Charleston Area Beaches
Some say life is better by the water. In Charleston, we swear by it.
With miles of pristine shoreline, five enchanting beach towns and inviting waters year-round, coastal Charleston is a beloved destination for good reason. Here, the tides tell the time. Fresh-caught seafood is the rule, not the exception. And there’s no such thing as a bad time to visit.
None more than a stone’s throw from the airport or the historic district, Charleston’s beaches are remarkably accessible while feeling worlds away. Whichever you choose, our Atlantic enclaves offer a unique invitation: to slip into a slower pace and soak up the charm of the Lowcountry coast.
Isle of Palms
Distance from downtown: 17 miles
Accommodations: Beach Hotels, Beach Rentals, Beach Resorts
Public Access Points: 50+
Kiawah Island
Distance from downtown: 27 miles
Accommodations: Beach Hotels, Beach Rentals, Beach Resorts
Public Access Points: 1
Seabrook Island
Sullivan's Island
Distance from downtown: 9 miles
Accommodations: Long-Term Rentals
Public Access Points: 20
Folly Beach
Distance from downtown: 13 miles
Accommodations: Beach Hotels, Beach Rentals
Public Access Points: 49
Kiawah Island
A Blissful Seaside Community
Distance from downtown: 27 miles
Distance from Charleston International Airport: 34 miles
Seabrook Island
A Sandy Oasis
Distance from downtown: 25 miles
Distance from Charleston International Airport: 32 miles
Folly Beach
The Edge of America
Distance from downtown: 13 miles
Distance from Charleston International Airport: 20 miles
Isle of Palms
A Family-Friendly Haven
Distance from downtown: 17 miles
Distance from Charleston International Airport: 24 miles
Sullivan’s Island
An Idyllic Beach Town
Distance from downtown: 9 miles
Distance from Charleston International Airport: 19 miles
Where to Stay
Discover waterfront hotels, rentals, and resorts across all five beaches.
Plan Your Perfect Beach Wedding
Say “I do” on the sand and celebrate against an Atlantic backdrop.