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Category: Outdoors

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6 Tips To Host Your Family Reunion On Kiawah Island 

Planning a family reunion is not always smooth sailing but there’s one thing we can be sure of – your reunion will be stunning in the South Carolina sea islands.

With its spectacular Lowcountry setting, southern charm and hospitality, abundance of activities, and luxury island accommodations, Kiawah Island is the perfect destination for a fun-filled family reunion. Spend family days reconnecting with loved ones, filling your days with old-fashioned outdoor fun, feasting on family favorites, and creating cherished family memories, or perhaps a new tradition for generations to come, on Kiawah Island. 

We love seeing families coming together on Kiawah Island and our team is here to help you brace the choppy waters and plan your reunion smoothly every step of the way!

#1 Pick Your Family Reunion Dates

When it comes to planning your family reunion on Kiawah Island, the best time to visit will depend on your family’s unique style and preferences. The weather on Kiawah Island is beautiful year-round making it an excellent destination for a fun-filled family reunion in any season. Spring sees high 60s to low 80s, summer can get hot in the high 80s to low 90s, and the fall and winter temperatures are mild with beautiful warm days and cool evenings to get cozy! 

For beach lovers, the “official” beach season is April 1st through September 30th with the ocean water warming up for swimming in mid-May, around the same time the turtles begin to nest on Kiawah Island. Kiawah Island’s world-class golf courses, eco-tours, and luxury resort amenities are open year-round – or plan your family reunion around a classic Lowcountry event.

#2 Coordinate Travel & Arrange Transportation

Whether your family members are coming from the east or west coast, Kiawah Island is an easily accessible destination for air travel. Kiawah Island is located only 30 miles south of Charleston International Airport which is served with regular non-stop flights by most major US airlines. On arrival, rental cars are readily available at the airport, taxis operate daily from 5 am until the last flight, Charleston Limo & Car Service provides private and group transportation to Kiawah, or reserve a ride with a local at Kiawah’s Island Transportation.  

#3 Find the Best Kiawah Island Neighborhood

Kiawah Island is only 10 miles long and 1.5 miles wide at its widest point, and nearly 20% of the island is water! The island comprises three main neighborhoods – the quieter West Beach Village, the central hub in East Beach Village, and Vanderhorst Plantation, an exclusive gated community on the east end of the island.  Browse our Kiawah Island Neighborhood Guide to find the spot that suits your style for your family reunion on Kiawah Island.  

Our exclusive collection of Kiawah Island vacation rentals ranges from quiet community complexes where each generation can carve out their own personal space to luxury 8-bedroom Vanderhorst plantation homes for those close-knit families that like to stay (and play!) together under one roof! With views ranging from golf course to Atlantic Ocean and luxury amenities like gourmet kitchens, personal bathrooms, fun bunk and games rooms for the kids, and private swimming pools and spas – our family reunion vacation rentals cater to the whole crew!  

#4 Plan Your Family Reunion Activities

Kiawah Island naturally inspires time for rest, rejuvenation, and reconnection. There are no bright bustling boardwalks, big box retail parks, or entertainment extravaganzas – Kiawah Island is a destination with outdoor family reunion activities inspired by nature and the lush Lowcountry landscapes of South Carolina’s beautiful barrier islands. Now you have an idea of where to stay, it’s time to plan where to play! 

  • Moss-Draped Bike Paths

Planning your bike rentals is the first step for your family reunion activities – it’s how we get around here even on the beach! Everything you’ll want to see and do on Kiawah Island is connected by our 30+ mile network of scenic, shaded, and flat bike paths that are easy for the whole family to ride! Surfscooter Bike Rentals are island based and have all the bike rentals and gear for the whole family, delivered directly to your vacation rental for a hassle-free family reunion (5% discount for guests of Kiawah Exclusives). 

  • Nature-Filled Beach Days

Kiawah Island offers beach adventures of a different kind – watch dolphins surfing the waves and turtles nesting in the dunes, and enjoy miles of secluded shoreline for beach walks, bike rides, picnics, and breathtakingly scenic sunsets. Award-winning Beachwalker Park ranks among the best in the country with 10 miles of wide sandy beaches, gentle waters for the kids, and local services that will even set up all your beach gear rentals on the nearest boardwalk – nothing beats a family reunion at the beach! 

  • Fishing Charters

With endless coastal lagoons, ponds, rivers, and tidal creeks, Gramps has plenty of opportunity to teach the little ones his fishing tips and tricks on Kiawah Island. Stay creekside to fish from home, bike ride to the docks at Bass Pond and Blue Heron Pond for family fishing and crabbing adventures, or book a local fishing charter around the barrier islands. Our Guide to Fishing Charters on Kiawah Island highlights the best family fishing trips on the island. 

  • Eco-Friendly Nature Activities

Night Heron Park encompasses 21 acres in the heart of East Beach Village with nature trails, fishing ponds, swimming pools, restaurants, and a nature center with a seemingly endless list of guided nature tours and activities. There is something to attract every age, ability, and adventure level – including easygoing activities for seniors, fun family-focused activities, teen adventures, nature-inspired kid’s camps (ages 3 to 15), rainy day activities, and so much more! Call (843) 768-6001 to make reservations for your family reunion activities at Night Heron Nature Center.    

  • Game Time

Whether you’re a family of golfers or prefer to swing a paddle on the pickleball court, Kiawah is a destination that delights all sports lovers. Kiawah Island has received endless awards and accolades for its award-winning golf courses and tennis facilities, including the world-famous PGA Ocean Course and Roy Barth Tennis Center. Register the little ones for lessons while you enjoy adult game time or book a court or tee time to connect (and compete!) as a family.

#5 Make A Meal Planner

With so many mouths to feed and potential fussy kids to consider, putting together a meal plan for your family reunion can be daunting! The first step is to find a healthy balance between sharing home-cooked meals or barbeques around the table (or picnics on the beach!) and discovering the fresh flavors of Lowcountry cooking at a local restaurant. The Kiawah Dining Collection ranges from casual cantinas and cafes to fine dining experiences at the Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Freshfields Village features a wide selection of fantastic family restaurants, and our exclusive collection of island rentals are equipped with kitchens that inspire creativity for the chef in your crew!

#6 Create Cherished Family Memories with Kiawah Exclusives 

Your family reunion is in safe hands and cherished moments await when you stay with Kiawah Exclusives. We have been locally operated since 1978, our collection includes 100+ of the finest vacation rentals on Kiawah, and our team is simply a call away to share our local expertise with you. We have an intimate knowledge of each vacation rental home to match you with the perfect fit and a treasure trove of tips to help you plan a fun-filled family reunion on Kiawah Island. Browse our collection of vacation rentals online or call our on-island team at (843) 768-0273 to start planning your reunion on Kiawah Island today!

Kiawah Exclusives Offers Unique Characteristics to Suit Your Needs

Our exclusive collection of rentals offers a variety of homes with unique characteristics to suit your needs. Whether you prefer home-cooked meals made with high-end appliances, or want to enjoy quality time with your family around the dining table, Kiawah Exclusives offers 100+ luxury vacation rentals with the finest kitchens on Kiawah Island!

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Top 4 Reasons To Visit Beachwalker Park

Situated only 25 miles from Charleston, Kiawah Island is internationally recognized for its award-winning resort amenities ranging from world-class championship golf courses and highly-acclaimed tennis centers to luxurious Lowcountry dining, and miles upon miles of unspoiled, uncrowded, and natural barrier island beaches. 

Consistently ranked one of Dr. Beach’s Top 10 Beaches in America, Kiawah Beachwalker Park is a tropical beach paradise unlike any other on the South Carolina coastline. The shoreline stretches uninterrupted for 10 miles from Captain Sams Inlet on the west end of the island to the Ocean Course in Vanderhorst on the eastern tip of Kiawah Island with unique beach activities for the whole family, including your dog!    

Kiawah Beachwalker Park is the only public access point to the private beaches on Kiawah Island. There is a paved parking area with a small admission fee between Memorial Day and Labor Day and free parking in the off-season, outstanding amenities for a beach day, and a wide, wheel-chair accessible boardwalk through the coastal forests down to the Atlantic shoreline and the tidal inlets of the Kiawah River. Whatever paradise means to you, you’ll find your beach paradise at Beachwalker Park on Kiawah Island.  

1. KIAWAH BEACHWALKER PARK AMENITIES

Kiawah Beachwalker Park boasts outstanding facilities with everything you need for a family beach day including restroom and shower facilities, picnic areas with grills, a snack bar, and dog washing stations for your pup! A short stretch of beach in front of the boardwalk is lifeguarded in the summer months for safe swimming and stress-free family beach days! 

On the topic of a stress-free beach day … there’s no need to cart around beach gear on vacation! Beach and Games to Go will deliver all your beach games and gear to your Kiawah Island vacation rental (including cargo wagons to haul it all!) and reserve your beach chairs and umbrellas with Island Beach Services and they’ll even set it up for you on the beach closest to your vacation rental boardwalk!

2. BEACHWALKER PARK RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES

Kiawah’s Beachwalker Park is a beach paradise for everyone from sun-worshippers and beach bums to nature lovers and adventure seekers. Recreational activities range from kayaking and canoeing the tidal inlets, surf fishing or river fishing at Captain Sam’s Inlet, family surf lessons, and epic beach bike rides along the secluded and scenic shoreline.   

The Tide Chart is your best friend for the best beach day on Kiawah Island! Right after the high tide, the sand is hard-packed and perfect for a beach bike ride from the boardwalk at Beachwalker Park all the way to the Ocean Course on the east end of the island. Kiawah Exclusives partners with Surfscooter Bike Rentals to offer our guests bike rentals and tag-alongs made for the sandy beaches, delivered to your door, with a 5% discount for our guests.

The beaches on Kiawah Island are wild! It’s not uncommon to encounter pods of bottlenose dolphins playing in the ocean waves or strand-feeding at Captain Sam’s Inlet, white-tailed deer grazing in the sweet grass and sea oats, and Loggerhead sea turtles in the dunes during nesting season. If you’re in the right place, at the right time, you may even experience hundreds of tiny sea turtles taking their first steps into the warm Atlantic waters. For ultimate wildlife viewing, plan your bike ride or beach stroll for dusk or dawn – there’s no place more beautiful for wildlife viewing at sunrise or sunset than the beaches of Kiawah Island.

3. KIAWAH BEACHWALKER PARK LEASH LAWS FOR DOGS

Dogs are allowed on the beaches of Kiawah Island year-round with strict rules and regulations in place to preserve the dunes and protect our local wildlife. The Town of Kiawah Island Beach Patrol regularly patrols the beaches and local ordinances are strictly enforced. Regardless of where you roam, owners must always remain with their pets, have the pet under voice control, and always carry a leash in case it is required. Electronic leashes are not allowed on Kiawah Island. 

Critical Habitat Area: Dogs are prohibited year-round in the critical habitat areas at Captain Sam’s inlet on the west end of the island and after the Ocean Course Clubhouse on the east end of the island. 

Dog Use Area: There is a designated dog-use area located in Vanderhorst Plantation between the eastern boundary of the Beach Club and the pedestrian access to the Ocean Course Clubhouse. Pets must be under strict voice control and must be leashed from 7 PM to 7 AM. 

Seasonal Dog Leash Area: On the other areas of Beachwalker Park, pets must be leashed at all times from March 16 to October 31, and may be off leash from 7 AM to 7 PM between November 1 and March 15.

4. BEACHFRONT RENTALS AT BEACHWALKER PARK

Wherever you stay on Kiawah Island, you’ll find a boardwalk to Kiawah Beachwalker Park close to home! Kiawah Island comprises three unique neighborhoods: West Beach Village, East Beach Village, and the Vanderhorst Beach neighborhood with dozens of beach boardwalks leading from the private villa communities and luxury oceanfront homes to the beaches of Kiawah. 

Browse and book any of our luxury Kiawah Island villa and home rentals online or call our on-island team at (843) 768-0273 to help match you with the perfect home to find your beach paradise on Kiawah Island.

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6 Best Fishing Locations On Kiawah Island

When it comes to natural beauty and coastal charm, few destinations can compete with Kiawah Island, a beautifully preserved and unspoiled barrier island nestled between the Kiawah River and Atlantic Ocean. Ranked one of the top fishing destinations on the East Coast, Kiawah Island delivers a great Lowcountry fishing experience for all fishing enthusiasts in all four seasons. 

Kiawah Island’s diverse and incredible ecosystem includes 10 miles of pristine beaches, freshwater and brackish ponds, saltwater rivers, and serene marshlands teeming with fish and wildlife. Local fish species include redfish, spotted sea trout, flounder, rays, and sharks with big game fish like tuna, grouper, snapper, and marlin regularly caught in the offshore waters. Unless you’re fishing with a certified charter captain, a fishing license is required on Kiawah Island even for the private docks and fishing ponds. 

Whether you’re seeking to cast your line from a quiet dock or the thrill of reeling in a trophy marlin offshore, we’ve got you covered with the top fishing spots on Kiawah Island. 

1. Beachwalker Park

Combine a classic beach day with surf fishing at Kiawah Island’s Beachwalker Park, ranked one of the best beaches in the US for 2022 by Dr. Beach! Beachwalker Park is public, pet-friendly and a popular spot for surf fishing on the South Carolina coastline with miles of uncrowded scenic shoreline to sit back, cast a line, and wait for a bite. Surf fishing is always best on a rising tide so be sure to check the local tide charts before you head out – or stay steps from the Beachwalker Park boardwalks with Kiawah Exclusives for a daily surf check from home!

2. Kiawah River

Kiawah Island is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and thriving Kiawah River with oyster banks, tidal creeks and salt marshes abounding in saltwater fish species, and Kiawah’s local wildlife. One of the best fishing spots on Kiawah Island is at the Kiawah River inlet near the west end of Beachwalker Park – you may even witness Kiawah’s local dolphin pods fishing for their own food at Captain Sams Inlet. Captain Sams Inlet on the Kiawah River is one of the few places in the world where you can experience the spectacular phenomenon of dolphin’s strand feeding.

3. Night Heron Park

Night Heron Park lies in the heart of Kiawah Island’s East Beach Village and is a central hub for outdoor adventure and nature activities on the island, including fun on-island fishing adventures. The Night Heron Pond near the Heron Park Nature Center is fully stocked with a community fishing dock making it a top spot for family fishing with the kids. Night Heron Park has resident alligators, so always fish from the docks and bridges, not from the banks, and do not reach into the water. Stop by the Heron Park Nature Center for a wide selection of nature tours and family-friendly fishing activities and charters

4. Bass Pond Fishing Dock

There are 60+ ponds and lagoons on Kiawah Island, fully stocked with freshwater fish such as bass, bream, tilapia, and carp. The Bass Pond Fishing Dock is situated near Rhett’s Bluff, through the second gates to Vanderhorst Plantation, and is one of the best ponds for fishing on Kiawah Island. Other popular Kiawah fishing ponds in Vanderhorst include Egret Pond, Canvasback Pond, and Blue Heron Pond. Blue Heron Pond is also a top spot for crabbing on Kiawah Island and be sure to take a break from fishing to climb the observation tower for a 360-degree view of Kiawah’s tranquil landscapes.

5. Bohicket Marina

Bohicket Marina & Market is located between Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island and ranks as one of the best marinas in South Carolina’s Lowcountry. Sail to Kiawah Island and dock at Bohicket Marina, book a guided fishing charter at the Boat Club, or rent a boat for a self-guided fishing excursion along the backwaters of the Edisto River and Bohicket Creek. Don’t be too hasty to head back home! Crack a cold one and snack on fresh seafood at Salty Dog Café while savoring one of the best Lowcountry sunsets ever at Bohicket Marina!

6. Kiawah Island Fishing Charters

Whether you’re learning to fish, on a family fishing vacation, or an expert angler looking for a challenge, nothing beats fishing with a local expert on Kiawah Island. Kiawah Island’s guided fishing charters and boat tours are run by tournament winning captains with years of experience fishing the Lowcountry waters and knowledge of the best secret fishing spots on Kiawah. 

From inshore fishing charters and epic shark fishing in the channels and creeks to full day deep sea adventures on the offshore sandbars, wrecks and artificial reefs, the ultimate fishing experience awaits on Kiawah Island. Search our Exclusives Guide to find a fishing charter to match your level of adventure!

Our Kiawah Exclusives team has been locally operated since 1978! We know the best places to stay and play on Kiawah Island and are happy to assist throughout the vacation planning process. Browse our portfolio of luxury rentals online or call our team on (843) 768-0273 to start planning an epic Lowcountry fishing trip to Kiawah Island.

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Where To Watch The Sunset On Kiawah Island?

Spectacular Lowcountry sunrise and sunset views are part of Mother Nature’s perfect package when you vacation on the South Carolina coastline. Charleston is famous for its romantic sunsets but if you’re looking to escape the urban vibe and reconnect with nature, there’s nowhere quite like Kiawah Island. 

Situated only a 45 minute drive from Charleston, Kiawah Island is a small barrier island with an incredible ecosystem of maritime forests, saltwater marshes and Atlantic coastline abounding in wildlife, birdlife and friendly bottlenose dolphins. The east-west orientation of Kiawah Island makes it a prime spot to capture sunrises and sunsets …. in fact, the best sunrises and sunsets you’ll ever experience! 

Kiawah Exclusives have 40+ years of local knowledge which we love to share with our guests. While every sunset on Kiawah Island is a must-see there are a few extra special places that top the charts as the best sunset spots on Kiawah Island.

Atlantic Ocean Sunset at Beachwalker Park

Nothing beats a day on the wild, natural and uncrowded beaches of Kiawah Island. Beachwalker Park on Kiawah Island is ranked one of the Top 10 Beaches in America by Dr. Beach and, no matter the season, a beach day never disappoints. Kiawah’s 10 miles of uninterrupted shoreline are idyllic for low tide walks, bike riding, calm ocean dips, and spectacular sunset views. As daylight turns to dusk, the serenity of the waves crashing, wildlife roaming the dunes, and the sun sinking below the horizon makes for a breathtaking sunset over the Atlantic Ocean at Beachwalker Park! 

Kiawah Island’s beaches are uncrowded and secluded, but the amenities are amazing. Island Beach Services will set up your chairs and umbrellas for the day and Surfscooter Bike Rentals will drop off beach bike rentals for the entire clan before you even arrive – tons of hassle-free fun and picture-perfect Atlantic sunsets from the beach.

Sunset View Towers over Kiawah Island’s Waterways

Hop back on your bikes and ride the nature trails for a solitary sunset from Kiawah Island’s observation towers. Biking around Kiawah Island takes you through lush maritime forests, tranquil marshlands, and magnolia lined avenues to the most beautiful sunset spots on the island. 

Pedal the Kiawah Island Parkway trail to Marsh View Tower in West Beach for 360-degree sunset views over Cougar Point Golf Course or bike the trails to Vanderhorst Plantation. The bike trail winds along Governor’s Drive to the Marsh Island Park View Tower and Blue Heron Pond observation tower overlooking vast marshlands abounding in birdlife, wildlife and sun-kissed skies. The sunset views from Kiawah Island’s observation towers are incredible!

Kiawah River Sunset at Mingo Point

Mingo Point is famous for its Lowcountry Oyster Roasts … but is also one of the best spots for a sunset on Kiawah Island. Situated along the banks of the Kiawah River on the west end of the island, Mingo Point is a tranquil riverfront setting for a sunset picnic – or amp up the adventure level and launch a kayak to fish and explore the Lowcountry waterways. 

October to May is peak oyster harvest and roasting season! If you’re yet to experience Kiawah Island’s longest running tradition, plan your stay for the Thanksgiving Mingo Point Oyster Roast – a double whammy of a flavorful Lowcountry oyster roast and spectacular fall sunset.

Sunset Dolphin Cruise or Solitary Sunset Paddle

Kiawah Island is known for its wide variety of eco-friendly nature tours with activities for every age and adventure level to experience a Lowcountry sunset from the water. Whether you’re seeking an intimate sunset sail, a family sunset dolphin cruise, or a solitary paddle – exploring the Lowcountry waterways at dusk is a wonderful way to wildlife watch and catch the sunset on Kiawah Island. 

Our Kiawah Exclusives Guide includes a list of recommendations for local guides, boat rentals, charters, paddle tours and dolphin cruises alongside our friendly resident pods. 

The Best Lowcountry Sunsets at Bohicket Marina

Nestled along Bohicket Creek between Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island, Bohicket Marina is one of the Lowcountry’s best marinas for boating and fishing charters … and delivers one of the most spectacular sunsets in the Charleston sea islands. 

Get out on the Kiawah Island creeks and rivers or savor fresh seafood and sundowners from a waterfront restaurant as the captivating cotton candy skies and fishing boats cast silhouettes over the marina. Local favorites include the famous Salty Dog Café and Fisher’s Sports Pub & Grill – no reservations required.

Fun Sunsets at Freshfields Village

Add an extra dose of fun to chasing sunsets at Freshfields Village, only a short bike ride away! Located next to Bohicket Marina, Freshfields Village is a fabulous open air center with upscale stores, local services (banks and business hubs), and loads of spots for sundowners, dinner and a fun sunset! 

The options are endless – Freshfields Shag Night on the Dock, wine tastings and live music at FortyEight Wine Bar & Kitchen, barrel tastings at Kiawah Spirits, lakeside cocktails and jazz at the Porch Bar, or a fun family picnic on the Village Green – all with incredible sunset views. 

On Island Waterfront Dining

Kiawah Island has many on-island waterfront dining options for feasts of fresh seafood, steak, sushi and classic Lowcountry cuisine, paired with panoramic ocean sunsets. Dress up for alfresco sunset dining at the award-winning Sanctuary Hotel Ocean Room or on the famous fairways of Kiawah Island’s PGA Ocean Course. Sip specialty cocktails on the verandah of the Ryder Cup Bar as the glow of the dipping sun settles on the greens – followed by fine dining in the Atlantic Room, Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s signature seafood restaurant. (Reservations essential).

Secluded Sunsets From Home

With each new sunset comes the promise of a new day and an opportunity to reset – often best done in the quiet of home. Whether you’re seeking sunset views of rolling fairways, wildlife and waterways, or golden sands – secluded sunsets from home are easy when you stay with Kiawah Exclusives. Our hand-picked portfolio of 100+ Kiawah Island vacation rentals include vacation villas, condos, cottages, and lavish Lowcountry homes with furnished patios for sunset dining, private beach boardwalks, and luxury amenities for indulging in secluded sunsets without leaving home!

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Lowcountry Winery & Brewery Guide

Charleston has been voted the No. 1 City in the USA by Travel + Leisure for 11 consecutive years and is the first US destination to earn the coveted No. 1 City in the World ranking. There are 100+ reasons why travelers love Lowcountry living! Our favorites would be the jasmine-scented cobblestone streets lined with antebellum architecture, historical landmarks, romantic horse-drawn carriage tours, sunset harbor cruises, and a treasure trove of tasting opportunities surrounding Charleston’s burgeoning culinary and beverage scene! 

Beyond the beautiful beaches and lavish amenities, the Lowcountry provides a unique vantage point for exploring Charleston’s burgeoning beverage scene. Plan a day trip of wine tasting, brews cruises, and distillery tours in nearby Charleston, discover hidden gems close to home, or simply hop on your bike and ride the trails to one of Charleston’s best wine-tasting venues in Freshfields Village. Get ready to raise your glass to the wineries, breweries, and distilleries of Charleston, just a short drive (or bike ride) from your Kiawah-Seabrook Island getaway.

Palmetto Brewing Company

Open Monday to Thursday | 4 PM – 10 PM, Friday to Saturday | 12 PM – 10 PM, Sunday | 12 PM – 7 PM

Location: 289 Huger St, Charleston

Contact: (843) 937-0903

Head over to historical downtown Charleston and South Carolina’s very first brewery full of fascinating history, one-of-a-kind brews, and classic southern charm at Palmetto Brewing Company! The facility offers a warehouse taproom, speakeasy taproom, and courtyard with a variety of entertainment including games, live music, and more!

Just 26 miles and a 45-minute scenic drive from Kiawah Island, Palmetto Brewing Co. awaits! This family-friendly brewery often features exciting new events like group yoga, illustration workshops, silent disco, karaoke, holiday themed parties, trivia nights, paint & sips, pop-up markets, and much more. Visit their Facebook page for the latest events that you can join in on during your next vacation to the Lowcountry.

Firefly Distillery on Noisette Creek 

Open Monday to Saturday 

Tastings: $13 per person includes a tasting flight of 6 spirits and a souvenir shot glass, or book a Deluxe Group Tasting for $62 per person. Book online HERE. 

Tasting Room Hours
Monday to Saturday: 12 PM – 6 PM
Friday Happy Hour: 4 PM – 8 PM
Select Sundays: 11 AM – 3 PM 

Location: 4201 Spruill Avenue, North Charleston 

Contact: (843) 557-1405 

Firefly Distillery is a true example of the spirit of innovation that thrives in Charleston’s burgeoning beverage scene. Beginning as a humble offshoot of Deepwater Vineyards, Firefly Distillery rose to regional fame for their house-brewed Firefly Muscadine Vodka, one of the first sweet tea vodkas in the world.   

Now, in a new location on the banks of Noisette Creek in North Charleston, Firefly Distillery features more than 30 innovative spirits including their signature Sweet Tea Vodka, maritime-influenced bourbon, and a tempting array of 10+ moonshine flavors. Book a standard or deluxe group tasting of their hand-crafted spirits, immerse yourself in a world of whiskey heritage on a Master Distiller’s Whiskey Tour & Tasting, or enjoy an exclusive private tour of the distillery and aging barrel rickhouse, available by appointment only. 

The fun at Firefly Distillery doesn’t end at savoring their signature spirits. Enjoy weekly yoga, food trucks, and live music on the porch on Saturdays at the Distillery, visit for Sunday Funday Brunch on select Sundays, or check out their lineup of LIVE at Firefly concerts featuring big artists in a stunning creekside setting, only minutes from historic downtown Charleston.  

Fatty’s Beer Works

Open Monday to Thursday | 4 PM – 9 PM, Friday | 4 PM – 10 PM, Saturday | 12 PM – 10 PM, Sunday | 12 PM – 6 PM

Location: 1436 Meeting Street, Charleston

Contact: (843) 974-5330

Fatty’s Beer Works is well-known across the Lowcountry for good beer, good music, and good times. Their family-friendly taproom is open 7 days a week with a wide range of beers to sample, talented local musicians to experience, and some of Charleston’s best food trucks to taste!

Fatty’s is located 28 miles from Kiawah Island, with a dog-friendly and family-friendly establishment. Bring the whole crew into the Holy City for monthly events, delicious tastings, and convenient food trucks right in the heart of downtown Charleston.

Deepwater Vineyard on Wadmalaw Island 

Open Tuesday to Saturday | 10 AM – 5 PM 

Tastings: $15 per person includes 6 tastings and a souvenir stemless wine glass. Tastings are held every hour on the hour. 

Location: 6775 Bears Bluff Road, Wadmalaw Island 

Contact: (843) 559-6867 

If you’re a wine enthusiast, a short, scenic drive to Deepwater Vineyard is a must-do during your stay on Kiawah-Seabrook Island. Nestled on 48 acres on picturesque Wadmalaw Island, this hidden gem is Charleston’s only domestic vineyard and winery. Deepwater Vineyard is renowned for its mastery of sweet muscadine grapes, the only truly grapes native to the US. They offer tastings every hour on the hour with a unique selection of reds, whites, roses, bubbles, fruit wines, and muscadine and scuppernong grape juice as non-alcoholic options. 

Deepwater Vineyard is located only 22 miles from the crossroads to Kiawah & Seabrook islands at Freshfields Village. It’s an off the beaten path destination brimming with quintessential Lowcountry charm. Here, you can explore lush vineyard grounds and seasonal gardens nestled in the majestic live oaks, tour the winemaking facilities, savor scenic wine tastings, and even make a full day of it with a family picnic. Deepwater Vineyard is super family-friendly! There’s a spacious lawn area with swings and games, a petting zoo for the kids, an outdoor patio bar, and a pet-friendly tasting room if you’re traveling with Fido. As you explore, watch out for the miniature Brahma bull that lives in the vineyard. Mark your calendars! Every Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, Deepwater Vineyard hosts Weekend Wine-Down with food trucks, live local music, and tastings in a setting that will transport you back in time. Reservations are not required except for large groups (6+), for which they recommend booking a private tasting.

Firefly Distillery on Noisette Creek 

Open Monday to Saturday 

Tastings: $13 per person includes a tasting flight of 6 spirits and a souvenir shot glass, or book a Deluxe Group Tasting for $62 per person. Book online HERE. 

Tasting Room Hours
Monday to Saturday: 12 PM – 6 PM
Friday Happy Hour: 4 PM – 8 PM
Select Sundays: 11 AM – 3 PM 

Location: 4201 Spruill Avenue, North Charleston 

Contact: (843) 557-1405 

Firefly Distillery is a true example of the spirit of innovation that thrives in Charleston’s burgeoning beverage scene. Beginning as a humble offshoot of Deepwater Vineyards, Firefly Distillery rose to regional fame for their house-brewed Firefly Muscadine Vodka, one of the first sweet tea vodkas in the world.   

Now, in a new location on the banks of Noisette Creek in North Charleston, Firefly Distillery features more than 30 innovative spirits including their signature Sweet Tea Vodka, maritime-influenced bourbon, and a tempting array of 10+ moonshine flavors. Book a standard or deluxe group tasting of their hand-crafted spirits, immerse yourself in a world of whiskey heritage on a Master Distiller’s Whiskey Tour & Tasting, or enjoy an exclusive private tour of the distillery and aging barrel rickhouse, available by appointment only. 

The fun at Firefly Distillery doesn’t end at savoring their signature spirits. Enjoy weekly yoga, food trucks, and live music on the porch on Saturdays at the Distillery, visit for Sunday Funday Brunch on select Sundays, or check out their lineup of LIVE at Firefly concerts featuring big artists in a stunning creekside setting, only minutes from historic downtown Charleston.  

Low Tide Brewing on John Island

Open Seven Days a Week 

Tastings: $15 per person includes a flight of 4x4oz beers and a souvenir flight glass. 

Tap Room Hours
Monday to Thursday: 3 PM – 10 PM
Friday & Saturday: 12 PM – 12 AM
Sunday: 12 PM – 10 PM 

Location: 2863 Maybank Hwy, Johns Island 

Contact: (843) 576-9194 

When you’re craving a local craft beer, Charleston’s award-winning Low Tide Brewing is located only 13 miles from the crossroads to Kiawah and Seabrook Island. As John Island’s first brewery, Low Tide Brewing’s mission is to create distinctive beers that perfectly complement South Carolina’s lush landscapes and Lowcountry cuisine. Their core beers include Tide Chaser IPA, Sweet Caroline Kolsch, Tura’Lu Irish Red Ale, and Aloha Beaches, voted the best locally brewed beer in Charleston. 

Low Tide Brewing is family-friendly with an inviting and laid-back atmosphere. You can enjoy bingo, compete in cornhole tournaments, and savor daily offerings from some of the best food trucks in Charleston. Reservations are required for large groups (10+) and you can purchase 32-oz Crowlers, 64-oz Growlers, and Sixtel Kegs (⅙ of a full keg) to take your favorite brews back home. For those staying on Kiawah-Seabrook Island, you can find their Ocean Course Ale at the Nest Market in Night Heron Park on Kiawah Island – perfect for during or after a round of PGA golf. 

Forty-Eight Wine Bar

Open Seven Days a Week 

Wine Bar & Kitchen Hours 
Cheese & Wine Days: Monday to Thursday 12 PM – 5 PM
Lunch: Friday to Sunday 12 PM – 3 PM
Dinner: Daily 5 PM – 9 PM 

Location: 547 Freshfields Drive, Kiawah Island 

Contact: (843) 768-2245 

FortyEight – Wine Bar & Kitchen in Freshfields Village offers an exceptional wine-tasting experience right in the heart of Kiawah and Seabrook Island. With high-tech WineStations featuring full-color, HD touch screens, you can explore 48 wines by the glass from every major varietal and wine region in the world. What’s more, you have three tasting sizes to choose from: 1 oz, 3 oz, and 6 oz. Simply top up your WineStation SmartCard and sip away! 

In addition to the extensive wine selection, FortyEight Wine Bar & Kitchen also serves a choice of craft beers from local and regional microbreweries, a seasonal cocktail list, mix & match cheese and charcuterie boards, and a menu of Lowcountry specials. Check out the WineStations for suggested food and wine pairings. To enhance your wine-tasting experience, there’s live music on the patio every Wednesday from 5 PM to 7:30 PM, along with exclusive wine dinners and tasting events year-round. If you prefer to sip and savor in the comfort of your island retreat, FortyEight has over 1,000 wine labels and craft beers available to go. 

Book Your Dream Getaway on Charleston’s Beaches 

After a day of exploring the wineries and breweries, you’ll need a welcoming destination to unwind and savor your bounty of local beverages. At Kiawah-Seabrook Exclusives, we’ve got you covered! Our exclusive collection of luxury vacation homes, villas, and condos offers comfort, convenience, and the coastal charm of Charleston’s beautiful beaches, and our team has 40+ years of local knowledge and insider tips we love to share with our guests! Come sip and savor Charleston’s best beverages with us on Kiawah-Seabrook Island. 

Find the ultimate Lowcountry vacation retreat and start planning your dream getaway to the islands and beaches of the South Carolina Lowcountry with Kiawah Exclusives and Seabrook Exclusives. Book online or call our team of vacation specialists to assist in your vacation planning – no one knows the islands quite like us!

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Fun Facts About Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is a destination known for its pristine natural beauty, luxurious resort amenities, award-winning golf and tennis facilities, and intimate encounters with dolphins, sea turtles, and local wildlife in their natural habitat. 

Situated on 10 miles of Atlantic coastline and surrounded by South Carolina’s lush Lowcountry landscapes, Kiawah Island is one of the most beautiful barrier islands on the East Coast. Kiawah Island has a rich and storied past, boasts endless awards and accolades, and offers guests one of a kind experiences and unique eco-adventures for a beach vacation with a difference!

Kiawah Island Boasts Endless Awards & Accolades

Kiawah Island boasts endless awards and accolades. In 2021, Kiawah Island was ranked among the Top 10 Islands in the Continental US by Travel+Leisure, Top Islands in the Continental US by Conde Nast Traveler, and Top 10 Beaches in America by Dr. Stephen Leatherman (aka Dr. Beach). Additionally, Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s tennis facilities and golf courses ranked best in the world, and among the best in the world respectively. 

For the fourteenth consecutive year, The Sanctuary Hotel and The Spa at The Sanctuary received the Five Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide and, for the second consecutive year, Travel+Leisure World’s Best Awards ranks The Sanctuary the number one resort in South Carolina. 

Our exclusive collection of luxury Kiawah Island vacation homes, vacation villas, and monthly snowbird rentals place you steps from Kiawah Island’s award-winning beaches, natural attraction and eco-activities for an unforgettable island vacation.

Pirates Once Inhabited Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is more than a luxury vacation destination, there’s a rich and colorful history beneath the natural beauty! Kiawah Island was named after the Kiawah Indians that inhabited the South Carolina sea islands in the 17th century. The English colonists arrived in 1670, the land passed through the hands of high-ranking men, infamous pirates, plantation farmers, and on to the Vanderhorst family shortly before the Revolutionary War (1775 to 1783). The Vanderhorst family privately owned Kiawah Island until 1950. 

Today, the Bass Pond site and Arnoldus Vanderhorst Mansion are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and, if you’re visiting Kiawah Island with kids, be sure to take a cruise with the Pirates of Charleston.

From Lumbermen to Luxury Resort Living

In 1950, lumberman and real estate developer, Charles Clance Royal, purchases Kiawah Island for logging and timber, at a price of $125,000.  In 1954, CC Royal builds the first beach home on Kiawah Island, names the first street after his wife, Eugenia, and Kiawah Island slowly starts to grow. In 1974, only twenty-four years after his investment, CC Royal sells Kiawah Island on to developers for $17 million, real estate development begins, and approximately $200 million is invested into the growth of Kiawah Island Golf Resort.  

The Waterways are Wild

Nearly 20% of Kiawah Island is made up of water, and those waterways are wild! Whether you’re tracking sea turtles, experiencing dolphins in their natural habitat, or fishing for a trophy catch, there’s a wild encounter for every nature lover and outdoor enthusiast on Kiawah Island. The tidal creeks, salt marshes, rivers and ocean waters abound in tranquility, wildlife, and endless opportunities for eco-friendly outdoor adventures. 

For travel inspiration and to find an eco-tour or activity to suit your level of adventure, bookmark our guide to The Best Places to Stay & Play on Kiawah Island. Our Lowcountry waterways may be wild, but they’re gentle enough for every age and ability to experience.

You Can Book a Tee-Time on a Rare Public PGA Golf Course

There are not many public courses that can claim to have hosted the PGA Championships more than once! Kiawah Island Golf Resort is one of the premier golf destinations in the US with seven award winning golf courses on the narrow island, five of which are public, including the PGA Ocean Course designed by Pete and Alice Dye in 1991. The Ocean Course was designed specifically for the 1991 Ryder Cup and boasts ten seaside holes along the Atlantic coastline – the most seaside holes in the Northern Hemisphere. 

Other championship courses at Kiawah Island Golf Resort include Cougar Point Golf Club, the first golf course on Kiawah Island by Gary Player (1976), Turtle Point by Jack Nicklaus (1981), Osprey Point by Tom Fazio (1988), Ocean Course by Pete Dye (1991), River Course by Tom Fazio (1995), and Oak Point by Clyde Johnson (1997). Fun fact – The Legend of Bagger Vance was filmed on the Kiawah Island Ocean Course.

You Can Bike Everywhere on Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is one big, gated community and you can literally bike everywhere! The island boasts quiet streets for bike riding, 30+ miles of paved, shaded and scenic trails, and 10 miles of uninterrupted shoreline for beach bike rides. Wherever you stay on the island, you’re simply a short bike ride away from Kiawah Island’s top tours and activities, golf and tennis, and open-air shopping, dining and events at Freshfields Village. 

Our Kiawah Island vacation rentals are scattered throughout the island making it easy to hop on your bike to get around. Guests of Kiawah Exclusives receive a 5% discount from Surfscooter Bike Rentals, a locally-owned and operated business serving visitors to Kiawah Island since 1981.

Experiences Unique to Kiawah Island

There are only a handful of spots you can horse ride on the beach on the East Coast, neighboring Seabrook Island is one of them! The Seabrook Island Equestrian Center offers horseback rides along the shoreline and scenic trail rides through the forests for Seabrook Island residents and non-residents. The horseback rides trail along Seabrook North Beach, one of the few destinations in the world where visitors can witness the rare phenomenon of dolphin’s strand-feeding. 

If you’re taking a scenic drive from Kiawah Island, other experiences unique to the area include trolley tours of the Charleston Tea Plantation on Wadmalaw Island , America’s only commercial tea plantation, and picnics under the ancient 65-foot Angel Oak on the road to Charleston, known to be the oldest living thing east of the Mississippi River.

Lowcountry Living is Easy!

It’s the laid-back Lowcountry lifestyle that attracts many of our guests to Kiawah Island, our slice of paradise on the South Carolina coastline. The Lowcountry lifestyle is about embracing a slower pace and the simple things in life – the beauty of Mother Nature, small town farmers markets, local community-led events, and sustainable living that feeds back to the local community. 

Kiawah Island is internationally recognized as a destination for luxury, eco-friendly resort living. Kiawah Exclusives represent a collection of 100+ of the finest resort rentals on Kiawah Island with luxury amenities, unparalleled guest services, and a local team on hand to personalize your vacation experience. Lowcountry living is easy with Kiawah Exclusives.

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How To Bike Around Kiawah Island?

Nestled on South Carolina’s Atlantic coastline between the historic City of Charleston and the private oceanfront resort community of Seabrook Island is Kiawah Island. Kiawah is a vacation destination with vast and scenic Lowcountry landscapes best explored on two wheels to venture freely. 

With over 30-miles of paved flat paths connecting the island from West Beach Village and East Beach Village to Vanderhorst Plantation, and beyond, you can take a “park and forget it approach” on Kiawah Island. Kiawah Island’s tranquil Lowcountry bike trails are all you need for getting around, sightseeing, shopping, and socializing on your vacation.

WHERE TO FIND BIKE RENTALS ON KIAWAH ISLAND?

Save money, pack light and plan your bike adventures on Kiawah Island with Surfscooter Rentals (Bonus: 5% discounted rates for all Kiawah Exclusives guests)! Surfscooter Rentals have been serving our guests to Kiawah and Seabrook Island with unbeatable customer service and southern hospitality for over 20 years! 

The rental process is simple and hassle free – pick the bike rentals and gear best suited for your pedal adventures, order direct online, and have everything delivered right to your vacation rental, ready to hit the trails on arrival – there’s no need to even be there! They conveniently pick up on departure too.

Whether you’re on a romantic rendezvous or an unplugged family vacation for you and the kids, there’s a set of wheels with your name on it! Surfscooter Rentals have all the bike gear to get your whole family on the trails and beach. Surfscooter’s high quality and well maintained bike rentals include 24-26” adult bikes, 16-20” kids bikes, baby seat rentals, chariot rentals, tag-a-longs, and bike trailers to load up and venture beyond Kiawah Island. Any problems, they’ll come find you and make a swap! 

THE BEST BIKE ROUTES ON KIAWAH ISLAND

The bike trails follow the main roads on Kiawah Island including Kiawah Island Parkway, Governor’s Drive, Ocean Course Drive and Flyway Drive. Ride your bikes to the shore, store, and golf tee times, or venture off the beaten path to explore secret spots on the island not accessible by car. Here’s a guide to our favorite bike routes on Kiawah Island!

Beachwalker Park

The 10-mile stretch of shoreline at Beachwalker Park is consistently ranked one of Dr Beach’s Top 10 Beaches in America. When you’re not enjoying a classic beach day, Beachwalker Park is one of the best places to ride bikes on Kiawah Island as well as experience our local wildlife. Head out after a high tide for hard packed sands, watch dolphin’s strand feeding at Captain Sams Inlet, and take a slow ride along the shoreline to the award-winning PGA Ocean Course in Vanderhorst. Surfscooter’s bike rentals are built for the sand and there are dozens of boardwalks making beach bike riding easily accessible – and fun!

Night Heron Park

Night Heron Park is nestled in the heart of East Beach Village with 21 acres of gorgeous scenery, ponds, and tranquil walking and biking paths in the ancient oaks, perfect for a family bike ride and nature adventure. Begin your bike ride at the Heron Park Nature Center, spot wildlife in the wetlands, stop for lunch at Night Heron Bar and Grill, and end your day with a classic Lowcountry eco-adventure or water activities offered by Kiawah Resort.    

Mingo Point

Pack a picnic and bike to Mingo Point, located just outside the main Kiawah Island gate near West Beach Village. Mingo Point is famous for its Lowcountry Oyster Roasts and tranquil setting on the banks of the Kiawah River. Park your bikes, refuel with a picnic and rent a kayak or SUP to play on the water. From Mingo Point pedal along the Kiawah Island Parkway trail to Marsh View Tower for expansive views of Cougar Point Golf Course and the Kiawah Island wetlands. Bring the binoculars and the camera!

Vanderhorst Plantation

Vanderhorst Plantation is situated through the second set of gates on Kiawah Island, accessible only to residents and guests. But, you can venture through on the bike trails! The Kiawah Island Parkway leads to the Bass Pond and fishing dock and beautiful scenery in Rhett’s Bluff. Ride the trail along Governor’s Drive to the Marsh Island Park View Tower, Blue Heron Pond Observation Tower, and on to Eagle Point Landing. Wind your way towards the Atlantic to the Ocean Course, home of the 2021 PGA Championship, for sundowners at the Ryder Cup Bar. This Kiawah Island bike route is soaked in serenity with sweeping wetland views, maritime forests, marshlands, lagoons, and an abundance of wildlife.  

Freshfields Village

The bike routes are not limited to the island and extend past the guardhouse on to Freshfields Village, 1.8-miles from the Main Gate. Freshfields Village has it all – amazing restaurants and cafés, open air shopping, spas and salons, wine and whisky tastings, jazz nights, and fabulous farmers markets, festivals, and events on the Village Green. It’s family-friendly, pet-friendly, and a short bike ride from Kiawah Island. The bike trail continues on to Bohicket Marina, home of the famous Salty Dog Café, boat rentals and charters, and insta worthy South Carolina sunsets, then on to the private resort community of Seabrook Island.

RULES FOR RIDING THE KIAWAH TRAILS

  • Keep to the right on all trails.
  • Announce your presence when approaching or overtaking.
  • Observe all STOP signs.
  • Lights must be used after dark.
  • Helmets are encouraged but not required.
  • Bicycles must be parked only in designated areas.
  • Bikes are not allowed on the golf cart paths.
  • Please walk bicycles across the beach boardwalks and stay away from the dunes.
  • Biking and jogging on the road is prohibited when there is a designated bike path nearby.
  • When a bike path is not available, please ride single file, near the curb, and with the flow of traffic
  • E-bikes are prohibited on Kiawah Island, only bicycles and non-electric scooters are allowed on the trails.
  • The Town of Kiawah requests that bikes are not visible from the street. Please store bikes responsibly after your adventures.

UNWIND WITH KIAWAH EXCLUSIVES

After all that pedaling, Kiawah Exclusives have the perfect place to put your feet up, relax and unwind in style. Our selection of 100+ Kiawah Island vacation rentals include villas and homes in West Beach Village, East Beach Village, and through the second set of gates in Vanderhorst Plantation, all a quick bike ride away from wherever you choose to adventure on Kiawah Island. 

Browse our luxury Kiawah Island rentals online, call our on-island team on (843) 768-0273 to assist with vacation planning, or if you’re dreaming of owning your own Lowcountry retreat on Kiawah Island, our real estate partner Pam Harrington Exclusives can make that dream a reality! 

We hope to see you on the Kiawah Island bike trails soon! 

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5 Best Labor Day Weekend Events on Kiawah Island

Labor Day is an annual celebration of American labor achievements and contributions… So it’s the perfect time to party with your friends and family, right? There’s no better way to celebrate with your favorite people than attending local events, relaxing on the beach, or taking a trip to one of America’s top destinations for luxury resort living in harmony with nature…. Kiawah Island!

There are several events taking place around town for the whole family to enjoy, from fireworks and dancing to restaurants and live music. Check out our favorite events to share with your crew below.

1. Lowcountry Jazz Festival

September 2nd – 3rd, 2023

Gaillard Center in Charleston, SC

Take a scenic 45-minute trip to Charleston for South Carolina’s premier annual Smooth Jazz event continues its Labor Day weekend tradition, kicking off the weekend with a stellar lineup.

2. Edisto Beach Shag Festival

September 1st – 3rd, 2023

Bay Creek Park in Edisto Beach, SC

Take an hour trip over to Edisto Island to dance the night away to favorite coastal shag hits or enjoy food, drinks, arts & crafts, and more fun for the whole family.

3. Labor Day Concert at Kaminski House Museum

September 4th, 2023
6:00PM – 7:00PM

Kaminski House Museum in Georgetown, SC

Take a day trip to Georgetown for a free outdoor concert featuring the Indigo Choral Society. Bring your picnic basket, lawn chairs, and blankets to celebrate on the lawn under the stars!

4. Labor Day Weekend Music on the Green

September 1st, 2023
Julio & The Saltines
6:00PM – 9:00PM

Freshfields Village in Kiawah Island, SC

Bring your blankets and chairs for the Music on the Green Concert Series from 6:00 to 9:00 pm! This free, family friendly concert series features a variety of music from regional bands including beach music, country, and more.

5. Labor Day Weekend Art Show and Sale

TBD
Check out the events page for the most up-to-date information HERE!

Seabrook Island Artist Guild in Seabrook Island, SC

Drive over to neighboring Seabrook Island for one of the biggest shows of the year for many talented and prized artists of the Seabrook Island Artist Guild. Expect to see oil paintings, watercolors and pastels of seascapes, landscapes, wildlife and more.

Stay with Kiawah Exclusives this Labor Day Weekend

As summer comes to an end and the summer sun cools down on Kiawah Island, Labor Day Weekend is the perfect time to visit. Check out our incredible list of properties to stay in HERE!
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5 Tips To Help Plan Your Dream Kiawah Vacation

There’s no better way to spend your summer season than a trip to the beach. Kiawah Island is a beach destination abounding in natural beauty with 10-miles of award-winning beaches, wetlands and waterways teeming with wildlife and resident bottlenose dolphins, Audubon certified golf courses, tranquil trails weaving through the island, and world-class shopping, dining and resort amenities. 

Here’s our top tips to plan your dream summer vacation, soak up the sun and the slower pace of life, and satisfy your summer wanderlust on Kiawah Island.

1. Arrange Your Transportation

Getting to and around Kiawah Island is easy but with the increasing cost of gas prices and airfares, the first decision is whether to fly or take a classic road trip on your last minute summer getaway. 

Kiawah Island is located approximately 30 miles south from historic Charleston and is an easy drive-to-destination from many east coast cities with most of the major airlines (American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Frontier Airlines, United Airlines, JetBlue, Delta, Silver Airways) offering daily non-stop flights into Charleston International Airport (CHS). 

Rental cars are still in high demand so reserve your rental car at Charleston Airport as well in advance as possible or arrange ground transportation to Kiawah Island. Taxis operate from the Charleston Airport from 5am until after last flight, Charleston Limousine & Shuttle Services offer individual and group transportation, or reserve a ride with Island Transportation, the best local car service on Kiawah Island. 

Once on Kiawah Island there are 30+ miles of interconnected trails to get around by bike or rent an electric cart to buzz about the island (and save on gas!)

2. Create a Vacation Wish List

Whether you’re squeezing in last minute summer fun before school starts or a romantic beach escape surrounded by luxurious Lowcountry leisure, Kiawah Island ticks all the boxes for a dream summer vacation. 

Creating a vacation wish list is where it all comes together! Kiawah Island is a family oriented destination with outdoor activities for every age and adventure level, amazing Lowcountry festivals and events, and a diverse selection of restaurants and cafes with authentic coastal Carolina cuisine. Start planning your last minute beach escape with our Kiawah Island travel blog where we highlight the best places to stay and play on Kiawah Island. 

3. Reserve your Restaurants & Activities

Kiawah Island offers epic eco-adventures, nature programs, golf and tennis, and unique experiences year round! You’ve created a vacation wish list, now it’s time to book your experiences and make your restaurant (and spa day!) reservations to avoid disappointment.

4. Rent Your Vacation Gear

Take the hustle and hassle out of your vacation planning and rent all your vacation gear! From baby gear and beach gear to water sports, bike rentals and electric carts, Kiawah Exclusives partners with reliable locally-owned companies to supply all your beach vacation needs. Reserve your rental gear in advance, have it delivered to your vacation home prior to your arrival, and spend less time planning and more time playing on Kiawah Island.

5. Stay with Kiawah Exclusives

Searching for the perfect vacation rental need not be stressful when you stay with Kiawah Exclusives. We offer a collection of 115+ of the finest vacation rentals on Kiawah Island and a team of local vacation specialists to assist in planning your last minute summer vacation! Browse our portfolio of Kiawah Island vacation rental villas and private vacation homes for last minute availability or take a sneak peak at a few of our favorite summer rentals centrally located in the heart of Kiawah Island’s popular East Beach Village.

Our team has been locally operated since 1978 and are here to assist with your vacation planning. Whether you need guidance finding the perfect last minute rental or recommendations for on-island tours, activities, rentals or dining – our local experts are only a phone call away on (843) 768-0273. We look forward to hosting your last minute summer vacation on Kiawah Island!

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Best Fishing Charters on Kiawah Island


Kiawah Island is a destination known for its award-winning white sandy beaches, oceanfront golf courses, and untouched landscapes teeming with wildlife and natural beauty. The island’s pristinely preserved and unique ecosystem of beaches, maritime forests, protected sand dunes, and fragile marshlands are a habitat for a diverse array of beautiful birdlife, wildlife, majestic marine mammals, Loggerhead sea turtles, and fish species inhabiting the local waters. 

Some of the best fishing in the Lowcountry is found right here on the inshore waterways and offshore reefs surrounding the beautiful barrier islands of Charleston, SC. Kiawah Island has lots of on-island fishing spots. You can surf fish from the Kiawah shoreline, cast a line from the fishing docks, bait a fish from a kayak on the Kiawah River, or find prime fishing grounds only a boat ride away on an epic Lowcountry fishing charter. 

Whether you’re seeking a short family fishing charter for the kids, a customized experience, or the thrill of catching a sailfish in the deep blue waters of the Atlantic, you’ll find it here on Kiawah Island. Our local charter captains have spent decades navigating the waters, have an intimate knowledge of the island’s best fishing spots, and provide everything you need for a top-notch Lowcountry fishing experience.  

Types of Fishing Charters 

Inshore Fishing Charters: Inshore fishing charters navigate the smaller channels, creeks, inlets, and marshlands along the thriving Kiawah River. Fish species include common saltwater fish such as spotted sea trout, flounder, croaker, and large schools of redfish feeding on the flats. Sharks are commonly caught on inshore fishing charters.   

Near Coastal & Reef Fishing: Venture one to three miles offshore on an action-packed adventure bottom fishing the wrecks and reefs surrounding Kiawah and Seabrook Island. Near coastal and reef fishing charters are geared for both families and serious anglers with likely catches of redfish, sheepshead, sea bass, cobia, and large sharks too! 

Offshore Fishing: If hunting for big game fish in the Lowcountry is on your bucket list, an offshore fishing charter on Kiawah Island is unbeatable! These full-day charters take you on a deep-sea adventure for a trophy catch of grouper, mahi mahi, tuna, marlin, and a wide variety of shark species. 

Shark Fishing Charters: Sharks are regularly encountered when fishing in Kiawah Island’s waterways and ocean, and it’s a thrill! Shark fishing charters are an extraordinary experience for anglers of all ages and abilities and are geared towards fun and excitement for the whole family.    

Top Tips for a Memorable Lowcountry Fishing Charter 

  • Book well in advance!
  • Dress in layers with light rain gear for changing weather conditions.
  • Wear soft sole, non-marking shoes.
  • Pack sunscreen, a wide-brimmed sun hat, UV protection sunglasses, and bug spray for the South Carolina no-see-ums.
  • Consider motion sickness medication if it’s your first time out on the water!
  • Stock a cooler with snacks and drinks, if required.
  • Bring binoculars for dolphin and wildlife watching.
  • Take 100s of photos for lifelong memories.

Where to Find A Fishing Charter on Kiawah Island?


Night Heron Park

Kiawah Island
Phone: (843) 768-6001

Night Heron Park is a haven for outdoor exploration on Kiawah Island, a destination that connects you with nature, wildlife, and exceptional experiences on land and water. Wherever you stay on Kiawah Island, Night Heron Park is only a short bike ride away and is the best place for on-island fishing, boat charters, eco-tours, and an excellent variety of inshore, nearshore, and shark fishing charters. Other tour options include dolphin encounters, shelling expeditions, sunset cruises, crabbing tours, birdwatching tours, Holy City Harbor cruises, and custom charters for sightseeing in South Carolina’s beautiful barrier islands.

Captain Jacks

Bohicket Marina
Phone: (843) 343-1772

Captain Jack is on deck to take you on a leisurely dolphin cruise, sailing adventure, or customized family fishing charter aboard the Palmetto Tide, a 33-foot sailboat based at Bohicket Marina. A Lowcountry fishing experience with Captain Jack means “It is your day. Your Way!“ – a unique Kiawah Island fishing experience personalized for your family with lifelong fishing memories to match! 

Keen Eye Charters

Bohicket Marina
Phone: (843) 814-8982

Captain Chris at Keen Eye Charters has been a professional guide since 2004 and knows where to find the fish in the Lowcountry waters. Go inshore fishing on the creeks, bottom fishing the wrecks and reefs, trolling offshore for big game fish, or customize a charter for kids fishing! Captain Chris also offers custom 2 or 3-hour charters with sunset cruises, dolphin-watching excursions, crabbing, shelling, and eco-adventures to the barrier islands.

Sonny Boy Charters

Bohicket Marina
Phone: (843) 708-1486

Coastguard Captain Brad is the highly skilled and knowledgeable skipper behind Sonny Boy Charters serving Kiawah & Seabrook Island from Bohicket Marina. Choose from a variety of inshore, nearshore, and shark fishing charters as well as guided dolphin eco-tours, shelling expeditions around the islands, or sunset cruises along the Lowcountry waterways.

Lil Darlin’ Charters

St. Johns Marina
Phone: (843) 442-4706

Departing from St. Johns Yacht Harbor on the Stono River, Lil Darlin’ Charters offer a variety of top-rated eco-tours and fishing charters along the waterways surrounding historic Charleston. Whether you’re a novice, a fishing family or a serious angler, Captain Lindsay’s knowledge of the local waters, passion for fishing, and top-notch fishing gear guarantees a memorable fishing experience during your Kiawah Island vacation. 

Hook A Vacation Home with Kiawah Exclusives 

Ready to reel in the perfect vacation on Kiawah Island? Hook a luxury vacation home with Kiawah Exclusives. We pride ourselves on offering 100+ of the finest vacation rentals in the beautiful communities on Kiawah Island, ranging from oceanfront and lagoon villas to private cottages on the Kiawah River and luxurious vacation homes for large groups or family reunions. View our exclusive collection of Kiawah Island rentals online or give our team a call at (843) 768-0273.  Our vacation specialists have 40+ years of local knowledge and are happy to assist through the vacation planning process. From hooking you up with a vacation rental to match your needs to local tips and recommendations to create the ultimate vacation itinerary – we’re here to help!

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4343 Betsy Kerrison Pkwy
Johns Island, SC 29455
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