"Deserted beaches at dusk"
The springtime weather of Charleston has locals and early-arriving tourists flocking to the region’s popular beaches before the summer crowds descend. Four gems stand out: Isle of Palms (IOP), Sullivan’s Island, Folly Beach, and Kiawah’s Beachwalker Park for their unique blend of long stretches of sandy shores, historical landmarks, diverse outdoor activities, and charming local businesses.
The Isle of Palms, colloquially known as IOP, features an expansive public beach, popular resorts, and a scenic golf course. This town is situated between the Intracoastal Waterway — which stretches 3,000 miles inland from Massachusetts to Texas — and the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can participate in various activities from eco-excursions, stand-up paddleboarding offered by Wild Dunes, or enjoy a relaxed day exploring the town. Isle of Palms County Park offers amenities such as lifeguards, bathrooms, showers, picnic tables, and a playground for families. A recent addition to the IOP, Islander 71, is a marina-front dining and drinks establishment that provides excellent boat traffic viewing and local cuisine.
Located just across the bridge from IOP, Sullivan’s Island boasts a strong military background. It was first settled in the 17th century by Captain Florence O’Sullivan. The town was the site of the first patriot naval victory during the Revolutionary War. History enthusiasts can take a tour of the Fort Moultrie National Historical Park, open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The island’s southernmost beach area provides a more secluded experience. One of the island’s local favorites, Home Team Barbecue, has bagged several awards for its diverse food offerings and signature frozen beverage, Gamechanger. There are also numerous unique shops for locally made goods and ice cream parlors for a sweet treat.
Known as “the edge of America,” Folly Beach is a 12-square-mile barrier island located just nine miles away from downtown Charleston. This sand-bordered enclave is perfect for outdoor activities, wherein visitors can engage in surfing at the well-known Washout area or take surf lessons with Isla Surf School. In addition to being a haven for surfers, Folly Beach is also an idyllic location for avid shell collectors. When it comes to dining, Chico Feo, a charming outdoor bar and restaurant, offers a limited yet delightful menu consisting of tacos, Cuban beans, and daily specials. Furthermore, Lowlife Bar has the knack of serving some of the best cocktails in town, making it a popular choice amongst the locals.
At a further distance, Kiawah’s Beachwalker Park is a serene antidote to the otherwise bustling beach towns. As the only public beach access on Kiawah Island, it offers views of both the ocean and the river. Visitors are advised to keep an eye on digital highway signs for real-time updates regarding parking status. After enjoying a peaceful morning at the beach, guests must not miss a visit to Freshfields Village, a retail hub filled with shops, spas, restaurants, and even interactive wine stations.
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