South Carolina Beach Towns to Consider Calling Home

The Palmetto State is known for its Southern charm, rolling mountains, and, of course, beautiful beaches. With thousands of miles of coastline and mild weather year-round, it’s no surprise that South Carolina beach towns are desirable places to reside. However, with so many enchanting towns scattered up and down the coast, it can be a challenge to determine which destination is right for you based on your interests and the type of lifestyle you prefer.  

If you’re looking to call the Palmetto State home, continue reading to discover our list of the best South Carolina beach towns. 

1. Kiawah Island 

A barrier island located 21 miles south of Charleston, Kiawah Island is a private community that fully encompasses the essence of coastal living. With over 10 miles of white sand beaches and a wide range of outdoor pursuits, residents are constantly out and about enjoying all the Island has to offer. Well-known for its world-class golf courses, Kiawah Island has also hosted several professional tournaments, including two PGA Championships. And when you’re not on the fairway, you can spend time hiking through the maritime forest among centuries-old live oak trees and boating through the winding waterways that lead to the Atlantic Ocean. 

What truly sets Kiawah Island apart from other South Carolina beach towns is the unique opportunity residents have to join the exclusive Kiawah Island Club. Membership in this community provides homeowners with access to world-class amenities, five-star services, and one-of-a-kind experiences. From a full-service spa and award-winning dining establishments to recreational activities and special events, the Club elevates Kiawah Island from a classic beach town to a true island paradise. 

2. Seabrook Island 

As a neighbor of Kiawah, Seabrook is a barrier island with three miles of pristine beaches bordered by serene marshes. Although smaller than Kiawah, Seabrook Island still offers many opportunities for outdoor recreation and entertainment. In fact, the island is equipped with a full-service equestrian center that features spacious pastures, trails, and stalls to keep your horse happy and healthy. So, if you’re looking for a coastal oasis nearby Charleston for you (and your horse) to call home, Seabrook Island may be the perfect place for you. 

3. Bluffton 

Located halfway between Hilton Head Island and Savannah, Bluffton is a quaint coastal town located along the banks of the May River. Often called “the last true coastal village of the South,” it is known for its incredible natural beauty, vast waterways, and eclectic historic district that is home to artists, musicians, and artisans.

If you’re considering relocating to Bluffton, we recommend looking into the Palmetto Bluff residential community. A sustainable development that prides itself in conserving the surrounding environment, The Bluff is a vibrant piece of land located in the heart of the Lowcountry. Here, residents enjoy recreational activities and world-class amenities in a beautiful coastal setting. 

4. Isle of Palms

Situated alongside Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms is a top residential and resort community located near Charleston. Thanks to its seven miles of beaches, you can often find residents and visitors alike swimming, surfing, kayaking, and fishing along the shore. There is also a lovely downtown area with countless retail shops and restaurants to enjoy at your leisure.

5. Sullivan’s Island

At just 3 miles long nestled just south of Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island proves that good things do in fact come in small packages. As a major site of the Revolutionary War, Sullivan’s Island attracts many history buffs and tourists each year to Fort Moultrie. What’s more, author Edgar Allan Poe was stationed at the historic fort back in the 1800s and even referenced Sullivan’s Island in his infamous short story, The Gold Bug.

In addition to its rich history, Sullivan’s Island is also home to a charming strip of restaurants, boutiques, and other small businesses. You can often find residents enjoying simple pleasures that come with coastal living like taking long walks on the beach or driving golf carts through the neighborhood. With its quaint size and immense beauty, it’s no surprise that Sullivan’s Island provides a slower, more peaceful way of life to all who call it home.  

6. Beaufort 

With its location on Port Royal Island, Beaufort is one of the most charming South Carolina beach towns. Due to its scenic views and beautiful landscapes, several notable movies were filmed here, including Forrest Gump and G.I. Jane. You can even take a carriage tour of filming locations!

Soak in the coastal atmosphere by exploring waterfront parks, hiking trails, and historical sites. Or, visit the bustling downtown to visit art galleries, antique shops, and pre-Civil War mansions. All in all, Beaufort is ideal for those looking to move at a more leisurely pace, while still enjoying all of the excitement of a small city. 

7. Pawleys Island 

Moving towards the northern part of the state, Pawleys Island is a family-friendly destination to call home. Located 25 miles south of Myrtle Beach, it is actually one of the most historic South Carolina beach towns. In the 1700s, the families of rice planters would visit the Island to enjoy the cool breezes of the coast during the summer months. Now, visitors and residents alike flock to Pawley’s Island to enjoy the fun, laid-back lifestyle and beautiful beaches the town has to offer. 

Discover the Coastal Charm of Kiawah Island 

Whether you are looking to permanently relocate or are simply searching for a vacation property, Kiawah Island is the perfect place to escape to the coast. And each neighborhood on the Island has its own distinct character and unique charm. No matter if you’re looking for a secluded oasis to enjoy the peace and quiet or prefer to be in the center of the action, Kiawah Island has a place for you. 

For more information about the Kiawah lifestyle, we invite you to visit the Island and experience it all for yourself. Stay for a weekend and explore water activities, play a round of golf, and try delicious Lowcountry fare in a waterfront setting. Set some time aside to tour beautiful homes and homesites that can help bring your dreams to reality. Click the button below to get in touch with us and begin planning your visit to our slice of paradise.