Ready for the beach? How do you choose the perfect coastal destination? Beautiful beaches? Of course! Spectacular ocean views are also a given.
But what else? Coordinated activities for the kids? Pool access? A peaceful retreat or an active resort? Fortunately, the charming coastal beach communities outside Charleston offer everything from top-rated golf courses and world-class restaurants to laid-back beach bars and protected natural resources.
Kiawah Island
Kiawah Island, which boasts 10 miles of white sand beaches, is the least crowded of the local beach communities. The island is also one of the least developed and natural, with preserved maritime forests and marshes. Beachwalker Park offers public beach access. As a private and gated resort community, Kiawah Island offers plenty to do. The resort has scheduled children's activities, five premier golf courses, outdoor recreation, and all the amenities you expect from a top destination. Do your shopping at Freshfields Village, an outdoor walking mall with plenty of shops, restaurants, community events, and more. Vacation rentals range from one-bedroom condos on the golf course to large, luxury beachfront homes.
Isle of Palms
Just 12 miles from downtown Charleston, Isle of Palms stretches out with seven miles of pristine coastline. The relaxing beach community offers a quiet coastal lifestyle with plenty of restaurants, shops, and amenities to enjoy during your vacation. Visitors can cast a line from the fishing pier at the county park, where you will also find a boardwalk and picnic areas. Book a peaceful stay in a classic bungalow. Our 411 Carolina Boulevard offers four bedrooms and is a two-block walk from the beach. Or book your stay at Wild Dunes Resort at the north end of Isle of Palms. Properties range from large homes with private pools like the 5-bedroom Yacht Harbor to two-bedroom condos at 4B Seagrove Villa with a community pool.
Seabrook Island
Imagine a charming gated and private beach community just 30 minutes from Charleston. But it feels like a world away. That is Seabrook. The island, located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Edisto River, boasts nearly four miles of spacious beaches. You can even bring Fido as the beaches are dog-friendly. Dogs can run off-leash at North Lagoon Beach, the most secluded beach on the island. Watch a sunset at Pelican Beach, where the calm waters offer a safe spot for families with young children. And Seabrook Island is one of the few places on the east coast where you can take a horse ride on the beach. Large homes like the five-bedroom 3012 Marsh Haven offer plenty of space to spread out.
It's beach time. Let's go!