January 16, 2026

Folly Beach Landmark Under Contract: New Vision for Sand Dollar Club

Folly Beach, SC, January 16, 2026

The iconic Sand Dollar Club on Folly Beach is set for a transformative new chapter as it goes under contract. This beloved establishment, known for its unique character just a block from the ocean, reflects the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit of Charleston. Local investors are expected to bring fresh ideas and investment into the property, unveiling a future filled with potential for both commercial and residential opportunities. The transition underscores Charleston’s thriving economy and commitment to preserving local charm while fostering innovation.

Charleston, SC

Folly Beach Landmark Under Contract: New Vision for Sand Dollar Club

A beloved Folly Beach establishment is set for a new chapter as entrepreneurial minds acquire the property with exciting plans for its future. This significant transaction underscores the dynamic real estate market and the enduring appeal of the Lowcountry for private investment and business innovation.

The recent acquisition of the iconic Sand Dollar Club on Folly Beach highlights the vibrant spirit of entrepreneurial determination that continues to shape Charleston’s economic landscape. When local landmarks transition to new ownership, it often signals an opportunity for revitalization and fresh perspectives, demonstrating the power of private capital to breathe new life into established community assets. This development is a testament to the ongoing economic vitality that characterizes the region, encouraging thoughtful growth while respecting the unique charm that draws both residents and visitors.

The swift movement of this property from market to contract also reflects a responsive local economy, where opportunities for investment are quickly recognized and acted upon. Such activity, driven by individual initiative and private enterprise, contributes significantly to the overall health and resilience of the local business environment, fostering an ecosystem where small businesses can adapt and thrive.

A New Chapter for a Folly Beach Institution

The Sand Dollar Club, located at 7 Center Street on Folly Beach, was listed for sale in October 2025 and has since gone under contract, approximately three months after its initial listing. This popular establishment has been a fixture on Folly Beach, known for its unique character just one block from the ocean. The property, built in 1981, comprises a 2322 square foot club building and a 700 square foot residential bungalow, offered at a listing price of $3,000,000.

The transition of such a prominent property marks a new era for one of Folly Beach’s well-known spots. Its presence has contributed to the local atmosphere and served both residents and visitors for decades. The change in ownership presents an opportunity for further private investment and innovation in the heart of Folly Beach’s commercial district.

The Entrepreneurial Vision Takes Hold

While specific new owner plans are often developed after a property goes under contract, the listings for the Sand Dollar Club property indicated several options for its future development. These possibilities include maintaining the current configuration of commercial space fronting Center Street with a residential building at the back, transitioning to a fully commercial space, or developing a commercial first floor with residential units on the second floor. These flexible options provide new owners with the ability to innovate and tailor the property to market demands and their entrepreneurial vision, potentially enriching the local business landscape.

Such private sector-led initiatives are vital for the continuous evolution of local economies, enabling properties to adapt and continue contributing to community vibrancy. The ability for entrepreneurs to explore diverse development paths, from mixed-use to purely commercial, underscores a healthy environment for business ventures in the Charleston SC area.

Fostering Local Economic Vibrancy

The sale of properties like the Sand Dollar Club contributes to the broader economic growth of Charleston County. Over the past three decades, Charleston County Economic Development has played a significant role in attracting new businesses, fostering the expansion of existing industries, and generally enhancing the local business environment. These efforts have facilitated over $6.9 billion in capital investment and generated approximately 39,000 new, direct jobs within the county. The county consistently ranks among the fastest-growing in South Carolina for job creation, personal income, and industry diversification.

New ownership and the potential for redevelopment inject fresh capital and ideas into the Lowcountry economic growth, supporting the ecosystem of Charleston small business. Resources like the South Carolina Small Business Development Centers (SC SBDC) also offer crucial support, providing free consulting, training programs, and access to resources for thousands of South Carolina entrepreneurs annually, aiding in everything from business planning to securing startup capital. This robust support system helps ensure that entrepreneurial endeavors, whether new or revitalized, have the foundation to succeed.

Community and Commerce on Folly Beach

Folly Beach has actively worked to preserve its unique character, particularly within its business district. In 2018, the City of Folly Beach unanimously approved an ordinance prohibiting “formula businesses,” commonly known as chain businesses, from establishing new locations on the island. This forward-thinking regulation aims to maintain the economic diversity and distinctive charm that attracts both visitors and residents, ensuring that local businesses and South Carolina entrepreneurs can thrive in an authentic environment.

The ability for private investors to acquire and reimagine properties within these local regulatory frameworks demonstrates how communities can balance economic growth with cultural preservation. It highlights a commitment to fostering independent businesses and innovation, rather than solely relying on large corporate entities, which ultimately benefits the character and economy of Folly Beach.

Looking Ahead: Investment in the Lowcountry

The ongoing activity in Folly Beach’s real estate and business sectors reflects a broader trend of sustained investment and economic optimism throughout the Lowcountry. Charleston County economy has become a central hub for economic activity in the tri-county region, with significant expansions in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, national defense, information technology, life sciences, and logistics. This diversification and growth contribute to higher wage growth in the region compared to the rest of South Carolina.

The sale of the Sand Dollar Club property serves as another example of private investment fueling local economies. It underscores the potential for visionary entrepreneurs to contribute to the region’s prosperity by enhancing existing assets and creating new opportunities within the framework of local community values.

The sale of the Sand Dollar Club represents more than just a real estate transaction; it signifies ongoing confidence in Folly Beach’s future and the broader Charleston area’s economic potential. It offers a chance for new owners to innovate, create value, and contribute to the community’s unique identity. As this property embarks on its next chapter, it provides an opportunity to reflect on the resilience and creativity of local entrepreneurs who are continuously shaping the vibrant future of the Lowcountry. We encourage our readers to continue supporting Charleston small business and stay engaged in the dynamic economic growth of our community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Sand Dollar Club located?

The Sand Dollar Club is located at 7 Center Street on Folly Beach, South Carolina.

When was the Sand Dollar Club property listed for sale and when did it go under contract?

The Sand Dollar Club property was listed for sale in October 2025 and went under contract approximately three months later.

What was the listing price for the Sand Dollar Club property?

The listing price for the Sand Dollar Club property was $3,000,000.

What are the potential development options for the Sand Dollar Club property?

Potential development options for the new owner include keeping it as commercial space with a residential building, developing it as fully commercial, or having commercial on the first floor and residential on the second floor.

What is Folly Beach’s stance on chain businesses?

In 2018, the City of Folly Beach approved an ordinance prohibiting “formula businesses,” also known as chain businesses, from establishing new locations on the island to preserve its unique character and support local businesses.

How has Charleston County’s economy performed over the past 30 years?

Over the past 30 years, Charleston County Economic Development facilitated over $6.9 billion in capital investment and created approximately 39,000 new, direct jobs. Charleston County consistently ranks among the fastest-growing counties of South Carolina for job creation, personal income, and industry diversity.

Key Features of the Sand Dollar Club Property Transaction

Feature	Details
Location	7 Center Street, Folly Beach, South Carolina
Listing Date	October 2025
Time on Market (approx.)	Three months (from listing to under contract)
Listing Price	$3,000,000
Property Components	2322 sq ft club building and a 700 sq ft residential bungalow
Year Built	1981
Development Options for New Owners	Commercial with residential, fully commercial, or commercial first floor with residential second floor