The Angel Oak Tree isn’t just one of Charleston’s most famous landmarks — it’s a living symbol of the Johns Island lifestyle. Majestic, peaceful, and deeply rooted in Lowcountry history, Angel Oak perfectly reflects why so many people are drawn to living on Johns Island.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or considering calling Johns Island home, Angel Oak is a must-see — and a reminder of what makes this island so special.
The History of the Angel Oak in Charleston, SC
🌳 What Is the Angel Oak?
Located on Johns Island, Angel Oak is estimated to be 400–500 years old, making it one of the oldest living oak trees east of the Mississippi River. Its massive canopy stretches more than 17,000 square feet, with twisting limbs that reach outward and downward, creating a breathtaking natural sculpture.
Protected as a historic site, Angel Oak has survived centuries of change — from colonial settlement to modern Charleston growth — and remains a powerful connection to the island’s past.
Standing only 65 feet tall, The Angel Oak’s Spanish moss-covered limbs and branches are so large and spread out, that it produces shade to nearly 17,000 square feet below.
Over the years it has survived floods, earthquakes, and a category five hurricane!
How old is the Angel Oak Tree?
The tree is so old that it’s difficult to date, so there are discrepancies about its age. Some predict the Angel Oak is around 400 years old, while other sources suggest it could be aged closer to 1,500 years.
Historians know for certain that its earliest recorded date of existence was 1717 when Jacob Waight was issued a land grant for 12,000 acres, including the land on which the tree sits.
Parcels of the land were passed on to Martha Waight – Jacob’s fifth generation heir – in 1797 and 1810. She married Justus Angel, and together they ran the Angel Plantation.
After over a century in the hands of the Angel family, the land was sold in the mid-1900s. In 1991, it became the property of the City of Charleston. Read More Fear that the surrounding forest would be torn down for new development after the city’s purchase, Arborists and locals alike advocated preserving the natural surroundings that are essential to the historic tree’s survival. Many public and private organizations, as well as individual donors, worked together in acquiring a land grant to ensure the preservation of the property for future generations. In 2014, construction began to build a public park and trail, making it an attractive destination for day trips from Charleston.
Angel Oak Tree Hours and Visitor Information
Angel Oak Park is located at 3688 Angel Oak Road, Johns Island. It is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission to the grounds is free, and there is a small gift shop on-site with sweetgrass baskets and other Lowcountry treasures.
The park has a picnic area and offers a beautiful, shaded place to relax and marvel at the nature around you. The climate is hot and humid during the summer, so visit in late March or late October to truly enjoy the experience.
Around 400,000 guests visit the Angel Oak annually, as it’s just a short ride from downtown Charleston, Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island.
Other Angel Oak FYI’s:
- In an effort to protect the health of the tree, visitors are asked not to climb or carve on the Angel Oak.
- Pets are allowed on leash in designated areas only, including the picnic area.
- Locals - this is a stunning backdrop for wedding photos and it does require a permit for any special events or photography sessions.
Living on Charleston’s Sea Islands
Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, Johns Island, and Charleston are popular coastal towns in South Carolina. Newcomers and natives enjoy the diversity of living options, sense of community, mild climate, and abundance of outdoor activities. Johns Island is quickly becoming one of the most popular places to live in the Lowcountry. Check out our Johns Island Information Guide for more information on this charming Sea Island community. Once you have decided on a location, let Pam Harrington Exclusives guide you to a Lowcountry home that you’ll love for years to come.
Representing a wide variety of real estate for sale on Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, Johns Island, Wadmalaw Island, and the Charleston area, we will find the perfect fit for your family.
Browse our available properties online today. Then, schedule a showing with one of our knowledgeable agents. We look forward to introducing you to the joys of Lowcountry living!