While many southern tourists know Myrtle Beach and its boardwalk-like roads, offering every conceivable way to spend your money, just two hours south lies the town of Charleston. Crowds of tourists in sundresses and surfer shorts come here not only for shopping and art, but also for the wonderful beaches.
Charleston is a historic, well-preserved city with a population of more than 153,000 and attracts approximately 7.5 million visitors annually. travel and leisure. South Carolina’s coast is a big draw for many of these tourists.
Charleston’s cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture captivate visitors wherever they go. This town also has a thriving art scene. delicious food Therefore, tourists end up spending a lot of their hard-earned cash. It’s not just the food and shopping that draws visitors to this southern town. These are our recommendations for the best beaches near Charleston.
Best beaches near Charleston and what to see
This part of the country has beaches for all your vacation needs. In South Carolina, A beach with everything From family outings to solo sunbathing. Here’s what you need to know about these popular beaches and the activities they offer.
What are the most popular Charleston beaches?
Folly Beach is the most popular and busiest beach in the area. This is the closest beach to downtown Charleston (between 12 and 15 miles, depending on where you drive from) and the most populated beach in the area, with approximately 9 miles of sandy beach seating. there is. Arrive early to secure a parking spot and don’t forget cash for payment.
Folly Beach Activities and Attractions
- Surfing – Folly Beach is a famous surfing destination for both beginners and experienced surfers. Steady waves and a relaxed atmosphere make Shaka Surf School an ideal location for those looking to enjoy surfing.
- Fishing – Folly Beach is a haven for anglers looking to catch everything from trout to sharks. The waters surrounding this picturesque beach are rich in marine habitat, guaranteeing an exciting and rewarding fishing experience.
- Cruising – Folly Beach offers a tranquil and enjoyable cruising experience with Sea Breeze Charters, perfect for those looking to relax on the water.
- Water Sports – The area is a hub for water sports enthusiasts, and FB Water Sports offers a wide range of activities including kiteboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. This area caters to all skill levels and tastes.
Best beach for R&R – Kiawah Island Beach
This beautiful beach is the least crowded of all the beaches in South Carolina. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, this is the beach you want. But be willing to commute to get there. It’s about 45 miles from town.
Kiawah Island Activities and Attractions
- Hiking – If you want more than 10 miles of beaches, we also offer 30 miles of paved trails for hiking enthusiasts to hike and explore.
- Birdwatching – Find your way to Marsh View Tower, which is perfect for this activity. Bird lovers can spot everything from bald eagles to storks.
- Nature Education – Try Heron Park Nature Center. There they are taught about all the wildlife in the area. Learn about everything from bobcats to alligators.
the most attractive beaches
Sullivan’s Island Beach is said to be the most attractive beach in the area. There are 3 miles of beach to play on. Take advantage of the Sullivan Island Lighthouse. It is a square-shaped lighthouse, and there is free parking on the street in front of the bridge. Perfect for a classic beach day with plenty of Instagrammable moments.
Sullivan’s Island Beach Activities and Attractions
- Collect shells – This beach has an abundance of sand, so bring a bucket to collect shells. Keep only the white ones, as the gray ones are still alive. Nothing beats the thrill of finding an unbroken sand dollar.
- Water Sports – Although most people tend not to spend much time at this beach, the area also offers water sports such as kayaking, surfing, and crab hunting.
- Shopping – Find small, locally owned shops selling clothing and souvenirs. If you’re visiting between early April and the end of June, stop by the local farmers market on late Thursday afternoons to pick up local produce and delicious baked goods.
family friendly beach
Isle of Palms Beach is the perfect place to spend the day with the family. There is plenty of parking, restaurants, shops, and a fishing pier for those who like fishing. The beach is about 9 miles long, so there’s plenty of room to lay out a blanket on the sand.
Isle of Palms Beach Activities and Attractions
- Water Sports – From jet skiing to parasailing to wakeboarding, Isle of Palms Beach offers a fun day out. For all your water sports needs and supplies, visit Tidal Wave Water Sports.
- Take a Wildlife Tour – Want to spot wildlife? Barrier Island Eco Tours offers private tours. Learn about bottlenose dolphins, loggerhead sea turtles, and numerous birds to promote wildlife conservation. Watch as your guide pulls crab traps and casts nets, and get up close and personal with the local wildlife. .
- Play Golf – Choose from two golf courses. Wild Dunes Resort operates both. Although many local golfers visit these golf courses, they are open to resort guests and visiting golfers alike.
- Dog Life – If your family dog needs to live his best life on the beach, this is the beach to take him to. Please note that all dogs must be on a leash at all times. Dogs are welcome here year-round.
The Most Private Beach – Seabrook Island Beach
This beach runs along a private, gated residential area, giving you the secluded location you seek. It has about 3 miles of beaches and is about 30 minutes from downtown Charleston. If you feel like it, try kayaking or horseback riding. A great place to get away from it all.
Seabrook Island Beach Activities and Attractions
- Become a Pirate – If your kids are begging you to do something, let them be pirates for an hour. Pirates of Charleston offers Black Ghost cruises that the whole family can enjoy. Children can also dress up as pirates and go on a treasure hunt.
- Play Golf – Here at Crooked Oaks Golf Course, the course offers great views while sinking a hole-in-one. We also offer instructors for beginners or those who simply want to improve their game.
- Horseback Riding – This beach offers a day of horseback riding through the North Beach Surf. For more information, visit the club’s equestrian center on Seabrook Island.
In search of pristine surroundings and wildlife – Edisto Beach
If you want to get back to nature, Edisto Beach is the place for you. This beach is approximately 72 miles from downtown Charleston, but it’s worth the effort. This area makes it easy to relax, go fishing, boating, and enjoy the local culture.
Edisto Beach Activities and Attractions
- Fishing – Go fishing with one of the many fishing charters in the area. We offer offshore and inshore fishing charters for beginners and experienced fishermen alike.
- Shopping – Browse the area’s small shops for everything from clothing and crafts to gifts and home decor. This area may be small, but you’ll never be left wanting for what you want to buy.
- Wildlife Sanctuary – Explore local wildlife at Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Reserve. Enjoy everything from horseback riding to deer and dove hunting.
For beach camping – Capers Island
If beach camping sounds like heaven, Capers Island is the place for you. All you need before pitching your tent is a free permit. Explore 214 acres of salt marshes, hiking trails, coastal caves, and more.
Capers Island Activities and Attractions
- Kayaking – This breathtaking area offers amazing kayaking adventures, including overnight camping, day trips, and sunset tours. The sunset tour is amazing.
- Dolphins and Sea Turtles – Take a 2.5-hour cruise with Barrier Island Eco Tours to see these sea creatures in their natural habitat.
- Crab Hunting – Take a crab hunting tour with Barrier Island Eco Tours. It takes him 3 and a half hours, including time to tour the island and enjoy cooked seafood.
charleston trip
Explore Charleston, South Carolina’s beaches allow tourists to enjoy the vacation of their dreams. The variety of experiences makes this area suitable for people of all ages. With a wide range of activities on offer, there’s sure to be something for everyone.
A trip to Charleston is more than just a historical or cultural experience. It is a rich experience that uses all five senses. A coastal experience that everyone should participate in firsthand. From kayaking and jet skiing to cruising and just soaking up the sun, this part of the country is worth exploring.