We Made the Top Ten Islands in the U.S. List…Again.

When an island boasts the extraordinary landscapes and dazzling shorelines of Kiawah, people are bound to take notice. This year, Travel + Leisure readers discovered what residents of the Island have known for decades: Kiawah is one of the top islands in the continental United States.

The “World’s Best Awards”are decided by the globe-trotting fans of Travel + Leisure magazine. These discerning readers base their votes on each competing island’s natural attractions, beaches, activities, beauty, food, friendliness, and overall value. Considering the wealth of island resorts to be found on the edges of America, it is no small feat to land placement on the magazine’s Top Ten list. And yet, in 2016, 2017, and once again in 2019, Kiawah has claimed its spot.

With its gorgeous 10-miles shoreline, ancient maritime forestry, whispering marshlands, and tranquil lagoons, Kiawah resonated with travelers seeking beauty. Fabulous fairways, world-class tennis, top fitness venues, and decadent spa services captured the votes of those seeking inspired activities. And as for the friendliness factor? Surely no other island exudes southern charm like Kiawah, with residents as sunny in disposition as the Island sky on a cloudless, midsummer day.

Congratulations, Kiawah. And a special shout out to the Kiawah Island Resort, the Kiawah Island Club, our restaurant servers, our golf course caddies, our landscapers, our realtors, and all the residents who, every day, bring their very best to one of the best places on Earth.