When you think South Carolina beaches, you probably think of Myrtle Beach or Hilton Head. But those don't qualify as this week's best beach; head for Folly Beach instead; despite the name, it's neither foolish nor a mistake!

Folly Beach, only 8 miles from Charleston, is the closest beach to that city. It's a 7 mile long barrier reef. You can relax in the sand, collect shells, go fishing off the pier that extends over 1000 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, or explore the Civil War history of this gorgeous island, including Morris Island Lighthouse. The lighthouse, rebuilt after its destruction in the Civil War, originally on land, but due to erosion and rising water levels the lighthouse is now completely surrounded by water.

If you want to surf, this is the beach for you. If you'd rather study nature, you'll find loggerhead turtles nesting in the sand, dolphins playing in the ocean, and a variety of seabirds. There are plenty of places to stay on the island, and some great restaurants practically on the beach. In town, you can shop for swimming and surfing gear, souvenirs, and local art.

Head for Folly Beach with your shades, iPod, and sunscreen in this adorable Fruit Tote from Betseyville Handbags; it comes in several colors, each with a different fruit! Match the pink and teal watermelon design with a cute TYR One Piece in a bright pink, blue, and yellow plaid. Don't forget to pack a cover-up like this washable cotton-silk blend from UGG.

The beach does have a few rules. Drive slowly because there are walkers, joggers, bikers and dog walkers, and in the summer months Folly Beach is crowded. Dogs are allowed on the beach, but they must be on a leash, and they aren't allowed between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. between May 1 and September 30th because the heat is too intense for them. You can find parking on city streets or the beach access lots on every city block, so it's easy to get to the beach and just have fun.

If your vision of a perfect day relaxing at a pristine, beautiful beach listening to the sounds of the waves and seagulls has been marred by the reality of towering condos and the sounds of cars honking, don't give up hope yet. You need to check out Caladesi Island, recently voted America's Number 1 beach by Dr. Beach. The island is just off Florida's Gulf Coast near Dunedin, Florida. Fill a small, bag with a cooler with some water and grab a beach bag filled with a good read, plenty of sun block, and a beach towel. If you do forget something, there's a small café/gift shop, and yes, restrooms/shower facilities.

There's no chance of traffic noise on Caladesi Island. It's accessible only by water. But don't worry, you don't have to have your own boat to get there. You can hop on the ferry ($10 per person, call 727-734-1501 for the latest schedule) that leaves from Honeymoon Island State Park (located at the extreme west end of SR 586, north of Dunedin) every hour. Watch for dolphins, manatee, and a variety of wading birds during the short trip to the island.

Pack wisely because there are few man-made amenities at this state park.

As your cross the boardwalk, the wide, unspoiled beach will truly take your breath away. After settling in, beach lovers can take a dip in the warm Gulf waters, stroll along the quiet sand, or just soak up the Florida sun. Nature lovers can venture further into the island on the three-mile hiking trail to watch for an osprey, a gopher tortoise or other native Florida wildlife.

As your toes settle into the cool sand, don't forget to check the clock every now and again. You don't want to miss the boat back home.