Island Living in Charleston, SC
When people think of island life, they think of relaxation, sunshine, surf, and fantastic food. Island living in Charleston features all those attributes and throws in a side of Southern hospitality as well. Therefore, if you want to bask in all the benefits of the Lowcountry lifestyle, living on one of Charleston's islands is likely right for you!
Charleston has a few islands to choose from, including James Island, Folly Island, Kiawah Island, Johns Island, Sullivan's Island, Seabrook Island, Isle of Palms, and Daniel Island. Each of these areas has its unique charm and feel to it.
James Island is your best bet if you want to be closest to downtown Charleston while still enjoying the benefits of island life. With excellent southern cuisine, top-rated schools, and a safe community, James Island is perfect for people looking to remain close to downtown Charleston while having a high quality of life.
Folly Island (home to Folly Beach) is the perfect place for those looking for a laid-back beach life in Charleston to be more off the beaten path. Great restaurants and gorgeous waterfront housing (all homes are so close to the ocean!) are hallmarks of this area.
Kiawah Island is home to gorgeous beauty, luxurious charm, and some of Charleston's best golfing. Because of its privacy, many of the globe's biggest stars own vacation homes here and with everything this impeccable island has to offer, there is no question as to why. Those looking for luxury, relaxation, and seclusion will love Kiawah Island.
Relaxation is also central to Johns Island, where you can find gorgeous scenery, including a 2,000-year-old Oaktree, a major local attraction. Johns Island is also home to excellent schools, low crime rates, and a more family-oriented laid-back lifestyle.
Sullivan's Island is a perfect mix of Charleston luxury and island living. Some of the best beaches Charleston offers are on Sullivan's Island, and this area has minimal crime, excellent food, and some a great mix of historic and modern homes. If you are on Sullivan's Island, check out historic Fort Sumter, a historic military site operational from 1776 until 1960.
Seabrook Island only has a population of ~1700 residents, so if a more secluded laid-back lifestyle is what you are looking for, then Seabrook is certainly somewhere you want to check out. Seabrook Island hosts a wealth of amenities which include two championship golf courses, a nationally recognized racquet club with 15 Har Tru tennis courts and two pickleball courts, an equestrian center offering trail and beach rides, ocean-front dining venues, swimming pools, fitness center, and expansive banquet/private dining venues.
Isle of Palms features some of the most luxurious homes in the area. With large plots, breathtaking ocean views, palatial homes, world-class beaches, and amazing restaurants, there isn't much not to like about this little island. The population is low, and many international buyers and vacationers escaping the cold own second homes here.
Lastly, Daniel Island, situated between the Wando River and the Copper River, is another popular choice for prospective Charlestonians. Epitomizing island living in Charleston, Daniel Island is a more insulated community that features excellent schools (Daniel Island School receives a 9/10 rating), shopping, dining, and Credit One Stadium - the perfect venue for live music and sports!
No matter which of the islands you choose, you'll experience the best Charleston (and Lowcountry living) has to offer! To learn more about the homes available and what each of these islands has to offer, contact our dedicated team of realtors today!
