Sharky's Bike Rentals & Surf Shop: Bikes and Boards on Folly Beach

What Sharky's offers and where to find it

Sharky's Bike Rentals & Surf Shop sits on Folly Beach and rents bicycles by the hour, day, or week alongside surfboards, paddleboards, and other water gear. The shop is located at 2 Center Street, steps from the Folly Beach Pier and the main beach access points. You can walk in without a reservation, though calling ahead during peak summer weeks helps confirm availability.

The bike fleet includes cruisers, beach bikes, and hybrid models suited to flat terrain and sandy paths. Rentals come with basic locks and helmets. Surfboards range from beginner soft-tops to intermediate fiberglass boards, and paddleboards are available for calm-water exploration or fitness. The shop also stocks sunscreen, repair supplies, and casual beachwear if you need to top up before heading out.

Key Takeaways

• Sharky's rents bikes by the hour, day, or week at rates that drop the longer you rent, making multi-day trips more affordable than single outings.
• The shop sits two blocks from Folly Beach Pier and provides locks and helmets with every bike rental.
• You can rent surfboards and paddleboards at the same location, so one stop covers water and land activities.
• Walk-ins are welcome, but calling ahead during summer ensures the bike or board you want is in stock.

Rental rates and what's included

Hourly rentals start around $8 to $12 for a standard beach cruiser, depending on the model. Day rentals (24 hours) typically cost $25 to $35. Weekly rates run $80 to $120 and represent the best value if you're staying longer than three days. Surfboards and paddleboards follow a similar tiered structure, with hourly rates lower than bike rentals but daily and weekly rates proportionally higher because of equipment value.

Every bike rental includes a helmet, a lock, and basic safety instructions. Surfboards come with a leash. You'll need to leave a credit card as a damage deposit, though you're not charged unless the equipment returns with significant wear or damage beyond normal use. Ask the staff about their damage policy when you rent—it varies by item and condition.

Biking routes from Folly Beach

Folly Beach itself is flat and compact, making it ideal for casual pedaling. The main loop around the pier and along Arctic Avenue takes 20 to 30 minutes at a leisurely pace. For longer rides, the Folly Beach Fishing Pier area connects to the Folly Beach County Park path system, which extends toward the marshlands and offers views of salt creeks and bird life.

If you're comfortable on busier roads, Center Street connects to East Bay Street, which leads toward downtown Charleston—a 6-mile ride that takes about 30 minutes. The route is mostly flat but includes some traffic, so it's better suited to riders with some road experience. Sharky's staff can sketch out routes or suggest quieter alternatives based on your comfort level and how much time you have.

When to rent and what to expect

Summer (June through August) is peak season, and bikes and boards rent out quickly on weekends and holidays. Mornings between 8 and 10 a.m. offer the best selection and shortest wait times. If you're visiting during spring break or a holiday week, arrive early or reserve by phone the day before.

Fall and winter see fewer crowds, and rental availability is rarely a problem. The weather is cooler and more comfortable for biking, though water temperature drops significantly, so surfing requires a wetsuit. Sharky's stays open year-round, though hours may shorten in the off-season—call ahead if you're visiting November through February.

What to bring and how to prepare

Wear sunscreen and bring water, especially on longer rides or if you're renting a surfboard and spending hours in the sun. Flip-flops work for casual beach cruising, but closed-toe shoes are safer if you're riding on streets or paths with traffic. A small backpack or crossbody bag keeps your phone, keys, and wallet secure while you ride.

If you're renting a surfboard, check the weather and water conditions before you head out. Folly Beach has lifeguards during summer, but conditions change throughout the day. The Folly Beach Pier has a webcam and conditions report on the town website if you want to scout conditions before you arrive at the shop. Beginners should ask Sharky's staff for advice on which board suits the day's conditions.

Nearby attractions and how to combine activities

The Folly Beach Pier is the main draw—a 1,045-foot structure with fishing, dining, and views of the Atlantic. A bike ride to the pier takes 5 to 10 minutes from Sharky's. The Folly Beach County Park offers nature trails, a dog park, and marsh boardwalks, all accessible by bike or a short ride away. The Folly Beach Museum, housed in a historic lifeguard station, tells the story of the beach's amusement park era and is a quick stop between rides.

If you're staying multiple days, rent a bike for the week and use it to explore different parts of the beach each day. Combine a morning bike ride with an afternoon surfing session, or paddle out on a board in the morning and bike to dinner along the pier in the evening. Sharky's location makes it a natural hub for mixing activities without returning to a car.

Contact and practical details

Sharky's Bike Rentals & Surf Shop is located at 2 Center Street, Folly Beach, South Carolina 29439. The phone number is (843) 588-0001. Hours vary by season—typically 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in summer and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in winter, though it's worth calling to confirm, especially on weekends or holidays. The shop accepts cash and credit cards.

Parking is available on Center Street and in nearby public lots. If you're coming from Charleston, Folly Beach is about 12 miles southeast via US-17 South and Folly Road—roughly a 20-minute drive. Public transit options are limited, so a car or rideshare is the most practical way to reach the shop unless you're staying within walking distance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation to rent a bike?

Walk-ins are welcome, but during summer weekends and holidays, popular sizes and styles may be rented out. Calling ahead the day before or arriving early in the morning improves your chances of getting exactly what you want. Off-season rentals rarely require advance notice.

Can I rent a bike for just a few hours?

Yes, Sharky's offers hourly rentals starting at around $8 to $12 per hour. If you think you'll keep the bike longer than three or four hours, ask about upgrading to a day rate, which is often cheaper than paying hourly.

What if I damage the bike or surfboard?

You leave a credit card as a damage deposit. Minor wear from normal use isn't charged. Significant damage—bent frames, broken leashes, deep gouges—may result in a charge. Ask the staff to explain their specific damage policy when you rent so you know what's covered.

Is it safe to bike around Folly Beach at night?

Folly Beach is generally safe, but biking at night requires lights and caution. The main beach area is well-lit and busy in summer, but quieter streets and paths are darker. If you're renting for evening use, ask Sharky's whether lights are included or available for purchase.

Can I rent a bike and return it to a different location?

Sharky's operates from one location on Folly Beach. All rentals must be returned to 2 Center Street. If you're planning a one-way trip to another part of the island or Charleston, ask the staff whether they offer drop-off options or can recommend an alternative rental shop in your destination.