Coastal getaway? This SC beach ranks as one of the best to visit in the South

South Carolina boasts plenty of scenic shorelines — but which has the best beach?

Folly Beach landed a spot on a list of “must-visit” Southern beaches, becoming the only coastal destination in the Palmetto State to receive the honor, according to results published Friday, June 2.

Folly Beach — located near the tourist hot spot of Charleston — ranked No. 5 on the list from USA Today’s 10Best, which shares vacation-related rankings. To determine the best beaches in the South, experts and editors shared their input on top-notch locations. Then, readers had a month-long period to choose their favorites by voting a maximum of one time each day.

The winners — which spanned the coastline between Virginia and Texas — all earned Readers’ Choice Awards. Separate winners were announced for beaches in the Northeast and along the West Coast.

In the Southern United States, 10Best said beaches “are beloved for their warm waters, soft sands and multitude of activities.” The website also gave Folly Beach a nod for offering a relaxing setting and ways to have fun in and out of the water.

“Described by Chelle Koster Walton, 10Best contributor, as ‘close to Charleston, but with a surfer-dude vibe,’ the beach is also known for its excellent waves, perfect for surfing enthusiasts,” the website wrote. “In addition, the surrounding areas features eclectic shops and casual dining options.”

The results come after South Carolina coastal destinations missed out on another similar ranking. Earlier this year, no places in the state made it into the top 10 on Tripadvisor’s list of “best of the best beaches.”

On the latest list, 10Best said the top-ranking place to have a beach trip is Clearwater Beach in Florida. Rounding out the top five:

• Emerald Isle Beach in North Carolina

• Lauderdale-By-The-Sea Beach in Florida

• Venice Beach in Florida

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