Morris Island Lighthouse

A must see while visiting Folly Beach is, Morris Island Lighthouse. 1200 feet off shore and a walk a way out from the beach and beach homes of Folly, stands a lighthouse that originated in 1767.

History of Morris Lighthouse

For years, before the construction of the lighthouse, ships were landing at Folly. Most were dropping off the sick or the dead, but in 1767, a lighthouse was erected to guide ships. A taller tower was built in the early 1800s, but destroyed during the Civil War in order to keep the Union from using it.

A new one was built in 1876, sold to a private citizen in the 1900s, then bought by a group of preservationists in 1999. Ever since, the focus has been to restore and keep up the structure and history of the lighthouse.

Viewing the Morris Island Lighthouse

There is no way to walk to the lighthouse, but for those wanting a close up view, many kayak and boat tours go by the lighthouse. Some even stop for bike rides or nature adventures on Morris island. To view the lighthouse, drive to the end of Folly Road and take a left. Drive all the way to the end and park (not in the cul-de-sac). Get out and enjoy the walk to see the lighthouse. It is an easy walk, and is nice to take some time on the secluded beach area to sit and enjoy the view.