Exploring Kiawah Island

With the weather growing warmer and the first days of spring around the corner, we are dreaming about endless beach days, tanning, and taking a dip in the ocean. If you are looking for an east coast beach destination, look no further than Kiawah Island. This private island is the perfect vacation for families. With pristine beaches, renowned golf courses, and award-winning restaurants, Kiawah Island is famous for a reason.

Kiawah is a barrier island located about 30 minutes south of Charleston, South Carolina. When entering the island, you must go through a guarded gate which helps to provide safety. It also ensures that the island stays exclusive to the people who are living or renting on it. This keeps crowds small and makes the island feel more secluded. When on the island, residents and guests typically travel on a bike or golf cart, which is possible because of the numerous paths throughout the island. Along with not being overcrowded, one of the best features of Kiawah is that it isn’t overdeveloped. Most houses have large yards, and some even look out over the untouched marshland. It's a great place to relax and get away from the busy rush of everyday life.

On the island there are 14 restaurants and bars, all serving top-tier cuisine. Indulge in a classy dinner at the Atlantic Room. This beautiful space is surrounded by large windows looking out over the ocean and the Ocean Course, home of the 2021 PGA tour and also the place where part of Outerbanks, the popular Netflix series, was shot. With so many fine dining options on the island, there is no shortage of delicious food to try.

While in Kiawah, take a trip to Freshfields Village, a popular shopping center. An open-air mall is a great option on days when you don’t feel like going to the beach. Freshfield Village has over 30 shops, an assortment of restaurants, and even spa services. They pride themselves on their “Lowcountry, High Style” southern aesthetic and charm.

Between the glitz and glamour of the island and over 10 miles of pristine beaches, Kiawah is unmatched. Its beaches are clean and not overcrowded, which is perfect for recreational activities and casual beach days. The island offers kayak tours, dolphin watching trips, fishing excursions, surf and paddleboard lessons, sunset cruises, and countless other programs to bring you and your family closer to nature.

Kiawah Island is luxurious, and there is truly something for everyone to enjoy. Take a break from the stress of day-to-day life and step onto the quiet beaches of Kiawah, South Carolina. You will surely not be disappointed.

Tag @theedgemag if you visit Kiawah any time soon!