Five Hidden Gems in South Carolina

South Carolina continues to prove itself as one of the premier destination states in the southeast. With its pristine beaches and famous South Carolina coastal towns, the state draws more and more visitors each year. Most people are at least familiar with Charleston and Myrtle Beach, but the state has many more coastal towns that are much less known—at least for now! Below, we will discuss five hidden gems in South Carolina.

1. Beaufort

Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and carries much of the southern charm you find in Charleston but in a smaller and more intimate way. Charming visitors since 1512, this Lowcountry town exudes beauty with its moss-draped oak trees and centuries-old natural foliage. The stunning downtown offers fine dining and shopping for the whole family. The historic marina hosts many events throughout the year, including the Taste of Beaufort Festival in May and the Beaufort Water Festival in July. Beaufort is truly a fun-for-all-ages destination offering fun activities all year long. This is a must-see destination the next time you venture into the Lowcountry.

2. Pawleys Island

Pawleys Island is a barrier island beach town located 70 miles north of Charleston and 25 miles south of Myrtle Beach. Known as one of the oldest summer resorts on the East Coast, Pawleys Island still maintains its leisurely existence. Twelve residences remain in the historic district, which dates from the late 1700s to the mid-1800s. The town continues to be known for its shoeless, carefree lifestyle. Visitors are encouraged to let their worries go and sink into Pawleys’ relaxing atmosphere.

3. Edisto Beach

Edisto Beach is a beach town for those wanting to escape it all. Boasting no stoplights, high rises, or chain restaurants, the beach town truly embraces slow living. Visitors can explore the 4.5 miles of coastline, take a dip in the ocean, bike, kayak, and much more while unplugging from life’s stresses. Edisto Beach is one of the few remaining gently developed beach towns on the East Coast, giving visitors a newfound respect for a town seemingly lost in time. 

4. Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is a private island community only 21 miles south of Charleston in the historic Lowcountry of South Carolina. On this charming Island, Members can golf, boat, swim, birdwatch, fish, dine, shop, or relax to their heart’s content. The Island isn’t solely closed off to its residents as there are opportunities to book your stay at the Kiawah Island Golf Resort and play one of their five world-class courses. Additionally, Kiawah Beachwalker Park is open to the public as is Freshfields Village–a nearby open-air venue and local favorite for those on the Island. Kiawah Island truly has so much to offer and is a must-visit for those looking for an upscale visit to the Lowcountry.

Related: An Overview of Year-Round Living on Kiawah Island

5. Murrells Inlet 

Murrells Inlet is a historic fishing village often referred to as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina.” This coastal town’s “Marsh Walk” frequently attracts visitors with its wooden boardwalk spanning a half-mile along a natural saltwater estuary and includes several restaurants such as Bovine’s, Wahoo’s Fish House, and The Claw House. Visitors also relax at the Huntington Beach State Park and peruse the Brookgreen Gardens. This coastal beach town has tons to offer and shouldn’t be skipped over the next time you visit the coast of South Carolina.

Living on Kiawah Island

While there are many unique locations on the South Carolina coast, we believe our Island is unparalleled. On Kiawah Island, the day is yours! Explore the beaches and ancient oak forestry, or play a round of golf on one of our award-winning golf courses. Enjoy outdoor water activities on the Atlantic, the Kiawah River, or the majestic marsh. Out on these waters, you’ll have the opportunity to spot a wide variety of wildlife, including dolphins, white-tailed deer, North American river otter, and Eastern Cottontail Rabbit. 

A visit to Freshfields Village is a must when on Kiawah Island. This quaint, open-aired retail center comprises over 50 boutique shops, health and wellness services, and a grocery store. The shopping center also has many diverse dining options and a luxury hotel for those visiting the Island. Kiawah’s proximity to Charleston makes it possible to enjoy a night out in South Carolina’s oldest city. Explore Charleston’s vibrant shops, restaurants, and bars before returning to Kiawah Island for a nightcap.

Find Your Kiawah Island Home Today

At Kiawah Island Real Estate, our passion is helping you find your dream island home. We believe that our Island has something for everyone, and we look forward to welcoming new residents to the place we call home. Browse our properties and reach out if anything catches your eye. You can also find us at one of our three physical locations: the Main Sales Office, Freshfields Village, and the Sanctuary Hotel. 

Contact our Sales Team below, and one of our Sales Executives will help you learn more about our extraordinary Island properties!