• What makes South Carolina’s coastline unique?
    • South Carolina's Atlantic Ocean coastline is home to numerous barrier islands.
    • The coastline includes the beautiful Sea Islands chain, which consists of over 100 islands stretching between the Santee and St. Johns Rivers.
  • Where can Charleston visitors enjoy the coastline?
    • Charleston residents and visitors have access to vast stretches of coastline.
    • They can explore barrier islands, the scenic harbor, and Intracoastal Waterway tracts.

Best Time to Visit Beaches Near Charleston, SC

  • April to June – Best overall time for warm weather, blooming scenery, and relaxed beach days.
  • July & August – Peak summer with hot temps, lively beach vibes, and plenty of water activities.
  • September & October – Fewer crowds, mild temperatures, and ideal for coastal walks and photography.
  • November to March – Off-season with cooler weather, peaceful beaches, and lower accommodation rates.
  • Hurricane Season (June to November) – Stay weather-aware; occasional storms may impact travel plans.

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1. Kiawah Island


Explore pristine beaches and play golf on championship courses.

Kiawah Island

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  • Where is Kiawah Island located?
    • Kiawah Island is located approximately 20 miles off the coast of Charleston in the Atlantic Ocean.
  • What is Kiawah Island known for?
    • Kiawah Island is renowned for its Kiawah Island Golf Resort, which has hosted several top PGA events.
  • What kind of natural habitats are found on Kiawah Island?
    • The island is home to gorgeous preserved marshlands and maritime forest habitats, as well as over 10 miles of pristine coastline.
  • What is the only public beach on Kiawah Island?
    • The island’s only public beachfront is Kiawah Beachwalker Park, which is operated by Charleston County's Parks and Recreation Department.
  • How long is Kiawah Beachwalker Park?
    • The beach stretches for 11 miles along the island’s oceanfront and Bohicket River shores.
  • Is Kiawah Beachwalker Park family-friendly?
    • Yes, its calm waters make it a great place for family-friendly swimming during the summer months.
  • Does Kiawah Beachwalker Park have accessibility features?
    • Yes, the park features an ADA-accessible boardwalk, providing opportunities for strolling along beautiful live oak-covered pathways.

2. Folly Beach


Surf the waves and enjoy vibrant beachfront dining.

Folly Beach

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  • Where is Folly Beach located?
    • Folly Beach is a barrier island community on the East Coast, commonly referred to as the "Edge of America."
  • Why is Folly Beach a popular destination?
    • Folly Beach is known as one of the top surfing destinations on the East Coast, offering more than 2,500 feet of beachfront for summer water sports.
  • What water activities can visitors enjoy at Folly Beach?
    • Visitors can enjoy kayaking, swimming, and other water sports, with a lifeguarded swimming area available at Folly Beach County Park.
  • What is special about the Folly Beach Fishing Pier?
    • The Folly Beach Fishing Pier is the second-longest public pier on the East Coast, stretching over 1,000 feet into the Atlantic Ocean.
  • What can visitors explore within the town of Folly Beach?
    • The town of Folly Beach is considered one of the nation’s last authentic beach towns, offering attractions like the George Gershwin-associated Porgy House and eclectic beachfront boutiques, bars, and restaurants.

3. Sullivan's Island


Walk along quiet beaches and explore historic Fort Moultrie.

Sullivan's Island

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  • Where is Sullivan's Island located?
    • Sullivan's Island is a 3.3-mile island located within Charleston Harbor, accessible from Mount Pleasant via the Ben Sawyer Swing Bridge.
  • What is the historical significance of Sullivan's Island?
    • The island is known for its connection to the transatlantic slave trade and is considered by many historians as the "Ellis Island" of the event due to the high number of enslaved Africans brought into the Americas via its shores.
  • What is Sullivan's Island known for today?
    • Today, the island is best known for its pristine public beachfronts, which attract visitors looking to enjoy surfing, paddleboarding, kiteboarding, and kayaking.
  • What natural features can be found on Sullivan's Island?
    • The island showcases spectacular sand dune formations at some of its more natural beaches, along with hidden-gem fishing spots.
  • Are there dining options on Sullivan's Island?
    • Yes, further inland, the island's business district is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the Charleston area.

4. Isle of Palms


Relax on sandy beaches and enjoy family-friendly waterfront activities.

Isle of Palms

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  • Where is Isle of Palms located?
    • Isle of Palms is located less than 12 miles from downtown Charleston along the Intracoastal Waterway.
  • What makes Isle of Palms a popular tourist destination?
    • Isle of Palms is an affluent resort community with a lively business district, offering unique shopping and gourmet dining.
  • Are there public beaches on Isle of Palms?
    • Yes, the island has a public beach with great swimming conditions, making it a popular spot for visitors.
  • What facilities are available at Isle of Palms County Park?
    • The park offers day-use picnic sites and a children’s playground for families and visitors.
  • What recreational activities can visitors enjoy?
    • Visitors can participate in beach volleyball games and enjoy live music performances at The Windjammer, which also hosts annual beach volleyball tournaments.
  • What golf opportunities are available on the island?
    • The island is home to the Tom Fazio-designed championship golf courses at the Wild Dunes oceanfront resort, offering a world-class golfing experience.

5. Seabrook Island


Discover peaceful beaches and explore scenic nature trails.

Seabrook Island

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  • Where is Seabrook Island located?
    • Seabrook Island, also known as Simmons Island, is an upscale resort community in Charleston County, adjacent to Kiawah Island, spanning approximately seven square miles.
  • What makes Seabrook Island a great vacation destination?
    • The island is a paradise for summer vacationers, offering a variety of outdoor recreation activities in a scenic coastal setting.
  • What sports facilities are available on Seabrook Island?
    • Seabrook Island is home to two championship golf courses, a nationally-renowned racquetball club, and one of the East Coast's only waterfront equestrian centers.
  • Are the beaches on Seabrook Island accessible to visitors?
    • Yes, beautiful private beachfronts can be accessed by both residents and visitors.
  • What water activities are available on the island?
    • Visitors can enjoy kayak and boat rentals at the island's marina.
  • Where can visitors dine on Seabrook Island?
    • After a long day of outdoor activities, visitors can enjoy elegant dining at waterfront venues such as Bohicket’s Lounge and The Palmetto Room.

6. Edisto Beach


Walk along unspoiled shores and savor a quiet weekend getaway.

Edisto Beach

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  • Where is Edisto Beach located?
    • Edisto Beach is part of South Carolina's Sea Islands region, located approximately 40 minutes from Charleston’s city center.
  • What makes Edisto Beach unique?
    • The beach is known for its laid-back, traditional Lowcountry lifestyle and offers a peaceful retreat free from chain businesses, luxury hotels, and street lights.
  • What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy at Edisto Beach?
    • Visitors can stretch out on the spacious beachfront, set up umbrellas, or rent kayaks to explore the island's creeks and marshlands.
  • Are there any natural preserves near Edisto Beach?
    • Yes, visitors can explore natural preserves such as the 4,630-acre Botany Bay Plantation, which protects coastal habitats.
  • What unique attractions can visitors explore?
    • The Edisto Island Serpentarium offers exhibits showcasing the island’s native wildlife, including snakes and reptiles.
  • Where can visitors find great local dining?
    • Visitors can enjoy delicious crab-centric dishes at local restaurants like Whaley’s.
  • Are there shopping opportunities at Edisto Beach?
    • Yes, visitors can browse a variety of antique stores and art galleries for unique gifts and souvenirs.

7. Morris Island


Admire the historic lighthouse and explore secluded shorelines.

Morris Island

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  • Where is Morris Island located?
    • Morris Island is an uninhabited island within Charleston Harbor, offering a unique historical and natural experience.
  • What is the historical significance of Morris Island?
    • The island is best known for a significant American Civil War battle that involved the free African-American 54th Massachusetts Infantry fighting against Confederate troops.
  • What historical sites can visitors explore on Morris Island?
    • Visitors can explore the island’s fort remains as part of guided tours, including Fort Wagner, which played a key role in the Civil War.
  • Are there any lighthouses on Morris Island?
    • Yes, Morris Island is home to a well-known candy-cane-striped lighthouse from the 19th century, as well as the Morris Island Light, built in 1876 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. Learn more about the lighthouse here.
  • What recreational activities are available on Morris Island?
    • Visitors can enjoy shell-collecting tours along the island’s gorgeous beaches, offered by Adventure Harbor Tours.
  • Are there any adventure excursions available?
    • For thrill-seekers, wave-seeking catamaran excursions are available from Thriller Charleston, offering an exciting way to explore the surrounding waters.

8. Capers Island


Explore untouched beaches and look at unique driftwood formations.

Capers Island

© Ammak/stock.adobe.com

  • Where is Capers Island located?
    • Capers Island is a three-mile barrier island located across the Intracoastal Waterway from Charleston’s city center, accessible only by boat.
  • What is the history of Capers Island?
    • The island was named in honor of Bishop William Theodotus Capers and has been preserved as a state-protected natural refuge for much of the 20th century.
  • What kind of ecosystems are found on Capers Island?
    • The island protects 214 acres of pristine beachfront and features salt marshes, maritime uplands, and brackish water ecosystems.
  • What are the main attractions on Capers Island?
    • Visitors can explore Boneyard Beach, which showcases sun-bleached tree stumps and skeletons along the shoreline.
  • Are there hiking opportunities on the island?
    • Yes, visitors can hike along the natural stretches of the McCaskill Trail, offering scenic views of the island's landscape.
  • Can visitors camp on Capers Island?
    • Yes, primitive campsites are available for overnight stays, but a permit is required.

9. Bulls Island


Discover diverse wildlife and walk along scenic beach trails.

Bulls Island

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  • Where is Bulls Island located?
    • Bulls Island is the largest barrier island within the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, accessible via private charter ferry from Garris Landing in Awendaw, South Carolina.
  • What is the historical significance of Bulls Island?
    • The island is part of the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, which was established in 1932 to protect migratory birds and endangered loggerhead sea turtles.
  • What types of habitats can be found on Bulls Island?
    • The island features pristine beachfront stretches and dense maritime forest habitats, providing a sanctuary for wildlife.
  • What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy on Bulls Island?
    • Visitors can experience hiking, shelling, birding, and dolphin watching while exploring the island.
  • Are there trails on Bulls Island?
    • Yes, the island has 16 miles of inland trails, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
  • What historical sites exist on Bulls Island?
    • The island was once home to the Bulls Bay Lighthouse, which was deactivated in 1913.
  • Where can visitors learn more about the refuge?
    • Visitors can explore nature exhibits and information at the nearby Sewee Visitors and Environmental Education Center.

10. Melton Peter Demetre Park


Enjoy fishing and admire breathtaking Charleston Harbor views.

Melton Peter Demetre Park

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  • Where is Melton Peter Demetre Park located?
  • How did the park come to be?
    • The land for the park was donated by Melton Demetre in 2007 and has since become a popular gathering place for local residents.
  • What amenities does Melton Peter Demetre Park offer?
    • The park features two small sandy beaches, a pier, and a floating dock that is frequently used by boaters, kayakers, and fishermen.
  • Is the park ADA accessible?
    • Yes, one of the beaches and the pier are ADA accessible, ensuring that everyone, including leashed dogs, can enjoy the park.
  • Is swimming allowed at Melton Peter Demetre Park?
    • No, swimming is not allowed at the park’s beaches.
  • What is the address of Melton Peter Demetre Park?
    • The park is located at Charleston Harbor 1, Charleston, South Carolina.


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Warm temperatures and fewer crowds. The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island – A luxury oceanfront resort with world-class amenities. Visit Kiawah Island Beach – Enjoy pristine sands and a peaceful, natural setting.
Summer (June-August) – Peak season with hot weather and beach activities. Tides Folly Beach Hotel – A beachfront stay in the heart of Folly Beach. Explore Folly Beach – A lively beach with great surfing, dining, and fishing.
Fall (September-November) – Warm waters and fewer tourists. Wild Dunes Resort – A scenic beachfront resort on Isle of Palms. Relax on Isle of Palms Beach – A family-friendly beach with soft sand and gentle waves.
Winter (December-February) – Cooler weather, great for coastal walks and solitude. Water's Edge Inn – A charming boutique inn near Folly Beach. Stroll Along Sullivan’s Island – A quiet, historic beach with stunning views.

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