Johns Island is a barrier island off the coast of Charleston, near Kiawah & Seabrook Island. Home to one of SC’s most beloved landmarks, the Angel Oak, Johns & Wadmalaw Island’s offer fun opportunities to take in during a visit to the lowcountry.

At these destinations, you can learn about the art of sweet tea, the wine making process, or even take a look inside how the distillery produces its finest spirits. Tours at each location are followed by ample sampling opportunities!

 

The 10 BEST Things to Do on Johns Island


1. Visit the Angel Oak Tree on Johns Island.  

A must stop on any visit to Kiawah Island or Seabrook Island. This 300-400-year-old Live Oak tree continues to captivate visitors. Read more about this beloved Lowcountry landmark and plan your visit, as it is only open during operating hours.


2. Visit the Charleston Tea Garden

Located on Wadmalaw Island, a scenic drive just west of Johns Island, the Charleston Tea Plantation continues a tradition begun in the late 1700s by French botanist Andre Michaux. The Lipton Company invested in the research and development of American grown tea in the early 19060s. Today the Bigelow Company’s established brand of American Classic Tea is featured and grown here. Enjoy tours and special events.


3. Check out The Goatery at Kiawah River

Looking for a fun activity with the kiddos? Just up the road from Kiawah and Seabrook Islands on Betsy Kerrison Parkway the Kiawah River development offers an incredible experience for folks looking to commune with nature and animals. 

In partnership with local Johns Island farmers, this working farm raises beef cattle, pigs, bees, goats, and produce for consumption by the residents of the community. The goats are the most popular attraction at the farm. They bounce around in their open pen during the day and love rubs and pats. Donkeys also live on the farm and serve as protectors for the free-range chickens and others. 


4. Freshfields Village Shopping

Set at the southern tip of Johns Island, Freshfields Village is a delightful, open-air shopping village featuring over 30 shops, delicious dining options, and an intimate boutique hotel, The Andell Inn. The Village hosts special music events, a summer farmer’s market and seasonal celebrations. 


5. Low Tide Brewing

Thirsty? Check out this locals’ favorite for seasonal tap beverages and eats provided by a rotating number of food trucks. Bring the pup! There is plenty of outdoor seating and games for the kiddos too. It is a great place to meet your neighbors and keep up with the local scene. See here for a list of Charleston’s Best Breweries.


6. Visit the Shrimp Docks

Cherry Point Seafood is located at the end of Wadmalaw Island, about a 15-minute drive from the center of Johns Island. There is no better place to get fresh off-the-boat shrimp and seafood. These folks have been around for decades! 

Watch the shrimp trawlers cruise into the dock and offload their catch of the day.  Bring a cooler and plan your next Lowcountry boil. 


7. Deep Water Vineyard

Head through Johns Island to Wadmalaw Island where the island’s only vineyard is located. Featuring locally grown grapes, the muscadine grapes produce wines with a distinct, regional flair. The vineyard offers tours, tastings and is a great place to host corporate events that impress your employees and clients! 

Deep Water Vineyard also features fun events that celebrate the holiday seasons, our beloved regional cuisine, and the annual harvest. Check out their website and plan a visit to the Sea Island’s only vineyard and winery. 


8. Aqua Park at Trophy Lakes

Summer fun is always around the water!  Trophy Lakes is known for world-class water ski events.  Now everyone can enjoy fun on the water at Johns Island’s water sports park.  Aqua Park at Trophy Lakes is just minutes from Charleston on beautiful Johns Island.  Come bounce and splash on the floating park features. Open May through September. Book online!


9. Visit Johns Island’s Only Public Beach

Beachwalker Park at Kiawah Island is ranked in the top ten public beaches of the U.S. Located at the south end of Johns Island, Beachwalker Park is part of the Charleston County Parks system. Come early as parking is limited during the high season. 

The park features beach chair and umbrella rentals, dressing areas, restrooms, lifeguards, and concessions.  A picnic area with grills is available for use as well. Check out their website for up-to-date hours, recreation services, and fees. 


10. Bohicket Marina

This full-service marina located between Seabrook Island and Kiawah Island offers boat rentals, guided inshore fishing charter tours, paddleboard and kayak rentals, and waterfront dining at Salty Dog Cafe. 

Boat storage and slip rentals are also available for boat owners. The Barrier Islands Boat Club is located in Bohicket Marina. View the website for current offerings and hours of operation.