10 Family-Friendly Things to Do on Kiawah Island

With beautiful weather year-round and miles of white sand beaches, Kiawah Island offers a wide range of activities the whole family can enjoy. From adventurous excursions to days relaxing in the sunshine, Kiawah Island truly has something for everyone. 

Whether you currently live on the Island or are planning an upcoming visit, here are our recommendations for the top family-friendly things to do on Kiawah Island. 

1. Beachcomb for Treasures

You can’t go wrong with a walk along the Island’s pristine shoreline. While you’re taking in the immaculate views, keep your eyes peeled for intricate seashells, colorful sea glass, and various other treasures. You could even create a seashell scavenger hunt and have your children try to collect one of each type of shell. Plus, you can use these little treasures for arts and crafts projects later on!

2. Learn About Native Wildlife 

Kiawah Island is home to a diverse range of wildlife species. As opposed to other commercialized destinations, Kiawah Island preserves the natural beauty and ecosystems that many animals call home. Across the Island, you will find bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, and bobcats, among much more wildlife. 

To learn more about these native species, bring your little animal lovers to the Nature Center in Night Heron Park. Here, your children can learn interesting facts about the Island’s wildlife species as well as discover the best places to spot these majestic creatures. 

Download the Wildlife Lookbook to get to know 40 of the most common mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and birds you’ll spot on Kiawah Island. Print the booklet out so you can see how many animals you can find while you are out exploring with your family. 

3. Have a Beach Day

With 10-miles of gorgeous shoreline, it’s no surprise that spending a day on the beach is one of the best things to do on Kiawah Island. Here, families bond over endless adventures in the sun and sand. From building sandcastles to boogie boarding the waves, you can never go wrong with a day spent on the beaches of Kiawah Island. 

4. Take a Dip in the Pool 

If your kids aren’t fond of the sand, then spend your day at one of the Island’s many swimming pools instead. For visitors of the Island, we recommend checking out the pools located at the Kiawah Island Golf Resort. Meanwhile, Kiawah Island Club Members have exclusive access to some of the finest swimming pools on the Island, among other unique amenities. Members can visit the Beach Club to enjoy three swimming pools located along the shoreline. Here, kids can play games in the water, while mom and dad sip cocktails and take in the scenic views. 

5. Golf as a Family

There’s no better place to teach your young golfer the ins and outs of the sport than Kiawah Island. As one of the top golfing destinations in the world, the Island is home to five public and two private courses. Book a tee time for your whole family or register your peewee putter for golf lessons to learn the basics of the game. 

6. Practice Your Serve

With exceptional, professional-grade tennis courts throughout the Island, Kiawah is also known for its racquet sports. Whether your family chooses to take advantage of professional lessons or are ready to take on the court, playing a game of tennis is one of the best things to do on Kiawah Island. 

7. Go for a Bike Ride

On days with cooler temperatures, we recommend exploring the Island’s many bike trails. Winding through the maritime forest and along tranquil lagoons, you never know what you may discover on your path. Spend time taking in the beauty of nature while burning off some energy and bonding as a family. Whether you come across a pond with swimming fish or blooming flowers, stop to observe your discovery before continuing your journey. 

8. Enjoy a Sweet Treat

After a long day of enjoying the sunshine, there’s nothing better than some delicious ice cream to cool you off! For all-natural ice cream, shakes, and floats, visit Beaches & Cream at the Kiawah Island Golf Resort. Or, head to Freshfields Village for some tasty root beer floats, banana splits, and sundaes at locally-owned Vincent’s Drug Store & Soda Fountain. Ben & Jerry’s is also located here in the event that your family has differing tastes. While you’re here, you can also browse the wide range of shops and local boutiques located at Freshfields Village — it’s the best place to pick up a Kiawah-themed souvenir!

9. Take a Day Trip to Charleston

If you’re visiting the Lowcountry, consider taking a day trip to historic Charleston, South Carolina. Located just a short 45-minute drive away from the Island, Charleston has been voted as the Best U.S. City year after year. With waterfront restaurants, local shops, and historic landmarks, the Holy City is truly a must-see destination. Your kids are sure to love taking a carriage ride downtown or visiting the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry. 

10. GoKiawah Excursions 

Lastly, Kiawah Island Club Members have family-friendly activities at their fingertips with the GoKiawah initiative. From kayak tours to excursions, GoKiawah events are designed to bring Members and their families together through shared interests and exciting experiences. For example, the GoKiawah Boat Club allows Members to reserve a Club boat for a day out on the water with family. That way, Members can explore the Island’s vast waterways or go fishing on their own time. 

Make Memories on Kiawah Island 

On Kiawah Island, there is never a dull moment due to the wide variety of family-friendly things to do. Regardless of what activities you choose to partake in, both children and adults alike will enjoy discovering all the Island has to offer. Most importantly, your family is sure to create memories that will last a lifetime. 

Looking forward to some family time on the Island? Click the button below to begin planning your visit. While you’re here, we’d be happy to show you some of our available homes in the event that you are considering relocating to the Island.