20 Things to Do in Isle of Palms, South Carolina

Isle of Palms, a charming barrier island located just outside Charleston, South Carolina, is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. With its beautiful beaches, unique attractions, and variety of activities for all ages, this scenic island offers something for everyone.

Whether you're looking to soak up the sun on pristine beaches, explore nature trails, or enjoy local cuisine and shopping, Isle of Palms provides the ultimate getaway with a variety of things to do in Charleston for couples, South Carolina, offering both relaxation and excitement.

20 Things to Do in Isle of Palms, South Carolina

Isle of Palms, located just outside of Charleston, South Carolina, is an island paradise that offers a wide range of activities for those seeking relaxation and adventure. While visiting the area, don’t miss exploring the things to do in Clemson, South Carolina (SC), where you can experience outdoor adventures and vibrant local culture. Here’s a guide to the best things to do on this charming island.

1. Relax on Isle of Palms Beach

Short Description: Isle of Palms Beach is known for its soft sand, gentle waves, and relaxed vibe. Perfect for lounging, beach games, and sunbathing, it’s a must-see for any visitor.

• Pros: Beautiful scenery, family-friendly, plenty of space.
• Cons: Can get crowded during peak seasons.
• Key Attractions/Events: Beach volleyball courts, local beachfront restaurants.

2. Visit Isle of Palms County Park

Short Description: This public park features easy beach access, picnic areas, and outdoor showers, making it perfect for families and picnickers.

• Pros: Clean and well-maintained, great for families with kids.
• Cons: Can be busy on weekends.
• Key Attractions/Events: Picnic pavilions, outdoor showers, convenient access to the beach.

3. Explore Wild Dunes Resort

Short Description: Wild Dunes Resort offers a range of amenities, including world-class golf courses, spa treatments, and fine dining. It’s ideal for those who want to experience both luxury and nature.

• Pros: Excellent golf courses, luxurious accommodations, family-friendly activities.
• Cons: Expensive, particularly during peak seasons.
• Key Attractions/Events: The Links Course, beachside resorts, seasonal events.

4. Go Fishing at Isle of Palms Pier

Short Description: The Isle of Palms Pier is a favorite spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering both local and tourist fishermen a chance to catch a variety of species.

• Pros: Great for casual fishing, scenic views.
• Cons: Limited space during peak times, bait can be costly.
• Key Attractions/Events: Regular fishing tournaments, beautiful oceanfront views.

5. Kayak or Paddleboard on the Intracoastal Waterway

Short Description: For an active day on the water, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm Intracoastal Waterway. It’s a fantastic way to see the wildlife and beauty of the area up close.

• Pros: Peaceful, great way to explore nature, ideal for all skill levels.
• Cons: Can be challenging in windy conditions.
• Key Attractions/Events: Wildlife sightings, such as dolphins and birds.

6. Take a Dolphin Watching Tour

Short Description: Hop on a boat for a guided dolphin-watching tour. Isle of Palms is known for its resident dolphin population, and tours offer a great opportunity to see these playful creatures in their natural habitat.

• Pros: Educational, great photo opportunities, family-friendly.
• Cons: Limited availability, not guaranteed sightings.
• Key Attractions/Events: Dolphin tours, eco-tours.

7. Enjoy a Sunset Cruise

Short Description: There’s nothing more magical than watching the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. A sunset cruise offers stunning views, relaxing vibes, and the chance to unwind with loved ones.

• Pros: Beautiful scenery, romantic setting, relaxing.
• Cons: Can be pricey, limited availability.
• Key Attractions/Events: Sunset cruises, occasional wildlife sightings.

8. Bike Around the Island

Short Description: Isle of Palms has a variety of scenic bike paths, making it easy to explore the island’s natural beauty and quaint neighborhoods.

• Pros: Great exercise, eco-friendly, family-friendly.
• Cons: Limited biking infrastructure in some areas.
• Key Attractions/Events: Scenic biking routes, local shops and cafes.

9. Visit Dewees Island

Short Description: A short ferry ride away, Dewees Island offers a quiet, unspoiled retreat with pristine beaches and abundant wildlife. It’s perfect for nature lovers.

• Pros: Secluded, peaceful, great for birdwatching.
• Cons: Only accessible by ferry, limited amenities.
• Key Attractions/Events: Birdwatching, nature trails.

10. Explore Capers Island Heritage Preserve

Short Description: Capers Island is a protected nature preserve that features untouched beaches and abundant wildlife. It’s an ideal destination for hiking and wildlife observation.

• Pros: Natural beauty, less crowded.
• Cons: Limited facilities, need to bring own provisions.
• Key Attractions/Events: Hiking, shelling, wildlife observation.

11. Try Local Seafood at Acme Lowcountry Kitchen

Short Description: Acme Lowcountry Kitchen serves up delicious, fresh seafood in a laid-back setting. It’s a great place to try local dishes like shrimp and grits or she-crab soup.

• Pros: Delicious local cuisine, great ambiance.
• Cons: Can be crowded, especially during peak meal times.
• Key Attractions/Events: Local seafood dishes, southern-style recipes.

12. Play a Round of Golf at Wild Dunes Links Course

Short Description: This renowned golf course offers beautiful ocean views and a challenging layout for golfers of all skill levels. It's part of the Wild Dunes Resort but open to the public.

• Pros: Beautiful course, ocean views, challenging layout.
• Cons: Expensive green fees, reservations are required.
• Key Attractions/Events: Oceanfront golf course, tournaments.

13. Go Surfing or Take a Lesson

Short Description: With consistent waves, Isle of Palms is a great spot for surfing. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, you can enjoy the surf or take a lesson with a local guide.

• Pros: Fun, active, great for surfers of all levels.
• Cons: Limited surf breaks, can be crowded during peak season.
• Key Attractions/Events: Surfing lessons, surf competitions.

14. Go Shelling on the Beach

Short Description: Isle of Palms is known for its fantastic shelling opportunities. Walk along the shore and find a wide variety of shells and marine treasures.

• Pros: Free, relaxing, great for all ages.
• Cons: Limited variety in some areas, tides affect availability.
• Key Attractions/Events: Shelling on the beach, eco-friendly activities.

15. Charter a Deep-Sea Fishing Trip

Short Description: For the ultimate fishing experience, charter a deep-sea fishing trip and venture out into the Atlantic for a chance to reel in big game fish.

• Pros: Exciting, great for fishing enthusiasts, chance to catch trophy fish.
• Cons: Expensive, weather-dependent.
• Key Attractions/Events: Deep-sea fishing charters, guided trips.

16. Attend a Live Music Event at The Windjammer

Short Description: The Windjammer is a well-known venue on Isle of Palms that regularly hosts live music events. From local bands to touring acts, it’s a great place for music lovers.

• Pros: Fun, lively atmosphere, great music.
• Cons: Can be loud, limited seating.
• Key Attractions/Events: Live music, beach bar vibes.

17. Take a Day Trip to Sullivan’s Island

Short Description: Just a short drive from Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island offers historic sites, beautiful beaches, and local dining spots.

• Pros: Quiet, historic charm, family-friendly.
• Cons: Can be busy during peak times.
• Key Attractions/Events: Fort Moultrie, local cafes, and shops.

18. Explore the Isle of Palms Marina

Short Description: The Isle of Palms Marina is the hub for boating, fishing, and water-based activities. It’s a great place to rent a boat or simply watch the boats go by.

• Pros: Excellent boating access, beautiful views.
• Cons: Can be busy during summer months.
• Key Attractions/Events: Boat rentals, waterfront restaurants, fishing trips.

19. Watch the Sunrise Over the Ocean

Short Description: Start your day early with a peaceful sunrise over the Atlantic. Isle of Palms offers some of the most breathtaking views of the morning sky.

• Pros: Quiet, peaceful, great photo opportunities.
• Cons: Early morning, unpredictable weather.
• Key Attractions/Events: Sunrise views, beach walks.

20. Visit Charleston for a Historic Excursion

Short Description: Just a short drive away, Charleston is rich in history and offers numerous historic sites, museums, and architectural tours.

• Pros: Cultural experience, diverse attractions.
• Cons: Requires a day trip, can be crowded.
• Key Attractions/Events: Historic sites, city tours, plantations.

 

 

Importance of Visiting Isle of Palms, South Carolina

Isle of Palms is one of South Carolina’s premier vacation destinations, offering a remarkable mix of beautiful beaches, rich history, and outdoor activities. It’s an ideal spot for a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo retreat. The island’s laid-back atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for unwinding, while the range of adventure options ensures that visitors can keep busy as well.

One of the island’s most significant features is its accessibility. Located just 12 miles from historic Charleston, Isle of Palms combines the best of both worlds—the peace and quiet of a secluded beach destination and the excitement of a city with rich cultural offerings. Visitors can easily explore Charleston's famous landmarks and museums while returning to the calm and serenity of Isle of Palms in the evening.

Beaches in Isle of Palms: A Beach Lover’s Paradise

The beaches in Isle of Palms are the heart and soul of the island, attracting tourists from all over the world. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to sunbathe, a family-friendly area to play, or an active beach experience with water sports, Isle of Palms offers a variety of beaches to suit every preference, while nearby, there are many things to do in Summerville, South Carolina (SC), for those looking to explore beyond the coast.

The wide, sandy shoreline is perfect for a day of beachcombing, picnicking, or simply watching the waves roll in. The island's beaches are also well-known for their excellent conditions for swimming, especially near the Isle of Palms County Park, which features clean facilities and lifeguards on duty during peak season.

Outdoor Adventures in Isle of Palms

For those seeking outdoor excitement, Isle of Palms provides numerous ways to enjoy nature. From kayaking and paddleboarding to dolphin watching, the island’s waters offer endless opportunities for adventure.

Dolphin Watching in Isle of Palms is one of the island’s most popular activities. Several local tour operators offer guided boat tours, giving you the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat. It's an unforgettable experience for both nature enthusiasts and families alike.

For the more adventurous, kayaking and paddleboarding on the calm waters of the Isle of Palms’ creeks and inlets are fantastic options. You can explore the beautiful salt marshes, getting up close to wildlife like herons, pelicans, and other seabirds.

Shopping and Souvenir Hunting

Isle of Palms is home to a variety of unique shops and boutiques where visitors can pick up souvenirs, local art, and gifts. Whether you're in search of a charming piece of jewelry or local art that captures the essence of the Lowcountry, the island’s shops provide a delightful shopping experience.

Local galleries feature works from regional artists, and there are also small boutiques offering beach-themed clothing and accessories. The Isle of Palms Marina is another popular spot for shopping, where visitors can find everything from fishing gear to casual apparel.

Family-Friendly Isle of Palms: Fun for All Ages

Isle of Palms is an excellent destination for families, offering a wide array of activities suited for kids and adults alike. Mini-golf is a family favorite, with several courses available around the island. These courses are perfect for spending quality time together while enjoying the island’s scenic surroundings.

For a little more excitement, arcade games are available at local family-friendly spots, offering fun distractions for children and adults looking to cool off after a day on the beach. Additionally, the nearby Wild Dunes Resort features tennis courts, bike rentals, and more recreational options that can keep the entire family entertained throughout the day.

Isle of Palms Nightlife and Entertainment

As the sun sets, Isle of Palms transforms into a lively hotspot for nightlife and entertainment. Whether you're in the mood for a relaxed evening with cocktails or a night of dancing to live music, the island offers plenty of options.

Some of the island’s best bars and lounges can be found along Ocean Boulevard, where visitors can enjoy drinks with a view of the ocean. For those who love live music, many local venues host performances by regional bands, offering a taste of the island’s vibrant music scene. The Windjammer, one of the most famous beach bars in the area, is particularly known for its live shows and fun atmosphere.

Day Trips from Isle of Palms

While Isle of Palms offers plenty of activities, it’s also well-positioned for those who want to explore the nearby attractions. A day trip to Charleston is an easy and rewarding experience, with its rich history, cobblestone streets, and beautiful waterfront. Visitors can tour landmarks like Fort Sumter, the Charleston City Market, and Rainbow Row, or take a Carriage Tour through the historic district.

Other nearby destinations worth exploring include Folly Beach and Kiawah Island, both offering their own unique charm and additional outdoor adventures.

Conclusion

With its stunning beaches, outdoor activities, shopping options, family-friendly attractions, and vibrant nightlife, Isle of Palms, South Carolina, offers a vacation experience that suits all kinds of travelers. Whether you're lounging on the beach, exploring the local wildlife, or enjoying the island’s lively nightlife, Isle of Palms ensures a memorable and relaxing getaway. Start planning your trip today and discover everything this beautiful island has to offer.

FAQs

What is the best time to visit Isle of Palms? The best time to visit Isle of Palms is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer months are also popular, but the beaches can get crowded.

Where should I stay on Isle of Palms? There are several excellent accommodation options, from beachfront resorts to charming vacation rentals. Popular choices include The Wild Dunes Resort and private beach houses along the island’s coastline.

What activities are best for families? Families can enjoy mini-golf, arcade games, dolphin watching, and beach activities. Isle of Palms also has several family-friendly resorts offering various amenities for children.

Can I rent bikes on Isle of Palms? Yes, bike rentals are available at several locations on the island. This is a great way to explore the island’s scenic roads and beaches.