The Charleston area is home to a handful of unique places nestled in and around the peninsula. Varied in sights and style, and each offering special things to see and do, these are destinations in their own right. Get to know some of the lively little communities that make up this special destination here.
History dots the shoreline stretch of Sullivan’s Island, with Fort Moultrie’s American Revolution fortifications also providing perches to revel in the ocean views of this two-and-a-half-mile barrier island. At the same time, the two-tone, triangular Charleston Light, as locals know the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, offers a rare local nod to mid-century design as it beams into the night.
Just 12 miles from downtown Charleston, the family-friendly Isle of Palms is perfectly situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intercoastal Waterway. With its stellar setting and ample offerings, it’s a surfside sweet spot for any beach-bound family. Whether it’s a pail-toting idyll building sand castles or a sea-faring adventure on the waves, Isle of Palms is certain to entertain and enthrall crews of all ages.
There is the derring-do of Francis Marion, known as the Swamp Fox, who eluded the British in the swampy woodlands that is now Francis Marion National Forest. Those on in search of transporting sojourns should venture to the majestic Moncks Corner for its Cypress Gardens and Mepkin Abbey, a Trappist monastery open to all. Elsewhere, picturesque cycling is a must along Wannamaker North Trail, and golfers will glory in Goose Creek’s popular Crowfield Golf Club.
The Old Village in Mount Pleasant sits right on the Charleston harbor and is known for its beautiful historic homes, moss-draped live oak trees and small-town feel. Perched right on the Charleston Harbor and surrounded by water, Old Village claims some of the best waterfront views of the Charleston area. The Old Village is as coastal as it gets, and its breezy location is what prompted some of Charleston’s earliest residents to establish summer homes in the area in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, the Old Village retains that historic charm while still leaving room for mom-and-pop shops, restaurants and gathering spaces.
Picturesque, delightfully quaint and home to some of Charleston’s most friendly residents, exploring this little coastal community feels like discovering one of Charleston’s best-kept secrets. Even better is the fact that this special little district is just a hop, skip and a jump away from some of Charleston’s must-see sites. Staying in and around the Old Village area is great for leisure and business travelers alike looking for old village-style charm, sea salt air and a home away from home that’s just minutes from the beach and downtown Charleston.
A reverence for conservation guides Kiawah Island, the perennially top-rated travel destination 25 miles southwest of Charleston, which offering a world-class respite beyond your wildest imagination. Take in ten miles of unspoiled coastline, or wend along one of the meandering pathways that forever reveal new vistas of untamed beauty. Luxuriate at Andell Inn or The Sanctuary, Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s five-star waterfront property.
With its windswept palmetto trees and sublime subtropical climate, Seabrook Island is the ideal setting for both peace and play. At its core is the nationally-recognized Seabrook Island Club, a hub of island living with waterfront dining and, for larger gatherings, an array of banquet facilities. Visitors will also find two championship golf courses; a nationally recognized racquet club with 15 Har Tru tennis courts and two pickleball courts, not to mention swimming pools and a fitness center. Others will head for an equestrian center that offers trail and beach rides, or venture seaside for dolphin strand feeding.
Whimsy catches a mighty wave on laid-back Folly Beach, where fun and funky cottages and a coastal-casual vibe set a tone that is certain to adjust any attitude. Surfers can be spotted year-round riding superior swells at locales like The Washout, as are others relishing a stroll or casting a pole along the newly reconstructed Folly Beach Fishing Pier.
What’s going on in North Charleston? Most everything is on offer in this happening hub a mere 15 minutes from downtown Charleston. As the city this year celebrates its fiftieth anniversary, it does so trumpeting robust economic development, diversification and retail sales leading state. Sample fare at a locally-sourced eatery or superior craft beer from a Park Circle brewpub. Thrill the kids at the visitor center at the North Charleston Fire Engine Museum or on the new inclusive playground, the largest in the nation. Stock up on stylish looks at nearby Tanger Outlets.
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Published annually, the official Charleston Visitors Guide is full of gorgeous photography, insider tips, maps, and resources to help you plan your Charleston vacation.
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