Ready to escape the city and soak up some Southern sunshine? These beaches near Charleston, SC offer soft sands, warm Atlantic waters, and that laid-back coastal charm just minutes away.
Highlights:
Best Beaches Near Charleston, SC:
1. Kiawah Island - 45 minutes from Charleston
Rating: ★★★★★
Location: Kiawah Island, SC
Recommended For: Golfers, beach lovers, families, nature enthusiasts, and coastal photographers.
What I Love: ♥ "Imagine a place where top-tier golf meets untouched natural beauty — with marshes, maritime forests, and 11 miles of serene beaches. Whether you’re hitting the greens or just strolling under live oaks, Kiawah delivers coastal calm with a luxurious touch."
- Golf world-class courses at the Kiawah Island Golf Resort, home to top PGA events and stunning ocean views.
- Relax on the island’s only public beachfront at Kiawah Beachwalker Park—ideal for families and calm water swimming.
- Wander through preserved marshlands and maritime forests on ADA-accessible boardwalks and shaded pathways.
Cost: Entry to Kiawah Beachwalker Park includes a parking fee; rates vary by season.
Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for swimming, golf, and coastal hiking.
Local tips: Arrive early on weekends and holidays — parking fills quickly. I like to bring binoculars for birdwatching in the marshlands.
Distance: About 45 minutes southwest of downtown Charleston, SC.
How to Get to Kiawah Island: From Charleston, take SC-700 (Maybank Hwy) west, then follow Bohicket Road to Beachwalker Drive. Signs will guide you to the public beach access.
2. Folly Beach - 20 minutes from Charleston
Location: Folly Beach, SC
Recommended For: Surfers, beachgoers, families, kayakers, anglers, and coastal culture lovers.
What I Love: ♥ "Called the ‘Edge of America’ for good reason — from epic surf breaks to a laid-back beach town vibe, Folly brings authentic charm with a salty breeze. Plus, its iconic pier and cozy beachside streets are pure coastal nostalgia."
- Surf East Coast waves at one of the top surfing spots, with 2,500+ feet of sandy beach to enjoy.
- Swim safely at Folly Beach County Park, with lifeguards on duty and plenty of room for water sports like kayaking.
- Stroll the Folly Beach Fishing Pier — the second-longest public pier on the East Coast — jutting 1,000 feet into the Atlantic.
- Explore Folly Beach’s classic boardwalk feel, featuring quirky boutiques, seaside dining, and a nod to George Gershwin’s historic Porgy House.
Cost: Public beach access is free; parking and pier fees may apply depending on the location.
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for prime beach weather, surfing, and festivals.
Local tips: Arrive early for parking on summer weekends. Don't miss a sunset from the pier or cocktails from a beach bar with ocean views.
Distance: Just 20 minutes from downtown Charleston, SC.
How to Get to Folly Beach: Take SC-171 south from Charleston, cross the Folly River Bridge, and follow Center Street into town. Signs will guide you to beach access and the fishing pier.
Review:★★★★★ "I liked the waves for surfing. There is also a pier, great seafood and just a really relaxed feel. "
Romantic Beaches Near Charleston, SC:
3. Sullivan's Island - 25 minutes from Charleston
Location: Sullivan's Island, SC
Recommended For: History buffs, surfers, kayakers, seafood lovers, and quiet beach seekers.
What I Love: ♥ "It’s not just another beach — Sullivan’s Island blends coastal beauty with powerful history. From peaceful dunes and paddleboarding to thought-provoking landmarks, it’s a place to reflect, relax, and reconnect."
- Discover the island’s deep historical roots — considered the 'Ellis Island' of the transatlantic slave trade.
- Unwind on 3.3 miles of public beachfront, ideal for surfing, kiteboarding, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
- Roam the natural beaches with striking sand dune formations and find hidden fishing spots away from the crowds.
- Dine in the local business district, known for offering some of the best seafood in the Charleston area.
Cost: Public beach access is free; parking fees may apply depending on location.
Best time to visit: Spring through early fall for water sports, dining, and scenic beach walks.
Local tips: Visit on weekday mornings to enjoy quieter stretches of beach. Don’t skip the restaurants inland — they’re a local secret worth savoring.
Distance: About 25 minutes from downtown Charleston, SC.
How to Get to Sullivan’s Island: From Charleston, take US-17 N toward Mount Pleasant. Turn onto Ben Sawyer Boulevard and cross the Ben Sawyer Swing Bridge directly into Sullivan’s Island.
4. Isle of Palms - 30 minutes from downtown Charleston
Location: Isle of Palms, SC
Recommended For: Families, beachgoers, golfers, music lovers, and upscale vacationers.
What I Love: ♥ "Isle of Palms brings together golden beaches, gourmet dining, and island leisure with a touch of luxury. From sandcastle days to sunset concerts, it’s Charleston’s beachside playground with a resort-town soul."
- Swim and sunbathe at the public beach, known for its clean shoreline and safe swimming conditions.
- Relax at Isle of Palms County Park, featuring family-friendly picnic areas and a playground by the beach.
- Play beach volleyball or catch live shows at The Windjammer — a beachfront venue famous for its events and tournaments.
- Golf championship-level courses designed by Tom Fazio at the luxurious Wild Dunes oceanfront resort.
- Shop & Dine in the lively business district, offering boutique shopping and upscale Lowcountry cuisine.
Cost: Public beach access is free; parking and park fees may apply. Golf and resort activities vary in price.
Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for optimal weather, events, and beach activities.
Local tips: Parking can fill quickly in summer—arrive early. For a full experience, book ahead if planning to visit Wild Dunes Resort or attend a Windjammer event.
Distance: Just under 30 minutes from downtown Charleston, SC.
How to Get to Isle of Palms: From Charleston, take US-17 N to SC-517 E (Isle of Palms Connector). Follow signs to beach access and park areas once on the island.
Family Beaches Near Charleston, SC:
5. Seabrook Island - 45 minutes southwest of Charleston
Location: Seabrook Island, SC
Recommended For: Golfers, equestrians, boaters, luxury vacationers, and active beachgoers.
What I Love: ♥ "Seabrook is where luxury meets nature — private beaches, waterfront rides on horseback, and top-tier recreation tucked beside Kiawah. It's a coastal retreat with class, perfect for those seeking serenity without sacrificing amenities."
- Play two championship golf courses and visit a racquetball club recognized nationwide.
- Ride along the coastline at one of the East Coast’s only waterfront equestrian centers.
- Relax on scenic, private beaches open to visitors and residents alike.
- Explore the water by renting kayaks or boats from the on-island marina.
- Dine in style at waterfront spots like Bohicket’s Lounge and The Palmetto Room after your day of adventure.
Cost: Access and amenities may be limited to guests of rental properties or resort accommodations; fees vary by activity and facility.
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for full access to outdoor sports, beach time, and marina activities.
Local tips: Many amenities are within gated areas — book lodging through official resort partners or vacation rentals to access them. Reservations recommended for equestrian and fine dining experiences.
Distance: About 45 minutes southwest of Charleston, SC.
How to Get to Seabrook Island: From Charleston, take SC-700 (Maybank Hwy), then turn onto Bohicket Road and continue to Seabrook Island Road. Access is controlled by a security gate for residents and registered guests.
6. Edisto Beach - 1 hour from Charleston
Location: Edisto Beach, SC
Recommended For: Nature lovers, families, kayakers, seafood fans, and laid-back travelers.
What I Love: ♥ "Edisto is the Lowcountry unplugged — no chain stores, no bright lights, just sun, salt air, and soul-soothing simplicity. It’s where front porches, fresh crab, and beachside calm still reign."
- Unplug on wide, uncrowded beaches perfect for family picnics, shell hunting, and relaxing under an umbrella.
- Explore the 4,630-acre Botany Bay Plantation Preserve and its pristine marshes and preserved wildlife habitat.
- Kayak through winding tidal creeks and quiet marshes, rich with native birds and marine life.
- Visit the Edisto Island Serpentarium for close encounters with the island’s reptilian residents.
- Dine on fresh crab at local gems like Whaley’s, and discover one-of-a-kind finds in antique shops and art galleries.
Cost: Beach access is free; Botany Bay and Serpentarium may have small entrance or activity fees.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for mild weather, outdoor exploration, and wildlife viewing.
Local tips: Pack bug spray for marsh adventures. Head to the beach at sunrise for shelling — and don’t expect bright lights; night here means stars.
Distance: About 1 hour southwest of downtown Charleston, SC.
How to Get to Edisto Beach: From Charleston, take SC-174 through Edisto Island to reach the beachfront. Scenic and peaceful, this drive sets the tone for your visit.
Unique Beaches Near Charleston, SC:
7. Morris Island - 30 minutes from Charleston
Location: Morris Island, Charleston Harbor, SC
Recommended For: History enthusiasts, shell collectors, lighthouse lovers, and adventure seekers.
What I Love: ♥ "Untouched and powerful, Morris Island speaks through its silence — with battle-scarred forts, sweeping sands, and a storied lighthouse rising from the surf. It’s a place of remembrance, reflection, and raw coastal beauty."
- Honor the legacy of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry by visiting the remains of Fort Wagner, site of a pivotal Civil War battle.
- View the iconic candy-striped Morris Island Lighthouse, standing as a sentinel since 1876 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Explore historical sites and fortifications on guided boat tours that bring the island’s Civil War stories to life.
- Collect shells on guided beach walks with Adventure Harbor Tours, where unspoiled shoreline yields coastal treasures.
- Ride the waves with catamaran adventures from Thriller Charleston for a thrilling perspective on Charleston’s harbor and sea.
Cost: Access to the island is via tour or private boat; fees vary by operator and type of excursion.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for pleasant weather and tour availability; summer for best wildlife and shelling opportunities.
Local tips: There are no facilities on the island — bring water, sun protection, and walking shoes. Sunrise tours offer magical views of the lighthouse and a quieter experience.
Distance: About 30 minutes from downtown Charleston by boat (departure from various local marinas).
How to Get to Morris Island: The island is accessible only by boat. Book a tour with Adventure Harbor Tours or Thriller Charleston departing from Charleston area docks.
8. Capers Island - 45 minutes by boat or kayak
Location: Capers Island, SC
Recommended For: Nature lovers, kayakers, primitive campers, photographers, and eco-adventurers.
What I Love: ♥ "Wild and untouched, Capers Island is the kind of place that feels like stepping into a secret. From driftwood-covered beaches to marshy backwaters, it’s a paradise for solitude seekers and outdoor explorers alike."
- Paddle your way across the Intracoastal Waterway to reach this boat-only, state-protected barrier island.
- Explore Boneyard Beach, where sun-bleached tree skeletons create a hauntingly beautiful shoreline.
- Hike the McCaskill Trail through maritime forests, salt marshes, and brackish wetlands.
- Camp under the stars at primitive sites (permit required), surrounded by nothing but waves and wildlife.
- Experience 214 acres of preserved habitats — from pristine beaches to rich uplands teeming with biodiversity.
Cost: No entry fee, but permits are required for camping. Kayak tours and charters may charge fees.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for kayaking, hiking, and beachcombing. Fall offers cooler weather and fewer bugs.
Local tips: Bring bug spray, water, and sun protection — there are no facilities. Sunrise hikes and Boneyard Beach photography sessions are especially stunning.
Distance: About 45 minutes north of downtown Charleston by boat or kayak launch.
How to Get to Capers Island: Accessible only by boat. Launch from nearby docks in Mount Pleasant or Isle of Palms; guided kayak and boat tours are available.
If you are a photographer, don't miss:
9. Bulls Island - 45 minutes
Location: Bulls Island, Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, SC
Recommended For: Wildlife watchers, birders, hikers, nature photographers, and conservation-minded travelers.
What I Love: ♥ "Bulls Island is raw, wild Carolina at its finest — a sanctuary where dolphins dance in the surf, ospreys soar overhead, and every trail feels like a secret. It’s a rare refuge where nature still runs the show."
- Ferry over from Garris Landing to explore the largest barrier island in the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge.
- Hike 16 miles of inland trails winding through maritime forests and past rich coastal ecosystems.
- Birdwatch and dolphin spot in one of the most biodiverse shorelines in South Carolina.
- Discover the legacy of Bulls Bay Lighthouse, deactivated in 1913 but steeped in coastal history.
- Learn about sea turtles, shorebirds, and more at the nearby Sewee Visitors and Environmental Education Center.
Cost: Access via private ferry from Coastal Expeditions; fees apply. Entrance to the Sewee Center is free.
Best time to visit: Fall and spring for comfortable weather, migratory birds, and active marine life.
Local tips: Wear hiking shoes and bring water — there are no facilities on the island. Morning ferry rides offer the best light for wildlife photography.
Distance: About 45 minutes northeast of Charleston, SC, to Garris Landing ferry dock.
How to Get to Bulls Island: From Charleston, take US-17 N to Awendaw. Follow signs to Garris Landing and board the Coastal Expeditions ferry to the island.
10. Melton Peter Demetre Park - 15 minutes from downtown Charleston
Location: James Island, Charleston, SC
Recommended For: Locals, families, dog walkers, pier fishers, kayakers, and sunrise photographers.
What I Love: ♥ "Tucked away on James Island, Sunrise Park lives up to its name — the views across Charleston Harbor are spectacular at dawn. It’s a quiet, local treasure with just the right blend of water access and peaceful scenery."
- Enjoy serene harbor views from the pier or floating dock — perfect for fishing or a quiet stroll.
- Launch a kayak or paddleboard from the ADA-accessible dock and explore the surrounding waters.
- Relax on two small beaches, ideal for picnicking and dog-walking (leashed pets welcome).
- Access inclusive park features — one beach and the pier are ADA accessible for full community use.
- Gather with friends and locals in a lesser-known gem of Charleston’s waterfront parks.
Cost: Free to the public.
Best time to visit: Early mornings for sunrise views; evenings for peaceful fishing and harbor breezes.
Local tips: Swimming is not allowed, but bring a camera — the sunrise over the water is worth the early alarm.
Distance: About 15 minutes from downtown Charleston, SC.
How to Get to Melton Peter Demetre Park: Head southeast on Harbor View Road from James Island Connector. Follow signs to the park entrance along the shoreline.
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