Kiawah Island vs. Seabrook Island - What's the Difference?

Kiawah vs. Seabrook? What is the difference? Twenty-six miles south of historic Charleston, South Carolina the Sea Islands of Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island offer an unparalleled combination of luxury and leisure. Experience award-winning conservation and preservation.

Enjoy the first-class resort and private club amenities. Plus, wander miles of pristine, private beaches. While you are here, Pam Harrington Exclusives is the # 1 source for Kiawah, Seabrook, and Charleston area real estate services.

So, which island is right for your beach vacation or island investment? Read on to learn about Kiawah Island vs. Seabrook Island and the key differences between these two Charleston Sea Islands. Afterward, we invite you to experience Lowcountry living first-hand.

Schedule a complimentary island tour with us at Pam Harrington Exclusives and we will show you the ins and outs of these beloved beach towns, including neighborhoods, country clubs, and more.

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Your Guide to Kiawah Island vs. Seabrook Island

Seabrook Island SC Community Atmosphere

Seabrook Island SC encompasses just over 7 square miles. So, it is smaller than Kiawah Island and more residential in character giving it the feeling of one large neighborhood. Guests and owners appreciate the quiet, community lifestyle Seabrook Island offers.

With a population of approximately 1850 residents and 2287 housing units, the island maintains a substantial portion of green space. The rich flora and fauna that coexist harmoniously with island residents are just two compelling features of life on Seabrook Island SC.

Kiawah Island Community Atmosphere

Kiawah Island enjoys greater notoriety than its sister island to the west. This is primarily due to the world-renowned Ocean Course. This storied golf course was designed by famed golf architect, Pete Dye. The island is also a much larger island encompassing over 11 square miles.

Kiawah Island is also recognized as a top destination for luxury, resort living in harmony with nature. This private, gated, barrier island remains a lush habitat for a variety of flora and fauna. Progressive development agreements continue to preserve the lush forests and habitats. The Kiawah Island Natural Habitat Conservancy's mission is to preserve and protect the natural beauty of Kiawah Island.

There are approximately 1,762 Kiawah Island residents. The most recent estimate shows over 3516 single-family units on Kiawah. Non-resident properties lend themselves to investment or rental opportunities. Many villas and cottages serve as second or third residences. Families gather for those special times of the year, honoring traditional Lowcountry holiday celebrations.

Seabrook Island Club vs. Kiawah Island Club

In addition to the captivating, natural beauty of Seabrook Island, visitors and residents are drawn to the recreational amenities available on the island through The Seabrook Island Club and the Seabrook Island Property Owners Association.

Major improvements to Seabrook Club facilities began in 2009-2010 through the vision and hard work of island leaders and residents. The Seabrook Island Lake House is a featured amenity of the SIPOA and enjoyed by all property owners and guests. This 26,000 square foot clubhouse highlights fitness and wellness. The indoor lap pool, cardio area, weight training room, fitness class rooms, library and large outdoor salt water pool support a healthy lifestyle for all residents.

The Seabrook Island Club, a private country club, offers membership opportunities to all property owners. Guests of members may also enjoy access to the Club's resort-style amenities with the amenity card.

Seabrook Island Club members and guests of members enjoy 2 championship golf courses, 15 Har-Tru Clay tennis courts, multiple pickleball courts, horseback riding on the beach, and a full calendar of social opportunities as well.

Similarities Between Kiawah and Seabrook

If you’re weighing Kiawah Island vs. Seabrook Island, it’s important to remember that both islands enjoy access to many of the same amenities. The islands neighbor each other on the South Carolina coast. Freshfields Village is the midpoint between the two islands. It features several options for casual dining and boutique shopping. It also provides the major grocery store in the area.

Bohicket Marina serves both islands as well. Anglers, kayakers, and sunset sailors always end up spending time here regardless of which place they stay.

Frequently Asked Questions - Kiawah Island Vs. Seabrook Island

1. How far is Seabrook Island from Kiawah Island?

Seabrook Island’s entrance to the gates of Kiawah is just over eight miles north, or a quick 20-minute drive. Follow Seabrook Island Road through Freshfields Village to Kiawah Island Parkway.

2. Is Johns Island the same as Kiawah or Seabrook Islands?

While Johns Island boasts beautiful estates and a stunning Lowcountry marshland, it lacks the five-star amenities that Kiawah and Seabrook Islands offer. Living on Seabrook and Kiawah means access to the area’s best golf courses, private beaches, and neighborly community.

3. Is Seabrook Island gated? Is Kiawah Island gated?

Yes, both Seabrook and Kiawah are gated communities.

4. Which has better golf courses, Seabrook or Kiawah?

Both islands offer premier championship golf courses. Kiawah Island’s Ocean Course was home to the 2012 PGA Championship and will host again in 2021, making it a highly sought after bucket list course for many avid golfers.

5. What are the biggest differences between Seabrook and Kiawah Island?

The most significant difference between Seabrook and Kiawah Island is the feel in size. Kiawah attracts much more foot traffic due to its public beaches and biking trails, while Seabrook is more residential.