Kings Flats, Folly Beach, South Carolina

SITUATED ON THE BEAUTIFUL waters and marshlands of the Folly River, Kings Flats is a development reminiscent of days gone by. Once the site of a wooden frame store that opened in the 1920s, Kings Flats now offers the quintessential family beach house.

The original store, frequented by those in need of groceries, tackle and souvenirs or seeking to rent small boats and rafts, was a landmark until the mid-1940s. It was the stopping point for beach-goers lumbering to the ocean in their Model Ts with rumble seats to gather what they needed for an adventurous day on the beach. Just a stone’s throw away, they would stop at the toll booth to pay a small fee that granted them the privilege of crossing a wooden bridge to reach their destination.

In 1925, more than 200,000 people visited Folly to swim, picnic and parade on the famous boardwalk, many of them showing off their elegant clothing. Even the children were dressed formally.

Respectful of the history and charm of the era and the bountiful growth of the area of Kings Flats and Folly Beach, the developer envisioned an elegant concept of 40 detached single-family home units, consisting of seven different exterior layouts, each designated for specific home sites. The two-story homes include up to three bedrooms and two baths with elevators and range from 1,800 to 2,373 square feet of living space. The 40-foot elevation of the veranda-style or rooftop-style decking for each unit provides magnificent panoramic views of the vast marshlands. Interior designs are included in the plans but may be modified to suit individual needs. Those who purchase the home sites may hire their own builder, or help can be provided in choosing one.

Prices for home sites begin at $219,000 for interior locations and rise to $319,000 for those facing the marsh. Construction costs are not included, but each of the individual layouts will be provided. Among the amenities are lush tropical landscaping throughout, a crab dock and a community swimming pool. A new state-of-the-art shopping center across the street offers groceries, a hair salon, art shops, gasoline and eateries, Kings Flats is just 15 minutes from downtown Charleston and a short drive from the Trident area connectors.

Enjoy the charm of a bygone era and the convenience of island living at “the edge of America,” as Folly Beach is fondly called.