Currently under the ownership of Ivan Blac, the Regatta Inn has been operating year-round as a bed and breakfast since 2014. The inn is established on Folly Island, just off the Folly River near the city of Charleston, South Carolina. Those interested in water recreation can take advantage of the adjacent Folly Beach and the aforementioned river during their time at the Regatta Inn. The property often serves as the setting for weddings, and an on-site service known as White Pearl Ventures is offered to those who are in need of assistance with planning their wedding. Concerning the experience that Ivan and the staff hope that their patrons will have, the innkeeper intends to cater to the needs of those who stay at the establishment to help everyone feel comfortable during their stay.
The Regatta Inn is located in the southern region of South Carolina on Folly Island. A total of 10 guestrooms are available for visitors to reserve, all of which are dispersed throughout the three levels of the inn. There are three accommodations on the first floor, four on the second level, and three on the third floor. Carli, the manager, remarks that the two most popular units tend to be the Olympus and the Poseidon suites. She believes that the Olympus receives a higher number of reservations due to it being the newest addition to the Regatta Inn. As for the Poseidon, this accommodation is considered one of the larger options. The Poseidon is adjacent to the Olympus and has a view of the Folly River, which neighbors the property. Thus, a higher number of guests are supposedly drawn to this suite. Bath robes are supplied to the occupants of the guestrooms, and nearly every unit has a jetted tub. Depending on the room, some have a separate shower and tub, while others have a shower/tub combo. With regard to the property's style and aesthetic appeal, Carli describes the general character of the hotel as "nautical charm."
Every morning from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m., a complimentary breakfast is served to patrons, typically consisting of pastries, yogurt, parfaits, fruit, oatmeal, cereal, coffee, tea, and different kinds of bread products, such as bagels and English muffins. Carli explains that the meal always has a hot casserole dish with a side item, whether it's scrambled eggs or a type of breakfast meat. The french toast casserole and hashbrown casserole are acknowledged as two of the more popular items, according to Carli. Accommodations for dietary restrictions and food allergies can be made, and the staff makes an effort to ask about such needs during the booking process. Carli says that they try to keep an alternative milk option, plus vegan and vegetarian products on hand in case their guests need them. Beyond the breakfast that is provided, the Regatta Inn also has a happy hour where they serve different kinds of beer, wine, and signature cocktails. They also offer a make-your-own charcuterie setup with cheese, crackers, and other items. Pizza rolls and quesadillas are a couple of foods that may be served during happy hour as well.
In addition to the guestrooms, patrons of the Regatta Inn are given access to a few common areas. Such areas would include the dining room, rooftop terrace, and outdoor lawn space. Carli adds that guests can play cornhole outside on the grounds or set up chairs to observe the view of the surroundings. For those who find enjoyment in leisurely activities, the establishment has a seating area with Adirondack chairs called the Twilight Lounge. This area also serves as a designated smoking space. The porch of the inn has Adirondack rocking chairs as well which people are welcome to utilize. Furthermore, an on-site dock extends into the Folly River, and the inn also neighbors a marina where people can book a sailing ride or a boat charter. Regatta Inn visitors might be interested in complimentary yoga classes, which take place in the afternoons. Moreover, the business provides a golf cart shuttle service that can transport people to the beach or Center Street, where several shops and restaurants can be found. Carli notes that Folly Beach is about a five-minute walk from the inn.
Carli believes that Folly Beach is one of the main aspects of the location that draws visitors to the area. Fishing charters, surf lessons, jet skiing, and kayak and paddleboard tours are a few activities that often pique the interest of locals and guests. The beach is also within fairly close proximity of downtown Charleston, a city that contains several historical sites, according to Carli. One such site that history enthusiasts can visit is Fort Sumpter. Carli recommends tourists who are seeking some of the local dining options go to Jack of Cups, Chico Feo, and LoLo's. The marina next to the Regatta Inn also has a bar on the second floor that is open to the public. Carli says that this is a "popular local spot among islanders."
In accordance with the Regatta Inn's unofficial motto, "home away from home," which is stated on the property's website, the owner and staff make an effort to help their guests feel comfortable and welcome. The manager of the establishment, Carli, expresses, "We want to cater to their needs." As a reflection of this, she says that guest reviews often highlight the hospitality that the staff provides, the location of the business, and the amenities that each accommodation is equipped with. One person who previously stayed at the inn mentioned the staff in a review of their experience, as they stated, "The staff went above and beyond to ensure that we had a great experience, and we can’t say enough good things about them. They are very hardworking and great people." In terms of how the owner and staff operate the hotel, Carli describes it as "a positive workspace," explaining that they "all get along well with each other."
Visitors who hope to host their wedding at the Regatta Inn are welcome to do so, as the premises has a relatively spacious section for larger gatherings. There is also an in-house event planning service called the White Pearl Ventures. While this wedding service is an option, Carli clarifies that guests are not required to plan their wedding through White Pearl Ventures in order to host it at the Regatta Inn. It should be noted that the inn can accommodate events of 250 people max. Typically, patrons who host their wedding on-site reserve the entire hotel.
Concerning the cancelation policy that the business enforces, those who book a stay at the Regatta Inn must pay a first-night deposit fee upon booking. Should one need to cancel their reservation at least 14 days prior to their check-in date, they will receive a full refund. For those who want to cancel within 7 to 13 days of checking in will not receive a full refund, however, they can use their deposit fee as credit for a future stay. A non-refundable policy is enforced for those who cancel their reservation six days before their check-in date. Another guideline that future visitors should be aware of is that children must be over the age of 12 to stay at the Regatta Inn. With the exception of designated outdoor smoking areas, smoking is prohibited on-site. There is also a double occupancy policy that permits only one additional person in each accommodation.
The Regatta Inn is open year-round for patrons to reserve one of the 10 accommodations. Summer is most commonly considered the busiest season of the year for the establishment, more specifically from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Carli attributes the success of the business to the provided amenities and the staff's flexibility in adjusting accordingly to guests' needs. She mentions a few goals that she and the owner have, saying that they try to have "a growth mindset" with every effort that they give to the business. They hope to "provide extra options, features, and packages" to add to the overall guest experience, in the words of Carli.
Ivan Blac, the current and original owner of the Regatta Inn, gained ownership of the property in October 2014. The building itself was originally constructed to serve as a hotel. Ivan vacationed at Bali Beach several times, which led him to recognize a need for a hotel option on the Folly River that could host special events. Carli, the manager, mentions that the beach is "a very special place to him," so he wanted to invest in the inn for others to enjoy the location as well. A few updates and renovations have been done to the property, with one of the more major and recent ones being the new suite which was added to the top floor. Additionally, all of the rooms were repainted and redecorated. As far as future plans go, the owner is hoping to expand the event space. The inn also intends to host a fundraiser at the inn annually.
64 W. 9th Street Ext.
Folly Beach, South Carolina 29439
United States
Campground
