Looking for that perfect summer day trip and a place that can calm the mighty temperament of the notorious South Carolina summer heatwave? Consider a spot along the coast; a place where every single thing you can do is located so close to the ocean that you're certain to feel a calming relief from the ocean breeze stirring the air.

Check out Folly Beach, the charming city in South Carolina that's perfect for a summer day trip. (Inside secret: it's a perfect day trip at any time of the year.)

It's hard to believe this charming and unassuming little community along Charleston's coast is as down-to-earth as it seems. But, it is.

From the minute you arrive at Folly Beach you are welcomed into the "pack" with unconditional acceptance by the locals and tourists alike.

The commercial district is small, clean and very easy to find since the road bringing you onto the island also delivers you to the heart of the district, which includes Center Street.

Bang a left onto East Ashley Avenue and meander northward for some wide open air-conditioned car views of the big blue Atlantic.

Before you realize it, you'll hit THIS DEAD END. But don't leave. Find a (legal) place to park. Then grab a water bottle, the kids, the camera, your S.O. and start walking down the closed-off road.

It's a relatively short walk to the point and the payoff is totally worth it. Here's what you'll see. Check out the 360-degree view by dragging your cursor or finger along this Google Photosphere image from user Heyward Main.

In the distance, but not too far way, you'll see Morris Island Lighthouse. It's one of the most well-known landmarks in the whole Charleston area. And from here you have the best view available, short of renting a boat.

Not far from the city center on Center Street, you'll find the Folly Beach Pier (a.k.a. Edwin S. Taylor Folly Beach Fishing Pier).

It's another must-see if you're on Folly Beach. There's plenty of parking in front of the pier (shown here).

This massive pier, one of the longest on South Carolina's coast, is 24 feet wide and 1,045 feet long. All the modern conveniences are available, including ADA restroom facilities, a bait and tackle shop and a restauraunt.

It's one of the most photographed icons on the Island, and it's easy to see why.

Any drive around the island will reward you with a feeling that the lifestyle on Folly Beach is one you could find yourself fitting into very easily.

Most buildings are well-kept, yet completely unassuming and non-pretentious. Most of all, most of the 12.5 square miles of this Charleston barrier island aren't covered with huge homes or oversized buildings.

Hit the road again, this time heading in the opposite direction of the lighthouse and onto West Ashley Avenue.In under 5 minutes you'll be at the southern most tip of the island at Folly Beach County Park. Yet another killer place to catch some soothing ocean breezes.

Bring a cooler, a towel and stay a while. The park has limited parking so arrive early. It does have restrooms and a lifeguard is on duty during summer months. More info and hours here.

Aside from fresh ocean breezes, Folly Beach also has miles and miles of sand made for walking - and gawking.

Hungry? Folly Beach has an ample number of award-winning restaurants that won't cost you an arm and a leg. Most have great indoor as well as outdoor seating.

Fresh seafood, burgers and fries, tacos/Mexican... you can find it all here and served in a family atmosphere. Afterward, meander through the various shops intertwined among the restaurants.

So gas up the car, pack the cooler, sunscreen and camera and grab the kids. Folly Beach is the perfect spot to get away from it all and get some wind in your hair.

Folly Beach is a fantastic place for a summer day trip, but it's also a great place to spend the weekend or your entire vacation. Have you been to Folly Beach? We'd love to know in our comments over on Facebook...bonus points if you upload a photo with your comment. :-)

Would you rather spend the day in the mountains? You might want to check out these 7 unbelievable waterfalls hiding in plain sight in South Carolina.