Pinky’s on the Beach brings a bold, blush-tinted vibe to Folly’s waterfront
by Lorne Chambers | Editor
If you’ve recently been to the oceanfront restaurant formerly known as Blu, then you certainly noticed that the space just got a loud, pink makeover. After more than a decade as Blu Beach Bar & Grill—a beloved staple known for its breezy views and coastal cuisine—the beachfront spot inside the Tides Folly Beach hotel has transformed into something a little bolder, a little cheekier, and a lot more pink.
Pinky’s on the Beach, which officially opened its doors at the end of June, is the latest brainchild of Avocet Hospitality, the Charleston-based group behind several high-profile hospitality ventures around the Lowcountry. But this one might be their most playful yet.
“We wanted to create something truly shocking — something that would spark joy, laughter, and a sense of play the moment you walk through the doors,” said Avocet founder Jon Weitz. “And what better way to do that than with a whole lot of pink?”
The reimagined space is full of color and nostalgia, with pink Cadillac booths, a hot-pink pool table, pinball machines, and a retro surf-shop-meets-diner vibe. There’s even a custom mural from Charleston art collective Girls Who Paint, adding to the eclectic mix. The look is intentionally kitschy. And while the space might be giving off an ’80s South Beach vibe, it also feels on-brand for Folly.
“I’m so excited for the new space that our team has created. It feels like a mini-vacation — where people can kick back, sip something fruity, and just enjoy the moment,” says Halee Brinson, Food & Beverage Director, Tides Folly Beach. “I think Pinky’s on the Beach is going to be a great addition to our community, for our Folly locals and our out-of-town visitors alike. We can’t wait to see you there.”
Behind the scenes, acclaimed Charleston designer Jay Fletcher helped craft a visual identity as bold as the décor, while the culinary team, led by Chef Blake Owens, built a new menu with familiar favorites and fresh twists.
“Everyone’s poured their heart into this transformation, and I can’t wait to see it all come to life,” said Cheryl Frasher, Bar Supervisor, Pinky’s on the Beach. “The new color scheme has totally brightened up our beloved beach bar—it feels fun, fresh, and full of energy! I especially love how our vibrant bar pops from the sand— instantly calling you over for a good time.”
As for the menu, expect crowd-pleasers like steak and shrimp tacos, stone-baked pizzas, crab cake sandwiches, and Pinky’s signature fries—topped with a little something extra if you decide to go “Pinky Up.” On the drink menu, cocktails like the Pink Cadillac Margarita and the Pool Boy are built for sipping in the sun, while the Hugo Girl! gives a fizzy nod to the classic spritz. Pinky’s also offers a stellar happy hour menu with $6 Palomas, $5 house liquor, $3 Coors Lights, $7 select wine offerings, and great food deals, like $10 coconut shrimp, $9 cheesy garlic bread, and $10 pizzas.
Pinky’s on the Beach is hosting its first-ever Full Moon Party on Saturday, Aug. 9, start-ing at 5 p.m. Pinky’s promises this is first of many parties at Folly’s only beachfront bar. Expect spinning flames, icy drinks, and beats that’ll loosen up even your stiffest dance moves with live music and DJ sets, food and drink specials, and surprise entertainment from Hula Fire.
“We’re excited to introduce a fresh, playful atmosphere to Folly Beach — one that celebrates both creativity and comfort. While the look of the space has changed, our commitment to quality, hospitality, and community remains at the heart of everything we do,” says Owens. “Pinky’s is a place where locals and visitors alike can gather, relax, and enjoy familiar, approachable food that’s been thoughtfully prepared and executed with care. We look forward to welcoming everyone into this new chapter with open arms and full plates.”
Pinky’s on the Beach is located inside the Tides hotel at 1 Center St.. For more information, call (843) 588-6464, visit www.pinkysfollybeach.com, or follow
@pinkysfollybeach on Instagram.
