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!

December 22, 2022November 12, 2024

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.

December 15, 2022May 20, 2024

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.

September 29, 2022March 21, 2025

6 Best Fishing Locations On Kiawah Island

When it comes to natural beauty and coastal charm, few destinations can compete with Kiawah Island, a beautifully preserved and unspoiled barrier island nestled between the Kiawah River and the Atlantic Ocean. Ranked one of the top fishing destinations on the East Coast, Kiawah Island delivers a great Lowcountry fishing experience for all fishing enthusiasts in all four seasons.

Kiawah Island’s diverse and incredible ecosystem includes 10 miles of pristine beaches, freshwater and brackish ponds, saltwater rivers, and serene marshlands teeming with fish and wildlife. Local fish species include redfish, spotted sea trout, flounder, rays, and sharks with big game fish like tuna, grouper, snapper, and marlin regularly caught in the offshore waters.

Whether you’re seeking to cast your line from a quiet dock or the thrill of reeling in a trophy marlin offshore, we’ve got you covered with the top fishing spots on Kiawah Island.

Local’s Tip: Unless you’re fishing with a certified charter captain, a fishing license is required on Kiawah Island even for the private docks and fishing ponds.

1. Beachwalker Park

Combine a classic beach day with surf fishing at Kiawah Island’s Beachwalker Park, ranked one of the best beaches in the US for 2022 by Dr. Beach! Beachwalker Park is public, pet-friendly and a popular spot for surf fishing on the South Carolina coastline with miles of uncrowded scenic shoreline to sit back, cast a line, and wait for a bite. Surf fishing is always best on a rising tide so be sure to check the local tide charts before you head out – or stay steps from the Beachwalker Park boardwalks with Kiawah Exclusives for a daily surf check from home!

2. Kiawah River

Kiawah Island is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and thriving Kiawah River with oyster banks, tidal creeks and salt marshes abounding in saltwater fish species, and Kiawah’s local wildlife. One of the best fishing spots on Kiawah Island is at the Kiawah River inlet near the west end of Beachwalker Park – you may even witness Kiawah’s local dolphin pods fishing for their own food at Captain Sams Inlet. Captain Sams Inlet on the Kiawah River is one of the few places in the world where you can experience the spectacular phenomenon of dolphin’s strand feeding.

3. Night Heron Park

Night Heron Park lies in the heart of Kiawah Island’s East Beach Village and is a central hub for outdoor adventure and nature activities on the island, including fun on-island fishing adventures. The Night Heron Pond near the Heron Park Nature Center is fully stocked with a community fishing dock making it a top spot for family fishing with the kids. Night Heron Park has resident alligators, so always fish from the docks and bridges, not from the banks, and do not reach into the water.

Local’s Tip: Stop by the Heron Park Nature Center for a wide selection of nature tours and family-friendly fishing activities and charters

4. Bass Pond Fishing Dock

There are 60+ ponds and lagoons on Kiawah Island, fully stocked with freshwater fish such as bass, bream, tilapia, and carp. The Bass Pond Fishing Dock is situated near Rhett’s Bluff, through the second gates to Vanderhorst Plantation, and is one of the best ponds for fishing on Kiawah Island. Other popular Kiawah fishing ponds in Vanderhorst include Egret Pond, Canvasback Pond, and Blue Heron Pond. Blue Heron Pond is also a top spot for crabbing on Kiawah Island and be sure to take a break from fishing to climb the observation tower for a 360-degree view of Kiawah’s tranquil landscapes.

5. Bohicket Marina

Bohicket Marina & Market is located between Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island and ranks as one of the best marinas in South Carolina’s Lowcountry. Sail to Kiawah Island and dock at Bohicket Marina, book a guided fishing charter at the Boat Club, or rent a boat for a self-guided fishing excursion along the backwaters of the Edisto River and Bohicket Creek. Don’t be too hasty to head back home! Crack a cold one and snack on fresh seafood at Salty Dog Café while savoring one of the best Lowcountry sunsets ever at Bohicket Marina!

6. Kiawah Island Fishing Charters

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!

Our Kiawah Exclusives team has been locally operated since 1978! We know the best places to stay and play on Kiawah Island and are happy to assist throughout the vacation planning process. Browse our portfolio of luxury rentals online or call our team on (843) 768-0273 to start planning an epic Lowcountry fishing trip to Kiawah Island.

September 8, 2022February 7, 2025

Lowcountry Winery & Brewery Guide

Charleston has been voted the No. 1 City in the USA by Travel + Leisure for 11 consecutive years and is the first US destination to earn the coveted No. 1 City in the World ranking. There are hundreds of reasons why travelers love Lowcountry living! Our favorites would be the cobblestone streets, historical landmarks, romantic horse-drawn carriage tours, sunset harbor cruises, and a treasure trove of tasting opportunities surrounding Charleston’s burgeoning culinary and beverage scene!

Beyond the beautiful beaches and lavish amenities, the Lowcountry provides a unique vantage point for exploring Charleston’s burgeoning beverage scene. Plan a day trip of wine tasting, brews cruises, and distillery tours in nearby Charleston, discover hidden gems close to home, or simply hop on your bike and ride the trails to one of Charleston’s best wine-tasting venues in Freshfields Village. Get ready to raise your glass to the wineries, breweries, and distilleries of Charleston, just a short drive (or bike ride) from your Kiawah-Seabrook Island getaway.

Palmetto Brewing Company

Open Monday to Thursday | 4 PM – 10 PM, Friday to Saturday | 12 PM – 10 PM, Sunday | 12 PM – 7 PM

Location: 289 Huger St, Charleston

Contact: (843) 937-0903

Head over to historical downtown Charleston and South Carolina’s very first brewery full of fascinating history, one-of-a-kind brews, and classic southern charm at Palmetto Brewing Company! The facility offers a warehouse taproom, speakeasy taproom, and courtyard with a variety of entertainment including games, live music, and more!

Just 26 miles and a 45-minute scenic drive from Kiawah Island, Palmetto Brewing Co. awaits! This family-friendly brewery often features exciting new events like group yoga, illustration workshops, silent disco, karaoke, holiday themed parties, trivia nights, paint & sips, pop-up markets, and much more. Visit their Facebook page for the latest events that you can join in on during your next vacation to the Lowcountry.

Firefly Distillery on Noisette Creek

Open Monday to Saturday

Tastings: Standard Tasting: $15 per person | Deluxe Group Tasting: $65 per person. Book online HERE.

Tasting Room Hours
Monday to Saturday: 12 PM – 6 PM
Friday Happy Hour: 4 PM – 8 PM
Select Sundays: 11 AM – 3 PM

Location: 4201 Spruill Avenue, North Charleston

Contact: (843) 557-1405

Firefly Distillery is a true example of the spirit of innovation that thrives in Charleston’s burgeoning beverage scene. Beginning as a humble offshoot of Deepwater Vineyards, Firefly Distillery rose to regional fame for their house-brewed Firefly Muscadine Vodka, one of the first sweet tea vodkas in the world.

Now, in a new location on the banks of Noisette Creek in North Charleston, Firefly Distillery features more than 30 innovative spirits including their signature Sweet Tea Vodka, maritime-influenced bourbon, and a tempting array of 10+ moonshine flavors. Book a standard or deluxe group tasting of their hand-crafted spirits, immerse yourself in a world of whiskey heritage on a Master Distiller’s Whiskey Tour & Tasting, or enjoy an exclusive private tour of the distillery and aging barrel rickhouse, available by appointment only.

The fun at Firefly Distillery doesn’t end at savoring their signature spirits. Enjoy weekly yoga, food trucks, and live music on the porch on Saturdays at the Distillery, visit for Sunday Funday Brunch on select Sundays, or check out their lineup of LIVE at Firefly concerts featuring big artists in a stunning creekside setting, only minutes from historic downtown Charleston.

Fatty’s Beer Works

Open Monday to Thursday | 4 PM – 9 PM, Friday | 4 PM – 10 PM, Saturday | 12 PM – 10 PM, Sunday | 12 PM – 6 PM

Location: 1436 Meeting Street, Charleston

Contact: (843) 974-5330

Fatty’s Beer Works is well-known across the Lowcountry for good beer, good music, and good times. Their family-friendly taproom is open 7 days a week with a wide range of beers to sample, talented local musicians to experience, and some of Charleston’s best food trucks to taste!

Fatty’s is located 28 miles from Kiawah Island, with a dog-friendly and family-friendly establishment. Bring the whole crew into the Holy City for monthly events, delicious tastings, and convenient food trucks right in the heart of downtown Charleston.

Deepwater Vineyard on Wadmalaw Island

Open Tuesday to Saturday | 10 AM – 5 PM

Tastings: Standard Tastings & Private Tastings available. Learn more HERE!

Location: 6775 Bears Bluff Road, Wadmalaw Island

Contact: (843) 559-6867

If you’re a wine enthusiast, a short, scenic drive to Deepwater Vineyard is a must-do during your stay on Kiawah-Seabrook Island. Nestled on 48 acres on picturesque Wadmalaw Island, this hidden gem is Charleston’s only domestic vineyard and winery. Deepwater Vineyard is renowned for its mastery of sweet muscadine grapes, the only truly grapes native to the US. They offer tastings every hour on the hour with a unique selection of reds, whites, roses, bubbles, fruit wines, and muscadine and scuppernong grape juice as non-alcoholic options.

Deepwater Vineyard is located only 22 miles from the crossroads to Kiawah & Seabrook islands at Freshfields Village. It’s an off the beaten path destination brimming with quintessential Lowcountry charm. Here, you can explore lush vineyard grounds and seasonal gardens nestled in the majestic live oaks, tour the winemaking facilities, savor scenic wine tastings, and even make a full day of it with a family picnic. Deepwater Vineyard is super family-friendly! There’s a spacious lawn area with swings and games, a petting zoo for the kids, an outdoor patio bar, and a pet-friendly tasting room if you’re traveling with Fido. As you explore, watch out for the miniature Brahma bull that lives in the vineyard. Mark your calendars! Every Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, Deepwater Vineyard hosts Weekend Wine-Down with food trucks, live local music, and tastings in a setting that will transport you back in time. Reservations are not required except for large groups (6+), for which they recommend booking a private tasting.

Firefly Distillery on Noisette Creek

Open Monday to Saturday

Tastings: $15 per person includes a tasting flight of 6 spirits and a souvenir shot glass, or book a Deluxe Group Tasting for $65 per person. Book online HERE.

Tasting Room Hours
Monday to Saturday: 12 PM – 6 PM
Friday Happy Hour: 4 PM – 8 PM
Select Sundays: 11 AM – 3 PM

Location: 4201 Spruill Avenue, North Charleston

Contact: (843) 557-1405

Low Tide Brewing on John Island

Open Seven Days a Week

Tastings: Tastings available – Learn more HERE!

Tap Room Hours
Monday to Thursday: 3 PM – 10 PM
Friday & Saturday: 12 PM – 12 AM
Sunday: 12 PM – 10 PM

Location: 2863 Maybank Hwy, Johns Island

Contact: (843) 576-9194

When you’re craving a local craft beer, Charleston’s award-winning Low Tide Brewing is located only 13 miles from the crossroads to Kiawah and Seabrook Island. As John Island’s first brewery, Low Tide Brewing’s mission is to create distinctive beers that perfectly complement South Carolina’s lush landscapes and Lowcountry cuisine. Their core beers include Tide Chaser IPA, Sweet Caroline Kolsch, Tura’Lu Irish Red Ale, and Aloha Beaches, voted the best locally brewed beer in Charleston.

Low Tide Brewing is family-friendly with an inviting and laid-back atmosphere. You can enjoy bingo, compete in cornhole tournaments, and savor daily offerings from some of the best food trucks in Charleston. Reservations are required for large groups (10+) and you can purchase 32-oz Crowlers, 64-oz Growlers, and Sixtel Kegs (⅙ of a full keg) to take your favorite brews back home. For those staying on Kiawah-Seabrook Island, you can find their Ocean Course Ale at the Nest Market in Night Heron Park on Kiawah Island – perfect for during or after a round of PGA golf.

Forty-Eight Wine Bar

Open Seven Days a Week

Wine Bar & Kitchen Hours
Cheese & Wine Days: Monday to Thursday 12 PM – 5 PM
Lunch: Friday to Sunday 12 PM – 3 PM
Dinner: Daily 5 PM – 9 PM

Location: 547 Freshfields Drive, Kiawah Island

Contact: (843) 768-2245

FortyEight – Wine Bar & Kitchen in Freshfields Village offers an exceptional wine-tasting experience right in the heart of Kiawah and Seabrook Island. With high-tech WineStations featuring full-color, HD touch screens, you can explore 48 wines by the glass from every major varietal and wine region in the world. What’s more, you have three tasting sizes to choose from: 1 oz, 3 oz, and 6 oz. Simply top up your WineStation SmartCard and sip away!

In addition to the extensive wine selection, FortyEight Wine Bar & Kitchen also serves a choice of craft beers from local and regional microbreweries, a seasonal cocktail list, mix & match cheese and charcuterie boards, and a menu of Lowcountry specials. Check out the WineStations for suggested food and wine pairings. To enhance your wine-tasting experience, there’s live music on the patio every Wednesday from 5 PM to 7:30 PM, along with exclusive wine dinners and tasting events year-round. If you prefer to sip and savor in the comfort of your island retreat, FortyEight has over 1,000 wine labels and craft beers available to go.

Book Your Dream Getaway to Kiawah Island

After a day of exploring the wineries and breweries, you’ll need a welcoming destination to unwind and savor your bounty of local beverages. At Kiawah-Seabrook Exclusives, we’ve got you covered! Our exclusive collection of luxury vacation homes, villas, and condos offers comfort, convenience, and the coastal charm of Charleston’s beautiful beaches, and our team has 40+ years of local knowledge and insider tips we love to share with our guests! Come sip and savor Charleston’s best beverages with us on Kiawah-Seabrook Island.

Find the ultimate Lowcountry vacation retreat and start planning your dream getaway to the islands and beaches of the South Carolina Lowcountry with Kiawah Exclusives and Seabrook Exclusives. Book online or call our team of vacation specialists to assist in your vacation planning – no one knows the islands quite like us!

August 4, 2022August 26, 2024

How To Bike Around Kiawah Island?

Nestled on South Carolina’s Atlantic coastline between the historic City of Charleston and the private oceanfront resort community of Seabrook Island is Kiawah Island. Kiawah is a vacation destination with vast and scenic Lowcountry landscapes best explored on two wheels to venture freely.

With over 30-miles of paved flat paths connecting the island from West Beach Village and East Beach Village to Vanderhorst Plantation, and beyond, you can take a “park and forget it approach” on Kiawah Island. Kiawah Island’s tranquil Lowcountry bike trails are all you need for getting around, sightseeing, shopping, and socializing on your vacation.

WHERE TO FIND BIKE RENTALS ON KIAWAH ISLAND?

Save money, pack light and plan your bike adventures on Kiawah Island with Surfscooter Rentals (Bonus: 5% discounted rates for all Kiawah Exclusives guests)! Surfscooter Rentals have been serving our guests to Kiawah and Seabrook Island with unbeatable customer service and southern hospitality for over 20 years!

The rental process is simple and hassle free – pick the bike rentals and gear best suited for your pedal adventures, order direct online, and have everything delivered right to your vacation rental, ready to hit the trails on arrival – there’s no need to even be there! They conveniently pick up on departure too.

Whether you’re on a romantic rendezvous or an unplugged family vacation for you and the kids, there’s a set of wheels with your name on it! Surfscooter Rentals have all the bike gear to get your whole family on the trails and beach. Surfscooter’s high quality and well maintained bike rentals include 24-26” adult bikes, 16-20” kids bikes, baby seat rentals, chariot rentals, tag-a-longs, and bike trailers to load up and venture beyond Kiawah Island. Any problems, they’ll come find you and make a swap!

THE BEST BIKE ROUTES ON KIAWAH ISLAND

The bike trails follow the main roads on Kiawah Island including Kiawah Island Parkway, Governor’s Drive, Ocean Course Drive and Flyway Drive. Ride your bikes to the shore, store, and golf tee times, or venture off the beaten path to explore secret spots on the island not accessible by car. Here’s a guide to our favorite bike routes on Kiawah Island!

Beachwalker Park

The 10-mile stretch of shoreline at Beachwalker Park is consistently ranked one of Dr Beach’s Top 10 Beaches in America. When you’re not enjoying a classic beach day, Beachwalker Park is one of the best places to ride bikes on Kiawah Island as well as experience our local wildlife. Head out after a high tide for hard packed sands, watch dolphin’s strand feeding at Captain Sams Inlet, and take a slow ride along the shoreline to the award-winning PGA Ocean Course in Vanderhorst. Surfscooter’s bike rentals are built for the sand and there are dozens of boardwalks making beach bike riding easily accessible – and fun!

Night Heron Park

Night Heron Park is nestled in the heart of East Beach Village with 21 acres of gorgeous scenery, ponds, and tranquil walking and biking paths in the ancient oaks, perfect for a family bike ride and nature adventure. Begin your bike ride at the Heron Park Nature Center, spot wildlife in the wetlands, stop for lunch at Night Heron Bar and Grill, and end your day with a classic Lowcountry eco-adventure or water activities offered by Kiawah Resort.

Mingo Point

Pack a picnic and bike to Mingo Point, located just outside the main Kiawah Island gate near West Beach Village. Mingo Point is famous for its Lowcountry Oyster Roasts and tranquil setting on the banks of the Kiawah River. Park your bikes, refuel with a picnic and rent a kayak or SUP to play on the water. From Mingo Point pedal along the Kiawah Island Parkway trail to Marsh View Tower for expansive views of Cougar Point Golf Course and the Kiawah Island wetlands. Bring the binoculars and the camera!

Vanderhorst Plantation

Vanderhorst Plantation is situated through the second set of gates on Kiawah Island, accessible only to residents and guests. But, you can venture through on the bike trails! The Kiawah Island Parkway leads to the Bass Pond and fishing dock and beautiful scenery in Rhett’s Bluff. Ride the trail along Governor’s Drive to the Marsh Island Park View Tower, Blue Heron Pond Observation Tower, and on to Eagle Point Landing. Wind your way towards the Atlantic to the Ocean Course, home of the 2021 PGA Championship, for sundowners at the Ryder Cup Bar. This Kiawah Island bike route is soaked in serenity with sweeping wetland views, maritime forests, marshlands, lagoons, and an abundance of wildlife.

Freshfields Village

The bike routes are not limited to the island and extend past the guardhouse on to Freshfields Village, 1.8-miles from the Main Gate. Freshfields Village has it all – amazing restaurants and cafés, open air shopping, spas and salons, wine and whisky tastings, jazz nights, and fabulous farmers markets, festivals, and events on the Village Green. It’s family-friendly, pet-friendly, and a short bike ride from Kiawah Island. The bike trail continues on to Bohicket Marina, home of the famous Salty Dog Café, boat rentals and charters, and insta worthy South Carolina sunsets, then on to the private resort community of Seabrook Island.

RULES FOR RIDING THE KIAWAH TRAILS

Keep to the right on all trails.
Announce your presence when approaching or overtaking.
Observe all STOP signs.
Lights must be used after dark.
Helmets are encouraged but not required.
Bicycles must be parked only in designated areas.
Bikes are not allowed on the golf cart paths.
Please walk bicycles across the beach boardwalks and stay away from the dunes.
Biking and jogging on the road is prohibited when there is a designated bike path nearby.
When a bike path is not available, please ride single file, near the curb, and with the flow of traffic
E-bikes are prohibited on Kiawah Island, only bicycles and non-electric scooters are allowed on the trails.
The Town of Kiawah requests that bikes are not visible from the street. Please store bikes responsibly after your adventures.

UNWIND WITH KIAWAH EXCLUSIVES

After all that pedaling, Kiawah Exclusives have the perfect place to put your feet up, relax and unwind in style. Our selection of 100+ Kiawah Island vacation rentals include villas and homes in West Beach Village, East Beach Village, and through the second set of gates in Vanderhorst Plantation, all a quick bike ride away from wherever you choose to adventure on Kiawah Island.

Browse our luxury Kiawah Island rentals online, call our on-island team on (843) 768-0273 to assist with vacation planning, or if you’re dreaming of owning your own Lowcountry retreat on Kiawah Island, our real estate partner Pam Harrington Exclusives can make that dream a reality!

We hope to see you on the Kiawah Island bike trails soon!

July 27, 2022February 10, 2025

5 Tips To Help Plan Your Dream Kiawah Vacation

There’s no better way to spend your spring and summer seasons than a trip to the beach. Kiawah Island is a beach destination abounding in natural beauty with 10-miles of award-winning beaches, wetlands and waterways teeming with wildlife and resident bottlenose dolphins, Audubon certified golf courses, tranquil trails weaving through the island, and world-class shopping, dining and resort amenities.

Here’s our top tips to plan your dream beach vacation, soak up the sun and the slower pace of life, and satisfy your wanderlust on Kiawah Island.

1. Arrange Your Transportation

Getting to and around Kiawah Island is easy but with the increasing cost of gas prices and airfares, the first decision is whether to fly or take a classic road trip on your last minute summer getaway.

Kiawah Island is located approximately 30 miles south from historic Charleston and is an easy drive-to-destination from many east coast cities with most of the major airlines (American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Frontier Airlines, United Airlines, JetBlue, Delta, Silver Airways) offering daily non-stop flights into Charleston International Airport (CHS).

Rental cars are still in high demand so reserve your rental car at Charleston Airport as well in advance as possible or arrange ground transportation to Kiawah Island. Taxis operate from the Charleston Airport from 5am until after last flight, Charleston Limousine & Shuttle Services offer individual and group transportation, or reserve a ride with Island Transportation, the best local car service on Kiawah Island.

Local’s Tip: Once on Kiawah Island there are 30+ miles of interconnected trails to get around by bike or rent an electric cart to buzz about the island (and save on gas!)

2. Create a Vacation Wish List

Whether you’re squeezing in last minute summer fun before school starts or a romantic beach escape surrounded by luxurious Lowcountry leisure, Kiawah Island ticks all the boxes for a dream summer vacation.

Creating a vacation wish list is where it all comes together! Kiawah Island is a family oriented destination with outdoor activities for every age and adventure level, amazing Lowcountry festivals and events, and a diverse selection of restaurants and cafes with authentic coastal Carolina cuisine. Start planning your last minute beach escape with our Kiawah Island travel blog where we highlight the best places to stay and play on Kiawah Island.

Award-Winning Beachwalker Park

Night Heron Park

Kiawah Island Bike Trails

Five Championship Golf Courses

Roy Barth Tennis Center

Live Music Concerts

Lowcountry Farmers Markets

Freshfields Village

Bohicket Marina

The Sanctuary

Kiawah Island Kids Camps

3. Reserve your Restaurants & Activities

Kiawah Island offers epic eco-adventures, nature programs, golf and tennis, and unique experiences year round! You’ve created a vacation wish list, now it’s time to book your experiences and make your restaurant (and spa day!) reservations to avoid disappointment.

Charters & Fishing at Bohicket Marina

Guided Nature Tours & Activities at Night Heron Park

Water Sports & Activities

Sightseeing Tours of Charleston

Surfscooter Bike Rentals

Tee Times at Kiawah Island Golf Resort

World-Class Tennis & Pickleball at Roy Barth Tennis Center

Restaurants & Lowcountry Dining Experiences

Health & Wellness

4. Rent Your Vacation Gear

Take the hustle and hassle out of your vacation planning and rent all your vacation gear! From baby gear and beach gear to water sports, bike rentals and electric carts, Kiawah Exclusives partners with reliable locally-owned companies to supply all your beach vacation needs. Reserve your rental gear in advance, have it delivered to your vacation home prior to your arrival, and spend less time planning and more time playing on Kiawah Island.

5. Stay with Kiawah Exclusives

Searching for the perfect vacation rental need not be stressful when you stay with Kiawah Exclusives. We offer a collection of 115+ of the finest vacation rentals on Kiawah Island and a team of local vacation specialists to assist in planning your last minute summer vacation! Browse our portfolio of Kiawah Island vacation rental villas and private vacation homes for last minute availability or take a sneak peak at a few of our favorite summer rentals centrally located in the heart of Kiawah Island’s popular East Beach Village.

Our team has been locally operated since 1978 and are here to assist with your vacation planning. Whether you need guidance finding the perfect last minute rental or recommendations for on-island tours, activities, rentals or dining – our local experts are only a phone call away on (843) 768-0273. We look forward to hosting your last minute summer vacation on Kiawah Island!

July 19, 2022May 20, 2024

Best Fishing Charters on Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is a destination known for its award-winning white sandy beaches, oceanfront golf courses, and untouched landscapes teeming with wildlife and natural beauty. The island’s pristinely preserved and unique ecosystem of beaches, maritime forests, protected sand dunes, and fragile marshlands are a habitat for a diverse array of beautiful birdlife, wildlife, majestic marine mammals, Loggerhead sea turtles, and fish species inhabiting the local waters.

Some of the best fishing in the Lowcountry is found right here on the inshore waterways and offshore reefs surrounding the beautiful barrier islands of Charleston, SC. Kiawah Island has lots of on-island fishing spots. You can surf fish from the Kiawah shoreline, cast a line from the fishing docks, bait a fish from a kayak on the Kiawah River, or find prime fishing grounds only a boat ride away on an epic Lowcountry fishing charter.

Whether you’re seeking a short family fishing charter for the kids, a customized experience, or the thrill of catching a sailfish in the deep blue waters of the Atlantic, you’ll find it here on Kiawah Island. Our local charter captains have spent decades navigating the waters, have an intimate knowledge of the island’s best fishing spots, and provide everything you need for a top-notch Lowcountry fishing experience.

Types of Fishing Charters

Inshore Fishing Charters: Inshore fishing charters navigate the smaller channels, creeks, inlets, and marshlands along the thriving Kiawah River. Fish species include common saltwater fish such as spotted sea trout, flounder, croaker, and large schools of redfish feeding on the flats. Sharks are commonly caught on inshore fishing charters.

Near Coastal & Reef Fishing: Venture one to three miles offshore on an action-packed adventure bottom fishing the wrecks and reefs surrounding Kiawah and Seabrook Island. Near coastal and reef fishing charters are geared for both families and serious anglers with likely catches of redfish, sheepshead, sea bass, cobia, and large sharks too!

Offshore Fishing: If hunting for big game fish in the Lowcountry is on your bucket list, an offshore fishing charter on Kiawah Island is unbeatable! These full-day charters take you on a deep-sea adventure for a trophy catch of grouper, mahi mahi, tuna, marlin, and a wide variety of shark species.

Shark Fishing Charters: Sharks are regularly encountered when fishing in Kiawah Island’s waterways and ocean, and it’s a thrill! Shark fishing charters are an extraordinary experience for anglers of all ages and abilities and are geared towards fun and excitement for the whole family.

Top Tips for a Memorable Lowcountry Fishing Charter

Book well in advance!
Dress in layers with light rain gear for changing weather conditions.
Wear soft sole, non-marking shoes.
Pack sunscreen, a wide-brimmed sun hat, UV protection sunglasses, and bug spray for the South Carolina no-see-ums.
Consider motion sickness medication if it’s your first time out on the water!
Stock a cooler with snacks and drinks, if required.
Bring binoculars for dolphin and wildlife watching.
Take hundreds of photos for lifelong memories!

Where to Find A Fishing Charter on Kiawah Island?

Night Heron Park

Kiawah Island
Phone: (843) 768-6001

Night Heron Park is a haven for outdoor exploration on Kiawah Island, a destination that connects you with nature, wildlife, and exceptional experiences on land and water. Wherever you stay on Kiawah Island, Night Heron Park is only a short bike ride away and is the best place for on-island fishing, boat charters, eco-tours, and an excellent variety of inshore, nearshore, and shark fishing charters. Other tour options include dolphin encounters, shelling expeditions, sunset cruises, crabbing tours, birdwatching tours, Holy City Harbor cruises, and custom charters for sightseeing in South Carolina’s beautiful barrier islands.

Captain Jacks

Bohicket Marina
Phone: (843) 343-1772

Captain Jack is on deck to take you on a leisurely dolphin cruise, sailing adventure, or customized family fishing charter aboard the Palmetto Tide, a 33-foot sailboat based at Bohicket Marina. A Lowcountry fishing experience with Captain Jack means “It is your day. Your Way!“ – a unique Kiawah Island fishing experience personalized for your family with lifelong fishing memories to match!

Keen Eye Charters

Bohicket Marina
Phone: (843) 814-8982

Captain Chris at Keen Eye Charters has been a professional guide since 2004 and knows where to find the fish in the Lowcountry waters. Go inshore fishing on the creeks, bottom fishing the wrecks and reefs, trolling offshore for big game fish, or customize a charter for kids fishing! Captain Chris also offers custom 2 or 3-hour charters with sunset cruises, dolphin-watching excursions, crabbing, shelling, and eco-adventures to the barrier islands.

Sonny Boy Charters

Bohicket Marina
Phone: (843) 708-1486

Coastguard Captain Brad is the highly skilled and knowledgeable skipper behind Sonny Boy Charters serving Kiawah & Seabrook Island from Bohicket Marina. Choose from a variety of inshore, nearshore, and shark fishing charters as well as guided dolphin eco-tours, shelling expeditions around the islands, or sunset cruises along the Lowcountry waterways.

Lil Darlin’ Charters

St. Johns Marina
Phone: (843) 442-4706

Departing from St. Johns Yacht Harbor on the Stono River, Lil Darlin’ Charters offer a variety of top-rated eco-tours and fishing charters along the waterways surrounding historic Charleston. Whether you’re a novice, a fishing family or a serious angler, Captain Lindsay’s knowledge of the local waters, passion for fishing, and top-notch fishing gear guarantees a memorable fishing experience during your Kiawah Island vacation.

Hook A Vacation Home with Kiawah Exclusives

Ready to reel in the perfect vacation on Kiawah Island? Hook a luxury vacation home with Kiawah Exclusives. We pride ourselves on offering 100+ of the finest vacation rentals in the beautiful communities on Kiawah Island, ranging from oceanfront and lagoon villas to private cottages on the Kiawah River and luxurious vacation homes for large groups or family reunions. View our exclusive collection of Kiawah Island rentals online or give our team a call at (843) 768-0273. Our vacation specialists have 40+ years of local knowledge and are happy to assist through the vacation planning process. From hooking you up with a vacation rental to match your needs to local tips and recommendations to create the ultimate vacation itinerary – we’re here to help!

July 13, 2022March 17, 2025

How To Plan a Golf Vacation on Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is ranked one of the “Top 25 Golf Islands in the World” and is home to some of the best golf courses in the US, designed by top golf architects and played on by many of the greatest legends in golf history.

Nestled on the South Carolina coastline directly south of Charleston, Kiawah Island is a natural barrier island with miles of stunning Atlantic beaches and tranquil waterways teeming with wildlife, elegant plantation style homes and villas, and a laid-back, luxurious lifestyle of outdoor activities and sporting.

Known as the “Landscape of Legends”, Kiawah Island boasts two private courses (Cassique Course and River Course) and five award-winning Audubon certified championship courses – Osprey Point by Tom Fazio, Turtle Point by Jack Nicklaus, Cougar Point by Gary Player, Oak Point by Clyde Johnson, and the iconic Ocean Course designed by Alice and Pete Dye.

Kiawah Island is home to some of the best golf courses in the nation designed by world-renowned golf architects and played by some of the greatest legends in golf history. The Island is home to five award-winning golf courses, including the famed Ocean Course designed by Pete Dye and several other luxurious and oceanfront fairways.

With five Audubon certified championship courses to choose from, it can be difficult to find the perfect course to explore on your next vacation. We’ve put together this guide ranking all the golf courses on Kiawah Island to help you plan your must-play golf courses list!

1. The Ocean Course

The Ocean Course is ranked the #4 Public Golf Course in the US and ranked among the Top 25 of 100 Greatest US Golf Courses by Golf Digest. Kiawah’s Ocean Course is a true test of skill for avid golfers as a par 72 course with 18 holes designed by Pete and Alice Dye.

This course lies at the easternmost point of the island with ten holes hugging the Atlantic Ocean, making it the most beachfront course in the Northern Hemisphere. While this makes for one-of-a-kind unmatched scenery as you golf with a panoramic ocean view, it also exposes players to difficult breezes and unpredictable winds. If you’re up for the challenge, The Ocean Course is the number one course on Kiawah Island that should be first on your must-play list!

2. Oak Point Golf Course

The Oak Point Golf Course was awarded the 2019 Charleston Golf Course Owners Association “Course of the Year” for its strategic challenges and fresh design. The par 72 course features 18 holes designed by Clyde Johnston, a well-known Southeastern golf architect.

Think you have what it takes to take on the Oak Point Golf Course with strategy over power? Then Oak Point Golf Course should be next on your list!

3. Osprey Point Golf Course

Osprey Point Golf Course started out as just a private members-only golf course, but quickly became well-known for its playability and notable layout. Now known as one of Kiawah’s championship Audubon certified courses, Tom Fazio led its renovation in 2014.

Every hole on the Osprey Point Golf Course is notable, with four par-3s, four par-5s, and ten par-4s ranging from 340 to 461 yards. If you’re up for the challenge, head over to Osprey Point Golf Course for a challenging but memorable day on the green!

4. Turtle Point Golf Course

The Turtle Point Golf Course underwent extensive renovations in 2016 with architectural and design assistance from Jack Nicklaus and his team. Since these improvements, the course has seen rave reviews from fans and golfers across the nation. The par 72 course features 18 holes with new Paspalum grass, rebuilt bunkers, laser-leveled tee boxes, and reestablishment of irrigation.

Ready to test these improvements for yourself and prove Jack Nicklaus’ “mind over muscle” strategy? Add the Turtle Point Golf Course to your list!

5. Cougar Point Golf Course

Cougar Point Golf Course reopened in 2017 after undergoing thorough renovations and designs led by Gary Player. Now winning over locals and visiting golfers alike, this par 72 course features 18 holes with stunning marsh views.

Whether you’ve played this beloved course before its renovations or you’re new to Kiawah’s golfing scene– Cougar Point Golf Course is a must on your next trip!

Stay On The Golf Course

Planning a golf getaway to Kiawah Island? Stay in one of our exclusive vacation rentals right on the golf course with unique accommodations to suit your needs– including elevators for easy access, four plus bedrooms for large families, villas for a quick weekend trip, and more!

Browse our full collection of exclusive Kiawah golf homes and villas or contact one of our vacation specialists with the local knowledge and expertise to help you plan the ultimate PGA vacation on Kiawah Island.

July 7, 2022March 14, 2024

Top 10 Attractions for Kids on Kiawah Island

Our kids are inundated with tech gadgets, gaming devices, and a constant stream of stimulation, day in and day out. Why not skip the bustling boardwalks lined with amusement, arcades and kid-centric attractions and spend your family vacation immersed in nature on Kiawah Island?

Kiawah Island is a secluded barrier island and luxury resort community only 25 miles from Charleston, SC. Arriving on Kiawah Island is like stepping back in time to the days we knew as kids! Miles of beaches and bike trails without the crowds, nature activities and grubby hands, family picnics under the stars, and a slower pace of life to unwind, relax and spend quality time with family.

Great news for parents! The island is small (only 10 miles long x 1.5 miles wide) and the top things to do with your kids on Kiawah Island are merely a bike ride or short walk away from wherever you choose to stay.

1. Kick Off With a Classic Beach Day

Kiawah Island boasts 10 miles of beautiful beaches ranked among the best in the world! There are no noisy carnival games or oceanfront arcades – just miles of uncrowded and wide natural beaches with gorgeous white sands, rolling dunes, and gentle waves for a classic beach day with the kids. Kiawah Island’s Beachwalker Park is lifeguarded for safe swimming during season with beach gear rentals, rest rooms, a snack bar, outdoor showers, and all you need for a family beach day.

Spend the day playing in the sun, sand and surf, beachcombing for treasures, building sandcastles, and switching to island time on Kiawah’s family-friendly beaches. You can watch the sunrise and sunset from the beach on Kiawah Island too, perfect for early beach walks, family bike rides, or sunset picnics with the kids.

2. Bike the Kiawah Island Trails

Kiawah Island has tons of trails (30+ miles) connecting the island and you can ride your bike everywhere! Touring the island on two wheels is a fun way to get outdoors, burn off energy, bond as a family, take in the scenery, and hunt for wildlife on the trails and in the scenic marshes and lagoons along the way.

Surfscooter have been in the Kiawah bike rental business since 1981 and offer a wide range of bike sizes for every age, chariots and baby seats for little ones, and tag-a-long rentals to ride tandem – with a 5% discount for Kiawah Exclusive guests. We hope to see you and the kids on the trails soon!

3. Plan Nature Activities at Night Heron Park

Whether you’re traveling with a tenacious toddler or a fearless teen, Night Heron Park will satisfy their need for adventure. Night Heron Park lies in the heart of Kiawah Island and offers activities for all ages, unique Lowcountry tours, a calendar full of family-friendly events, and lessons for literally everything!

The kids get to learn about local wildlife at the Heron Park Nature Center, take an art class at the Turtles Nest Art Studio, bike the shaded nature trails, play basketball, disc-golf, and archery, and take their pick of unique ways to experience Kiawah island! Night Heron Park has an activity to match every family’s level of adventure.

4. Take the Kids Fishing & Crabbing

Most kids love to chase little critters, catch crabs, and feel the thrill of a fish on the end of their line. Fishing and crabbing are aged old traditions in the Lowcountry, and Kiawah Island is full of coastal lagoons, ponds, rivers, tidal creeks and estuaries teeming with fish and tasty Atlantic blue crab.

Plan a family adventure of your own at the Bass Pond Fishing Dock or crabbing dock at Blue Heron Pond or experience the best of the coastal Lowcountry on a family-friendly fishing charter or crabbing excursion on the Kiawah River. The chances are you’ll be returning home with a fresh catch for a fish BBQ or classic Lowcountry Boil.

5. Sign Up For The BEST Kids Camp Ever!

You’ll feel no guilt dropping the kids off at kids camp on Kiawah Island, in fact they’ll be asking to return! Kiawah Island’s unique kids programs are simply outstanding with Kamp Kiawah (ages 3-7), Camp Xtreme (ages 8-15), and a seasonal Adventure Camp (ages 8-15) with morning, afternoon, or full day programs and super fun counselors.

Situated in Night Heron Park, the kids get to explore local wildlife, go scavenger hunting, play sports and team building games, paddleboard the waterways or learn to surf! If a night of romance is on the vacation itinerary, sign the kids up for Kid’s Night Out (ages 5-12) and make a reservation for an evening of wine tasting and fine dining on Kiawah Island.

6. Get the Kids Gaming

No, we’re not talking about online gaming! Kiawah Island Golf Resort is one of the top golfing destinations and tennis resorts in the world with first-class facilities and professional instruction programs for the whole family to get in the game! Kiawah Island’s famous Ocean Course is ranked one of the toughest golf courses in the US, perhaps too tough for little golfers, but perfect for dad to play while the kids are at camp. Osprey Point, Cougar Point, Turtle Point and Oak Point Golf Course all offer family tee times or sign up for golf instruction with a PGA-certified pro at the Tommy Cuthbert Golf Learning Center.

If you’d rather reconnect on the courts, the Roy Barth Tennis Center has award-winning tennis clinics, fun parent-child doubles round robins, and fantastic fast-paced pickleball programs for the whole family to play together.

7. Hang out at Freshfields Village

Freshfields Village is the hub of the Kiawah Island community and a fun place for the whole family to shop, dine, and hangout! Create your own scented candles at the Palmetto Scent Studio, sip old-fashioned soda floats at Vincent’s Soda Fountain, browse the farmers market for unique souvenirs, and check out cool classic cars at the monthly Cars & Coffee.

Freshfields Village hosts endless family-friendly events throughout the year with Shag Night on the Docks in spring, live music on the Village Green in summer, Sidewalk Saturdays, and classic Lowcountry festivals. It’s the perfect destination for a family outing and you can ride the Kiawah Island bike path all the way to Freshfields!

8. Reserve a Spot at the Mingo Point Oyster Roast

The Mingo Point Oyster Roast is the island’s longest running event and a unique Lowcountry experience to share with the kids. The famous Lowcountry cookout takes place on the banks of the Kiawah River with a feast of fresh seafood and oysters, BBQ specialties, a Lowcountry Boil and loads of laid-back island-style family fun! There’s arts, crafts, reptile shows, plenty of space for the kids to roam free, live music and dancing, and the best sunsets on Kiawah Island!

9. Take a Scenic Day Trip to Charleston

On Kiawah Island you’ll immediately feel worlds away, yet you’re only 25 miles from historic Charleston, the #1 City in the USA! A trip to Charleston with kids will entertain, educate and spark their imagination at every turn. Take a tour of charming Charleston in a classic horse-drawn carriage or aboard a pirate ship, catch the ferry for a history lesson at Fort Sumter, play with the critters in the touch tanks at the South Carolina Aquarium, and spark their imaginations on a self-guided tour of the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry. Charleston is packed with kid-friendly activities and attractions, and bucket-list experiences for your whole tribe.

10. Make Memories with Kiawah Exclusives

At Kiawah Exclusives we know that many of your vacation memories are made in the comfort and privacy of home and our exclusive collection of Kiawah Island rentals are perfectly appointed for memory making moments. Whether you’re looking to stay in a luxury oceanfront home with a pool, a family golf villa on the award-winning fairways, or steps from the kid-friendly action in Night Heron Park, you’ll find the best family vacation rentals, service with a smile, and family memories of a lifetime with Kiawah Exclusives.