6 Best Things to Do on Johns Island, SC

By VI Staff on March 30, 2020

Johns Island, SC is the fourth largest island on the east coast of the USA. It is separated from the mainland and neighboring islands by the Stono and Kiawah rivers. The 84 square mile island is home to a host of different wildlife species on land, in the water and in the air. Johns Island has a thriving tourism industry, which operates in a relaxed and collaborative atmosphere. Being so close to the sea and rivers, seafood is plentiful and is reflected in the menus of most restaurants. Several of its buildings predate the birth of the nation and many of its trees are older still.

1.Angel Oak Tree Park

The Angel Oak tree is the main attraction in Angel Oak Park. It stands 65 ft tall, with a circumference of over 25 ft. Many of its branches lie on the ground and others are supported. The longest of these is 187 ft long. There are claims that it is the largest tree east of the Mississippi River. It was damaged by winds during Hurricane Hugo in 1989 but has recovered. Visitors are not permitted to climb, or indeed, touch the tree. Entrance to the park is free and there are picnic facilities available and a gift shop.

3671 Angel Oak Rd, Johns Island, South Carolina, 29455, Phone: 843-559-3496

2.Low Tide Brewing

Low Tide Brewing has been brewing custom craft beer at its current location on the Maybank Highway since 2016. The company philosophy is to welcome community involvement and to promote a healthy and happy lifestyle. They work with members of the local food industry to create unique beers that complement and bring out the flavors of the local cuisine. Their premises are open seven days a week for tasting, tours and purchasing. Besides their beers, which all have amusing names like 'Hooked on a Fielding', they sell branded clothing, merchandise and even something for your dog.

2863 Maybank Hwy, 29455 Johns Island, South Carolina, Phone: 843-501-7570

3.Fenwick Hall Castle

Fenwick Hall was built by John Fenwick in 1730 as a plantation home. It is 40 years older than the USA. Situated on over 50 acres, planted with live oaks and magnolia trees, It is still in private hands. It is an eclectic mix of styles as several owners left their mark on the original rectangular, two-storey Georgian structure. John Fenwick's son bred race horses so added stables and a carriage house which are now being used as accommodation. The original structure houses 5 bay windows and an aesthetically pleasing octagonal wing was later added. It is available for hire for weddings and other private functions.

30 Fenwick Hall Aly, Johns Island, SC 29455-3125

4.Wild Olive Restaurant

Wild Olive Cucina Italiana, established in 2009, has been a Certified Green Restaurant since 2013. It serves superb Italian food, prepared by a cadre of professional chefs, and a choice of wines, overseen by a Certified Specialist of Wine. There is more than a hint of the sea in the menu items. Their philosophy is 'farm to table, and back to the farm'. They purchase fresh produce from a host of local 'friends' and recycle and compost most of their waste. They actively promote other tourism ventures in the area and collaborate with others on fundraising drives.

2867 Maybank Highway, Johns Island, S.C, Phone: 843-737-4177

5.Angel Oak Restaurant

The Angel Oak Restaurant has a menu that changes to reflect the seasons. Fresh produce is sourced locally and prepared to showcase the best of southern American cuisine. Beverages that complement the various courses are carefully chosen. Jay and Nicole Kees met in New York while working in the hospitality industry and traveled down along the coast until they found a spot on Johns Island where they could best utilize their combined talents. As a memento of your visit, branded clothing can be purchased at their onsite shop.

3669 Savannah Hwy, Johns Island, SC, Phone: 843-556-7525

6.Southern General

Southern General Craft Sandwich Shop and Bar exists to satisfy your hunger and your thirst. Traditional items on the menu include house sandwiches, burgers, sloppy joe's, corn fritters and beer-battered fish and chips. Pulled pork, good 'ole chicken and a rich variety of vegetables make it onto the artisan sandwiches. All food is made from scratch on the premises and can be eaten there or taken away. Pickles, sauces and old style candy are also for sale in the general dealer style shop. Happy hour lasts three hours, each Monday to Friday between 4 and 7pm.

3157 Maybank Highway, Unit E, Johns Island, S.C, Phone: 843-640-3778