South Carolina is a state worth moving to if you love charming small towns. Are you looking to leave the hustle and bustle of a big city and move to a coastal village? We recommend two small towns in South Carolina you need to know about. We are partial to these two South Carolina beach communities on the Atlantic Ocean. These small towns radiate southern hospitality. We are enchanted by the live oak tree-lined streets. Daily strolls offer an abundance of local wildlife (even sea turtles during mating season). Outdoor adventure is never ending and includes kayaking the Kiawah River and Captain Sams inlet where dolphins strand feed.
But, before we let you in on our top choices for small towns, make sure to sign up for our real estate newsletter. Send us your email address, and we will deliver our latest resort specials and discounts as well as information on local events and area happenings!
What Are the Best Small Towns in South Carolina?
With over 2800 miles of shoreline, South Carolina is home to some of the best beaches in the United States. Each year Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island beaches top the list! Kiawah and Seabrook Island are two of the best small towns in South Carolina. Each island community is a planned town. In addition, these two gated beach towns offer a quaint, small-town feel with luxury, resort amenities, and pristine beaches. These two beachfront small towns are just 20 miles from Charleston's grand mansions on East Bay Street, antique shops, Waterfront Park, and the historic district.
-
Kiawah Island, SC
Kiawah Island South Carolina is a barrier island offering relief from the fast-paced atmosphere of big city life. Many people are familiar with Hilton Head Island, but Kiawah Island offers a more relaxed, private setting.
The entire town features unspoiled natural beauty, intriguing wildlife, maritime forests, and pristine beaches. The stunning coastal homes and beach villas are just 30 minutes away from Historic Charleston, SC.
Kiawah Island truly has it all.
-
Things to Do on Kiawah Island
When you move to this Sea Island you'll have ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and many days out on the water. A popular way to enjoy the outdoors along the Atlantic coast includes a boat tour from Bohicket Marina for a day of fishing.
Or, you can head to Beachwalker Park for 30 miles of biking and walking trails. Hike 10 miles of flat beaches. Traverse the marshes, or saltwater rivers for a morning of kayaking, surfing, or stand-up paddle boarding.
Plus, golfers will love Kiawah Island because it's home to some of the best golf courses in the nation. For example, The famed Ocean Course hosted the 2021 PGA Championship.
In addition to being an ecological oasis, Kiawah Island offers delicious dining and shopping. Freshfields Village is a quaint shopping center that allows you to enjoy the sunshine as you shop for eclectic gifts, high-end clothing, and stylish home décor for your new house, as well as basic necessities like groceries, gas, and banking!
-
Kiawah Island Community Association
Upon purchase of your property, you will become a member of the Kiawah Island Community Association (KICA). The KICA administration and board offer recreational, educational, and social programs as well as private events at The Sandcastle. Read on to learn more about the benefits of your KICA membership.
-
Clubs on Kiawah Island
There are two clubs on Kiawah Island. Each offers a distinct set of amenities designed to enhance and enrich resident life in this small South Carolina town. The Kiawah Island Club is a private organization with championship golf, a luxury spa, oceanfront pools, tennis, stunning clubhouses, and a vibrant community of members. Membership is only available with the purchase of a property that offers this membership opportunity. The Governors Club is available to all island residents. Members may play several different golf courses, including the famed Ocean Course at Kiawah Island. Tennis, dining, and pools are additional amenities.
-
The Town of Kiawah Island
The Town of Kiawah Island’s mission remains to preserve and enhance the residential character of the community; protect the island’s unique natural environment and beautiful beaches; and support the viability of resort activities along with other commercial and residential interests.
These aims are reflected in the daily commitment to administering services that foster, strengthen, and preserve the quality of life for this small community of residents and visitors.
-
Seabrook Island, SC
Adjacent to Kiawah Island is Seabrook Island. This coastal paradise features some of the most scenic wonders of South Carolina, including 3.5 miles of beautiful shoreline.
Much like its small-town neighbor, this South Carolina Sea Island has an abundance of gorgeous outdoor areas for recreational activities centered around the Seabrook Island Club.
-
Things to Do on Seabrook Island
For a picturesque vision of the Lowcountry, saddle up and enjoy horseback riding at the Seabrook Island Equestrian Club. So, whether you're a beginner or an advanced equestrian, you can enjoy miles of trails through the woods, along the marsh, and even on the beach.
Seabrook Island also offers a renowned racquet club, the Seabrook Island Racquet Club. It features 15 professionally maintained tennis courts, a pickleball complex with a recreational area, a full-service tennis pro shop, a lounge, and opportunities for private and group tennis lessons.
The Town of Seabrook Island
Seabrook Island is a special island. Community residents and town officials share a common mission to preserve the unspoiled character of the beaches and island.
The Town of Seabrook Island, the Seabrook Island Property Owners Association (SIPOA), the Seabrook Island Club, and Camp St. Christopher collaborated on the Comprehensive Beach Management Plan. This is just one collaborative effort of islanders and the small city government.
It’s Time to Find Your Dream Home
If you’re considering moving to the Charleston area, start your home search with Pam Harrington Exclusives. With over 40 years of Charleston real estate experience, Pam Harrington Exclusives can help you find your ideal family home.
Browse through our list of available homes on Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island, and our knowledgeable staff will assist you through the entire buying process.
If you’d like to be the first to know about new homes listed in these small towns in South Carolina, make sure to sign up for our real estate alerts!