Are you dreaming of your next warm-weather getaway? With pristine stretches of and days filled with sunshine, Charleston some of the best South Carolina beach towns. Come play in the ocean, catch a wave, or simply sink your toes into the sand and relax. From the serene shores of Kiawah and Seabrook Islands to free-spirited Folly Beach, we’ve put together a list of the best beaches in South Carolina. Check it out and start planning your next trip to the best vacation spot in the state!
After you visit a few of the best South Carolina beaches, you’ll want to stop by the world-class restaurants and in Charleston. Be sure to request our complimentary Sea Island Vacation Guide.
6 of the Best South Carolina Beach Towns
1. Kiawah Island Beach
With 10 miles of private beaches and panoramic marshland views, it’s no wonder Kiawah Island among the Top 10 Best American Beaches. This family-friendly island has something to offer for both the young and the young at heart.
If you’d like to experience 10 miles of private beach and luxury amenities, consider Kiawah Island. You’ll have easy access to the beach and maximum privacy for a relaxing day by the water.
Kiawah is also known for its championship golf courses. Come see Kiawah Island’s pristine fairways and nationally ranked beach for yourself.
2. Seabrook Island
The quiet shores of Seabrook Island have everything you need for a memorable getaway. The barrier island is home to two excellent beaches: Pelican Beach and North Beach, as well as the exclusive Seabrook Island Beach Club.
North Beach is located along Seabrook Island’s eastern shore, making it a prime spot to watch a classic Carolina sunrise. As the first rays of sunlight spread across the Atlantic, you may even spot a dolphin or two! North Beach also features a large off-leash area for dogs that is open seasonally. There are plenty of dog-friendly spots in Charleston for the paw-fect getaway with your fur baby.
Pelican Watch Beach is the second area on Seabrook Island that allows dogs. Consider a Beach Club or Pelican Watch Villas for easy access and views of this amazing beach!
3. Sullivan's Island
This casual beach town is the perfect place to rent bikes, go on a paddleboarding excursion, or simply relax and soak up the sun! Sullivan’s Island is filled with laid-back restaurants, shops, and bars that are just a short walk from the water. Grab a burger and a refreshing cocktail at Poe’s Tavern, explore nearby Fort Moultrie, or listen to live music at one of the beach bars. No matter what you decide to do, we guarantee that you will love spending a day on Sullivan’s Island!
4. Isle of Palms
Bordered by expansive marsh views, the Isle of Palms, South Carolina, beach is a favorite for both locals and visitors alike. Like Kiawah and Seabrook Islands, Isle of Palms is celebrated for its family-oriented atmosphere and great golfing opportunities.
Visitors can take a boat tour, go on a deep-sea fishing excursion, or look for nesting sea turtles along the shore. At the end of a perfect day, we recommend stopping by the Windjammer for drinks and live entertainment.
5. Folly Beach
There’s a very good reason that Folly Beach is one of the most popular Charleston, South Carolina, beaches. Also known as “The Edge of America,” this tropical oasis is a surfer’s paradise, and just 20 minutes from downtown Charleston.
The Washout on Folly boasts some of the biggest and best waves along the Carolina coast, making it perfect for most water sports! The area is also filled with excellent restaurants and shops that are just steps from the ocean.
6. Edisto Beach
About an hour south of Kiawah is Edisto Beach. This beach is full of character and fascinating Native American history. Edisto Beach State Park is one of four state parks on the South Carolina coast and features hiking and biking trails that allow you to explore the park.
There are tons of things to do on Edisto Beach, including fishing, birdwatching, geocaching, boating, and swimming. Plus, it’s one of the best places to explore Charleston’s wildlife and ecosystems.
Top Beaches in South Carolina
Stay for a Week…or for a Lifetime
Now that you know about the best South Carolina beach towns, it’s time to head to the water! See for yourself why so many people favor Charleston beaches over other popular vacation destinations like North Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet, Hilton Head Island, or Surfside Beach.
Whether you’re just here for the week or are planning a purchase, Pam Harrington Exclusives has the perfect beach house for sale. We offer an extensive selection of beach houses for sale on Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island.
These South Carolina beach homes for sale feature top-notch amenities and are just steps from the best South Carolina beaches, restaurants, and attractions. Come experience all that Charleston has to offer and contact us to learn more about real estate options in the area. Once you visit the Lowcountry, you won’t ever want to leave!