sounds of the birds. Nice area to search for shells."
mrsr91899
"I had not previously explored this particular area of Folly Beach. Upon approaching the hotel on the main strip, I turned left and continued until the road's end. I discovered a lengthy road adorned with numerous graffiti art pieces. During my visit, I was fortunate enough to find some coral, shells, and even a shark tooth! I also greatly enjoyed observing the driftwood. The area was not heavily populated, which made for a very relaxing experience."
Kai
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Navigate to 1750 E Ashley Ave, Folly Beach, SC, and follow the signs for the preserve. The entrance features a unique graffiti-covered path that leads to the beach and lighthouse.
Parking is available but can be limited, especially during peak times. Arriving early is recommended, or be prepared for a longer walk from your parking spot.
The lighthouse is accessible via a long walk along the beach from the preserve. It's advisable to check tide times to ensure you have enough time to reach it and return before the tide comes in.
No, you cannot drive directly to the lighthouse. The preserve requires a walk along the beach to reach it.
Public transport options are limited for this specific preserve. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access it.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry is typically $1 per person, or free with a GoPass. It's a small fee for a beautiful experience.
The preserve is open daily from sunrise to sunset, allowing ample time for exploration and enjoying the coastal scenery.
No advance booking is typically required for general entry. The fee is usually collected upon arrival or via a pass system.
Yes, a GoPass often grants free entry to the preserve.
Yes, the preserve is open daily, including weekends, from sunrise to sunset.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can enjoy beach strolls, surf fishing, birdwatching, wildlife observation (including dolphins), searching for shark teeth and shells, and photography.
Swimming is not recommended due to strong currents. The waters can be dangerous for swimmers.
You might spot dolphins, various shorebirds, and other coastal animals. It's a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. Many visitors enjoy lunch on the beach, especially after the walk.
The graffiti path is a sandy and uneven trail, which may make it challenging for strollers or wheelchairs. It's best suited for walking.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the lighthouse and coastal scenery.
The path is a constantly changing canvas of vibrant street art, offering unique and colorful backdrops for creative shots.
Yes, especially for birdwatching and if you're lucky enough to spot dolphins offshore.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and lighthouse, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or park management before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of water and snacks, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for the trek. While the walk can be substantial, the reward of seeing the historic lighthouse and the chance to discover beach treasures makes it a memorable outing. Consider visiting during lower tides for easier access and more beach to explore.
📸 Photographers
The graffiti path offers a vibrant and unconventional backdrop, adding a unique artistic element to your shots.+1Bring a variety of lenses to capture both the grand coastal landscapes and any wildlife you might spot, such as dolphins or shorebirds.
The natural textures of driftwood and the variety of shells also present excellent macro photography opportunities. Remember to check tide times, as they can influence the accessibility and mood of the scene.🚶♀️ Nature & History Enthusiasts
The natural beach environment offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and observing coastal ecosystems. You might even be lucky enough to see dolphins offshore.Don't miss the graffiti path, a unique cultural element that showcases local art. The beachcombing for shells and shark teeth adds an element of discovery to your visit. It’s a place to connect with both the past and the present natural world.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Morris Island Lighthouse
Reaching the lighthouse involves a significant walk along the beach, especially during low tide. Visitors often describe the journey as a rewarding adventure, with the ever-changing scenery and the anticipation of reaching the iconic structure. The area around the lighthouse is rich with history, having played a role in the Civil War and later serving the U.S. Coast Guard.
It's a place where history meets natural beauty, offering a unique glimpse into the past.Pro Tip: While you can't climb the lighthouse, its presence on the beach is powerful. Consider visiting during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic photographic opportunities.
The Vibrant Graffiti Path
The walls and structures along the path are covered in a kaleidoscope of spray-painted art, from intricate murals to bold tags, creating a visually stimulating and unexpected welcome.This unique artistic expression adds a layer of personality and local flavor to the preserve. Visitors often spend time admiring the artwork, taking photos, and appreciating the creativity on display. The art is constantly evolving, with new pieces appearing and old ones being painted over, making each visit a potentially different visual experience.
It's a testament to the vibrant artistic community in the Charleston area.Community Insight: Many visitors find the graffiti path to be a fun and engaging part of their visit, setting a playful tone before even reaching the beach itself.
Beachcombing and Wildlife Encounters
The preserve is also a haven for wildlife observation. Keep an eye on the water for playful dolphins that are often seen in the area.
The coastal environment attracts a diverse array of bird species, making it a prime spot for birdwatching. The natural beauty and the chance to find unique treasures make a stroll along the beach a rewarding experience for all ages.Important Note: While the beach is beautiful, the currents here are strong and make swimming unsafe. Always prioritize safety and enjoy the beach for its natural beauty and treasures rather than for swimming.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit