How to Live Like a Kiawah Resident

The beauty of being a Kiawah resident is that you get to choose the lifestyle you want to live. Each day is an adventure filled with natural beauty, luxury, and high-end amenities — especially for those who are Kiawah Island Club Members.

Every new day brings the excitement of knowing there’s so much to do, see, and explore, which is one of the many benefits of living on this captivating Island. Continue reading to experience a day as a Kiawah resident!

Mornings on Kiawah

Mornings offer cool weather that is perfect for exercising. In terms of working out, you have several options across the Island to choose from. If you are interested in taking a fitness class, head over to The Sports Pavilion at Cassique for a fun workout to get your day started on the right foot. This private, Member-only state-of-the-art fitness facility offers residents the opportunity to work with personal trainers, train under private tennis and squash professionals, and enjoy complimentary group fitness classes led by certified instructors. 

On the other hand, if you prefer to start the morning at a slower pace, take a stroll on the trails that connect the entire Island. With 30 miles of trails to explore, they offer a wonderful opportunity for viewing wildlife. Keep an eye out for dolphins, sea turtles, bald eagles, and yellow songbirds on your walk.

After you have spent some time sight-seeing and exercising, stop by Freshfields Village for a morning of shopping and errands. The area offers over 30 shops ranging from local boutiques to major retailers. You can find everything you need here and more. Pick up your dry cleaning, a bottle of wine for dinner from FortyEight Wine Bar, and get your nails done — all in one stop. 

Afternoons on Kiawah

As the day begins to warm, head over to The Sandcastle for a refreshing dip across two resort-style pools. Here, you can choose to relax and bask in the sun, or bring the kids if you want to spend the day playing. As most Kiawah residents already know, the Island’s pools offer a truly exceptional experience, with each one boasting its own unique charm.

There’s no better place to relax than the Members-only Marsh House. Vast views frame the gorgeous pool while providing serene vistas of the long marsh that resembles the African Serengeti. If your kids are interested in a day of family fun, they will have the most exciting afternoon in the shimmering infinity pool. 

After you and the family have worked up an appetite, B-Liner is sure to deliver the best post-swim meal you have ever tasted. This is a Kiawah Island Club exclusive that only Members are able to experience. Featuring the original vision and menu design by consulting award-winning chef, Mike Lata, Members can look forward to trying seasonal, local dishes that can’t be found anywhere else. 

Golf is a large part of the culture here on Kiawah. Resort courses including The Ocean Course, Osprey Point, Oak Point, Turtle Point, and Cougar Point are open to the Island residents and visitors. Each year, these top-rated courses host several professional-level tournaments such as the Ryder Cup and PGA Championship. In fact, The Ocean Course has hosted two PGA Tournaments, the first in 2012, and the second in 2021. After playing golf with some friends, it’s tradition to head over to the Ryder Cup Bar for a round of celebratory drinks!

In addition to the public courses, Club Members enjoy access to the Island’s premier private courses, Cassique and the River Course. Cassique is the Island’s only Scottish links-style course, whereas the River Course meanders alongside the Kiawah River and reflects the surrounding landscape. 

If golf isn’t on the agenda for today, rejuvenate your mind and body at the Sasanqua Spa. Club Members flock to the spa when they’re looking for some much needed R&R. Indulge in rejuvenating massages and facials that will revitalize your senses, allowing you to recharge and relax. Additionally, pamper yourself with professional hair and nail salon services.

Evenings on Kiawah

Now that the day is winding down, it’s time to think about dinner. There are many incredible dining options to try on the Island, but why not try catching your own! 

Crabbing on Kiawah is an exciting family-friendly activity you can do right here on the Island. To get started, gather your supplies and find a spot on a riverbank or inlet. You will need a cooler with ice, fishing line, bait, and a net. It’s no secret that the best crab bait is raw chicken, so make sure you bring some with you. To catch the crabs, gently lower your bait into the water and once you feel a tug, slowly pull the crab out of the water. Before the crab reaches the surface, have someone scoop up the crab from underneath, just in case he decides to let go! Back home, enjoy fresh cooked crab with your family and pair it with some traditional Southern sides like fresh corn or roasted potatoes.

Other delicious dining options include The Ocean Room for incredible seafood, Jasmine Porch at The Sanctuary Hotel for Lowcountry favorites, or Hege’s for casual French cuisine.

Once you have finished your meal, take one last stroll down the beach. Use this time to unwind after your fun, eventful day. Then, take a moment to appreciate how special life truly is as a Kiawah resident. 

Becoming a Kiawah Island Resident

With all the perks that come with living on the Island, the most notable is a Membership to The Kiawah Island Club, a private entity that offers access to exclusive events, venues, amenities, and more. 

While all Club Members are required to be a resident of Kiawah, not all Kiawah residents are given the opportunity to become a Member. There is incredible value in being a Member, however, only certain home purchases qualify for a Membership. If you are interested in becoming a Member, contact us for assistance in finding the perfect home that includes a coveted Membership to The Kiawah Island Club.