Standing alone offshore, surrounded by the setting sun and dark blue water is the light of Morris Island.
The Morris Island Lighthouse is a commonly photographed subject located just outside of Charleston, South Carolina. Being completely cut off from land, you cannot get to the lighthouse by foot. You can, however, get a fantastic view from a secluded beach not far from Folly Beach. Just a short walk right before sunset and you will be rewarded with a scene straight out of a romantic movie.
The History
The history of the lighthouse dates back to 1673 just after Charleston was founded. The lighthouse was destroyed in 1862 by the Confederacy in fear the Union soldiers would capture it and use it as a lookout tower. The new lighthouse, which you are looking at, was reconstructed in 1876 where it served to illuminate the shore until it was decommissioned in 1962.
Getting There
To get to the trailhead, look up “Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve” or click this link. This is by no means a hike but you will walk from here. It will be about a 10-minute walk once you parked and the trail is paved 90% of the way until you hit the beach. There is no parking lot but there is ample parking on the street.
The paved section is dotted with graffiti. Mainly just hearts drawn by lovesick teenagers but there are some interesting works scattered about. As the paved section gets sandier you can see just the tip of the lighthouse. The beach will open up and you will be treated to a long stretch of sand, rolling waves and a great view of the lighthouse.
Charleston’s Worst Kept Secret
Although the beach is off the beaten path, don’t expect to be completely alone. Much like yourself, there are many others waiting to catch the sunset here. You might see newlyweds getting their wedding photos taken, photographers looking for the postcard shot of Charleston’s Iconic Lighthouse or a group of underage teens not-so-subtly getting tipsy. Not to worry though because there is lots of beach to be shared so it never feels crowded.
Overall
If you want to save some change and take your own postcard-worthy picture, take in a sunset or just do some exploring, take an hour or two to visit the Morris Island Lighthouse. You won’t be sorry you did.
Chad can be summed up by his idea of a perfect day: Waking up early to watch the sunrise over the mountains, warm cup of coffee in hand then grabbing his camera and fly rod, hitting the trail to explore some uncharted territory followed by cold beers and campfire steaks. Chad is often joined on his adventures by his wife, Tori, and their dog, Kona.
