The Best Beaches near Charleston, SC

What’s more relaxing than the sounds of surf and seagulls, the calming waves, and toes between your sand? Charleston, South Carolina, usually isn’t first on the mind for a beach day, but why not? Some of the East Coast’s most beautiful and world-famous beaches are part of its Lowcountry landscape. The metro beaches include family-friendly destinations, top vacation resorts with world-class golfing, and secluded stretches of sand and surf. Trust us: Charleston has a beach that will meet your needs. Just check out these picks for the top beaches in Charleston right your door any time of year.

Folly Beach

Chill out, bra. It’s just a short drive from downtown Charleston to reach Folly Island and the cool coastal town of Folly Beach. The oceanfront calls thousands to its shores each year for relaxed, family-friendly vacations and surfing. Yes, some of the best surfing in South Carolina is here, with the Washout as a hot spot. Don’t surf? No worries, bra. Three surf schools run novice lessons or will give you pointers on your technique.

Another big draw? The fishing pier extending more than 1,000 feet into the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a hot spot for casting a line or that perfect sunrise photo. Booking a fishing charter is a top activity, as the waters around the island are rich with massive snook, speckled trout, and red drum.

When you need a break from rollers or building sandcastles, check out Center Street. This main thoroughfare runs through the heart of  Folly Beach and where the island’s entertainment and social scene jams long into the night. Dine to sea views with the fresh catch of the day, or hit up the surf shops for souvenirs. Grab a margarita as the sunlight fades away and dance to live music at the local tiki bar.

The bohemian beach village of just 2,000 residents may be small, but it is always buzzing with activity in all four seasons. The beachfront gets in demand in the summer, so come early. It’s an easy reach, at a 23-minute drive from downtown Charleston.

Isle of Palms

Try the Isle of Palms if you want a more upscale beach experience. Conde Nast readers have repeatedly ranked it as a top-choice island vacation destination. It’s easy to understand when you’re standing on its six miles of clean, wide shores.

Add to that onshore activities to entertain everyone. Some of Charleston’s best vacation resorts are here. Isle of Palms has a cultivated a reputation as a luxury destination for a beach vacation or winter months in the sun.

The cream of the crop is the world-class Wild Dunes Resort, with its famous views and championship golf courses. Not only are these fairways designed by some great golf architects, but there’s no better experience than teeing off to sunrise over the Atlantic.

Besides golfing, Isle of Palms is the launching point for eco-expeditions into the Lowcountry marshes, fishing charters, and delicious plants to eat and listen to live music, like the Windjammer on Front Beach.

But this isn’t just a place for a vacation. The lifestyle here is all about resort-style living, even if you own your home. Opulent homes and communities take advantage of the access to championship golf, tennis, private beach clubs, and fine dining at the resorts.

The beach feels less crowded, with its protected sand dunes, expansive flat shoreline, and space between the resorts and homes. For the public, there are 50 beach access points with public parking and residential parking on the island. In some places, you can rent chairs and umbrellas from the city for a day of relaxation. Dogs can play in the surf in the morning through the summer and from 4pm-10am in the fall, winter, and early spring.

Isle of Palms is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Charleston. Add ten minutes if you’re heading to Wild Dunes Resort.

Sullivan’s Island

Few islands have the same stunning views as Sullivan’s Island, a two-mile-long barrier island at the mouth of Charleston Harbor. This charming beach community has a rich history, stunning downtown views, and oceanfront vistas.

The highlight attraction on this island is the historic lighthouse, built in the 19th century and still in operation today. Visitors can climb to the top for stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding areas. But the island also has ties to the American Revolution and Civil War.

Historical significance is one draw, but the real star is the beautiful sand dunes and pristine, wide beaches. Sullivan’s Island isn’t about commercial development and has embraced its fishing village vibe. You won’t find high-rise towers and strips of surf shops. So play in the rolling surf, grab a bite of the day’s fresh catch, and just unwind from the hustle of Charleston.

The public beaches have numerous pathways, with handicapped access at stations 18, 21, and 26. It’s an easy 20 minutes from downtown, depending on the traffic. Expect a longer commute in the summer season and on beautiful days.

Just 2,000 people call Sullivan’s Island home; the community is committed to maintaining its pristine environment with low development.

Kiawah Island

Escape the crowds at Kiawah Island, the destination for a more private beach experience near Charleston. The drive takes 46 minutes from downtown, but it’s worth it for those who prize fewer crowds and a natural shoreline.

Behind the gates awaits seclusion and tranquility with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Most of the island’s oceanfront access is reserved for the residents and their guests, but public beach access is available at Beachwalker County Park. It’s on the island’s west end and has changing areas, a picnic area, a boardwalk, and seasonal beach rentals.

Since Kiawah Island’s shoreline is a further drive from town and protected in a gated community, the beachfront here is simply stunning, with soft sand and clear blue waters.

In addition to its beautiful beach, Kiawah Island boasts world-renowned golf courses and upscale resort accommodations. It’s a popular choice for those looking for a luxurious getaway or winter retreat.

Seabrook Island

Find another slice of paradise in Seabrook Island, a private oceanfront community that matches Kiawah with a serene and even less crowded beach experience a little under an hour from Charleston. That makes sense, as the two communities are neighbors.

Experience a lifestyle immersed in natue, as the developers took care to protect the maritime forest, marshes, and beaches. Imagine watching dolphins chasing fish while sipping morning coffee from your back patio. From sea turtles to seabirds, wildlife flocks to the shores of Seabrook Island, a paradise for humans and nature.

Getting to the island’s Pelican or North Beach will require living here, being a member’s guest, or booking a vacation. The four miles of beach here are quiet and peaceful, perfect for those seeking a relaxing getaway. One section is fronted by the Beach Club, with its pavilion dining and swimming pools. The perks include horseback riding on the beach, oceanfront pools, and uncrowded shores. All beaches are dog-friendly for well-behaved pets.

Besides the already mentioned perks, life on Seabrook Island is rounded by its Audubon Sanctuary golf course, shopping at the Seabrook Shoppe, and elegant dining venues. Outside the gates awaits a marina and market for more boating and retail choices.

Edisto Beach

The resort-style life can be relaxing, but we know it’s not for everyone. For that, drive a little further from downtown Charleston to Edisto Beach. The landscape here departs from the resort-oriented beaches found south of the city. Relax with more laid-back seaside town vibe thanks to its lightly developed shores.

Edisto Beach sits where the Edisto River meets the Atlantic. It’s one of the state’s largest barrier islands. You’d expect it to draw crowds with such a prime location, giving it multiple waterfront access points.

Instead, Edisto Beach wants to maintain its comforting beach life. You won’t find packed-in entertainment and commercial strips, but that’s perfect for a family-friendly and chill beach day.

Residents love the small-town charm, which among its amenities counts access to oceanfront golfing and a state park. Oceanfront access is available from 37 locations along Palmetto Boulevard. Just be ready to cross over sand dunes. Dogs are allowed but must be on leash during the summer months.

Enjoy Charleston’s Best Beaches

Come to Charleston for its southern hospitality, historic architecture, and food culture. Just don’t miss the beaches, too. So pack your sunscreen and towel and get ready to soak up the sun at one of the best beaches in South Carolina. There’s a reason these sands are top vacation destinations, as evident at the resorts at Isle of Palms and Kiawah. Include a trip to one of these top-rated Charleston beaches during your day, or look at buying an oceanfront home. You won’t be disappointed!