Imagine driving down Folly Beach road for your week's rental and you're greeted with this scene from back in the 1940's on a postcard made by Tichnor Brothers. Palm trees lining the road as you approach the island.
Folly Beach has a longer history than many visitors realize. The island has been a beach retreat for Charleston residents for well over a century, and the palm-lined road has been welcoming visitors since the early 20th century.
The Sabal Palmettos you see along Folly Road today are the same species featured in that old postcard — the state tree of South Carolina, hardy enough to survive Atlantic storms and salty air. They're one of the signature visuals of arriving on the island.