Cobblestone streets and pastel colored homes often spring to mind when someone mentions Charleston. But did you know that miles of pristine sand dunes, maritime forests, and quaint fishing villages surround the famed historic district?
First and foremost a destination by the sea, the Charleston area boasts five distinct beach towns: Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Whether you’re looking to bike, swim, sail, golf, bird-watch, build sandcastles, paddle board, fish, kayak, or simply read a book while dipping your toes in the sand, these quaint seaside locales offer something for everyone.
Isle of Palms is a favorite spot for vacationing families. Nestled at the northern tip of the island is Wild Dunes Resort, where the recreation program offers amazing eco-adventures for children, teens, and adults.
Sullivan’s Island appears pleasantly residential, but it attracts thrill seekers looking for high-energy kiteboarding and stand up paddle experiences. Two special national landmarks are located on the island: Fort Moultrie, a pivotal American Revolution stronghold, and the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, the last major lighthouse erected by the federal government (1962).
Affectionately known as the “Edge of America,” Folly Beach attracts an eclectic mix of surfers, artists and laid back vacationers. Want to see if the surf is up? Check the live streaming wave cam hosted by The Tides hotel.
Named “America’s Happiest Seaside Town” in 2012 by Coastal Living, Kiawah Island boasts unparalleled Southern charm and a 10-mile, fine-sand beach. Kiawah Island Golf Resort is a sanctuary for those seeking the gated resort lifestyle and five star amenities—so much so, the hotel is named The Sanctuary {read more here}. The Ocean Course, host of the 2012 PGA Championship, is a “bucket list” experience for golfers.
Seabrook Island is a tranquil, primarily residential spot that offers a wide variety of vacation rental properties. Home to a state-of-the-art 22-acre equestrian center and miles of maritime wilderness trails, time seems to slow down on quiet Seabrook.
Want tips on finding the perfect beachside place to stay and play?
Visit CharlestonAreaBeaches.com.
