Best Beaches near Charleston, South Carolina

By OzarksRazorback – Wikimedia

Best Beaches near Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston has a rich history, food culture and beaches. Yes, you probably have not heard much about the beaches here. The longest coastline on the East Coast is found a few minutes away from Charleston.

Other beautiful beaches can be found on Sullivan Island. Most of the beaches here are hidden and have their own identity. The beaches act as barrier islands that let you enjoy some sun and sand.

To access some of the beaches, you may need to hop onto a ferry or a kayak and you will soon have an infinite view of the beach.

These beaches tend to get crowded so its best to go early to get the best spot. Let us now look at the best beaches near Charleston that you need to checkout.

1. Sullivan’s Island

By Lee Keadle – Wikimedia

The beach on this Island is historical in the sense that it served as the entry point to more than 200,000 African slaves into North America.

It is at Charleston harbour a point that also acted as a line of defence of the city during the Civil War and Revolutionary war.

Walking along the harbour you will see the well-preserved Fort Moultrie on the southwest terminus.

What is loved most about this beach is how broad it is giving room to tide pools. There are sand bars that block the waves making it possible for the pleasant and peaceful swimming. Kiteboard surfers also like it here.

Close to the beach is Poe’s Tavern and other charming restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and a drink. Do note that it gets crowded during summer and its free access.

2. Isle of Palms

By Brian Stansberry – Wikimedia

The Isle of palms is another beach in Charleston that is worth your time. It is not far away from Sullivan Island. This beach has restaurants and shops lining the coastline. You can find delicious tacos, ice cream and drinks too.

If you would prefer more private space, head over to the Wild Dunes Resort that has swimming pools, tennis courts, bike rentals, and an oceanfront pavilion.

The resort provides a peaceful atmosphere for families seeking some quiet time away from the busy city. There are live bands that usually play by the beach at the resort.

The beach is 7 miles long and is a family-friendly and you can make arrangements for a babysitter. what is more, is that the beach is in a close community. As you walk along the beach you can watch sea turtles during egg-laying season.

3. Seabrook Island

The beach on this island is 4 miles long and is reserved for the residents and guests staying there. It is on your way to Kiawah Beach Walker park.

Take a stroll by the marina for beautiful sunset views. The restaurants by the beach have delicious shrimp and other seafood that you can wash down with your favourite drink.

So, if you would like to spend your summer vacation in a quiet place in a beachfront property, then book your accommodation in one of the summer houses here.

Other than the beach and water sports, you can head over to the golf course, the tennis court, equestrian centre or the aquatic complex.

4. Kiawah Island

By OzarksRazorback – Wikimedia

This island is not far from the city and a trip to this island is worth every minute at its pristine sandy beach. This is a public beach and park that has a view of Kiawah river. That said you may be thinking that it is crowded; it is not.

You can rent a beach chair and umbrella from the vendors nearby. Dogs are allowed as long as they are on a leash.

There are beach villas, luxurious hotels and houses that you can opt to rent if you would like to spend more time on the beach. Enjoy morning walks, watch the sunrise, swim and wind your evening listening to the waves.

Some part of the beach is private property, if you’d wish to be on that side then check their entrance fee.

Activities to do here: Fishing, Nature Tours, Health & Wellness, Golfing, Biking, Boating & Water Sports, Tennis among others.

5. Folly Beach

By Brian Stansberry – Wikimedia

This beach was discovered by retirees that needed quiet and beautiful homes. The properties along this beach are therefore homes to retirees and second-home owners needing vacation homes.

The beach is clean and peaceful because its on private property. Some of the activities that you can engage in include surfing, swimming, beach volley, fishing.

There are food stands selling burgers and cocktails that you can indulge in. fine dining restaurants and eclectic bars are there too.

Activities: Kayaking, Sailing, Photography, Fishing, Surfing, and Paddleboarding.

6. Edisto Beach

The Edisto beach is on the southern end of Edisto Island. It is a 4-mile-long coastline that offers you the calmness you seek at the beach. Development around this beach in minimal making it untouched and charming.

You can access the beach through more than 30 entry points to this beach and if you’d like to go to the park nearby, you will need to pay a small fee. There are amenities available such as restrooms, picnic areas, and an education centre.

The beach is clean and perfect for families since it is safe for children to paddle in the lapping tides and forage treasures like seashells.

Other than swimming, you can go for a hike or fishing by River Edisto.

Bulls Island

Boneyard beach on Bull Island By Kirby Adams – Wikimedia

There are two magnificent beaches on this island; the North Beach at Robinson Crusoe-esque made up of untouched sand and Boneyard Beach, which is the contrast of North beach, it is defined by spikey tree branches poking out from beneath the sand.

The beaches are amazingly picturesque but are not the most suitable for sunbathing. Other than wading through the water, you can spend some time spotting local wildlife.

While you may walk barefoot on North Beach, wear some footwear on Boneyard beach since some twigs and pebbles may hurt your feet.

Capers Island

To get to the beach on this Island, you will need to get on a boat to first get to Capers Island. The other means of getting here is by catching a chartered flight from Sullivan Island.

The beach is in a remote area with no developments. It is perfect for kayaking, sunbathing, picnics, photography, wildlife spottings such as Deer, turtles and osprey.