Charleston South Carolina beaches provided by Charleston Hospitality

Charleston Beaches

...simply gorgeous and within a short driving distance from anywhere in Charleston. The wide, unspoiled beaches in the area are blessed by a generous coastal climate that allows for sunbathing a majority of the year, and pleasant water temperatures keep the ocean just right for a refreshing dip through spring, summer and fall.

In the winter months, when the average temperature is in the mid-50s, there is no better place for a nice, leisurely walk, invigorating jog or joyful bike ride than one of the area’s magnificent sandy expanses. During the summer season, when temperatures can consistently reach the 90s, the beaches satisfy the need for refreshment where coastal winds and ocean water soothe.

Sunrises are magnificent and will leave you begging for the alarm to go off in the early morning, signaling the birth of another day in paradise. When the tide ebbs, the area’s beaches are typically hundreds of yards wide. The packed nature of the sand provides beach-goers with a harder surface than most come to expect.

The lovely coastline is usually associated with impressive dunes to protect property and lives. The area’s beaches provide the perfect seaside playground for the entire family and, best of all, they are free to enjoy. The resort destinations of Kiawah, Isle of Palms, Seabrook, Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island and Edisto Island provide some of the most picturesque beach scenes anywhere. Each offer their own unique vistas and charm.

Kiawah Island

Twenty-one miles away from Charleston is the much-talked about Kiawah Island, which is as known for its enormous expanse of beach as it is for its cherished golf courses. Outstanding shopping and unforgettable dining opportunities abound on this oasis for beach lovers. A strong tourism trade can be seen all over the island and hospitality rules here. Visitors are treated with respect and admiration as is the wildlife and habitat. On the far side of the island lies the recently completed Sanctuary, which is already considered one of the east coast’s finest resorts.

Isle of Palms

With its close proximity to Charleston, Isle of Palms – home to six miles of wide and open beach - has become a popular place to call home for many on a year-round basis. Home to the world-famous Wild Dunes Resort, which features one of the best marinas anywhere and more than 1,600 acres of exquisite living. “IOP,” as affectionately referred to by locals, offers a full complement of restaurants, services, shops and more. On any given summer day, the island is one of the more popular destinations in the Charleston area.

Seabrook Island

A quiet gated community located south of Charleston, Seabrook Island features golf courses, miles of sandy expanse for sunbathing and frolicking in the surf, an equestrian center and peace and enjoyment. A relaxed coastal setting rules the atmosphere here.

Folly Beach

This quaint beach town – self-billed as "the edge of America" – is located about 10 minutes from historic Charleston. All the activities that rush to one's head about a beach town can be found here including sunbathing, surfing, surf fishing, waterskiing, sailing, crabbing and swimming. It's hard to miss the 1,000-square-foot fishing pier, which celebrated its 10 year anniversary in 2005. The beach was recently "re-nourished" and features six miles of pure beauty and majestic views.

Sullivan’s Island

One of Mt. Pleasant’s three lovely barrier islands (the other two are Isle of Palms and Dewees – a private island), Sullivan’s is the perfect blend of old and new residential beach houses. There is not a huge commercial aspect to Sullivan’s Island, but the few restaurants and watering holes on the island are located along Middle Street, providing a strip-like setting for strollers. The island has a strong military background as the home to Fort Moultrie, which has a rich history able to be traced from the American Revolution to the Second World War.

Edisto Island

Named after its first inhabitants, the Edisto tribe, the island is located about 45 minutes south of Charleston. Known best as a quiet family island, there’s not a lot of commercial opportunities around because that’s the way the island forefathers wanted it. However, outstanding restaurants are available for appetites of all sizes. Don’t forget about the lovely beaches – they are the perfect setting for a family outing – and the challenging golf courses on the island are well worth the drive.