- Gas Fireplace Maintenance
- Gas Fireplace Maintenance
- Chimney Cap Installation
- Fire Hazards with Dryer Vent Cleaning
Chimney Sweep in Folly Beach, SC
There's something alluring about chimneys - whether they're old or new, they have an inherent charm that adds architectural flair to your home. Perhaps more importantly, fireplaces keep you and your family warm and cozy during cold South Carolina winters. Who doesn't love gathering in front of the fire with friends to enjoy a fun board game or a few rounds of drinks?
Anyone who owns a chimney should most certainly enjoy it. But you should know that your chimney isn't there to simply make your house look special - its primary role is to keep you and your family safe. In fact, when you're relaxing in front of a cozy fire with your favorite book, your chimney is hard at work making sure the fire's harmful fumes are directed up and away from you and your home.
Unfortunately, when you fail to clean your fireplace and the flue lining it, things can heat up in a matter of moments - and not in a good way. The truth is that unclean fireplaces can lead to chimney fires, which are known for causing horrible property damage and even harm to people. Chimney fires can be explosive, with flames shooting from the top of your chimney and dense smoke billowing out into the street. It's a horrible situation to endure. Fortunately, homeowners in South Carolina can rely on a chimney sweep in Folly Beach, SC, to keep their chimneys clean and in great working condition. That's where Flowertown Gas Fireplace and Chimney Service comes into play - to help you enjoy your home's fireplace without worrying about worst-case scenarios.

Stay Safe, Warm, and Cozy withFlowertown Gas Fireplace and Chimney Service
As a local, family-owned chimney sweep company in South Carolina, our team is dedicated to keeping gas fireplaces, wood burning fireplaces, and dryer vents clean and in great working condition for homeowners. By letting our family serve your family, you can rest easy knowing your fireplace and chimney are ready and waiting for you to enjoy this winter, whether you have a gas fireplace with logs or a more traditional wood burning alternative.
Our mission is to serve our customers with superior chimney and gas fireplace service by providing years of knowledge, time-tested solutions, and customer education to build trust and customer loyalty. We offer a range of chimney sweep services in Folly Beach, SC, including the following:
- Gas Fireplace Service, Repairs, & Installation
- Gas Log Service, Repair, & Installation
- Chimney Sweep Service & Cleaning
- Wood Fireplace Service & Repairs
- Exterior Chimney Cap Sales & Installation
- Chimney Inspections
Unlike some chimney sweep companies in South Carolina, our team has been certified to ensure we know how to install, maintain, and repair all types of fireplace appliances. In fact, over our more than 12 years of experience in the fireplace and hearth industry, we've obtained a few credentials along the way, including:
CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep
Homeowners looking for reliable and knowledgeable chimney and venting professionals have trusted the Chimney Safety Institute of America's (CSIA) endorsements for over three decades. By selecting a technician who is certified by CSIA, you can rest assured that they possess the necessary expertise, qualifications, and experience to provide you with top-notch chimney sweep service in South Carolina.
NFI Certified Gas Hearth and Wood Burning Hearth Professional
When it comes to planning and installing fireplaces, stoves, and venting systems, skill and technical knowledge are absolutely crucial. There are countless decisions that must be made, including determining the appropriate floor protection, appliance sizing and placement, and venting system compatibility and height.
For the most reliable and proper installation, it's highly recommended that you seek the guidance of a specialist. The National Fireplace Institute is a trusted, independent, non-profit certification agency that has established the highest standards for certification in the hearth industry. Those who pass the rigorous examination covering the fundamentals of proper installation are awarded NFI Specialist Certification, ensuring you can trust their expertise.
Now that you know a little bit about our company and our mission, it's time to learn more about the fireplace and hearth services we offer to homeowners in South Carolina.

Keeping Your Home Safe with Gas Fireplace Maintenance in Folly Beach, SC
Gas fireplaces are one of the most common features of homes in South Carolina and bring a special ambiance to any room. As with any appliance in your home, however, it's important to keep your gas fireplace maintained throughout the year.
It is crucial to have your gas hearth appliances serviced annually. At Flowertown Gas Fireplace and Chimney Service, our team of experts will thoroughly clean, service, and inspect your gas hearth appliance, as well as perform any necessary repairs. If you notice black soot on your logs or they are not burning cleanly, it is imperative to shut down the appliance to schedule gas fireplace maintenance or repair ASAP.
It's important to note that your gas logs should only be serviced and repaired by a certified gas specialist from the NFI or National Fireplace Institute. There's nothing wrong with hiring a friend, but if they don't know what they're doing, your safety may be at risk.


Why Should You Have Your Gas Fireplace Serviced
At Flowertown Gas Fireplace and Chimney Service, one of the most common questions we get is whether or not a customer really needs to have their fireplace serviced. The two biggest reasons for doing so are appliance reliability and safety. The truth is it's very important to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and have the system inspected and serviced annually by a certified gas specialist.
Failure to do so could result in the production of lethal carbon monoxide gas, which is odorless and requires special equipment to detect. Additionally, gas leaks and improper venting can pose serious hazards, which is why inspection of the venting system, chimney, and fireplace is imperative. With proper maintenance and regular checks, you can enjoy the warmth of your gas hearth system with confidence and peace of mind.
If you haven't kept up with gas fireplace maintenance and believe something is wrong with your hearth or chimney, consider gas fireplace repair in Folly Beach, SC.
What About Un-Vented Gas Fireplaces?
Heating systems that don't require vents are like regular home heating systems. But they need to be working properly and checked often. It's a good idea to open a window if you're using a vent-free heater. There are rules about when you can use them. It's a good idea to have an expert check your heater's location. Sometimes, people don't know how to use their fireplace or heater correctly - and that's OK. At Flowertown Gas Fireplace and Chimney, we're happy to answer questions and give you tips so you can safely enjoy your gas fireplace.

Common Signs You Need Gas Fireplace Repair
Whether you have a vented or un-vented gas fireplace, it's important to know when you need maintenance or repairs. Keep these signs in mind, especially as you approach fireplace season.

Burning Smells
If you detect any unusual odors emanating from your gas fireplace, it is important to take action. While some odors may not be a cause for concern, the smell of gas or burning wires should be taken seriously. To ensure your safety, turn off the fireplace and immediately open windows to let in fresh air. Be sure to also call a certified chimney sweeping company like Flowertown to repair and resolve any further issues. In the event of a suspected gas leak, evacuate your home immediately and dial 911 for assistance.

Your Gas Fireplace Turns On and Off
If your custom gas fireplace is turning on and then quickly turning off, this is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. There can be multiple reasons for this malfunction, so it's best to contact a trustworthy chimney sweep in South Carolina who specializes in gas fireplaces. Turn off the unit and wait for the technician to arrive to prevent any further damage.

Buildup of Soot
It's normal to wipe off soot from various areas of your fireplace while you're cleaning. However, if you notice excessive amounts of soot, you're dealing with an underlying problem that needs professional attention.

Pilot Light Malfunctions
If your gas fireplace's pilot light is not working properly, it could indicate a potential issue with the wiring, gas valves, or thermostat. Keep an eye out for any inconsistencies in its performance.
Reliable Wood Fireplace Maintenance in Folly Beach, SC
While gas fireplaces are more common and often easier to operate, wood fireplaces have their own unique ambiance and allure. If you're like us, nothing sounds better than curling up in front of a crackling fire on a cold winter's night with some hot cocoa and a good book. Unfortunately, when you fail to maintain your wood fireplace and are reluctant to have it repaired, you're putting your safety on the line.
That's why we offer top-notch chimney cleaning services at Flowertown Gas Fireplace & Chimney Service. Our certified hearth professionals will thoroughly clean your chimney, removing any creosote buildup and inspecting all vital components to ensure everything is in proper working order. Don't take any chances when it comes to the safety of your home - trust us to keep your chimney in tip-top shape.

Why Should You Have Your Wood Fireplace Inspected by a Chimney Sweep?
There are several compelling reasons why you should have your system inspected by our team. As we mentioned earlier, your chimney is likely to accumulate creosote deposits, which can pose a serious fire hazard. However, with our chimney and fireplace sweeping services, you can significantly reduce this risk. Plus, there may be hidden defects in your system, such as within the flue or smoke chamber, which are difficult to detect without professional inspection.
Suppose you are a new homeowner or have never had your system inspected by a certified chimney sweeper in South Carolina. In that case, it's time to call Flowertown Gas Fireplace & Chimney Service. Our experts can provide the necessary maintenance and recommendations to ensure your system is safe and functional. Whether you need an inspection, maintenance, or wood fireplace repair, our team is ready and waiting to help.


Why Should You Have Your Wood Fireplace Inspected by a Chimney Sweep?
There are several compelling reasons why you should have your system inspected by our team. As we mentioned earlier, your chimney is likely to accumulate creosote deposits, which can pose a serious fire hazard. However, with our chimney and fireplace sweeping services, you can significantly reduce this risk. Plus, there may be hidden defects in your system, such as within the flue or smoke chamber, which are difficult to detect without professional inspection.
Suppose you are a new homeowner or have never had your system inspected by a certified chimney sweeper in South Carolina. In that case, it's time to call Flowertown Gas Fireplace & Chimney Service. Our experts can provide the necessary maintenance and recommendations to ensure your system is safe and functional. Whether you need an inspection, maintenance, or wood fireplace repair, our team is ready and waiting to help.
Essential Wood Burning Fireplace Safety Tips
Having a wood fireplace is a wonderful addition to any home, but it needs to be maintained and repaired, or else it can be very hazardous to your family. Try following these safety tips when enjoying your wood stove or fireplace.

Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby
To increase the likelihood of effectively controlling a fire and preventing it from spreading, it is important to have a fire extinguisher nearby. This can significantly reduce the response time in the event of a fire, as every second counts.

Look for Chimney Cracks
Try to regularly inspect your chimney for any cracks, obstructions, or signs of damage. Cracks can be particularly dangerous, as they can allow heat, smoke, and harmful gases to escape into your home. Cracks can also serve as an entry point for water, which can be particularly harmful.

Talk to Your Family
To ensure safety around your wood burning fireplace, it's essential to educate your family, especially kids, about the potential hazards of fire and the importance of responsible behavior. By teaching them wood fireplace safety measures, you'll create a secure environment for everyone in your house.

Have Your Chimney Inspected by a Seasoned Chimney Sweep in South Carolina
Regular chimney inspections and cleanings prioritize safety and maintenance while providing peace of mind and reducing the risk of chimney fires. Plus, by having your wood fireplace inspected, you'll have peace of mind knowing it works when weather starts to freeze.

Protect Your Property with Chimney Cap Installation in Folly Beach, SC
If you've ever looked at a house and noted how great the top of their chimney looked, it's probably because they had an attractive chimney cap. Chimney caps and chase pans play a crucial role in both the functionality of a chimney system and the aesthetic appeal of a home's exterior. A well-designed chimney cap safeguards the chimney from animal intrusion, minimizes wind-induced downdraft, and is an essential component in preventing water entry, which can cause significant damage to chimneys.
If you're looking to add or replace your current chimney cap, you're in the right place. Our collection of custom chimney caps comes in a variety of styles and colors to match or supplement your home's beauty. Of course, as professional chimney sweepers in South Carolina, we also offer chimney cap repair and water prevention options where necessary.
How Do You Know When a Chimney Cap Needs Maintenance?
Your home's chimney cap is likely the highest point of your home, making it an easy feature to forget about when it comes to yearly maintenance or repair. That's unfortunate, because even small damage to your chimney and its cap can allow debris and water to enter. Do yourself a favor and examine your chimney cap regularly for the following red flags:
- Visible Cracks
- Loose Bricks
- Tiles Falling from Chimney
- Cracked Mortar Joints
- Rust in Fireplace
- More
If you notice any of the following signs, you should call Flowertown Gas Fireplace & Chimney Service for expert chimney cap repair.


Avoid Hidden Fire Hazards with Dryer Vent Cleaning in Folly Beach, SC
Have you noticed that it's been taking longer to dry your clothes after washing them? If so, your dryer vent might need to be cleaned - and we're not just talking about the screen you pull out to remove lint. But why?
Regular cleaning of your dryer vents is a must for many reasons, but primarily to prevent lint buildup that can lead to house fires and extend your appliance's lifespan. Dryer vent cleaning is especially important if you tend to leave home while your dryer is in use, as a fire could ignite in your absence. Neglecting proper dryer vent cleaning not only wastes energy but also causes longer drying times and increases the likelihood of machine malfunctions.
Unsure whether you need dryer vent cleaning from Flowertown Gas Fireplace & Chimney Service? Call our office today for an inspection - it's always better to be safe than sorry. You can also keep an eye out for signs like:
- Burning Smells
- Extra-Long Dry Times
- Your Clothes are Unusually Hot
- Your Lint Flap Won't Open
- Your Laundry Room is Hotter Than Usual
If you notice one or more of the red flags above, you should act fast. Flowertown chimney sweeps are fully equipped to provide a comprehensive dryer vent cleaning service for all brands of dryers, including gas, electric, and high-efficiency machines.
What Clients Say About Us
Request a Quote

Latest News in Folly Beach, SC
Wheels to Surf empowers disabled surfers, inspiring joy and resilience in Folly Beach
Cameron Limeshttps://abcnews4.com/news/local/wheels-to-beach-creates-new
Wheels to Surf took over a section of Folly Beach on Saturday as over 40 volunteers and 40 surfers took to the waves. (WCIV)FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCIV) — Wheels to Surf took over a section of Folly Beach on Saturday as over 40 volunteers and 40 surfers took to the waves.The program is aimed towards surfers who happen to have a disability. The surfers do not let anything hold them back from enjoying the waves.Brent Rightler has been a part of the program for four years. "The only thing I can't do is hike in the wo...
Wheels to Surf took over a section of Folly Beach on Saturday as over 40 volunteers and 40 surfers took to the waves. (WCIV)
FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCIV) — Wheels to Surf took over a section of Folly Beach on Saturday as over 40 volunteers and 40 surfers took to the waves.
The program is aimed towards surfers who happen to have a disability. The surfers do not let anything hold them back from enjoying the waves.
Brent Rightler has been a part of the program for four years. "The only thing I can't do is hike in the woods." he said cheerfully. When asked why he loves to surf his response was immediate - "life is too short, why not?"
Rightler is one of many surfers who keep returning to the waves, as the program is now on its 11th year.
"This started at home. I wanted to do this where I live." said Brock Johnson, the founder of Wheels to Surf. "Originally the program was meant just for people in wheel chairs. Then I got a call from someone asking if their autistic son could join and after checking I said yes."
Johnson made the choice to start the program after suffering a tragic accident. "I was out on a boat and the sands shifted. I took a dive and broke my neck leaving me paraplegic. I can't move anything from the chest down." said Johnson. "My life is completely different and I had to figure out what to do."
And so he did, and the program has only grown from there, traveling from beach to beach across the world.
READ MORE | "Miss South Carolina High School America uses platform to support disability awareness"
Wheels to Surf opens the doors for others to travel and try new experiences.
Brian Shaw, who is blind, has been an avid surfer for years, and has mastered the waves. "I gotta feel the wave to see if I can stand." he said.
Shaw has been able to travel because of surfing and competes across the country. "I said lets go play out in California. I got third place for my first time out there so I'm not gonna complain."
And for Johnson, getting back into the water over and over again, there is still the rush THAT never leaves. "Even though I have a couple decades of experience, it's still joy to me and that's the best part, is all the joy the participants have," he said.
To learn more about Wheels to Surf or to sign up, click here.
12 Best Restaurants at Charleston’s Beaches
Erin Perkinshttps://carolinas.eater.com/maps/best-charleston-beach-restaurants-folly
Many of those visiting Charleston know that downtown is a hot spot for restaurants, but where should folks visiting one of the local beaches eat? From barbecue to noodle bowls, these island eateries can offer a wealth of choices for the hungry wave jumper or sunbather.New to the map: ...
Many of those visiting Charleston know that downtown is a hot spot for restaurants, but where should folks visiting one of the local beaches eat? From barbecue to noodle bowls, these island eateries can offer a wealth of choices for the hungry wave jumper or sunbather.
New to the map: Acme Lowcountry Kitchen. Restaurants are listed geographically, from west to east.
Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process.
Before a day at Folly Beach, frequent visitors know to hit up Lost Dog for brunch. The cafe has something for everyone on the menu, from huevos rancheros to fresh fruit parfaits. Relax with a mimosa before hitting the waves and sand.
Full of surfers and deal-seekers, Folly Beach stop Jack of Cups offers filling curry mac ‘n cheese, dahl, and Thai meatballs. The menu is a mash-up of different cuisines from across the globe, including nods to the South, which is always good while sipping a few craft beers.
Self-proclaimed “chill ass bar,” Lowlife offers expertly crafted cocktails, queso, local shrimp rolls, double cheeseburgers, and more in a hip and lively beach space. Lowlife also serves brunch every day of the week, so it’s like a vacation within a vacation.
A visit to Taco Boy is all about the experience. The interiors are lively and full of fun details. It offers a long list of tacos with unexpected fillings, like the Korean beef tacos stuffed with kimchi and grilled flank steak or the sauteed shrimp tacos come with ancho chile yogurt sauce and cabbage. On a nice day, enjoy the patio with a few friends and a frozen screwdriver to go with the other selections.
Spanish for "the ugly boy," Chico Feo makes for a super chill stop after a day on the beach. The eatery feels like visiting a friend’s backyard. The menu is a mix-up of warm weather favorites from across the globe, like Cuban beans and rice, bun cha, and plenty of tacos.
Bert’s Market isn’t a restaurant, but it is an icon on Folly Beach. The 24-hour corner store is well known as stop for made-to-order sandwiches and just about everything else you need for a day at the beach. Bert’s puts it best: “Patronized by freaks, surfers, skaters, crunks, retirees, tourists, stoners, day trippers, hippies, hipsters, and regular folk, Bert’s is the rockingest grocery in town.”
Dining at Sullivan’s Fish Camp is like stepping onto a sailboat out of the 1970s. The retro-chic restaurant is one of the stylish on the island. Recently, former Lowland chef Jason Stanhope took over the kitchen to overhaul the menu. He’s planning a slow transition to get back to the roots of a Lowcountry fish camp. Current offerings include lobster roll sliders, local crudo, shrimp fried rice, and more.
Diners can eat pizza, pasta, and fresh seafood just a few steps from the ocean. From the skilled hands of executive chef Jacques Larson, the Obstinate Daughter offers a stunning dining room to spend visit for lunch, brunch, or dinner. Visitors should order a craft cocktail, a few oysters, and try the ricotta gnocchi with short rib ragu at least once.
Home Team BBQ on Sullivan's Island is always packed with friends and families ordering pulled pork plates and catching a game on the televisions. The smoked wings with Alabama white sauce are addictive, as are the frozen boozy Gamechanger cocktails.
Cozy bistro High Thyme offers a more upscale experience than most beach-goers expect. Guests visit this Middle Street restaurant for celebratory dinners and Sunday morning brunches. Find dishes like mussels in a coconut chili broth, cioppino, three-meat bolognese lasagna, lamb meatballs, and more comforting dishes.
Using only sustainable seafood, Acme Lowcountry Kitchen offers a taste of the East Coast. Where the kitchen really shines is the extensive shrimp and grits offerings — choose from plates like jerk shrimp with peaches and cream grits and pineapple salsa or more traditional sauteed shrimp, with tasso ham, peppers, onions, and red eye gravy.
Contemporary Italian eatery Coda del Pesce sits right on the beach at Isle of Palms. Customers can watch the ocean while ordering from chef Ken Vedrinski’s seafood-filled menu. Make reservations early for dishes like the snowy grouper with peanut potatoes, grapes, and Castelvetrano olives.
Before a day at Folly Beach, frequent visitors know to hit up Lost Dog for brunch. The cafe has something for everyone on the menu, from huevos rancheros to fresh fruit parfaits. Relax with a mimosa before hitting the waves and sand.
Full of surfers and deal-seekers, Folly Beach stop Jack of Cups offers filling curry mac ‘n cheese, dahl, and Thai meatballs. The menu is a mash-up of different cuisines from across the globe, including nods to the South, which is always good while sipping a few craft beers.
Self-proclaimed “chill ass bar,” Lowlife offers expertly crafted cocktails, queso, local shrimp rolls, double cheeseburgers, and more in a hip and lively beach space. Lowlife also serves brunch every day of the week, so it’s like a vacation within a vacation.
A visit to Taco Boy is all about the experience. The interiors are lively and full of fun details. It offers a long list of tacos with unexpected fillings, like the Korean beef tacos stuffed with kimchi and grilled flank steak or the sauteed shrimp tacos come with ancho chile yogurt sauce and cabbage. On a nice day, enjoy the patio with a few friends and a frozen screwdriver to go with the other selections.
Spanish for "the ugly boy," Chico Feo makes for a super chill stop after a day on the beach. The eatery feels like visiting a friend’s backyard. The menu is a mix-up of warm weather favorites from across the globe, like Cuban beans and rice, bun cha, and plenty of tacos.
Bert’s Market isn’t a restaurant, but it is an icon on Folly Beach. The 24-hour corner store is well known as stop for made-to-order sandwiches and just about everything else you need for a day at the beach. Bert’s puts it best: “Patronized by freaks, surfers, skaters, crunks, retirees, tourists, stoners, day trippers, hippies, hipsters, and regular folk, Bert’s is the rockingest grocery in town.”
Dining at Sullivan’s Fish Camp is like stepping onto a sailboat out of the 1970s. The retro-chic restaurant is one of the stylish on the island. Recently, former Lowland chef Jason Stanhope took over the kitchen to overhaul the menu. He’s planning a slow transition to get back to the roots of a Lowcountry fish camp. Current offerings include lobster roll sliders, local crudo, shrimp fried rice, and more.
Diners can eat pizza, pasta, and fresh seafood just a few steps from the ocean. From the skilled hands of executive chef Jacques Larson, the Obstinate Daughter offers a stunning dining room to spend visit for lunch, brunch, or dinner. Visitors should order a craft cocktail, a few oysters, and try the ricotta gnocchi with short rib ragu at least once.
Home Team BBQ on Sullivan's Island is always packed with friends and families ordering pulled pork plates and catching a game on the televisions. The smoked wings with Alabama white sauce are addictive, as are the frozen boozy Gamechanger cocktails.
Cozy bistro High Thyme offers a more upscale experience than most beach-goers expect. Guests visit this Middle Street restaurant for celebratory dinners and Sunday morning brunches. Find dishes like mussels in a coconut chili broth, cioppino, three-meat bolognese lasagna, lamb meatballs, and more comforting dishes.
Using only sustainable seafood, Acme Lowcountry Kitchen offers a taste of the East Coast. Where the kitchen really shines is the extensive shrimp and grits offerings — choose from plates like jerk shrimp with peaches and cream grits and pineapple salsa or more traditional sauteed shrimp, with tasso ham, peppers, onions, and red eye gravy.
Contemporary Italian eatery Coda del Pesce sits right on the beach at Isle of Palms. Customers can watch the ocean while ordering from chef Ken Vedrinski’s seafood-filled menu. Make reservations early for dishes like the snowy grouper with peanut potatoes, grapes, and Castelvetrano olives.
10 Best Seafood Spots In South Carolina, According To Our Readers
Lisa Cericolahttps://www.southernliving.com/travel/south-carolina/south-carolina-seafood-spots
If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.We asked our readers to vote for their favorite spots for fresh catch and local shrimp in the Palmetto State—here are their picks.When in Rome, do as the Romans do. When in South Carolina, find the nearest seafood dive and tuck into a platter of fried shrimp&mda...
If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
We asked our readers to vote for their favorite spots for fresh catch and local shrimp in the Palmetto State—here are their picks.
When in Rome, do as the Romans do. When in South Carolina, find the nearest seafood dive and tuck into a platter of fried shrimp—preferably one served with an ice-cold beer and an unobstructed view of the water. While you can take to Google or a guidebook to determine where to go for steamed oysters or shrimp and grits in the Lowcountry, we decided to consult the folks who care about good Southern seafood as much as we do: our readers. Here are the 10 best seafood spots in South Carolina, as voted by Southern Living readers.
Lee's Inlet Kitchen
When you’ve been around for more than 75 years, you’re bound to be doing something right. At this beloved institution in the fishing village of Murrells Inlet, try not to load up on the hot hush puppies they bring to the table on arrival—though it's awfully tempting. There's still so much more to savor, like the hand-peeled, cold-boiled shrimp pulled from the waters of nearby McClellanville or the thin and crispy onion rings—Lee’s is as famous for those as it is for the seafood.
Order: The Shrimp Salad ($28.95), made with boiled fantail shrimp and Duke's mayo, is another house specialty.
4460 US-17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576; leesinletkitchen.com
Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks
It doesn’t get much fresher than this Hilton Head Island mainstay, where 90% of the seafood served comes directly from the surrounding waters. Because of its enviable position on the edge of Port Royal Sound, guests can watch a local fishing fleet (one of only two on the island) unload the day’s loot, which could include anything from white shrimp to soft-shell crab.
Order: From September through April, opt for the steamed local cluster oysters in the shell ($12 for a half bucket); the restaurant farms and harvests them.
1 Hudson Road, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina 29926; hudsonsonthedocks.com
Bowens Island Restaurant
Should you find yourself in the Holy City, make the worthwhile dirt-road detour to this family-owned restaurant that’s been a rambling fixture along Folly Creek since 1946. With its graffitied walls and worn-in wood floors, it doesn’t beg for attention, and it doesn’t need to. Deemed an American Classic by the James Beard Foundation in 2006, the Lowcountry seafood joint shovels fresh-steamed oysters onto trays September through the first half of May and dishes fried shrimp and hush puppies year-round. It’s all delicious—and it's made even more so if you snag a seat on the waterside deck.
Order: The shrimp (served boiled or fried) and fried fish platter is served with the seafood-dive-side-dish trifecta: french fries, hush puppies, and coleslaw.
1870 Bowens Island Road, Charleston, SC 29412; bowensisland.com
The Crab Shack
Situated on the main drag of the freewheeling beach town just 12 miles from buttoned-up Charleston, The Crab Shack is as family-friendly and flip-flop casual as its surrounds. Start with the the she-crab soup, but save room: The value seafood baskets—which you can order with flounder, shrimp, or scallops (or a combination of all three)—are generously portioned. Catch them at another location in Charleston as well.
Order: The marquee offering, The Charleston Steamed Seafood Bucket, includes two snow crab clusters, large domestic shrimp, and steamed oysters (market price).
26 Center Street, Folly Beach, SC 29439 and 8486 Dorchester Rd, Charleston, SC 29420; crabshacks.com
Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oyster Shop
Housed in a reimagined garage on Upper King Street, the Brooks Reitz-helmed restaurant turned 10 in 2024, but it’s been a neighborhood favorite from the start, thanks to a menu of mouthwatering fried chicken, expectedly fresh oysters, and surprisingly craveable salads. Add to the clever mix soft-serve ice cream and buckets of Miller High Life ponies, and you’ve found yourself one of the best meals in this restaurant-proud town.
Order: Even the bivalve-averse crowd may develop a taste for oysters after sampling Leon's char-grilled take, which swim in a melty swirl of lemon and butter and are topped with a generous sprinkle of parmesan. The "old-school" scalloped potatoes are also not to be missed.
698 King St, Charleston, SC 29403; leonsoystershop.com
The Sea Shack
Don’t let inevitable line out the door during summertime scare you off. This treasured counter-service spot with just 40 seats is an area favorite thanks to its wide array of offerings, from conch fritters to flounder sandwiches. It’s all made to order and to your liking—fried, grilled, or blackened. Wash it down with a glass of what they declare to be the best sweet tea on the island, and finish with a slice of strawberry Key Lime pie (when it’s seasonally available) or a cup of banana pudding.
Order: Hearty appetites should try the Shack Attack Combo ($17.95 for lunch, $19.95 for dinner), which combines a crab cake, fish, shrimp, scallops, and oysters on a giant paper platter. Homemade tartar sauce is the traditional accompaniment, but we think the brandy-infused gator sauce makes an even better platter slather.
6B Executive Park Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928; seashackhhi.com
Sullivan’s Fish Camp
With its lofted ceilings, lacquered-wood booths, and commitment to retro branding, this Sullivan’s Island joint feels like it’s been there forever. In reality, it’s a newcomer—a spring 2022 top-to-bottom overhaul of a restaurant that had called the same spot home for 30 years. And while the nostalgically striped, umbrella-shaded patio is painfully charming, the takeaway window makes a strong case for a to-go lobster roll savored on the beach just a few blocks away.
Order: The shrimp fried rice ($24) puts a fresh coastal twist on a takeout mainstay. We also love the Key lime pie.
2019 Middle Street, Sullivan's Island, SC 29482; sullivansfishcamp.com
The Wreck of the Richard and Charlene
So named for the trawler that was tossed ashore on the same spot during Hurricane Hugo in 1989, this dinner-only, no-reservations establishment on Shem Creek shrugs off formalities in favor of its dynamite views and deliciously simple seafood. The best seat in the house belongs to the wooden dockside bar, where sunset views and local craft beers are just an arm’s length away.
Order: Complete with red rice, coleslaw, a hush puppy, and a fried hominy square, the shrimp platter (from $17.95) is a true taste of the Lowcountry. The deviled crab is also worth a try.
106 Haddrell Street, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464; wreckrc.com
Shrimp Shack
This family-owned lunch spot has been an island institution since it first opened its doors in 1978, and its magic belongs to its simplicity. They're only open for lunch, and you order through a carry-out window—though you don't have to take your food home. Snag one of the picnic tables on the porch for an especially satisfying alfresco dining experience.
Order: Given the restaurant's name, it's obvious you can't go wrong with shrimp here, but the shrimp burger ($9.30), served on a bun with tartar sauce and mayo, is a true crowd favorite.
1929 Sea Island Parkway, Saint Helena Island, SC 29920; facebook.com/shrimpshacksc
Mr. Fish Restaurant
There’s something for everyone on the extensive menu at this landmark Grand Strand restaurant and seafood market owned by a fisherman father and his culinary school-trained daughter. Choose a South Carolina classic, like the Lowcountry boil, or make the most of the raw bar and order a sushi roll or two. Stretch mealtime into a full-fledged Mr. Fish experience by reserving a ride to and from dinner in the Mr. Fishmobile, a bright blue school bus that hits all the nostalgic high notes.
Order: The seafood tacos ($15) are made with your choice of mahi, tuna, or shrimp and are topped with chipotle-lime sauce.
6307 North Kings Highway, Suite B, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572; mrfish.com
Beachgoers can expect delays, detours on Folly Beach as stormwater project begins on Center Street
Anna Sharpehttps://www.postandcourier.com/charleston_sc/folly-beach-center-street-delays-flooding/article_34215dc2-9906-49f4-87f1-2f4ef8658b4a.html
FOLLY BEACH — Getting to the "Edge of America" will look a little different this season as the city overhauls its stormwater drain system on the island, including via the single main road used to access it.Folly Beach will begin work this month to replace its underground drainage systems on Center Street and several flood-prone side side streets. The new drains will more than double the capacity of the city's stormwater pipes, reducing the ...
FOLLY BEACH — Getting to the "Edge of America" will look a little different this season as the city overhauls its stormwater drain system on the island, including via the single main road used to access it.
Folly Beach will begin work this month to replace its underground drainage systems on Center Street and several flood-prone side side streets. The new drains will more than double the capacity of the city's stormwater pipes, reducing the lasting pools of rainwater on the streets that accumulate during storms.
The project is funded by a roughly $8 million South Carolina Infrastructure Investment Program grant awarded to the city from the state's Rural Infrastructure Authority in 2023.
The entirety of Folly Beach is in a flood hazard area, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The city's current stormwater system is nearly 80 years old and can't adequately handle the rising volume of flooding and increased frequency of named storms.
An island-wide drainage study revealed that portions of the city's drainage are inadequate for managing flooding from king tides and that side streets on the east side of the island are hotspots for flooding.
"The crux of the issue is in Center Street; the storm drains and piping underneath the street that go out to the (Folly) River are severely undersized for the type of rain events we get these days,” said Eric Lutz, the city’s director of public works.
Installing larger drains, more inlets and above-ground improvements will ideally reduce the amount of standing water that collects on the island, Lutz said.
Drains and inlets will be installed on East Huron Avenue, East Erie Avenue, East Cooper Avenue, East Ashley Avenue and a small portion of East Arctic Avenue. The pipes will connect to the larger system that runs below the entirety of Center Street.
Crews will begin work on the eastern side streets in May, before moving to the island's main artery in August to September. The underground work will consist of removing the old pipes and replacing them with newer, larger pipes along with roughly 40 inlets or points for stormwater to get underground and into the drains.
Thirty-nine parking spots that are paved with materials that allow water to pass through, rather than gather on top, will be created as part of the project. Crews will also plant trees and install rain gardens along Center Street to aid in absorbing water when it floods or rains.
Project may impact local businesses
The work will require closing streets and pedestrian walkways on the island’s main stretch toward the end of the peak beach season. Lutz said crews will work one block at a time, so the stretch of road will never be completely shut down.
Chris Pyman, a project manager with engineering and design firm Weston and Sampson, said at an April community meeting they expect to maintain two-way traffic by utilizing the center lane of Center Street.
Much of the work will be limited to weekdays and is expected to wrap up in June 2026.
Still, the imminent construction will come with traffic detours and delays. The prospect has worried some employees at the shops and restaurants that line the main road.
Sitting behind the counter at the Ocean Surf Shop, Claire Gregson and Lily McAlpin were concerned that the construction would impact the foot traffic the store will see. Though the Center Street work isn't expected to start until August, the women said their store remains busy until October.
Jessica Goodman briefly paused her work folding shirts at the register of Native, a gift shop on Center Street, when she learned of the upcoming construction.
"We’ll see," Goodman said. "I hope it doesn't affect people."
She said she already struggles with the beach season commute, preferring to work earlier or later shifts to avoid the traffic.
Christian Swain, a manager at Coconut Joe's on the corner of Center Street and West Ashley Avenue, said the summer seemed an odd time to start roadwork, noting traffic during peak season is already a challenge for himself and his coworkers.
"It'll impact our staff trying to get to work,” Swain said. "It's already bad enough in the summertime, we have to leave an hour earlier to beat the traffic to get here."
Reach Anna Sharpe at 843-806-6790.
First Sea Turtle Nest of 2025 Reported in Folly Beach
Morning Ag Clipshttps://www.morningagclips.com/first-sea-turtle-nest-of-2025-reported-in-folly-beach/
CHARLESTON, S.C. — South Carolina’s sea turtle nesting season has begun a couple days earlier than normal with a loggerhead nest reported in Folly Beach.Trained volunteers with the Folly Beach Turtle Watch program located the nest this morning while walking the beach (South Carolina Department of Natural Resources permit number MTP524). They are among the team of over 1,500 volunteers and biologists that will regularly pat...
CHARLESTON, S.C. — South Carolina’s sea turtle nesting season has begun a couple days earlier than normal with a loggerhead nest reported in Folly Beach.
Trained volunteers with the Folly Beach Turtle Watch program located the nest this morning while walking the beach (South Carolina Department of Natural Resources permit number MTP524). They are among the team of over 1,500 volunteers and biologists that will regularly patrol South Carolina’s beaches through October to count, monitor and protect sea turtle nests.
May 1 traditionally marks the beginning of sea turtle season in South Carolina, but recent sea turtle activity indicated nesting might begin early this year. Seabrook Island has already seen the first 2 ‘false crawls’ of the season as of this morning, made by loggerhead females who came ashore but returned to sea without successfully nesting. Other early nest years include Garden City on April 29 last year, Kiawah Island on April 26 in 2019, and Folly Beach on April 29 in 2002.
“With warmer winter conditions and increased observations of loggerheads being reported in our waters, there was some expectation that nesting would begin soon,” said biologist Michelle Pate, who oversees SCDNR’s sea turtle nesting program. “We ask that beachfront residents and visitors recreating on our coast turn off lights at night as sea turtles begin this annual ritual of nesting.”
Nesting requires a great deal of energy, so female sea turtles do not lay eggs every year. This cyclical pattern of nesting results in fluctuating nest numbers from year to year. It’s not unusual for record-breaking years (like 2019; 8,795 nests) to follow low nesting years (like 2018; 2,766).
Overall, sea turtle nest numbers across the Southeast have trended up over the past decade, making biologists across the region optimistic that these threatened reptiles are beginning to recover after several decades of conservation efforts.
South Carolina Sea Turtle Nest Numbers
Four sea turtle species nest on South Carolina beaches: loggerheads, greens, Kemp’s ridleys, and leatherbacks. All four species are classified as endangered or threatened and are protected under the Endangered Species Act in addition to state law. Loggerhead nests comprise the majority of the state’s total number each year.
Sea turtle clutches average 120 eggs and hatch after approximately 60 days. Nesting females may remain in South Carolina waters and continue to nest every two weeks, laying up to six nests per season. Throughout this stressful time, the turtles also abstain from eating.
South Carolina beachgoers can help the state’s sea turtles by keeping beaches clean, turning beachfront lights out to avoid disorienting turtles, and giving all sea turtles and nests a wide and respectful berth when encountered on the beach.
Sea Turtle Nesting Season Reminders
–SCDNR
Disclaimer:

