Ever dreamed of a sun-kissed island paradise? One where the warm Atlantic breeze and the sound of waves make you feel at peace? Isle of Palms, South Carolina, might be your dream spot. It’s a barrier island near Charleston, offering both Lowcountry charm and beach relaxation.
What wonders does this seven-mile-long, one-mile-wide island hold? It has pristine white-sand beaches, world-class golf courses, outdoor adventures, and a lively dining scene. But what makes Isle of Palms special, and why should it be on your travel list? Let’s find out as we explore the best things to do on Isle of Palms, South Carolina.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the pristine beaches, warm sun, and palm-fringed landscapes of Isle of Palms, South Carolina.
- Explore the island’s mix of Lowcountry charm and beach relaxation, making it an ideal vacation destination.
- Uncover the top attractions, outdoor adventures, and dining experiences that await on this stunning barrier island.
- Learn about the renowned Wild Dunes Resort and its championship golf courses designed by Tom Fazio.
- Plan your perfect Isle of Palms getaway and create lasting memories in this coastal paradise.
Discovering Isle of Palms: A Coastal Paradise Overview
The Isle of Palms is a beautiful barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. It’s a true coastal paradise in the Lowcountry. This South Carolina gem has a rich ecosystem, history, and lots to do for visitors.
Location and Geography
The Isle of Palms is a seven-mile-long island off the South Carolina coast. It’s surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. This unique setting offers a mix of sandy beaches and lush marshlands.
Historical Background
The Isle of Palms has a long history, starting with the Seewee people. In the late 19th century, Charlestonians started visiting as a summer getaway. The first hotel opened in 1906, starting the island’s growth as a popular spot.
Best Time to Visit
The Isle of Palms welcomes visitors all year. Summer is best for beach lovers, with warm weather and water sports. Spring and fall are great for those who prefer milder weather and fewer crowds.
Isle of Palms' Pristine Beaches and Ocean Activities
The Isle of Palms is a coastal gem in South Carolina. It has six miles of public beaches out of its seven-mile coastline. This makes it a paradise for beach lovers and ocean fans.
Public Beach Access Points
Visiting the Isle of Palms is easy, with many public access points along the coast. The Isle of Palms County Park is a great place to start. It has lifeguards, showers, rentals, restrooms, and a playground for families. There’s also a Harris Teeter nearby for snacks and supplies.
Beach Amenities and Services
The island’s beaches have everything you need. The IOP Beach Chair Co. rents out surfboards, paddleboards, and more. They even have accessible beach wheelchairs. Parking at Isle of Palms County Park can fill up on Saturdays, so arrive early.
Water Sports Opportunities
The Isle of Palms is perfect for water sports. You can swim, surf, play beach volleyball, and more. The calm waters and breezes are great for paddleboarding and kayaking. This lets you see the waterways and marshes full of wildlife.
Looking for a relaxing day, an adventure, or a family outing? The Isle of Palms has it all. With easy access, great amenities, and lots of activities, it’s a top spot for your next South Carolina trip.
Wild Dunes Resort: Golf and Luxury Experience
Wild Dunes Resort is located on the beautiful Isle of Palms in South Carolina. It’s a top spot for golf and luxury. The resort covers 1,600 acres of stunning beachfront and has two championship golf courses by Tom Fazio.
The Links Course offers amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Harbour Course is surrounded by marshlands. Both are ranked high among Charleston’s golf spots, with Harbour Course being 2017’s Charleston Golf Course of the Year.
Wild Dunes Resort also has luxury accommodations. You can stay at the Four Diamond-rated Boardwalk Inn, Residences at Sweetgrass, or private condos. There are also beach house rentals. The Spa at Sweetgrass offers massages, facials, and body treatments, plus fitness classes.
Dining at Wild Dunes is a treat. Coastal Provisions at the Boardwalk Inn serves up seafood and chophouse dishes. The resort is the #1 Best Charleston, SC Resort, according to Conde Nast Traveler’s readers.
Wild Dunes Resort is perfect for golfers or those looking for a luxury coastal stay. It offers top-notch service, amenities, and the beauty of South Carolina’s coast.
Outdoor Adventures and Nature Exploration
The Isle of Palms in South Carolina is a paradise for outdoor lovers. It offers many chances to explore nature and see wildlife. From eco-tours to trips to barrier islands, there’s something for everyone.
Eco Tours and Wildlife Watching
Barrier Island Eco-Tours takes you through salt marshes and tidal creeks. You’ll end up at Capers Island, a place untouched by humans. On these tours, you can see loggerhead turtles, dolphins, and many seabirds.
Barrier Island Excursions
Visit barrier islands like Capers and Dewees for a real adventure. Here, you can hike, birdwatch, and see the untouched beauty of the coast.
Fishing Charters and Marine Life
The Isle of Palms Marina is perfect for fishing fans. You can go reef fishing or Gulf Stream fishing. Twilight fishing is also great for seeing marine life like sharks.
| Outdoor Adventure | Description |
|---|---|
| Eco-Tours | Naturalist-guided excursions through salt marshes, tidal creeks, and the Intracoastal Waterway to observe coastal wildlife. |
| Barrier Island Excursions | Opportunities to explore untouched natural habitats on nearby barrier islands like Capers Island and Dewees Island. |
| Fishing Charters | Reef fishing, Gulf Stream fishing, and twilight fishing charters to encounter diverse marine life. |
Start an adventure on the Isle of Palms. It’s full of natural wonders and wildlife to see.
Isle of Palms, South Carolina: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
The Isle of Palms in South Carolina is a beautiful place for all ages. It offers many activities and attractions. Whether you want to relax on the beach or have an exciting adventure, there’s something for you.
The island’s beaches are a big attraction. Six miles of the seven are public, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Isle of Palms County Park makes it easy to get to the central beach. Here, you can rent chairs and umbrellas for a day by the ocean.
Golf lovers should visit the Wild Dunes Resort. It has two championship courses by Tom Fazio. The views are stunning, and the play is challenging.
- Take a Barrier Island Eco Tour to see wildlife like loggerhead turtles and dolphins.
- Try the local seafood at places like Sea Biscuit Café and Coconut Joe’s.
- Enjoy live music at The Windjammer, a famous spot for beach parties.
- Rent a bike to explore the island’s trails and find hidden spots.
The Isle of Palms is great for families, couples, or anyone looking for fun. It has beautiful beaches, top-notch golf, outdoor activities, and a lively dining and entertainment scene. This coastal gem will make a lasting impression on all visitors.
| Activity | Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Isle of Palms County Park Beach Admission | $7 per vehicle (March to October), $10 on weekends (May to Labor Day) | All day |
| Beach Chair and Umbrella Rentals | $10 per day | All day |
| Boat Rentals at Isle of Palms Marina (18-foot boats) | $240 for 4 hours, excluding fuel | 4 hours |
| Pontoon Boat Rentals at Isle of Palms Marina (up to 10 people) | $395 to $475 for 4 hours, excluding fuel | 4 hours |
| Inshore Fishing Charters (up to 3 people) | $375 to $525, excluding food and beverages | Varies |
| Offshore 12-hour Fishing Charters | $950 to $1,995 | 12 hours |
| Wild Dunes Resort Golf Courses (Links and Harbor Courses) | $100 to $190 per round | 18 holes |
Local Dining Scene: From Casual to Upscale
Isle of Palms has a wide range of dining spots for everyone. You can find fresh local cuisine, enjoy a meal at a beachfront restaurant with amazing views, or find a family-friendly eatery. This coastal area has something for every food lover.
Beachfront Restaurants
Begin your day with a tasty breakfast at Sea Biscuit Café. They’ve been serving local favorites like shrimp and grits since 1968. For a relaxed lunch or dinner, try Coconut Joe’s. Here, you can enjoy fresh seafood spots and stunning views from the rooftop bar.
Fresh Seafood Spots
If you’re looking for something fancy, Coda del Pesce is the place to be. It offers a fine dining experience with Italian dishes and local seafood influence. Don’t miss out on The Boathouse and Acme Lowcountry Kitchen for their great food and Southern charm.
Family-Friendly Eateries
For a casual, family-friendly meal, check out Lawrence’s Seafood Shack. They serve a variety of seafood and burgers in a relaxed setting. If you need a quick snack, Luke ‘n Ollie’s Pizzeria has tasty pizza for takeout or carryout.
Isle of Palms has something for every food lover. From beachfront local cuisine to fancy dining, this place will make your taste buds happy and leave you wanting more.
Entertainment and Nightlife at The Windjammer
Isle of Palms is home to The Windjammer, a legendary music venue. It has been around for over 50 years. This lively bar on Front Beach is known for its live music, amazing ocean views, and delicious fried pickles.
The Windjammer has two stages, including a beach stage for volleyball. It offers a unique and versatile entertainment experience.
The upper deck of The Windjammer gives you great views of the stage and the ocean. The venue hosts many events all year. It’s a top spot for entertainment and nightlife on Isle of Palms.
| Venue | Offerings | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| The Windjammer | – Live music events on weekends – Diverse menu featuring fried pickles, peel-and-eat shrimp, and snow crab legs – Volleyball courts and tournaments | – Over 50 years in business – Stunning ocean views from the upper deck – Vibrant bar and beach stage setting |
Looking for live music, nightlife, or a beautiful ocean view? The Windjammer has it all. With its rich history, diverse offerings, and great atmosphere, it’s a must-see for anyone who loves entertainment.
Water Sports and Recreation Activities
Isle of Palms, South Carolina, is a coastal paradise. It offers a wide range of water sports and activities. Whether you want an exciting adventure or a calm day on the water, this island has it all.
Stand-up Paddleboarding
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a favorite on Isle of Palms. You can rent paddleboards from places like IOP Beach Chair. They offer weekly rentals for $180, which includes a leash, paddle, and life jacket.
As you paddle, enjoy the beautiful coastal views. You can explore the island’s secret coves and inlets.
Kayaking and Canoeing
Kayaking and canoeing offer a peaceful way to see the island. Local outfitters have rentals and guided tours. This lets you dive into the area’s natural beauty.
Paddle through calm marshes. Keep an eye out for wildlife like herons, egrets, and manatees.
| Water Sport | Average Cost | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Stand-up Paddleboarding (Weekly) | $180 | Leash, Paddle, Personal Flotation Device |
| Surfboard Rental (Weekly) | $120 | N/A |
Isle of Palms is perfect for water sports and activities. Whether you’re paddling, surfing, or just enjoying the sun, there’s always something to do. Dive into the island’s charm and try out the many water sports and recreation activities available.
Conclusion
As you leave Isle of Palms, you feel amazed and grateful for the memories made. The beaches call you to relax, and the water sports excite your adventurous side. Isle of Palms has given you a vacation that suits everyone.
Maybe you enjoyed the luxury at Wild Dunes Resort or the fresh seafood at local restaurants. Or perhaps you explored the area’s history and culture. Your trip to Isle of Palms has made a lasting impression. Think about coming back for more of this mix of calm and fun.
Isle of Palms is known for its beauty, fun activities, and friendly people. It’s a place that makes memories you’ll always treasure. Start planning your next visit to Isle of Palms. Get ready for a trip that will refresh, inspire, and make you want to come back.
