Mortgage Broker in Sullivan's Island, FL

When I think of US islands I think first of Hawaii. Then the US Virgin Islands, and then perhaps Key West. But maybe I should be thinking a little closer to home. A South Carolina Island was the one that took the title of the best island in the US. This is according to the Conde Naste Traveler Reader’s Choice Awards for 2023. And to make it even more exciting the 2nd place winner is also in South Carolina. So which island were they? Coming in first was Hilton Head Island followed by Kiawah Island. Kiawah is in the vicinity of Charleston whereas Hilton Head is further south closer to Savannah, GA.

Top Islands In The US According to Conde Naste Traveler

These are some incredible destinations that Hilton Head and Kiawah topped. Full disclosure I’ve never been to either. In fact, the only spot on this list I’ve been in Key West. I think I’d still rather go there. I’m partial to blue water and a true island lifestyle. And given the choice of anywhere one this list I’m picking somewhere in Hawaii no questions asked. However, the resort vibes of both Hilton Head and Kiawah are still appealing to me.

Conde Naste Traveler readers voted on the best islands as part of the publication’s 36th annual l Readers’ Choice Awards. Other categories include hotels, airlines, cruises, and more worldwide. This year 526,518 people participated in the Readers’ Choice Awards survey. If you’re looking for your next island vacation, perhaps this will inspire you. Do you agree that one of these South Carolina islands is the best island in the US? Or are you like me and a little more attracted to other destinations on this list? You can read the full list and descriptions here.

South Carolina, known as the Palmetto State for the beautiful palmetto trees traditionally found in coastal areas, is home to southern hospitality, incredible wildlife, and pristine beaches. Although the state has five regions, many of the state’s charming beach towns are found in the Low Country Region, an area defined by its sandy beaches, natural waterways, and maritime forests. From popular Hilton Head Island to the nature preserve on Kiawah Island, we have rounded up a list of seven of the most charming beach towns in South Carolina. Each town offers great spots to surf in the Atlantic Ocean, lounge on white sand beaches, and search for treasures at local surf shops. Many of these towns also provide a glimpse at local history, including Sullivan’s Island, which is home to an American Revolutionary War fort. Whether you want to relax while learning about American history, view dolphins, or enjoy delicious seafood, these charming beach towns have something for everyone.

Hilton Head Island

Known for its pristine beaches and multiple golf courses, Hilton Head Island is the perfect place to relax along the Atlantic Ocean or on the green. If you want to enjoy the sea breeze and catch some waves, Coligny Beach Park offers public beach access, along with gazebos, biking trails, and outdoor showers. For a more secluded beach, Fish Haul Park is nestled in Bay Gall and is a relaxing place to bird watch and listen to the waves. Along with several beaches, the charming beach town is also home to several nature preserves, including Sea Pines Forest Preserve. Visitors can walk along scenic trails, view wildlife, and take a boat tour of the forest. For history buffs, the beachtown also offers a look at the Civil War and Mitchelville, the country’s first self-governed freedmen’s town, an African-American community of people who were formerly enslaved.

Pawleys Island

Known for its beautiful beaches and stunning sand dunes, Pawleys Island offers vacationers a relaxing beach experience. One of the oldest summer resorts on the East Coast, Pawleys Island has welcomed beach vacationers for generations. The pristine beach offers three miles of shoreline perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and building sandcastles. Although you can unwind on the beach, the tidal creek between the shore and the mainland is perfect for kayaking, fishing, and crabbing. You can also view incredible wildlife, boat, and canoe along the Waccamaw River. The town’s laid-back atmosphere also provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A trip to the mainland is the perfect excursion to shop at boutique stores and taste authentic low country seafood. Pawley’s Raw Bar offers a delicious raw seafood bar of raw oysters and low country boil, a local favorite of sausage, seafood, corn, and potatoes smothered in butter.

Folly Beach

Located just south of downtown Charleston, South Carolina is Folly Beach. The charming beach town offers a slower pace of life with six miles of relaxing shoreline and a 1,000-foot pier to explore. Situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Folly River is Folly Beach County Park. Beachgoers and bird watchers alike enjoy the park due to its beautiful beaches that are perfect for lounging and surfing, as well as the chance to see Skimmer Flats, a brown pelican. For those looking for great seafood or local shops, downtown is located just steps away from the beach. There are incredible seafood restaurants, casual cafes, surf shops, and live music for all to enjoy. At the northern tip of the town is the Lighthouse Inlet and Heritage Preserve, which offers incredible views of the historic Morris Island Lighthouse and wildlife.

Edisto Beach

If you are looking for a quiet beach that is perfect for families, look no further than Edisto Beach. The small, quiet beach town has not been largely developed which makes it a great place to lounge on the beach, take a walk along the stunning shoreline, or take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean. For those looking to fish and crab, Bay Creek Park is the perfect spot. Plus, the park provides an open-air market on Wednesdays from April to October. For nature lovers, a trip to Edisto Beach State Park is a must. You can search for fossils and view breathtaking sunrises along the 1.5-mile beach or hike along several inland trails to view white-tailed deer, osprey, and possibly a bobcat. Since the park is located along the Wadmalaw River, it is also a great place for boating and fishing.

Isle of Palms

For those looking for a beachtown with pristine sandy beaches, restaurants with spectacular oceanfront views, and family-friendly activities, Isle of Palms is the perfect getaway. This charming beach town offers six miles of white sand beaches that are perfect for lounging, splashing in the water, surfing, and even bicycling. For families, the Isle of Palms County Park provides a playground, sand volleyball court, picnic tables and grills, and public beach access. For those looking to relax out of the sun, you can find local items at one of many surf shops and unwind at one of the town’s seafood restaurants. One of the best restaurants in the beach town is The Boathouse at Breach Inlet, which offers appetizing local seafood options and stunning views of the inlet.

Sullivan’s Island

Sullivan’s Island is the perfect beachtown for serenity, history, and experiencing nature. With only 3.3 miles of shoreline, the charming town makes up for its small beachfront area with southern hospitality, a slower pace of life, and water activities. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and water inlets, Sullivan’s Island is a great place to kayak, paddleboard, and kiteboard on windy days. If you are looking for incredible sunset views and the occasional dolphin sighting, you can grab a bench seat at Thomson Park. If you want to learn about local and national history, a visit to Fort Moultrie National Historical Park is a must. The fort was part of American Revolutionary War battles in 1776 and 1780. You can also view one of the most modern lighthouses in the country, Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, which is part of the United States Coast Guard Historic District.

Kiawah Island

Known for its natural beauty, golf courses, and serene setting, Kiawah Island is primarily a resort town with private beaches. Situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Kiawah River, this charming beach town offers the perfect beach vacation. Kiawah Beachwalker Park provides public beach access along with picnic tables and grills, outdoor showers, and a snack bar. The beach town is also home to incredible wildlife, such as loggerhead sea turtles, dolphins, American alligators, and white-tailed deer. The beachtown boasts several viewing spots, such as Grey Widgeon Tower located in the Kiawah Island Preserve. For bird watchers, you can see several species at Marsh Island Park, a natural habitat that is accessible only by foot or bike. Outdoor enthusiasts can also take a tour of the island via kayak, paddleboard, or power boat with Tidal Trails.

Next UpDiscover the 7 most underrated towns in South Carolina.

These South Carolina beach towns provide visitors with southern hospitality, delicious seafood, and pristine beaches that are perfect for lounging, splashing in the water, or surfing. The beach towns also provide visitors with an escape from modern life, as each town offers a slower pace of life. If you want to relax and unwind at the beach, view local wildlife, explore American history, and sunbathe on white sand beaches, look no further than one of these charming beach towns.

South Carolina is known for many things, from its Southern cuisine to historic cities, and of course, the stunning beaches. With magnificent waves and sandy coves, kayaking and boating, fishing and whale watching, these idyllic South Carolina beach towns are some of the best in the country. Whether you’re looking to relocate to South Carolina or are one of the many South Carolinians looking for a beachside property, you have plenty of towns to choose from.

But if you’re not sure what beach towns in South Carolina to check out, we’ve got you covered. From Charleston to Myrtle Beach, Redfin has compiled a list of the top 10 beach towns in South Carolina. Let’s explore some of the state’s top beaches, listed in alphabetical order, and you might just be tempted to move there.

#1: Charleston

Median home price: $522,495 Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,707 Charleston, SC homes for sale Charleston, SC apartments for rent

First up on our list of coastal South Carolina cities is Charleston. The city of Charleston is home to roughly 151,600 people and sees countless visitors throughout the year. While there aren’t any beaches in Charleston proper, you’ll find there are many picturesque oceanfront spots to explore or take a drive to one of the nearby beaches. If you’re moving to Charleston, you can also see the houses along Rainbow Row, visit one of the many historic sites like Fort Sumter National Monument, and check out the vendors at Charleston City Market.

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Median home price: $565,000 Edisto Beach, SC homes for sale Edisto Beach, SC apartments for rent

Another one of South Carolina’s great beach towns to consider buying a home in is Edisto Beach. There are just about 1,000 residents, but there are plenty of beaches to visit, like Edisto Beach or Gray’s Beach. You can also camp at Edisto Beach State Park or have a meal at a waterfront spot, if you’re looking to explore the town.

#3: Folly Beach

Median home price: $645,000 Folly Beach, SC homes for sale Folly Beach, SC apartments for rent

Folly Beach is home to about 2,100 residents. There are lots of beaches to explore on a sunny South Carolina day, like its namesake Folly Beach. If you find yourself moving to Folly Beach, make sure to stop by the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve or explore Dunes House.

#4: Hilton Head Island

Median home price: $662,000 Hilton Head Island, SC homes for sale Hilton Head Island, SC apartments for rent

Home to beautiful beaches like Bradley Beach, Burkes Beach, Coligny Beach Park, Fish Haul Beach Park, Folly Field Beach, Singleton Beach, and South Beach, there are countless places to spend a beach day. With roughly 38,100 residents in Hilton Head Island, make sure to also explore Audubon Nature Preserve, golf at one of the courses, or visit the Coastal Discovery Museum.

#5: Isle of Palms

Median home price: $1,925,000 Isle of Palms, SC homes for sale Isle of Palms, SC apartments for rent

The quaint coastal town of Isle of Palms has about 4,300 residents, making it another great place to add to your list. You’ll find beautiful beaches such as Isle of Palms Beach, perfect for spending the day outside. In Isle of Palms, you can take a fishing charter trip, golf, or have lunch at a waterfront restaurant.

#6: Kiawah Island

Median home price: $1,242,500 Kiawah Island, SC homes for sale Kiawah Island, SC apartments for rent

Kiawah Island has about 2,000 residents and is a quaint beach town to consider renting or buying a house in. Some beaches you can visit are Beachwalker Park, Seabrook Beach, and West Beach. Whether you visit parks and nature preserves like Marsh View Tower and Maritime Forest Reserve & Nature Trail, there are many cool things to do and see in this beach town.

#7: Murrells Inlet

Median home price: $508,775 Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,450 Murrells Inlet, SC homes for sale Murrells Inlet, SC apartments for rent

With a population of about 9,300, Murrells Inlet is a magnificent coastal area to live in. There are plenty of beaches to explore, including Love’s a Beach. If you find yourself moving to this beach town, make sure to stop by the Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk or take a sunset boat cruise.

#8: Myrtle Beach

Median home price: $271,500 Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,666 Myrtle Beach, SC homes for sale Myrtle Beach, SC apartments for rent

Myrtle Beach has stunning beaches such as 3rd Ave Public Beach and Myrtle Beach, great for enjoying a sunny day. Be sure to take a spin on the SkyWheel, play mini golf or check out one of the museums, and see a show or dinner theater once you move to Myrtle Beach.

#9: Seabrook Island

Median home price: $800,000 Seabrook Island, SC homes for sale Seabrook Island, SC apartments for rent

Just about 2,000 people live on Seabrook Island, private to residents and guests, where you’ll find beaches like Seabrook Island Beach. You’ll truly be living in the lap of luxury as Seabrook Island is a private oceanfront community, where membership to the Seabrook Island Club is needed to buy a home on the island. Some other fun activities to do on Seabrook Island include hiking along the Hidden Oaks Nature Trail, golfing at one of the two different courses, and enjoying the club amenities that come with your membership like fitness centers, dining options, racquet sports, and more.

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#10: Sullivan’s Island

Median home price: $7,000,000 Sullivan’s Island, SC homes for sale Sullivan’s Island, SC apartments for rent

This seaside town has a population of 1,900 and there are numerous beaches to enjoy a picnic at. On Sullivan’s Island, you can visit Station 18 Beach, Station 28 1/2 Beach, and Sullivan’s Island Beach. There’s plenty to do on an afternoon or weekend, like hiking Sullivan’s Island Nature Trail, exploring Fort Moultrie National Historical Park, and stopping by the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse. In addition to these beach towns, there are plenty of affordable places to live in South Carolina.

Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the beach towns in South Carolina. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during June 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com June 2023. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.

These quaint communities in South Carolina are a testament to the state's rich history.

When you think of South Carolina, you likely picture pastel-colored homes in Charleston or the Grand Strand's golden sandy beaches. But what if we told you there's more to the state beyond its big cities?

I spent the first 22 years of my life in the Palmetto State, and while I love revisiting Charleston, Greenville, and Columbia, South Carolina's small towns and secluded islands are well worth a stop, whether on a day trip or as your main destination. And don't worry — you'll find sweet tea, Southern hospitality, and a wide range of stunning landscapes all over the state. After all, our old license tags used to read: "Smiling faces, beautiful places."

We rounded up small towns in South Carolina with around 15,000 residents or less, excluding some slightly larger favorites like Hilton Head Island and Bluffton (which are worth visiting, too). So, whether you're looking for a mountain getaway or a beach vacation destination without the crowds, here are eight of the best small towns in South Carolina.

Sullivan's Island

A short drive from downtown Charleston, Sullivan's Island is one of the best beach towns in South Carolina. The 2.5-mile-long island is known for historic Fort Moultrie (with ties to the American Revolution and Civil War), a charming main drag, and pristine beaches unsullied by high-rise hotels or tourist traps. The appropriately named Middle Street — located in the center of the small island — is home to popular restaurants like Poe's Tavern (an Edgar Allen Poe-themed eatery with incredible burgers), Home Team BBQ, and The Obstinate Daughter.

Travelers Rest

The Upstate South Carolina region is dotted with lakes and rolling green hills in the shadow of the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains. Travelers Rest (or simply "TR") offers a dose of small-town living and outdoor adventure within 10 miles of the charming city of Greenville. Before you go hiking, kayaking, or mountain biking, fuel up at Tandem Creperie and Coffeehouse, and end your day with a pint at Swamp Rabbit Brewery. Less than 20 minutes outside of town, Hotel Domestique offers a taste of the Tuscan countryside in South Carolina with beautiful grounds and accommodations overlooking the rolling hills and mountains.

How to Take the Ultimate South Carolina Road Trip

Georgetown

South Carolina has plenty of lovely coastal small towns, including Georgetown, located between Charleston and Myrtle Beach. It's the third-oldest town in the state, so there's plenty of history to explore, plus local shops and restaurants on Front Street. Go for a stroll along the Harborwalk to admire views of the sparkling water, grab lunch on the patio of Georgetown Corner Tavern, and try the pralines at Sweeties Homemade Ice Cream and Sweets.

Edisto Beach

The small town of Edisto Beach on Edisto Island is great for a laid-back coastal vacation. One of South Carolina's Sea Islands, Edisto is situated between Hilton Head and Charleston, and has beautiful beaches, including picturesque Driftwood Beach. Visit the Edisto Island Museum to learn about the history and culture of the island's Gullah Geechee people, descendants of enslaved Africans who remained on the southeastern coast of the United States. You won't find many large hotels in the area, so opt for a rental and enjoy the serene atmosphere and seafood restaurants.

Kiawah Island

Another barrier island on the South Carolina coast, Kiawah offers seafront serenity with an upscale twist. The primarily privately owned island is home to Kiawah Island Golf Resort, known for its championship golf courses, and The Sanctuary, a beachfront luxury hotel. Nearby Freshfields Village offers shopping (with lots of resort wear to choose from) and a range of restaurants.

Newberry

Located in the state's Midlands region, between Greenville and South Carolina's capital city, Columbia, Newberry has a quintessential small-town feel. The well-preserved downtown area features an opera house, antique shops, locally owned restaurants, and more. Plus, it hosts festivals throughout the year, including the annual Oktoberfest, Christmas in Newberry, and Pork in the Park events.

Beaufort

Down in the Lowcountry on Port Royal Island, Beaufort is another historic coastal town. It dates back to 1711, making it South Carolina's second-oldest city after Charleston. You can experience history firsthand by learning about Gullah culture at historic sites or on a tour, visiting ruins and old homes, and more.

Daufuskie Island

Daufuskie Island, tucked between Savannah and Hilton Head on the coast, is the ultimate escape when you really want to get away from it all. Only accessible by boat, the island retains its small-town atmosphere. You'll find a handful of cafes and restaurants, local artisans' shops, and the Daufuskie Island Distillery, which offers a range of tasty spirits such as a delightful Kona coffee rum. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including dolphins and turtles, along the sandy shoreline.

There are plenty of good reasons to make the trip to Charleston, South Carolina: Historic homes make for colorful photo ops, the restaurant scene is fresh and inventive, and locally owned stores and boutiques make for unparalleled shopping. Some of the Holy City's greatest assets, though, aren't actually within the city limits. Pack the sunscreen and load the car because the scenic beaches near Charleston are a gem. You won't find ultra-crowded beaches, just a quiet spot to relax and soak up the sunshine. The smooth sand, cool water, and near-perfect weather will make you think you've found pure bliss. Here, find our guide to the sun-drenched beaches that are just a quick drive from the Charleston Peninsula. They're worth the detour.

1. Kiawah Island

While the 23-mile drive from the peninsula out to Kiawah Island takes about 40 minutes on a good day, the pristine stretch of sand at Kiawah's public Beachwalker Park is well worth it. It's quiet, especially for a public park, fronts the ocean, and also offers views of the Kiawah River. Beach chair and umbrella rentals are available seasonally, and dogs are welcome, as long as they're on a leash. Explore Kiawah Island's private beaches by renting a house or villa on the island or booking a stay at the Sanctuary, the island's luxurious oceanfront hotel.

2. Folly Beach

Just 12 miles from downtown, the "Edge of America" is the grooviest of Charleston's nearby beaches. It's a popular hangout for surfers, who frequent "The Washout," a stretch of coast known for having the area's best waves. Center Street, the bohemian beach town's colorful main thoroughfare, is lined with surf and souvenir shops and good eats, like Taco Boy and Rita's Seaside Grille, and is just steps away from Folly's 1,045-foot fishing pier.

3. Isle of Palms

The oceanfront county park on this barrier island has picnic tables, a sand volleyball court, and a playground for the littlest beach bums, making it a great place to take the whole family. Venture a little farther down the beach, beyond the park, to discover a number of fun beachfront bars and eateries, like family-friendly Coconut Joe's Beach Grill and The Windjammer, a classic dive bar and music venue that's as salty as they come. Paddle the intercoastal waterway from Isle of Palms where you may encounter dolphins and get up close to coves and marshes.

4. Seabrook Island

Though the island's nearly 4 miles of unspoiled beaches are private to residents and rental guests only (book your stay here), Seabrook is still worth a stop if you're already making the trip out to Kiawah's Beachwalker Park, which is just a few miles away. An Audubon International Cooperative Sanctuary, Seabrook is home to a variety of wildlife, including foxes, bobcats, deer, sea turtles, and bottlenose dolphins. Head to Bohicket Marina for a sunset stroll by the river, then plop down at an outdoor table at the Salty Dog Cafe for water views, East Coast peel-and-eat shrimp, and a cold beer or two.

5. Sullivan's Island

When it comes to old-school cottages, small town charm, and a spotless beach to boot, you won't find a dreamier destination than Sullivan's Island. While neighboring Isle of Palms has a lively resort feel, 3.3-square-mile Sullivan's tends to fly under the radar–and the locals like it that way. Be sure to stop by Poe's Tavern on Middle Street for a killer burger before you head back toward town. Flip-flops and salty hair are always welcome on the front porch.

6. Bulls Island

Accessible only by ferry, this barrier island is 45 minutes away from downtown Charleston and feels far away from the comforts of civilization. A good way to see the birds of this untouched island, and perhaps a playful dolphin if you're lucky, is on a guided paddling tour. Comb the beach for shells, walk Boneyard Beach where a forest is being recalled by the sea, or track foxes, bobcat, and deer.

7. Edisto Island

About 60 miles from Charleston, Edisto Beach's unspoiled coastline makes it worth the drive. Stay beachside for a dreamy vacation, or take a day trip from Charleston. One of four oceanfront state parks in South Carolina, palmetto-lined Edisto Beach State Park provides the picture-perfect backdrop for swimming, hunting for shells and sharks' teeth, fishing, or strolling. After a day on the island's trails, savor some seafood at the Waterfront Restaurant or the tacos at McConkey's Jungle Shack.

8. Morris Island

Hunt for shells and fossils near the candy cane–striped lighthouse on this uninhabited island just minutes from Charleston. Accessible only by boat, visitors can opt for several tour options, including riding out on a 55-foot power catamaran that's for the more adventurous traveler. For photography buffs, view the lighthouse from the shores of Folly Beach.

9. Pawleys Island

It takes a bit longer to reach from Charleston than some of the other beaches, but the slower pace on Pawleys Island is instantly soothing. This barrier island packs a lot into its four-mile stretch. Set off in a canoe or kayak to explore the salt marsh that separates this island from the mainland, or settle in for a day at the beach. There's shelling, fishing, and crabbing to be done. Sign up for surfing lessons—some of the best waves are near Pawleys Island Pier.

10. Capers Island

Similar to Bulls Island, Capers Island has its own forest of forgotten sea-bleached trees covering the shoreline. At low tide, you may see feeding dolphins and water birds like egrets and herons searching for a meal. Discover tide pools as you walk the beach, hike the island to see gators and deer in their natural habitat, or paddle along the shores and see jellyfish and crabs. Reach this undeveloped island by chartered boat, or take a kayak tour to learn about the area's ecosystem.

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