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Category: Family

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Thanksgiving Activities On Kiawah Island 2024


Year-after-year, families have made Kiawah Island the host of their favorite holiday traditions. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to gather on the island with friends and loved ones as the area rings in the festive season with lavish buffets, epicurean experiences in the restaurants, and home-cooked meals to enjoy in your vacation rental, without any of the effort–a true foodie paradise!

Additionally, the temperate climate invites guests to enjoy myriad activities for all ages around the island. From biking, to going to the beach, to improv comedy, arts and crafts, and a Thanksgiving morning Turkey Trot fun run, there is much to be thankful for on Kiawah Island during the holiday season.

Thanksgiving Dining Options

One of the most popular dining celebrations of the year, Thanksgiving at Kiawah is the ultimate family affair! From an elegant four-star meal, to a relaxed clubhouse atmosphere, there’s a dining experience for every palate!

The Sanctuary Thanksgiving Buffet

Grand Oaks Ballroom at The Sanctuary – Priority seating reserved for guests of The Sanctuary. Public ticketing will open on Thursday, October 3rd.

Seatings starting at 12:00pm
Adults: $184 | Children 4-12: $98
Pricing is inclusive of food, tax, and gratuity.

Join us for a culinary creation on Thanksgiving Day. A lavish buffet presentation will be at your fingertips, and live entertainment will enhance your meal. Browse the numerous culinary stations throughout the ballroom, featuring seafood displays, live chef stations, holiday meats, and other traditional favorites. Sample the wine menu and finish your experience with decadent chocolates and pastries.

Children’s Thanksgiving Buffet
Your children can enjoy a buffet of their own in the adjacent Heron Room while you enjoy the grand buffet in the ballroom. They will always remember this special event that will feature games, arts and crafts, as well as delicious fun and food.

Thanksgiving To-Go

Enjoy the leisure of a hot, home-cooked meal without any of the effort! Our Villa Banquet team has created a delectable menu of holiday favorites, available for carry out. Choose a full meal that serves 8-10 people, or order just the turkey or just the sides – either way, the cooking is on us!

Orders must be placed by Friday, November 22nd.

Place Order Now

Thanksgiving Pies

$24 per pie

Let our Villa Resort pastry team take care of your pie needs this Thanksgiving! Our chefs have crafted beautiful, flaky pastry creations to complement any holiday table. Pies are specially boxed and ready to pick up. Traditional flavors include: Pumpkin, Pecan, and Apple-Crumble.

Orders must be placed by Friday, November 22nd. Order pick-up will take place at the West Beach Conference Center on Wednesday, November 27th from 9am-1pm and Thursday, November 28th from 11am-12pm. Place your order now.

Jasmine Porch – Priority seating reserved for guests of The Sanctuary

Breakfast: 6:30AM – 10:15AM
Thanksgiving Buffet: 12PM – 8PM
Adults: $179 | Children 4-12: $98 inclusive

Celebrate the holiday with a magnificent buffet featuring traditional favorites, live entertainment, and house-made desserts. This will be a meal to remember in a warm, yet elegant atmosphere as you toast loved ones. Jasmine Porch is sure to be an annual tradition for you and your family. At this time, reservations are limited to hotel guests only.

Local’s Tip: Call for reservations: (800) 654-2924

The Ocean Room – Priority seating reserved for guests of The Sanctuary

5:00PM – 9:00PM

The Sanctuary’s signature Five-Star restaurant is proud to present a Thanksgiving experience made for the true epicurean. The Ocean Room will feature their seasonal steakhouse menu in addition to holiday favorites. Children’s menu available. At this time, reservations are limited to hotel guests only. Call for reservations: (800) 654-2924

The Lobby Bar at The Sanctuary

Join The Lobby Bar for spirits as you gather with friends and family this holiday season. The Lobby Bar will be open from 12-11pm on Thanksgiving Day.

Mingo Point Oyster Roast & BBQ

WHEN: November 29th, 2024
TIME: 4:30PM – 6:30PM & 7:00PM – 9:00PM
PRICE: Purchase Tickets

Celebrate the holidays at Mingo Point and join us for the last oyster roast and BBQ of 2024! Enjoy an authentic Lowcountry experience at Kiawah’s most popular family outing. Indulge in a riverside oyster roast and an all-you-can-eat buffet of Southern BBQ specialties highlighting holiday favorites. Enjoy live entertainment from The Island Trio. Be sure to be on your best behavior because good ol’ Saint Nick is coming to the Lowcountry for holiday photos!

Family Activities

Thanksgiving is a time for family, and Kiawah offers a wide range of activities to keep kids (and grownups!) of all ages entertained! Visit the full calendar of events to see what’s happening every day and to make advance reservations for activities.


Visit our full calendar of events to see what’s happening every day and to make advance reservations for activities. And don’t forget to make your bike reservations – one of the best ways to explore all that our island has to offer!

Kayaking Tours
Discover the wonders of Kiawah Island’s rich biodiversity and saltwater marshes with the Kiawah Island Nature Program. Immerse yourself in our daily kayaking, kayaking tours are 2 hours long and offer the chance to discover Kiawah through the eyes of our naturalists. For our tour schedule, visit KiawahActivities.com. Reservations required, please call (843) 768-6001. A 24-hour cancellation policy applies.

Camp Kiawah


WHEN: November 25th – 27th and 29th, 2024
TIME: 8:30AM – 12:30PM
LOCATION: Night Heron Park Pavilion
Camp Kiawah is our themed day camp dedicated to making every day memorable for your child. Each session is themed with games, crafts, and snacks- guaranteed to be tons of fun. For ages 3 – 7. Reservations required, please call (843) 768-6001. Visit our Camp Kiawah page for pricing and more information. There is no lunch option Thanksgiving week.

Camp Xtreme


WHEN: November 25th – 27th and 29th, 2024
TIME: 8:30AM – 12:30PM
LOCATION: Night Heron Park Basketball Court
Camp Xtreme is designed for 8-13 year olds in mind. Competitive sports, team building, and more guarantee a day of XTREME FUN.
For ages 8 – 13. Reservations required, please call 843.768.6001.

Thanksgiving Activities

Turkey Scavenger Hunt
WHEN: November 25th – 29th, 2024
TIME: 10:00AM – 5:00PM
LOCATION: Night Heron Park
Oh, no! We’ve lost all of our turkey friends and need your help locating them! Grab your clue sheet from the Night Heron Pool Shop or Nature Center to start your search. Follow the clues and bring back your completed sheet back to us for a special Thanksgiving prize! This event is complimentary and no reservations are required. Don’t forget a pen or pencil!


Turtles’ Nest Art Studio: Open Studio
WHEN: November 25th, 2024
TIME: 9:00AM – 4:00PM
LOCATION: Turtles’ Nest Art Studio
Join us throughout the month for a special holiday mug painting. Our open studio offers an extensive selection of craft options suitable for families, adults and children. Unleash your imagination as you delve into pottery painting, shark tooth and shell necklace making, wood crafts, canvas painting, and much more.
Prices for each project will vary based on your chosen masterpiece(s).
Kiln projects, such as pottery painting, are available for pick up 2-3 days after completion. Shipping is available. No reservations required. For more information, please call our Kiawah Recreation at (843) 768-6001.


Sidewalk Chalk Contest
WHEN: November 25th, 2024
TIME: 1:00PM – 1:45PM
LOCATION: Night Heron Park
Get your Picasso on and join us for a family-friendly Sidewalk Chalk Contest. Each family will have up to 1 hour to draw their most imaginative sidewalk chalk creation, all with a festive Thanksgiving theme based on your creative designs, prizes will be awarded to the top 2 teams. Chalk will be provided. Event is complimentary, no reservations required.


Archery Lesson
WHEN: November 25th, 2024
TIME: 1:30PM – 2:30PM
LOCATION: Night Heron Park
Join us on the archery range to try your skills. Enjoy a staff instructed lesson with various stationary targets and competition games. Great for beginner to intermediate.

$45/person. For ages 8 and up. Participants must be able to confidently pull a 15lb bow string. Reservations required, please call (843) 768-6001. A 24-hour cancellation policy applies. Subject to availability.


Family Craft: Fall Picture Frames
WHEN: November 25th, 2024
TIME: 1:00PM – 3:00PM
LOCATION: Night Heron Park Pavilion
Come join us for a festive holiday week full of fun family crafts that are different each day! Pick out a shark tooth or a shell and add beads to create your own unique necklace! No reservation required.


Escape Box Experience : Low Country Investi ”gator”
WHEN: November 25th, 2024
TIME: 2:30PM – 3:45PM
LOCATION: Night Heron Park Pavilion
If you’re looking for a program you can really sink your teeth into, sign up for our tabletop escape experience! You will be tasked with using fun and factual information about alligators posted around the room to solve a series of clues provided at your team table. Do you have what it takes to chomp down on the solution that will get you into the naturalist’s locked case before the time is up?

$65/family. Minimum of 3 teams, maximum of 6 players per team. Ages 8+ recommended. Advanced reservations required, call (843) 768-6001. 24-hour cancellation policy applies. Schedule subject to change.


Island Idol
WHEN: November 25th, 2024
TIME: 4:00PM – 6:00PM
LOCATION: Night Heron Park Stage
Island Idol is back and ready to hear all the talent Kiawah has to offer. Step onto the Night Heron Park Stage to wow the audience with your favorite songs. This event is complimentary, no reservations required. Scan the QR code on the signs around the park to enter the queue and wait for the DJ to announce your name. Schedule subject to change.


Glass Fusing 101
WHEN: November 25th, 2024
TIME: 5:00PM – 6:00PM
LOCATION: Turtles’ Nest Art Studio
Learn to cut, layer, and design glass pieces to create your artwork. Choose from a wide variety of color options to make a design that is uniquely yours. Class includes a 3×3 tile with upgrade choices available. Precut pieces are available for children.

$40/person. For ages 5+. Children 7 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Reservations required, please call (843) 768-6001. A 24-hour cancellation policy applies. Subject to availability


Turtles’ Nest Art Studio: Open Studio
WHEN: November 26th, 2024
TIME: 9:00AM – 4:00PM
LOCATION: Turtles’ Nest Art Studio
Join us throughout the month for a special holiday mug painting. Our open studio offers an extensive selection of craft options suitable for families, adults and children. Unleash your imagination as you delve into pottery painting, shark tooth and shell necklace making, wood crafts, canvas painting, and much more.

Prices for each project will vary based on your chosen masterpiece(s). Kiln projects, such as pottery painting, are available for pick up 2-3 days after completion. Shipping is available. No reservations required. For more information, please call our Kiawah Recreation at (843) 768-6001.


Duck Derby
WHEN: November 26th, 2024
TIME: 1:00PM – 2:30PM
LOCATION: Night Heron Family Pool
Slide on down to the Night Heron Family Pool for our Thanksgiving-themed Duck Derby. Choose and customize your racer, decorate it in festive Thanksgiving colors and themes, and come up with the most creative name for your duck. Enter the bracket-style tournament to watch them go head-to-head down the water slide.

Entry is complimentary, and no reservations are required. Please note that Kiawah Island Golf Resort Pool usage is exclusive to resort guests and Governor’s Club Members. Join us for a quacking good time this Thanksgiving.


Archery Lesson
WHEN: November 26th, 2024
TIME: 1:30PM – 2:30PM
LOCATION: Night Heron Park
Join us on the archery range to try your skills. Enjoy a staff instructed lesson with various stationary targets and competition games. Great for beginner to intermediate.

$45/person. For ages 8 and up. Participants must be able to confidently pull a 15lb bow string. Reservations required, please call (843) 768-6001. A 24-hour cancellation policy applies. Subject to availability.


Family Craft: Thankful Trees
WHEN: November 26th, 2024
TIME: 1:00PM – 3:00PM
LOCATION: Night Heron Park Pavilion
Join us at the Turtles’ Nest Art Studio to prepare for Thanksgiving by creating a thankful tree to honor everything we are grateful for this holiday season. This is a wonderful activity for families to come together and add what they are thankful for. You’ll also leave with a unique and beautiful Thanksgiving centerpiece or decoration – $30/tree. No reservation required.


Candle Making
WHEN: November 26th, 2024
TIME: 5:00PM – 6:00PM
LOCATION: Turtles’ Nest Art Studio
Our artist will help you step by step in the candle-making process. You can choose from over our 80+ scents, either picking out one scent or combining scents to make it your own. Design your candle label or even decorate your candle jar to make it even more unique to you.

$40/person. For ages 5+. Children 7 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Reservations required, please call (843) 768-6001. A 24-hour cancellation policy applies. Subject to availability


Kids’ Night Out: Sanctuary Splash Bash
WHEN: November 26th, 2024
TIME: 5:00PM – 8:00PM
LOCATION: Sanctuary Indoor Pool
Our Kid’s Night Out programs provide everything needed for an exciting and adventurous experience for our young vacationers and local residents. For kids ages 5 – 12. Dinner is included. Kids, meet us at the Sanctuary Indoor pool for a night full of pizza, pool, and party.


Laser Tag
WHEN: November 26th, 2024
TIME: 5:30PM – 8:30PM
LOCATION: Night Heron Park
Do you have what it takes to compete on the battlefield.? Put your thinking caps on because strategic tactics are consequential. Grab your crew and go head-to-head against others in this fierce match. Aim at the enemy’s targets as you battle through the smoke machines. Hide behind the inflatable bunkers but be careful not to get hit by your opponent’s precise laser beams. Will you be ruled as the Laser Tag Champions, or will you be sent home?

Ages 7+. 2 teams of 10 participants go head to head. Complimentary, no reservations required. For more information, call (843) 768-6001.

Turtles’ Nest Art Studio: Open Studio
WHEN: November 27th, 2024
TIME: 9:00AM – 4:00PM
LOCATION: Turtles’ Nest Art Studio
Join us throughout the month for a special holiday mug painting. Our open studio offers an extensive selection of craft options suitable for families, adults and children. Unleash your imagination as you delve into pottery painting, shark tooth and shell necklace making, wood crafts, canvas painting, and much more.

Prices for each project will vary based on your chosen masterpiece(s).
Kiln projects, such as pottery painting, are available for pick up 2-3 days after completion. Shipping is available. No reservations required. For more information, please call our Kiawah Recreation at (843) 768-6001.


Turkey Shootout
WHEN: November 27th, 2024
TIME: 2:30PM – 4:00PM
LOCATION: Night Heron Park
Join us at the Night Heron Park Soccer field for this friendly archery showdown. Compete against others in your age category (8-12, 13-15, and 16+) to see who can score the highest on our turkey targets. An adult must accompany participants under the age of 16. The competitor with the highest overall score in each age group will take home a prize. Don’t miss out on this exciting event where your aim could win you a turkey-rific reward.

$15/ person. For ages 8+. Reservations, please call (843) 768-6001. A 24-hour cancellation policy applies. Subject to availability.


Fall Craft- Ribbon Fall Wreath Making
WHEN: November 27th, 2024
TIME: 5:00PM – 6:00PM
LOCATION: Turtles’ Nest Art Studio
Fall is still here! Join us at Turtles’ Nest Art Studio to create your own fall wreath using a variety of ribbons and fabrics. $30/wreath. No reservation required. Schedule subject to change.


Mini Golf, Music, and S’more
WHEN: November 27th, 2024
TIME: 5:00PM – 8:00PM
LOCATION: Night Heron Park
Gather around the fire, enjoy live music by Flash Mob, and indulge in a s’more or two. Plus, don’t miss the chance to “par-take” in a family mini golf competition for some friendly fun.This event is complimentary, and no reservations are required. S’more supplies available for purchase until 7:30pm. Schedule subject to change.

Turkey Trot
WHEN: Thanksgiving Day – November 28th, 2024
TIME: 9:30AM – 10:30AM
LOCATION: Sanctuary Beach Access
Start your turkey day with Kiawah’s traditional Turkey Trot, a one-mile walk/run or a 5K mile run/walk on the beach for families, beginners, or competitive runners. Music begins at 9am. The race begins at 9:30am. All participants can Scan the QR code to enter in the raffle to win a Thanksgiving Pie drawing held at 10:15am. 2024 Kiawah Turkey Trot shirts are now available at the Heron Park Nature Center or online, while supplies last. This event is complimentary and no reservations are required.


Yoga on the Beach
WHEN: Thanksgiving Day – November 28th, 2024
TIME: 8:30AM – 9:30AM
LOCATION: Sanctuary Beach Access
Hatha yoga with a blend of slow to moderate pace vinyasa and longer held restorative poses. We work at a beginner to intermediate level and focus on using breath to create body awareness, calm the mind, and build strength and flexibility all while taking in the beauty of the beach. Previous yoga experience is not required.

$25/ person. Ages 13+. Reservations required, call 843.768.6001. Mats are provided, we recommend that you bring water and sunscreen. Subject to availability.


Turtles’ Nest Art Studio: Open Studio
WHEN: Thanksgiving Day – November 28th, 2024
TIME: 9:00AM – 2:00PM
LOCATION: Turtles’ Nest Art Studio
Join throughout the month for a special holiday mug painting. The open studio offers an extensive selection of craft options suitable for families, adults and children. Unleash your imagination as you delve into pottery painting, shark tooth and shell necklace making, wood crafts, canvas painting, and much more.

Prices for each project will vary based on your chosen masterpiece(s).
Kiln projects, such as pottery painting, are available for pick up 2-3 days after completion. Shipping is available. No reservations required. For more information, please call our Kiawah Recreation at (843) 768-6001. Schedule subject to change.


Sand Sculpting Contest
WHEN: Thanksgiving Day – November 28th, 2024
TIME: 10:45AM – 12:15PM
LOCATION: Sanctuary Beach Access
Grab your buckets and shovels, and meet us for a family-friendly competition on the beach. Each family will have one hour to build the most festive Thanksgiving themed sand sculpture. The top three teams will receive prizes.

This event is complimentary and no reservations are required. A limited amount of sand tools will be available for use. Per Kiawah Town Ordinance, metal shovels are not permitted. Schedule subject to change.


Tie Dye T-shirts
WHEN: Thanksgiving Day – November 28th, 2024
TIME: 2:00PM – 3:30PM
LOCATION: Turtles’ Nest Art Studio
Join for a family fun craft. Create a traditional Kiawah logo Tie Dye T-shirt. Choose from any of our bright, rainbow spectrum colors to make your shirt unique.

$20+/shirt. Child and adult sizes available while supplies last. No reservations required. Schedule subject to change.

Thanksgiving Festival

WHEN: Thanksgiving Day – November 28th, 2024
TIME: 12:00PM – 4:00PM
LOCATION: Night Heron Park
After dinner, stop by the park for some fall fun! Enjoy live music, inflatables and southern lawn games. Assorted crafts and concessions available for purchase.

This event is complimentary and no reservations are required. Schedule subject to change.

STAY WITH KIAWAH EXCLUSIVES

You can serve it shaken or stirred when you stay with Kiawah Exclusives! Enjoy your Thanksgiving oceanfront at Beachwalker Park or perhaps poolside overlooking the lush fairways, tranquil lagoons, ancient maritime forests, and natural seclusion Kiawah Island is known for.  

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Best Waterfront Dining at Bohicket Marina


Bohicket Marina is located on the banks of the Bohicket River, and dining al fresco can provide stunning views of the water and surrounding marshlands. The marina is also a great place to watch the boats and wildlife go by. There are several reasons why you might want to consider eating waterfront on Kiawah Island at Bohicket Marina. The island boasts some stunning natural scenery and dining with a view of the water can be a truly unforgettable experience. And, with the Atlantic Ocean right on its doorstep, Kiawah Island is home to some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste.

The island is home to several restaurants that offer waterfront dining options, and many of these establishments serve up delicious cuisine using fresh, local ingredients. Many of the restaurants at Bohicket Marina offer live music on certain nights of the week, and dining al fresco can be a chance to enjoy some great local tunes while enjoying a delicious meal.

In addition to the beautiful views and great fresh food, waterfront dining on Kiawah Island can also be a chance to soak up the island’s laid-back atmosphere and enjoy some quality time with family or friends. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a fun night out with a group, waterfront dining on Kiawah Island can offer something for everyone.

Waterfront Restaurants at Bohicket Marina  

Bohicket Marina is located just a short drive from Kiawah Island’s main attractions, making it a convenient place to stop for a bite to eat while exploring the island. Check out these popular waterfront dining options on Kiawah Island at Bohicket Marina. The waterfront restaurants at Bohicket Marina offer a classic Lowcountry dining experience with award-winning seafood, local live music, and stunning South Carolina sunsets over the marina, creek, and surrounding marshlands. Cap off a trophy catch on a fishing charter from the marina with coastal cuisine, or simply soak up the views with a sunset cocktail – either way, it’s worthy of a stop on your foodie itinerary of Kiawah Island.

Salty Dog Café

Bohicket Marina Market, 1882 Andell Bluff Blvd, Johns Island, SC 
Phone: (843) 952-7335
Open Daily | 11 AM to 10 PM
Daily Happy Hour | 4 PM to 7 PM 
Reservations not required

Lunch | Dinner | Kid Menu 

Experience the breathtaking beauty of a Lowcountry sunset while relaxing on the waterfront lawn or open deck of the world-famous Salty Dog Café at Bohicket Marina. Treat yourself to tantalizing cocktails at the blender bar, enjoy live music during the summer season, and snack on southern-style seafood while the sun sets over the marina. 

Fisher’s Sports Pub & Grill

1883 Andell Bluff Blvd, Johns Island, SC
Phone: (843) 243-0210
Monday – Friday | 11:30 Am to 2 AM
Saturday & Sunday | 12 PM to 2 AM
Weekday Happy Hour | 3:30 PM to 6 PM

Lunch & Dinner Menu

Next door, Fisher’s is your laid-back local sports bar with big screen TVs, pool tables, regular local bands, and a traditional pub menu for a lunch or dinner at Bohicket Marina. The menu features pre-game warm ups like wings and nachos, a starting line up with salads and soups, tournament winner sandwiches and burgers, seafood straight from the docks, and great deals on beer and wine every day of the week.




Many of the restaurants at Bohicket Marina specialize in fresh seafood, which is caught locally and served up daily. Eating al fresco can be a chance to enjoy some of the freshest seafood available while taking in the beautiful surroundings. Bohicket Marina has a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. Dining outdoors during the height of summer can be a chance to enjoy the warm weather and soak up the island vibe. Be sure to check out reviews and menus before making a reservation, as availability and offerings may vary depending on the season.

Ready to plan your dream vacation to Kiawah Island? Start by browsing our luxury rental properties online or, if you’re still undecided on where to stay on Kiawah Island, give our local on-island team a call at (843) 768-0273. 

For an extended stay, check out our selection of monthly Kiawah Island rentals, or if you’ve been dreaming of owning your own Lowcountry retreat on Kiawah Island, our real estate partner Pam Harrington Exclusives can make that dream come true! Just reach out to our team and let us know how we can help plan your experience on Kiawah Island, SC.

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14 Best Local Restaurants On Kiawah Island


Delicious dining and iconic views, what’s not to love? When traveling to Kiawah Island, we know that it’s hard to pick and choose where you’ll want to be dining each day of your trip. Our local foodies guide to South Carolina’s Kiawah Island highlights the best places to grab a bite to eat for every occasion – a quick break from the beach, poolside snacks, fun family feasts, alfresco romance, and special occasions that call for classic Lowcountry luxury. Read on to learn about these 14 local establishments not to miss while vacationing on Kiawah Island.

Restaurants in Night Heron Park

Night Heron Park in East Beach Village is Kiawah Island’s hub of local activity and a haven for families with kids looking to fill their vacation itinerary! The 21-acre nature park features fishing ponds, bike trails, sports facilities, playgrounds, a pool complex, a nature center with eco-tours and activities, an art studio, and casual eateries to take a break and refuel.

1. The Nest Market

Night Heron Park, Kiawah Island Parkway
Phone: (843) 768-2775
Open Daily | 7 AM to 9 PM 
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations not required

Café Dining Menu

Situated in the heart of Night Heron Park, the Nest Market and Café is a grocery store and favorite gathering space for locals and visitors alike. The café offers a selection of sweet and savory baked goods, artisanal coffees, smoothies, made-to-order gourmet sandwiches, and a wide variety of menu items for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Perfect to pick up and go for a beach day or for a lazy lunch on the Lowcountry porch shaded by towering ancient oaks.

2. Night Heron Poolside Grill & Bar

Night Heron Park, Kiawah Island Parkway
Phone: (843) 768-2775
Open Daily | 11 AM to 6 PM 
Outdoor Seating – Weather Permitting
Reservations not required

Grill Menu | Children | Beverage

Open only in high season, the Poolside Grill & Bar at Night Heron Park is another top choice for families to enjoy a casual lunch or dinner. Relax around the pool and enjoy everything from specialty wraps, sandwiches, salads, and snack baskets to local seafood fresh from the Lowcountry waterways. And, it’s always happy hour at the beverage bar!




3. Mingo Point Oyster Roast & BBQ



The Mingo Point Oyster Roast & BBQ is not only Kiawah Island’s top foodie experience, it’s the island’s longest-standing tradition and a Lowcountry lifestyle experience that’ll leave lasting memories for the whole family! Situated on the banks of the Kiawah River (another insta-worthy sunset spot!), this local event will satisfy every southern craving from classic BBQ and roasted oysters to live music and dancing under the stars. The Mingo Point experience takes place every Monday evening all through summer and over most major holidays like Easter, Memorial Weekend, and Labor Day Weekend.

LOCATION:
Mingo Point, 876 Kiawah Island Parkway 

DATE:
Monday – Memorial Day to Labor Day

TWO SEATINGS:
5 PM to 7 PM and 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM

ADMISSION:
Adults – $59.99 / person
Age 4-12 – $29.99 / person
Age 3 & Under – FREE

2024 MINGO POINT DATES:
May 25th
June 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th
July 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th
August 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th, 31st

Reserve your Mingo Point tickets HERE!

NEW for 2024:
Each Mingo Point date includes two seatings for guests to choose from when purchasing tickets: 5:00pm – 7:00pm and 7:30pm – 9:30pm.

  • No walk up ticket purchases will be allowed or honored
  • Limited capacity is available for each seating – once a seating is sold out, that date or time will no longer be available to book online.
  • Tickets must be purchased by 9am the day of the event
  • All attendees must have a ticket regardless of age
  • There are no physical tickets, you will be emailed a receipt as your confirmation
  • All purchases are final – no refunds will be issued in the event of inclement weather.



Local Restaurants in Freshfields Village  

Freshfields Village is a charming open-air village situated only a short drive or bike ride from Kiawah Island.  Here you’ll find a wide selection of local services along with home-grown shops, spas, coffee shops, cafés, and restaurants for every food lover. Order to go for a picnic and live music on the Village Green, attend a wine tasting or culinary event, or shop for local produce at the weekly farmers market for a Lowcountry-style family feast at home.  

4. Café Eugenia

209 Farm Lake View, Kiawah Island, SC 
Phone: (843) 974-3869
Tuesday – Sunday | 8 AM to 6 PM 
Gluten-Free Options
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations not required

Breakfast, Lunch & Charcuterie Boards

Café Eugenia is a charming Mediterranean style eatery with an enticing selection of all day breakfasts, lunch sandwiches and wraps, seasonal charcuterie boards in three sizes, delicious dessert boards, and wines by the glass or bottle to pair. Contact them for catering or take home meals for your stay on Kiawah Island.

5. Cantina 76

219 Farm Lake View, Kiawah Island, SC 
Phone: (843) 737-4607
Sunday, Monday, Thursday | 11:30 AM to 9 PM
Friday & Saturday | 11:30 AM to 10 PM
Happy Hour | Sep 3 – Mar 31 | Monday – Friday 4 PM to 7 PM
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations not required

Cantina 76 Menu

Cantina 76 is an award-winning taqueria and bar renowned for its relaxed and lively atmosphere,  imaginative Mexican-inspired cuisine, and the best handcrafted margaritas and mimosas in town – by the glass or pitcher! Over 21s can find a spot at the bar for happy hour and the football game, the indoor dining area is perfect for families, or find a table on the pet-friendly patio overlooking Andell Lake. 

6. The Co-Op Frosé & Eatery

109 Gardners Circle, Johns Island, SC 
Phone: (843) 718-2403
Open Daily | 8 AM to 6 PM 
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations not required

Co-Op Frose Menu

For a casual breakfast, gourmet lunch sandwich, quick PB&J for the kids, or famous Charleston frosé, head to The Co-Op Frosé & Eatery.  The Co Op is more than an eatery, its a Lowcountry brand and lifestyle with locations on Sullivan’s Island, the Isle of Palms, and now in Freshfields Village! This vibey island eatery has indoor seating and a pet-friendly patio for your pup.

7. Hege’s Restaurant

275 Gardners Circle, Johns Island, SC 
Phone: (843) 768-0035
Tuesday – Saturday | 5 PM to 8:30 PM – Friday 9 PM
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations essential

Dinner Menu | Wine List | Catering Menu

Hege’s Restaurant is an inviting chef-owned French Bistro that’s always a favorite for casual fine dining in Freshfields Village. Savor classic French cuisine with fresh farm to table Lowcountry fusions and a wide selection of top shelf spirits, handcrafted cocktails, and wines and beers from around the globe. Dine indoors or in the cozy outdoor courtyard – well behaved pets welcome.  

8. FortyEight Wine Bar & Kitchen

547 Freshfields Dr, Kiawah Island, SC 
Phone: (843) 768-2245
Open Daily | 11 AM to 9:30 PM – Opens 12 PM on Sunday
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations recommended

Food & Drink Menu 

At Freshfields Village, FortyEight Wine Bar & Kitchen is a stand out for its exceptional selection of wines, along with 48 varieties of craft beers and an impressive range of cocktails. A unique Wine Station Smart Card system allows guests to effortlessly indulge in tastings of 48 rotating wines with small plates and charcuterie platters that perfectly complement the wine tasting experience. FortyEight Wine Bar offers wine tasting and dining packages and hosts fabulous wine events throughout the year.

9. Fuji Sushi Bar & Grill

205 Farm Lake View, Kiawah Island, SC 
Phone: (843) 996-4898
Open Daily | 11 AM to 10 PM 
Daily Happy Hour | 4 PM to 7 PM
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations recommended

Fuji Freshfields Menu

Whether you’re in the mood for something familiar or want to try something new, Fuji Sushi Bar & Grill has something for everyone. Choose from traditional sushi rolls, hibachi entrees, and sake, or sample creative Asian fusion dishes paired with an ice cold beer or chardonnay. Fuji Freshfields has a full-service bar area, indoor seating, and a pet-friendly patio for outdoor dining.



10. Java Java

375 Gardners Circle, Johns Island, SC 
Phone: (843) 243-0222
Open Daily | 7 AM to 3 PM
Reservations not required

Coffee, Smoothies, Breakfast & Lunch Menu

Java Java is your local Kiawah Island coffee shop with award winning King Bean coffees, seasonal fruit smoothies, delicious sweet and savory breakfasts, and light lunches made to order. Grab a morning coffee to sip on Freshfields grass patio furniture or browse the cool cars at the monthly Cars & Coffee, or start you day with breakfast and people watching on the patio. 

11. King Street Grille

679 Freshfields Village Dr, Kiawah Island, SC 
Phone: (843) 768-5444
Open Daily | 11 AM to 10 PM
Daily Happy Hour | 4 PM to 7 PM 
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations not required

Food Menu | Drinks & Beers 

One of the best sports bars in Charleston is right here in Freshfields Village! King Street Grille is a casual spot for lunch or dinner with a lively, laid back atmosphere, big screen TVs to catch the game, daily happy hour (for three hours!) and great food! The extensive menu features elevated pub fare all made from scratch, classic kids meals, decadent desserts, and signature cocktails, spicy and sweet.

12. La Tela Pizzeria

133 Village Green Lane, Kiawah Island, SC
Phone: (843) 768-1951
Tuesday – Thursday | 5 PM to 10 PM 
Friday & Saturday | 11 AM to 3 PM
Reservations not required

Pizzeria Menu

For an all Italian affair, La Tela Pizzeria is unbeatable! This traditional family-run Italian eatery serves Neopolitan style wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas, delicious Italian ice creams and desserts, espresso, and fantastic local and Italian vinos. La Tela is great for a lazy lunch after shopping, a relaxed family dinner, or a romantic date night on the cozy outdoor patio.

13. The Porch Bar

300 Farm Lake View Rd, Kiawah Island 
Phone: (843) 793-6050
Open Daily | 4 PM to Close
Live Jazz | Thursday 6 PM to 8 PM
Reservations not required

Seasonal Porch Bar Menu

Every Thursday evening you’ll find a bevy of locals and tourists listening to the soothing sounds of jazz at the Porch Bar overlooking the lake in Freshfields Village. Sip on a Kiawah Sparkler or Seabrook Manhattan while snacking on light fare like cheeses, sliders, and fresh gourmet flatbreads while enjoying tranquil Lowcountry views and live music. 

14. Vincent’s Drug Store & Soda Fountain

110 Planted Row Lane, Johns Island, SC
Phone: (843) 243-0007
Monday – Friday | 9 AM to 6:30 PM
Saturday | 9 AM to 2 PM

Vincent’s Soda Fountain Menu

Take a trip down memory lane with PB&Js, burgers, chili dogs, banana splits, soda floats, and vacation sundaes on swivel stools or tucked in an old fashioned booth at Vincent’s Soda Fountain. Whether you’re shopping the village or farmers market, attending a local event, or making a pit stop on a bike ride from Kiawah Island, a stop by Vincent’s Soda Fountain is a slice of nostalgia you don’t want to miss.  



STAY with Kiawah Exclusives

Put your personal spin on Lowcountry cooking from the comfort of a Kiawah Exclusives vacation home. Whether you’re dreaming of dining with golf course views or surrounded by the sights and sounds of the ocean, you’ll find the gourmet chef’s kitchen of your dreams with indoor and outdoor entertainment areas for Lowcountry boils, backyard BBQs, and classic South Carolina cuisine from the comfort of home!   

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Best Hotel & Resort Restaurants On Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is a luxury destination with miles of beautiful Atlantic beaches, wild untouched nature preserves, world-famous golf courses, and some of the best food in South Carolina’s Lowcountry region. Only a stone’s throw from the vibrant culinary scene of Charleston, Kiawah Island boasts everything from hotel island-style dining in flip flops and tees and traditional resort oyster roasts, to fine dining with a contemporary spin on southern cuisine.  Check out this list of our favorite establishments within resorts and hotels that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters in your group!

Restaurants at The Sanctuary Hotel 

Whether you’re sipping a fresh fruit smoothie or fine dining on freshly shucked oysters, the ultimate Lowcountry dining experience awaits at the award-winning oceanfront Sanctuary Hotel at Kiawah Island Golf Resort. Situated in East Beach Village, the Sanctuary Hotel boasts unobstructed ocean views, refined southern hospitality, and a selection of eateries to whet the appetite of every food lover!

The Ocean Room

The Sanctuary Hotel 
Phone: (843) 683-1234
Tuesday – Saturday | 5:30 PM to 9 PM
Reservations required

Dinner | Beverage

The Forbes Five-Star rated Ocean Room is Kiawah Island’s premier steakhouse with unmatched elegance, an ever-changing menu of exceptional cuisine, an extensive wine list, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Ocean Room dress code calls for collared shirts, tailored pants, and cocktail attire for the ladies. The full dinner menu and seasonal cocktails are also served in the relaxing Ocean Room Lounge.

The Lobby Bar

The Sanctuary Hotel 
Phone: (843) 768-6301
Open Daily | 2 PM to 11 PM
Indoor & Outdoor Seating 
Live Piano Music | Friday & Saturday 7 PM to 10 PM
Reservations not required

Lobby Bar Menu

The Sanctuary’s Lobby Bar boasts beautiful views of the lush lawns and the Atlantic Ocean with an intimate and relaxing atmosphere for pre-dinner drinks or a light Lowcountry meal paired with a signature cocktail, fine wines, or a nightcap.   


Jasmine Porch

The Sanctuary Hotel 
Phone: (843) 683-1234
Daily for Breakfast | 6:30 AM to 11 AM
Daily for Lunch | 11:30 AM to 2 PM 
Daily for Dinner | 5:30 PM to 9 PM 
Indoor & Limited Patio Seating
Reservations required for Sunday brunch and dinner service

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner | Dessert | Beverage 

The Jasmine Porch has a more casual atmosphere accepting walk-ins for breakfast and lunch with reservations required for Sunday brunches and dinner. Famous for its rustic charm, warm southern hospitality, and down-home Lowcountry cuisine, the Jasmine Porch is perfect for a quick bite or a hearty home-cooked meal, with great options for the kids too!

Loggerhead Grill

The Sanctuary Hotel 
Phone: (843) 768-6287
Open Mid-May to November
Daily Food Service | 11 AM to 3 PM
Daily Bar Service | 11 AM to 5 PM 
Reservations not required

Dining Menu | Bar 

The Loggerhead Grill is a casual poolside restaurant open seasonally from mid-May to November. Enjoy laid-back island vibes with views of the Atlantic and an enticing menu of cocktails, beverages, and lite bites ranging from tropical tacos and poke bowls to gourmet sandwiches and burgers.


Beaches & Cream

The Sanctuary Hotel 
Phone: (843) 768-6276
Open Daily | 11 AM to 8 PM

No time for a sit-down breakfast or lunch? Stop by Beaches & Cream for an express breakfast or lunch to go, Wolly Cow natural ice cream, and homemade candies for the kids. Options include a range of gourmet coffees, specialty lemonades and sodas, breakfast bagels, fresh sandwiches, gourmet paninis, and all things ice cream!


Kiawah Island Golf Resort Restaurants

If you’re spending time on Kiawah Island’s award-winning golf courses or simply chasing the best sunsets on the island, there’s a tempting variety of clubhouse restaurants and bars to add to your list of Lowcountry dining experiences. From 19th-hole libations for golfers to the finest seafood in the South Carolina sea islands, Kiawah’s golf course restaurants exude Lowcountry elegance and breathtaking views of lush green fairways and glistening blue oceans. 

The Ryder Cup Bar

Ocean Course Clubhouse, 1000 Ocean Course Dr.
Phone: (843) 266-4085
Daily Lunch & Dinner | 11 AM to 9 PM
Indoor & Outdoor Seating 
Reservations not required

Lunch & Dinner | Children | Beverage

Overlooking the 18th green of the Ocean Course with views beyond to the Atlantic, the Ryder Cup Bar is the hotspot for 19th-hole libations and chasing sunsets! The Ryder Cup Bar has indoor and covered veranda seating with a casual atmosphere and a modern pub menu featuring southern-style classics like fried green tomatoes and grits. With the best sunset view on Kiawah Island, your drinks are sure to extend to dinner – either at the Ryder Cup Bar or Atlantic Room.

The Atlantic Room

Ocean Course Clubhouse, 1000 Ocean Course Dr.
Phone: (843) 266-4085
Daily Dinner | 5:30 PM to 9 PM
Indoor Seating Only
Reservations required

Dinner | Children | Dessert | Beverage

Open daily for dinner reservations, the Atlantic Room at the Ocean Course Clubhouse is Kiawah Island’s signature seafood restaurant. Expect breathtaking ocean views and a fine dining experience where resort casual attire is completely acceptable! The modern menu features a selection of seasonal seafood dishes, steaks, and southern sides, a children’s menu for little fingers, and an extensive wine list to perfectly pair your meal.

Tomasso at Turtle Point

Turtle Point Clubhouse, 1 Turtle Point Lane
Phone: (843) 266-4070
Daily Lunch & Dinner | 11:30 AM to 9 PM
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations required for dinner

Lunch | Dinner | Children | Dessert | Beverage | To-Go

Situated just beyond the 18th green of the Turtle Point Golf Course in East Beach Village, Tomasso at Turtle Point is a family-style Italian eatery worthy of all foodie lists. Open for lunch and dinner, the space has an old-world ambiance with an inviting bar area, table seating, and an outdoor patio in season. From the pizza dough and pastas to the specialty sauces and breads, everything is hand-made fresh daily.  

The Players Pub

Cougar Point Clubhouse, 12 Kiawah Beach Drive
Phone: (843) 768-2771
Daily Lunch & Dinner | 11:30 AM to 9 PM
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations recommended for dinner

Lunch | Dinner | Children | Dessert | To-Go

The Players Pub at the Cougar Point Clubhouse in West Beach is family-friendly with an inviting atmosphere for a golf lunch, family dinner, or to catch your favorite sports team (or golfer!) on the big screen TVs. The extensive menu features everything from kids’ meals, small bites, and pub classics to Lowcountry entrées and delicious desserts. Indoor and patio seating are available and reservations are recommended for dinner.

Cherrywood BBQ & Ale House

Osprey Point Clubhouse, 700 Governors Dr, Kiawah Island 
Phone: (843) 266-4636
Daily Lunch & Dinner | 11:30 AM to 9 PM
Indoor & Outdoor Seating
Reservations recommended for dinner

Lunch | Dinner | Children | Dessert | Beverage | To-Go

The Cherrywood BBQ & Ale House at the Osprey Point Clubhouse is known as a top stop on the South Carolina BBQ Trail and is a must for an authentic Southern BBQ experience. Indulge in meats smoked over hardwood, mouthwatering marinades, and award-winning SC four cheese macaroni while sipping on craft beers, cocktails, and cool drinks. It’s a tasty destination for foodies in a superb setting overlooking the ponds and Osprey’s famous alligators. Open for lunch and dinner, reservations are required for parties of 8 or more.   




Vacation Homes & Villas

Wherever you choose to stay on Kiawah Island, you’re likely to find a delicious spot a short walk or bike ride away. Our exclusive collection of 110+ vacation rentals include luxury homes near the bars & restaurants and nightlife on the island, private cottages, and lagoon front villas.

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Where To Kayak On Kiawah Island?



Kick off the summer season enjoying the outdoors and kayaking around Kiawah Island! Kiawah Island encompasses 10,000 acres of diverse and untouched landscapes nestled between the Atlantic coastline and the wild Kiawah River, with miles of interwoven interior waterways winding through the unique ecosystems found on the island. The perfect playground for wild and scenic Lowcountry watersports and paddle adventures. 

It’s true, Kiawah Island has beautiful beaches, world-class golf courses, miles of nature and bike trails for birdwatching and wildlife viewing, and observation towers with panoramic views over the island. But some of the most scenic spots on Kiawah are accessible only on a coastal expedition of our local waterways. So, the very best way to get a different view and see everything from a new perspective is to get out on the water on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard.

Whether you’re planning a solitary SUP paddle at sunset or searching for a local kayak or SUP tour with a naturalist guide to lead the way, here’s our guide to kayak & SUP tour and rental options on Kiawah Island. 


Kiawah Island Kayak & SUP Tours & Rental Options 


On Kiawah Island, you’re kayaking with the tides so understanding how the tides will affect your trip is essential. With as much as a three-foot difference in water levels, the ebb and flow of the tides on Kiawah Island can be tricky – one of the reasons we suggest taking a tour with a local guide! Other bonuses – Kiawah’s local naturalist guides are passionate professionals with an intimate knowledge of the history, wildlife, and diverse ecosystems of the South Carolina sea islands to top off your sightseeing with epic stories!


1. Heron Park Nature Center

Launch Point: Mingo Point
Phone: (843) 768-6001

Heron Park Nature Center is the heart of Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s nature program with activities and experiences for every age and adventure level. Nature Program paddling tours launch on the scenic Kiawah River from Mingo Point in West Beach. Tour options include single and tandem marsh kayaking, family favorites like the Pluff Mud Paddle and Tidal Trip and Dip, teen kayaking adventures, or a romantic tandem adult twilight paddle into the sunset. For solo adventures, gear rentals are available by reservation for single kayaks, double kayaks, and marsh and ocean stand-up paddleboards. Of course, you’ll want to end your Kiawah River paddle at a famous Mingo Point Oyster Roast on the river banks with a classic Lowcountry feast of note, live music, family fun, and one of the best sunset views on Kiawah Island.

2. Tidal Trails

Launch Point: Kiawah River Bridge
Phone: (843) 768-5680

Let the experienced guides at Tidal Trails take you on a “nature walk on water” around Kiawah Island by kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Guided tours include 2-hour scenic kayak safaris through the saltwater creeks, a fun, low-tide Pluff Mud Paddle and Plunge for the kids, SUP tours including lessons, personalizedpaddle experiences, or boat cruises perfect for sunsets and cocktails. Experience is required for rentals with half-day or weekly rental options for single and double kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and surf kayaks for Atlantic Ocean playtime!

3. Water Dog Paddle Co.

Launch Point: Kiawah River Bridge
Phone: (843) 593-7877

The Kiawah River is fondly known as “Dolphin Highway” so a signature dolphin paddle experience is essential during your stay on Kiawah Island! Water Dog Paddle Co.’s guided kayak and stand-up paddleboard eco-tours launch from the Kiawah Island bridge and are geared to all ages andadventure levels –  with a photo album of your experience included! The VIP tour option ensures the tour is exclusive to your group and is led by Water Dog’s lead guide, an island native and “nature nerd” raised on Cap’n Sams Creek! You can even paddle with your pup! Kayak and SUP rentals are also available from their location at Bohicket Marina.

4. St Johns Kayaks & Boat Tours

Johns Island
Phone: (843) 330-9777

St Johns kayak tours offer another perspective of the Lowcountry landscapes from the waters of Bohicket Creek. Reserve a single kayak, double kayak, or stand-up paddleboard rental for unlimited use (yes, no time limit!) on the Lowcountry waterways, or get up close and personal on a guided eco-tour of Bohicket Creek, on kayak or SUP. St Johns Bohicket Creek boat tours include dolphin encounters, shelling expeditions, crabbing tours, fishing charters, sunset cruises, and private oyster tours coming in 2023! 

5. Charleston Paddle Company

Charleston Harbor
Phone: (843) 452-4833

The Charleston Paddle Company offers a wide variety of paddle board and kayak tours locally from the Kiawah Island Bridge, but what about a bucket-list paddle tour of Charleston Harbor? Take in Charleston’s famous and historic attractions from the water as you paddle past national monuments and landmarks, colorful waterside parks, and breathtaking undisturbed views of this stunning city, continually ranked the #1 City in the US! For kayak or paddleboard rental to adventure alone, Charleston Paddle Company will deliver watersports gear to your Kiawah Island vacation rental and pick it up for free.


Kiawah Island Public Launch Sites 


If you’re a pro with tidal influences and have the skill and confidence to paddle our Lowcountry waterways on a solo adventure, there are a few boat ramps and launch sites on Kiawah Island open to the public.

1. Vanderhorst Plantation

There are three Kiawah Island kayak launch points through the second sets of security gates in Vanderhorst Plantation: Rhett’s Bluff private boat landing by Bass Pond, Eagle Point Landing, and the exceptionally scenic Cinder Creek kayak launch on Bass Creek. From Cinder Creek, you can paddle the secluded creeks west through the interior of the island or head out on Bass Creek to meet the Stono and Kiawah Rivers. 

2. Mingo Point

Situated on the west end of the island, Mingo Point is the departing point for Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s Nature Program tours and is also Kiawah’s most popular launching point for self-guided paddle adventures by kayak or SUP.  Paddle the Kiawah River to witness dolphins strand feeding at Captain Sams Inlet, venture the creeks through Seabrook Island, or cast a line for some of the best kayak fishing in the Lowcountry. There is ample public parking, and a pass is required to launch at Mingo Point. The current 2023 fee is $5 per day or $25 per week, per kayak, and passes may be purchased on-site or at the Heron Park Nature Center. Please note, Mingo Point is only open seasonally so plan your adventures accordingly.   

3. Inlet Cove Cottages

Situated on the banks of the Kiawah River just south of Mingo Point, Inlet Cove is a private enclave of quaint cottages with classic coastal charm, luxurious interiors, a secluded walkway down to the beach, a sparkling Olympic size swimming pool (open April to October), a riverfront deck, and a private deepwater dock to launch your fishing, SUP, or kayak adventures from home. A perfect destination for paddle adventures from home!

Whether you’re learning to fish, on a family fishing vacation, or an expert angler looking for a challenge, nothing beats fishing with a local expert on Kiawah Island. Kiawah Island’s guided fishing charters and boat tours are run by tournament winning captains with years of experience fishing the Lowcountry waters and knowledge of the best secret fishing spots on Kiawah. 

From inshore fishing charters and epic shark fishing in the channels and creeks to full day deep sea adventures on the offshore sandbars, wrecks and artificial reefs, the ultimate fishing experience awaits on Kiawah Island. Search our Exclusives Guide to find a fishing charter to match your level of adventure!

VACATION HOMES & VILLAS WITH WATER ACCESS

Wherever you choose to stay on Kiawah Island, you’re likely to find a kayaking spot a short walk or drive away. Our exclusive collection of 110+ vacation rentals include luxury homes near the ponds in Vanderhorst, private cottages on the Kiawah River, and lagoon front villas where you can have water access without leaving your home.

INLET COVE COTTAGES

2-3 Bedroom Cottages

Inlet Cove Cottages are nestled in the trees on the banks of the Kiawah River and offer an idyllic retreat for water lovers with great amenities for a fishing vacation. Inlet Cove features a private deep water dock for fishing, an Olympic size swimming pool with an elevated sun deck for sunbathing and dolphin spotting, and a secluded walkway to Beachwalker Park. A perfect location for both SUP & kayaking on Kiawah.


However you choose to spend your days on Kiawah Island, our local experts are happy to assist throughout your vacation planning process – from finding a Kiawah Island rental to suit your needs to local tips and recommendations to elevate your experience! Your Kiawah Island experience is only a click, or call away!   

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Why Choose Kiawah Island For Your Summer Vacation?

Summer is just around the corner, and now is the perfect time to start planning your beach getaway vacation! This year, why not escape to South Carolina’s charming coastal town of Kiawah Island? This place is magical! Imagine sandy toes and ocean waves, coastal breezes on the fairways, eco-friendly nature experiences, al fresco dining with ocean views, and exclusive vacation rentals that allow you to be completely immersed in the laid-back and luxurious Lowcountry lifestyle. 

Kiawah Island offers a unique and timeless vacation experience that is perfect for families and friends seeking a summer vacation filled with old-fashioned fun, nature inspired adventure, and treasured memories that will last a lifetime. Think back to the bygone days of family bike rides through the streets, shopping for groceries at farmers’ markets, long lazy beach days, and quality family time without the distractions of modern living.  

You can have it all this summer on Kiawah Island! Our team at Kiawah Exclusives has put together the top tips to plan, prepare and experience the best of Kiawah Island for this summer. 

Getting to Kiawah Island

Located just 30 miles south of historic Charleston, Kiawah Island is a convenient destination for an island escape close to home! Many major airlines, including American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Frontier Airlines, United Airlines, JetBlue, Delta, and Silver Airways offer daily non-stop flights to Charleston International Airport (CHS) or the Charleston Executive Airport (JZI) is the best option for travelers arriving by chartered flights. If you’re flying in, reserve your rental cars well in advance or arrange airport transportation to Kiawah Island with Island Transportation or Charleston Limousine & Shuttle Service. 

The Best Time to Visit Kiawah

Kiawah Island is the perfect vacation destination in any season of the year. An ideal warm weather destination to escape to from the winter cold, sunny skies and fewer crowds in the spring and fall, and one of the best locations for a beachy summer escape.

Summer is by far the most popular season on Kiawah Island, golf time slots start to fill up, restaurant reservations start to stack up, and the best vacation rentals get scooped up months in advance. Kiawah Exclusives is a great resource to start planning your summer vacation, and find you the beach home of your dreams.

Kiawah Island Neighborhoods

Start your summer vacation planning by finding the condo, cottage, villa, or private oceanfront home of your dreams on Kiawah Island. Kiawah Island is divided into three neighborhoods: West Beach Village, East Beach Village, and Vanderhorst Plantation. 

Each neighborhood boasts its own unique charm, resort amenities, and selection of luxury Kiawah Exclusives vacation rentals for a stylish summer soiree with friends and family, all highlighted in our Guide to the Neighborhoods of Kiawah Island. 

Exploring Kiawah Island

For the best experience of Kiawah Island, park your car and rent a bike to explore the island. Over 30 miles of scenic and shaded bike paths connect all the Kiawah neighborhoods with trails to the golf courses, nature activities at Night Heron Park, easy beach access, and all the way to Freshfields Village and Bohicket Marina & Market. 

You can literally bike everywhere and the experience of cruising the magnolia-lined streets lined with gorgeous architecture, the 10-mile shoreline, or heading off-the-beaten-path on Kiawah, is unbeatable! Surfscooter Bike Rentals have all the bike gear you need, delivered to your rental home, with a 5% discount for Kiawah Exclusives guests!   

Beach Days

A summer vacation on Kiawah is all about the beach! Kiawah’s Beachwalker Park is ranked one of the best and most beautiful beaches in the US and remains uncrowded, even in the high season. If beach days are #1 on your summer vacation itinerary, our guide to Kiawah Beachwalker Park has all the tips for a stress-free beach day and our oceanfront vacation rentals put you steps from the Atlantic shoreline. Check out this LIVE WEB CAM for current beach conditions on Kiawah Island!

PGA Golf

One of the top draws to Kiawah Island is the choice of five world-class golf courses at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, including the highly-acclaimed PGA Ocean Course. Kiawah is ranked one of the top golf destinations in the world and provides a true test of golf for players of all skill levels with breathtaking views sure to distract your eye from the ball.

Tennis & Pickleball

Or how about a round of tennis or pickleball under the shade of Kiawah’s towering palmettos? Kiawah Island is ranked the #1 Tennis Resort in the World! The expansive Roy Barth Tennis Center features 22 courts for tennis and pickleball, award-winning instruction for the whole family, and a stunning setting only steps from The Sanctuary Hotel. 

Outdoor & Nature Activities

A summer vacation on Kiawah Island means trading amusement parks and arcades for classic Lowcountry eco-adventures in the great outdoors. Night Heron Park is the epicenter for outdoor fun and nature activities with an endless list of guided eco-tours for every interest and age! From birding, biking, and night beach walks, to kayaking, canoeing, SUPing, and family fishing charters, this is the best way to experience the local wildlife and beauty of Kiawah Island. Take a peek at all Night Heron Park events and activities here!  

Indoor Activities

If you need a break from the sun or a rainy day activity on Kiawah Island, there are lots of options. Take a stroll through the shops and gallery at The Sanctuary, book an indulgent treatment at the Sanctuary Spa, try out a new restaurant, or take a scenic drive to tour the aquarium and museums in historic Charleston. View our Kiawah Exclusives Guide for local recommendations.

Kiawah Island Summer Camps for Kids

Kids love Kiawah Island! Kiawah Island’s unique kids’ programs, including Kamp Kiawah (ages 3-7), Camp Xtreme (ages 8-15), and Adventure Camp (ages 8-15), are nothing short of outstanding! Located in Night Heron Park, these summer camps allow the kids to explore the island’s natural beauty, learn about the local wildlife, go on scavenger hunts, play sports, participate in team-building games, paddle the waterways, or even learn to surf! The summer Kid’s Night Out programs (ages 5-12) mean you even get a night (or two!) out on the town while the kids dive into an evening of fun at a pool party!  

Summer Events & Festivals

Summer is a fun and festive season on Kiawah Island! Stroll the farmers’ markets, enjoy free live music every Saturday on the Grand Lawn of the Sanctuary Hotel, reserve a spot for the famous Mingo Point Oyster Roast and BBQ, or hop on your bike and head to Freshfields Village. Freshfields Village hosts Music on the Green every Friday, a Lowcountry farmer’s market, car shows, spirit tastings, wine dinners, and so much more throughout the summer months.

Where to Shop, Eat & Drink

Indulging in classic Lowcountry cuisine is a must-do on Kiawah Island! The Kiawah Dining Collection at Kiawah Island Golf Resort offers a diverse selection of restaurants and bars ranging from casual cafes at Night Heron Park and West Beach Village to spectacular golf course restaurants and Forbes Four-Star dining at The Sanctuary Hotel. You’re also only a quick drive or bike ride from the open-air market at Freshfields Village where you can shop, drink, dine, and dance till you drop with picture-perfect sunsets, southern hospitality, and Lowcountry charm. 

Now you have an idea of how to fill your summer days on Kiawah Island, it’s time to find a home away from home that meets the needs of you and your travel companions. Escape to Kiawah Island with our team at Kiawah Exclusives – we’ve been locally operated since 1978, represent an exclusive collection of 100+ of the finest rentals on Kiawah, and will leave you with something to look forward to.

Book direct online or call our reservation team today at (843) 768-0273 to match you with the Kiawah summer home of your dreams

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Best Ways To Explore Nature On Kiawah Island 

Kiawah Island is a beautifully preserved nature sanctuary and vacation paradise renowned for its timeless beauty, abundant wildlife, and eco-friendly resort amenities and activities that take luxury to another level. 

It’s easy to get your nature fix on Kiawah Island! The quiet picturesque streets are lined with towering live oaks and the small barrier island encompasses 5,000 acres of marshlands, 300+ acres of lakes and ponds, and 10 miles of secluded natural beaches with glistening ocean waters. 

Kiawah Island is a natural year-round playground for Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, a nesting site for Loggerhead sea turtles, and a critical habitat for 20+ species of mammals, 250+ species of birds, 40+ species of reptiles, and thousands of invertebrates. On Kiawah Island, you’re naturally immersed in nature and wildlife at every turn! 

Heron Park Nature Center

One of the best places to get your nature fix on Kiawah Island is at Night Heron Park, nestled in the heart of the island near the legendary Sanctuary Hotel in East Beach Village. This 21-acre nature park has it all – swimming pools, open sports fields, fishing ponds, disc golf, playgrounds, nature trails, restaurants, and an amazing Nature Center with interactive displays and exhibits and outdoor activities for the whole family – with their own age group, or together as a family. 

Nature Tours & Programs

The seemingly endless variety of local-led nature tours & programs available at the Heron Park Nature Center sets Kiawah Island apart as one of the best eco-friendly destinations on the east coast. Explore the island’s diverse untouched habitats with a naturalist or island biologist, learn about the unique ecosystems and rich Native American history of the island, and get up close and personal with the wide array of local wildlife that calls beautiful Kiawah Island home. 

Outdoor exploration on Kiawah Island begins at the Night Heron Park Nature Center, open daily year-round from 8:30 AM to 5 PM. Here’s a glimpse of the Nature Tours & Programs on offer at Kiawah Island’s Heron Park Nature Center: 

  • Archery Lessons
  • Alligator Adventures
  • Birdwatching & Butterfly Walks
  • Wildlife Wetland Tours
  • Night Beach Walks
  • Junior Naturalist Programs
  • Kayaking Tours & Rentals
  • Shark Fishing
  • Inshore, Coastal & Reef Fishing Charters
  • Dolphin Encounters
  • Bike Tours
  • SUP Tours, Lessons & Rentals
  • Teen Adventures
  • Sunset Cruises
  • Shelling Expeditions
  • Crafts, Arts & Photography
  • Surf Lessons
  • Yoga & Fitness Classes 

Kamp Kiawah

Kiawah Island’s kids’ camps are sure to steer the kids away from screen time or boredom! There are three unique camps to choose from: Kamp Kiawah for kids ages 3-7, Camp Xtreme for kids ages 8-13, and Adventure Camp for kids ages 8-15. Each camp offers nature-inspired activities geared to the specific age group with team-building events, sports, arts & crafts, and so much more! If you fancy a romantic spa session at The Sanctuary or a night of fine dining, Kid’s Night Out (ages 5-12) offers a night of fun for the kids. 

Our Night Heron Park Cottages and Parkside Villas are located right next to Night Heron Park for nature lovers to stay close to all the action, activities, and seasonal events. 

Naturally Kiawah Pathways Self-Guided Tours

Pack your comfy walking shoes, rent a kayak, or take advantage of our discounted family deals with Surfscoter Bike Rentals to take a self-guided Naturally Kiawah Pathways tour of the island. It’s simple – download the free TravelStorys App and pick from one of seven GPS-activated tours including Kiawah Paddling, Beach Scavenger Hunt, Kiawahs’ Ponds: A Wildlife Wonderland, Central Kiawah Island, Eastern Kiawah Island, Kiawah Photography, and a tour of The Preserve. 

You can also use the app to take a virtual tour of Kiawah Island’s diverse habitats, wildlife, and history from the comfort of your rental home. 

Kiawah Island Turtle Patrol

Witness the miracle of nature in action during sea turtle nesting season on Kiawah Island! The efforts to preserve the natural beauty of Kiawah Island and protect our wildlife are ongoing and there are many opportunities to get involved. From May to October, the award-winning beaches on Kiawah are a nesting site for endangered Loggerhead sea turtles and are patrolled daily by a team of loyal volunteers at Kiawah Island Turtle Patrol. 

Nesting begins on Kiawah around the middle of May and by July, the tiny turtles are hatching and making their first tracks to the Atlantic ocean waters. Stay oceanfront on Kiawah for first sightings, or join the Turtle Patrol on a morning beach walk. 

Kiawah Island Nature Conservancy

The Kiawah Conservancy is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization established by island residents in 1997 to preserve and protect the unique, natural environments of Kiawah Island. Stop by the Naturally Kiawah Demonstration Garden in Night Heron Park, a fine example of landscaping for wildlife habitat, pick up a copy of their local magazine, Naturally Kiawah, at the Heron Park Nature Center, join a volunteer program, or make a tax-deductible gift online to contribute to the conservation of Kiawah Island. 

Experience the Natural Beauty of Kiawah with Kiawah Exclusives

Kiawah Island’s network of scenic bike paths connects the neighborhoods of East Beach Village, West Beach Village, and Vanderhorst Plantation making it easy to get to the beaches, Audubon golf courses, restaurants and shopping at Freshfields Village, local island events, and back to your home away from home on Kiawah Island. 

Wherever you choose to stay on Kiawah Island, you’re surrounded by the sights, sounds, and splendor of nature. Witness turtles tracking through the sand, our local dolphin pod cruising the creeks, deer roaming the fairways and dunes, and beautiful birdlife in your own backyard – all from the comfort of a private Kiawah Exclusive vacation rental. 

With a collection of 100+ luxury Kiawah Island vacation rentals to choose from and a team of local vacation specialists to help plan your stay, the ultimate experience of the natural beauty of Kiawah Island awaits! 

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Best Neighborhoods On Kiawah Island

Escape to the sandy shores and stunning natural beauty of Kiawah Island, a private barrier island located just southwest of Charleston, South Carolina. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast looking to hit one of the island’s many championship courses, an adventurer seeking to explore the great outdoors, or a lover of quiet natural beaches, there’s something for everyone here on Kiawah Island. 

Kiawah Island is the perfect place to relax and unwind, but with so many options for where to stay on this tropical paradise, it can be tough to decide. That’s where our team at Kiawah Exclusives comes in! Our guide to the neighborhoods on Kiawah Island has all the information and insider tips you need to help you find the perfect place to call home during your vacation. 

Kiawah Island encompasses 10,000 acres divided into private club communities and three main neighborhoods: West Beach Village, East Beach Village, and the exclusive gated community of Vanderhorst Plantation. Wherever you choose to stay on Kiawah Island, each neighborhood offers miles of scenic, connected biking trails to get around the island and numerous boardwalks to 10 miles of sandy shoreline at Beachwalker Park!

WEST BEACH VILLAGE

Beach Boardwalk 1 – 15

West Beach Village is Kiawah Island’s oldest and original community and the closest neighborhood to the Main Gate entrance to Kiawah Island and the amenities at Beachwalker Park. West Beach runs from the west end of the island along the iconic moss-draped Eugenia Avenue to East Beach Village with options for beachfront rentals or quiet villa communities lining the fairways of the Cougar Point Golf Course. 

Developed in the 1970s, West Beach Village has retained its old-world charm and is more laid-back than neighboring East Beach Village. Aside from convenient access to Freshfields Village and Kiawah Island’s award-winning Beachwalker Park, the Gary Player designed Cougar Point Golf Course and newly designed clubhouse is the standout attraction in the West Beach neighborhood. 

If you want to have some peace and quiet while still being close to the action, West Beach Village is the perfect balance of peace and convenience and is the perfect spot on Kiawah Island for you!

Villas & Cottages in West Beach Village

Duneside Villas

Oceanfront Kiawah Island Villas – Beach access at Boardwalk #1-2 – Pool access at Duneside Community Pool 

Inlet Cove Cottages

Kiawah Island Golf Cottages – Beach access at Boardwalk #1 – Pool access at Inlet Cove Community Pool 

Seascape Villas

Kiawah Island Oceanside & Oceanfront Villas – Beach access at Boardwalk #7 – No community pool access 

Shipwatch Villas

Oceanfront Kiawah Island Villas – Beach access at Boardwalk #5-6 – No community pool access 

Sparrow Pond Cottages

Kiawah Island Lagoon View Villas – Beach access at Boardwalk #1-2 – Pool access at Duneside & Sparrow Pond Community Pool

EAST BEACH VILLAGE

Beach Boardwalk 16 – 30

Anchored by the Forbes 5-star Sanctuary Hotel and Night Heron Park, East Beach Village lies in the heart of Kiawah Island between West Beach Village and Vanderhorst Plantation. If you’re planning an action-packed vacation to Kiawah Island, staying in East Beach puts you in the center of the island’s best nature activities, on-island shops and restaurants, and steps to the beautiful beaches on Kiawah Island.    

East Beach Village is home to the Turtle Point Golf Course by Jack Nicklaus, the award-winning Roy Barth Tennis Center, and Night Heron Park, a tranquil 21-acre maritime park with pools, bike paths and nature trails, eco-tours and activities, summer kids camps, and endless family fun! 

Between Night Heron Park and the legendary Sanctuary Hotel, you’ll find a variety of shops, laid-back and upscale restaurants, a world-class spa, and a wide selection of villas, coastal cottages, and private homes to stay in the heart of the action on Kiawah Island.

Villas, Cottages & Beach Homes in East Beach Village

Atlantic Beach Homes

Private Beach Homes – Beach access at Boardwalk #28 and 29 – Community pool access 

Mariners Watch Villas

Oceanfront Villas near Night Heron Park – Beach access at Boardwalk #17-18 – No community pool access 

Night Heron Cottages

3 Bedroom Night Heron Cottages – Beach access at Boardwalks #17-18 – No community pool access 

Parkside Villas

Lakeside Villas in Night Heron Park – Beach access at Boardwalk #22 – No community pool access 

Tennis Club Villas

Kiawah Island Tennis Villa – Beach access at Boardwalk #27 – No community pool access 

Turtle Cove Villas

Kiawah Island Lagoon Villas – Beach access at Boardwalk #27 – No community pool access 

Turtle Point Villas

2 & 3 Bedroom Kiawah Island Golf Course Villas – Beach access at Boardwalk #28-29 – No community pool access 

Windswept Oceanfront Villas & Windswept Lakeside Villas

Oceanfront & Oceanside Villas near The Sanctuary – Beach access at Boardwalk #18-22 – No community pool access

VANDERHORST PLANTATION

Beach Boardwalk 30 – 42

Vanderhorst is an exclusive gated community beyond Kiawah Island’s second set of gates on the island’s east end. Vanderhorst Plantation is known for its secluded natural setting, pristine beaches, abundance of wildlife, and the Tom Fazio Osprey Point Golf Course and world-famous PGA Ocean Course, boasting the most seaside holes in the Northern Hemisphere. 

Situated only a short bike ride from the bustle of East Beach Village, Vanderhorst Plantation is the ultimate destination for a classic Lowcountry island escape. This exclusive neighborhood boasts marshlands, maritime forests, and nature preserves teeming with birdlife and wildlife, fishing ponds and lagoons, beautiful stretches of remote Atlantic Coast shoreline, and elegant private plantation-style homes that set the tone for luxurious Lowcountry living.  

Our selection of private Vanderhorst Plantation vacation homes come loaded with sought-after amenities like designer interiors, gourmet kitchens, swimming pools, private docks, and elevators – topped off with breathtaking views of the ocean, marsh, golf course, lagoon, or lush maritime forests to enjoy. It doesn’t get much better than the Lowcountry lifestyle in Vanderhorst Plantation!

Ready to plan your dream vacation to Kiawah Island? Start by browsing our luxury rental properties online or, if you’re still undecided on where to stay on Kiawah Island, give our local on-island team a call at (843) 768-0273. 

For an extended stay, check out our selection of monthly Kiawah Island rentals, or if you’ve been dreaming of owning your own Lowcountry retreat on Kiawah Island, our real estate partner Pam Harrington Exclusives can make that dream come true! Just reach out to our team and let us know how we can help plan your experience on Kiawah Island, SC.

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Childcare & Babysitting Options On Kiawah Island 

Welcome to the ultimate family-friendly paradise on South Carolina’s Kiawah Island, where a vacation isn’t just a break for busy parents but an exhilarating adventure for the little tots and teens too.

There are no limits to the family fun that awaits on Kiawah Island! Our beautiful barrier island boasts 10 miles of stunning sandy beaches with warm ocean waters, award-winning golf and tennis facilities for family play, and a plethora of childcare and babysitting options that will leave your little (and big) explorers grinning from ear to ear! Kiawah Island offers a haven where kids can be kids and parents can rediscover the joy of uninterrupted leisure.

KIDS’ CAMPS ON KIAWAH ISLAND

Night Heron Park is a hub for family fun and outdoor exploration! The Heron Park Nature Center offers an action-packed calendar of tours and activities for even the youngest vacationers, an interactive pool complex with a children’s pool and family pool, sports courts, nature trails for exploration, an art center for crafty kids, and seasonal weekday camps that will keep the kids entertained while you indulge in adult time!

Camp Kiawah for Kids

Location: Night Heron Park Pavilion, 4000 Sea Forest Drive
Phone: (843) 768-6001
Date: Memorial Day – Labor Day

Unleash your child’s inner adventurer at Camp Kiawah in Kiawah Resorts Night Heron Park! These incredible day camps immerse kids from as young as 3 years up to 15 years in a world of discovery, excitement, and imagination within the unique natural environment of Kiawah Island. Kiawah Resort offers three seasonal kids camps with morning, afternoon, or full-day sessions staffed with fun and dedicated counselors from across the US, and a comforting ratio of kids to counselors. Camps meet near the Heron Park Nature Center at Night Heron Park. Please note that pricing is valid for the 2023 summer season. Call (843) 768-6001 for Kid Camp reservations.

Kamp Kiawah (Ages 3-7)

Morning | 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Afternoon | 1 PM to 4 PM
Full Day | 8:30 AM to 4 PM

Kamp Kiawah is a traditional themed day camp with games, crafts, and snacks for the little tikes in the family! You can rest assured that the highly-trained staff will ensure your child’s safety and happiness throughout their camp experience. They’ll be eager to come back every year to climb the ranks of Kiawah Island’s amazing kid’s camps!

Camp Xtreme (Ages 8-13)

Morning | 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Afternoon | 1 PM to 4 PM
Full Day | 8:30 AM to 4 PM

For those little daredevils and thrill-seekers, Camp Xtreme is the place to spend summer! The camp is packed with high-energy outdoor adventures, competitive basketball, volleyball, and lacrosse sports games, scavenger hunts, and team-building activities to encourage self-confidence and seed new friendships.

Adventure Camp (Ages 8-15)

Full Day | 8:30 AM to 4 PM

At Kiawah Resort’s Adventure Camp, it’s all about exploring nature, learning new skills, and connecting with like-minded kids their age! From kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and boogie boarding in the ocean to archery, nature tours, and biking adventures, Adventure Camp is a sure bet to get the older kids off their screens and out in the South Carolina sunshine!

Kids Night Out (Ages 5-12)

Sanctuary Splash Bash | Every Tuesday 6 PM to 9 PM
Dive In Movie | Every Thursday 6 PM to 9 PM 

This is your chance for a sunset cruise or intimate date night at the oceanfront Sanctuary Hotel! With new friends and new-found experiences, they’ll beg you to drop them at Kiawah Island’s Kids Night Out! Every Tuesday evening, kids gather for Sanctuary Splash Bash with pizza, pool, and FUN at the Sanctuary indoor pool, or drop them off for Thursday’s “Dive in Movie” at the pool complex in West Beach Village. The Loggerhead Bar & Grill at the Sanctuary Hotel also hosts a Dive-In Movie night every Friday, for the whole family! 

Teen Night: Messy Night (Ages 12-17)

Location: Night Heron Park Pavilion, 4000 Sea Forest Drive
Dates: Every Monday 7 PM to 8 PM 

Teen Night: Messy Night is for the older kids ages 12-17! Teen Night is a FREE fun night of messy games and team-building challenges on the soccer field at Night Heron Park. No reservations are required, your teens can just show up at Night Heron Park and have fun.

KIAWAH ISLAND GROUP ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

Kiawah Island Golf Coaching

Location: Turtle Point Golf Course, 2 Turtle Point Lane
Phone: (843) 266-4050
Dates: June through August

Calling all golf enthusiasts! Kiawah Island offers family tee times in the summer at Osprey Point, Cougar Point, Turtle Point, and Oak Point Golf Course and exceptional golf coaching programs for every age and skill level at the renowned Tommy Cuthbert Golf Learning Center at Turtle Point, one of the best golf academies in the nation. The center offers private and semi-private instruction with PGA-certified pros, coaching programs, and junior golf clinics for ages 7-17 throughout the summer season.

Call (843) 266-4050 for current pricing and reservations.   

Roy Barth Tennis Center

Location: 1 Sanctuary Beach Dr, Kiawah Island
Phone: (843) 768-2838

Tennis lovers will find world-class tennis facilities and junior tennis instruction programs at the Roy Barth Tennis Center near the Sanctuary Hotel in East Beach Village. Junior programs camps (ages 7-16) are held Monday through Friday all summer and include 1-hour Stroke-a-day Clinics, five-day Junior Tennis Camps, Pickleball Camps, and Tough Workout Clinics for competitive junior tournament-ranked players looking to improve their play (minimum age of 10). You can get stuck into your favorite book on the shaded deck, or sneak off for a spa session at the luxurious award-winning Sanctuary Spa, right next door!

Call (843) 266-4050 for current tennis program pricing and reservations.

KIAWAH ISLAND LOCAL BABYSITTERS

Kiawah Babysitter

Phone: (609) 774-4130
Email: kiawahbabysitter@gmail.com

For trustworthy care at your convenience, call the Kiawah Babysitter! Kiawah Babysitter is a local babysitting service that connects you with experienced, background-checked babysitters to keep your children entertained and safe at home! Enjoy the peace of mind of knowing your kids are in capable hands while you walk the fairways, wine and dine at resort restaurants, or recapture the romance at a 21+ event on Kiawah Island!

Perfectly Poppins

Phone: (843) 898-0707 
Email:michelle@perfectlypoppins.net

For a truly personalized childcare experience, Perfectly Poppins Concierge Childcare offers high-quality babysitting and childcare services in the comfort of your Kiawah Island vacation rental home. Specializing in children 6 months to 12 years old, Perfectly Poppins professional childcare providers encourage children to discover, learn, and play, and will even plan a Palooza Party (family game night), painting party for the kids, or a customized event to celebrate a special occasion during your stay. The process starts with a complimentary consultation with owner Michelle Barbera to find a nanny that meets the childcare needs of your family, perfectly!

STAY WITH KIAWAH EXCLUSIVES!

Your Premier Vacation Rental Company!

Questions about Kiawah Island? Browse our exclusive collection of Kiawah Island vacation rentals, explore the best of Kiawah Island in our Exclusives Guide, get travel tips from our Vacation Blog, or call our team of expert vacation planners at (843) 768-0273 to customize your stay.

Book direct online or call one of our Kiawah Island vacation specialists on (843) 768-0273 today to match you with the Kiawah Island vacation home of your dreams.

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6 Tips To Host Your Family Reunion On Kiawah Island 

Planning a family reunion is not always smooth sailing but there’s one thing we can be sure of – your reunion will be stunning in the South Carolina sea islands.

With its spectacular Lowcountry setting, southern charm and hospitality, abundance of activities, and luxury island accommodations, Kiawah Island is the perfect destination for a fun-filled family reunion. Spend family days reconnecting with loved ones, filling your days with old-fashioned outdoor fun, feasting on family favorites, and creating cherished family memories, or perhaps a new tradition for generations to come, on Kiawah Island. 

We love seeing families coming together on Kiawah Island and our team is here to help you brace the choppy waters and plan your reunion smoothly every step of the way!

#1 Pick Your Family Reunion Dates

When it comes to planning your family reunion on Kiawah Island, the best time to visit will depend on your family’s unique style and preferences. The weather on Kiawah Island is beautiful year-round making it an excellent destination for a fun-filled family reunion in any season. Spring sees high 60s to low 80s, summer can get hot in the high 80s to low 90s, and the fall and winter temperatures are mild with beautiful warm days and cool evenings to get cozy! 

For beach lovers, the “official” beach season is April 1st through September 30th with the ocean water warming up for swimming in mid-May, around the same time the turtles begin to nest on Kiawah Island. Kiawah Island’s world-class golf courses, eco-tours, and luxury resort amenities are open year-round – or plan your family reunion around a classic Lowcountry event.

#2 Coordinate Travel & Arrange Transportation

Whether your family members are coming from the east or west coast, Kiawah Island is an easily accessible destination for air travel. Kiawah Island is located only 30 miles south of Charleston International Airport which is served with regular non-stop flights by most major US airlines. On arrival, rental cars are readily available at the airport, taxis operate daily from 5 am until the last flight, Charleston Limo & Car Service provides private and group transportation to Kiawah, or reserve a ride with a local at Kiawah’s Island Transportation.  

#3 Find the Best Kiawah Island Neighborhood

Kiawah Island is only 10 miles long and 1.5 miles wide at its widest point, and nearly 20% of the island is water! The island comprises three main neighborhoods – the quieter West Beach Village, the central hub in East Beach Village, and Vanderhorst Plantation, an exclusive gated community on the east end of the island.  Browse our Kiawah Island Neighborhood Guide to find the spot that suits your style for your family reunion on Kiawah Island.  

Our exclusive collection of Kiawah Island vacation rentals ranges from quiet community complexes where each generation can carve out their own personal space to luxury 8-bedroom Vanderhorst plantation homes for those close-knit families that like to stay (and play!) together under one roof! With views ranging from golf course to Atlantic Ocean and luxury amenities like gourmet kitchens, personal bathrooms, fun bunk and games rooms for the kids, and private swimming pools and spas – our family reunion vacation rentals cater to the whole crew!  

#4 Plan Your Family Reunion Activities

Kiawah Island naturally inspires time for rest, rejuvenation, and reconnection. There are no bright bustling boardwalks, big box retail parks, or entertainment extravaganzas – Kiawah Island is a destination with outdoor family reunion activities inspired by nature and the lush Lowcountry landscapes of South Carolina’s beautiful barrier islands. Now you have an idea of where to stay, it’s time to plan where to play! 

  • Moss-Draped Bike Paths

Planning your bike rentals is the first step for your family reunion activities – it’s how we get around here even on the beach! Everything you’ll want to see and do on Kiawah Island is connected by our 30+ mile network of scenic, shaded, and flat bike paths that are easy for the whole family to ride! Surfscooter Bike Rentals are island based and have all the bike rentals and gear for the whole family, delivered directly to your vacation rental for a hassle-free family reunion (5% discount for guests of Kiawah Exclusives). 

  • Nature-Filled Beach Days

Kiawah Island offers beach adventures of a different kind – watch dolphins surfing the waves and turtles nesting in the dunes, and enjoy miles of secluded shoreline for beach walks, bike rides, picnics, and breathtakingly scenic sunsets. Award-winning Beachwalker Park ranks among the best in the country with 10 miles of wide sandy beaches, gentle waters for the kids, and local services that will even set up all your beach gear rentals on the nearest boardwalk – nothing beats a family reunion at the beach! 

  • Fishing Charters

With endless coastal lagoons, ponds, rivers, and tidal creeks, Gramps has plenty of opportunity to teach the little ones his fishing tips and tricks on Kiawah Island. Stay creekside to fish from home, bike ride to the docks at Bass Pond and Blue Heron Pond for family fishing and crabbing adventures, or book a local fishing charter around the barrier islands. Our Guide to Fishing Charters on Kiawah Island highlights the best family fishing trips on the island. 

  • Eco-Friendly Nature Activities

Night Heron Park encompasses 21 acres in the heart of East Beach Village with nature trails, fishing ponds, swimming pools, restaurants, and a nature center with a seemingly endless list of guided nature tours and activities. There is something to attract every age, ability, and adventure level – including easygoing activities for seniors, fun family-focused activities, teen adventures, nature-inspired kid’s camps (ages 3 to 15), rainy day activities, and so much more! Call (843) 768-6001 to make reservations for your family reunion activities at Night Heron Nature Center.    

  • Game Time

Whether you’re a family of golfers or prefer to swing a paddle on the pickleball court, Kiawah is a destination that delights all sports lovers. Kiawah Island has received endless awards and accolades for its award-winning golf courses and tennis facilities, including the world-famous PGA Ocean Course and Roy Barth Tennis Center. Register the little ones for lessons while you enjoy adult game time or book a court or tee time to connect (and compete!) as a family.

#5 Make A Meal Planner

With so many mouths to feed and potential fussy kids to consider, putting together a meal plan for your family reunion can be daunting! The first step is to find a healthy balance between sharing home-cooked meals or barbeques around the table (or picnics on the beach!) and discovering the fresh flavors of Lowcountry cooking at a local restaurant. The Kiawah Dining Collection ranges from casual cantinas and cafes to fine dining experiences at the Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Freshfields Village features a wide selection of fantastic family restaurants, and our exclusive collection of island rentals are equipped with kitchens that inspire creativity for the chef in your crew!

#6 Create Cherished Family Memories with Kiawah Exclusives 

Your family reunion is in safe hands and cherished moments await when you stay with Kiawah Exclusives. We have been locally operated since 1978, our collection includes 100+ of the finest vacation rentals on Kiawah, and our team is simply a call away to share our local expertise with you. We have an intimate knowledge of each vacation rental home to match you with the perfect fit and a treasure trove of tips to help you plan a fun-filled family reunion on Kiawah Island. Browse our collection of vacation rentals online or call our on-island team at (843) 768-0273 to start planning your reunion on Kiawah Island today!

Kiawah Exclusives Offers Perfect Lodging

Our exclusive collection of rentals offers a variety of homes with unique characteristics to suit your needs. Whether you prefer home-cooked meals made with high-end appliances, or want to enjoy quality time with your family around the dining table, Kiawah Exclusives offers 100+ luxury vacation rentals with the finest kitchens on Kiawah Island!

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4343 Betsy Kerrison Pkwy
Johns Island, SC 29455
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