On the west end of the island, situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Folly River, beachgoers will find Folly Beach County Park. Lifeguards are on duty seasonally along a beautiful beachfront designated swimming area. Skimmer Flats, a major Eastern Brown Pelican rookery, is visible at the west end of the park. Dogs are not permitted on the beach from 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. from May 1 through September 30. At all other times the dog must be on a leash.