Oceanfront restaurant launches tropical-inspired concept with live music, familiar favorites, and a playful new vibe
by Lorne Chambers | Editor
Koko’s on the Pier, the newly reimagined restaurant at the oceanfront space formerly home to Pier 101, officially opened March 25 and is now preparing for a public launch celebration, which as of press time, is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, May 9.
The new concept blends tropical flair, updated menu offerings, and colorful branding with the familiar views and laid-back spirit that made the location a favorite for locals and visitors.
For those who loved Pier 101, much of the appeal remains the same: waves rolling beneath the pier, panoramic beach views, and one of the more unique dining settings in the Lowcountry. But operators say Koko’s is meant to reflect the next chapter of Folly Beach.
“The transition to Koko’s was really about evolution — honoring what people have always loved about this location while aligning the experience to better reflect Folly Beach today,” said Phil Owens, general manager of Tides Folly Beach Hotel. “We saw an opportunity to create something more vibrant, more fun, and more aligned with the energy of both our out-of-town guests and the local community.”
Owned and operated through the Tides Folly Beach family of hospitality concepts, Koko’s joins nearby sister venues, including Pinky’s on the Beach and Roasted Coffee + Shop.
While the name and motif may be a nod to the Hawaiian Islands, it’s actually rooted in Folly lore. Operators say the concept draws inspiration from Kokomo’s Lounge, a 1950s-era watering hole once associated with servicemen visiting the island for rest and relaxation. At Koko’s, that vintage spirit has been reworked into what staff jokingly call a “Follynesian” experience, part beach bar, part tiki hideaway, part family restaurant.
“It’s bright, energetic, and playful,” says Halee Brinson, food and beverage director at Tides. “The vibe is relaxed but intentional, with a focus on fresh flavors, shareable moments, and a setting that really celebrates being right on the ocean.”
Inside, the restaurant has been refreshed with colorful décor, tiki touches, and bold branding meant to feel lively and approachable. Outside, the views remain the star attraction.
The menu keeps some holdovers from Pier 101 that longtime guests may appreciate, including po’ boys, fried shrimp, and the restaurant’s classic she crab soup. But much of the lineup has shifted toward tropical comfort food and shareable plates.
Among the new offerings are Folly Fire Shrimp tossed in a sweet-and-spicy tiki sauce, jerk chicken sandwiches topped with pineapple and pepper jack cheese, teriyaki rice bowls, and BBQ nachos layered over wonton chips.
Brinson says early favorites are already emerging.
“The Surf Platters and Teriyaki Rice Bowls are emerging as guest favorites,” she says. “But as of now, the BBQ wonton nachos reign supreme.”
The cocktail menu leans beachy and playful, with drinks like Tropic Like It’s Hot, made with jalapeño-infused tequila, watermelon, and pineapple, or the Welcome to Koko-Mo, a rum-based throwback to the old Kokomo name. Drinks are also available in souvenir “Koko-nut” cups.
Guests visiting the pier can also stop by the outdoor tiki bar, grab a beverage, and continue strolling the pier.
Management says the response since opening has been strong, with curiosity from locals and enthusiasm from returning visitors.
“The response has been incredibly encouraging,” says Owens. “We’re seeing a mix of returning guests who are excited about the transformation and new faces discovering the space for the first time. That blend is exactly what we were hoping for.”
According to Cameron Ross, general manager of Koko’s, the goal is to create a place that feels like a getaway, even for residents just down the road.
“When someone walks into Koko’s, we want them to immediately feel like they’re on vacation — even if they live five minutes away,” says Ross. “It’s all about great hospitality, a fun atmosphere, and making sure every guest feels taken care of without anything feeling too formal.”
Ross said repeat visits have been one of the best early signs.
“People have been really excited about the change,” he said. “There’s a lot of curiosity at first, and then once they experience it, they tend to come back with friends.”
That community focus is especially important on Folly Beach, where locals often keep a close eye on beloved institutions and changing businesses.
“Owning a spot on Folly means being part of the community,” says Ross. “We’re proud of what we’ve built and excited to keep growing with the Folly Beach community.”
Koko’s on the Pier official launch celebration is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, May 9, with steel pan music from 1-4 p.m., hula performances from 5:30-6 p.m., live music through the evening, and food-and-drink specials throughout the day. For more information, call (843) 633-0246 or visit www.kokosfollybeach.com.
