3 of the Best South Carolina Beach Towns You Need to Visit

The Lowcountry is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast. These South Carolina beach towns are fantastic places to escape with your family for some fun under the sun. With an array of restaurants, activities available to explore, and attractions, you won’t want to leave! 

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Here Are the Best South Carolina Beach Towns 

Folly Beach 

If you desire wide stretches of beautiful sandy beaches, but also want a good mix of restaurants, bars, and shops nearby, then Folly Beach will be one of your favorite South Carolina beach towns. Situated about 25 minutes south of downtown Charleston, this island is full of local charm. Center Street is full of life during the day and into the evening, with hotspots like Taco BoyJack of Cups SaloonRita’s Seaside Grill, and St. James Gate serving up plenty of great food and spirits. You’ll also find live music on most nights during the summer. Once you branch away from Center Street, Folly Beach is a peaceful island oasis. This is one of the best beaches for surfing in the Charleston area, and there are also nearby kayaking options. 

Isle of Palms 

Isle of Palms is one of the most family-friendly beach towns in South Carolina. It’s a short drive over the Intracoastal Waterway from Mount Pleasant, so you’re not far from the action. Ocean Boulevard has a handful of fun restaurants and shops like Acme Lowcountry Kitchen and The Windjammer, but for the most part, this island is a beachgoers paradise. The gated community of Wild Dunes is on the northern tip of the island and has two golf courses, tennis courts, and private beach access points for its guests. There is also a marina accessible to everyone where you can rent boats, kayaks, and take parasailing tours. Historic downtown Charleston is only a 15 to 20-minute drive if you want to get out and explore during your stay. 

Sullivan’s Island 

Sullivan’s Island is one of the most quiet and secluded South Carolina beach towns in the Charleston area. It’s only a little more than three miles long tip-to-tip, but it’s a fantastic place to spend your beach vacation. Middle Street is home to a block of cute shops and fantastic restaurants. Poe’s TavernMex 1 Coastal CantinaHome Team BBQ, and The Obstinate Daughter (a Charleston favorite) are some of the best local dining experiences outside of downtown Charleston. If you love having plenty of space to yourself on the beach, then you’ll love Sullivan’s Island. Not only will you have most of the beach to yourself, but you can walk to the southern tip of the island for incredible views of Charleston and the harbor. Plus, the drive to Charleston, Mount Pleasant, and Isle of Palms is only about 10 to 15 minutes. 

Plan Your Lowcountry Beach Vacation

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Stay in your favorite Lowcountry beach town with Charleston Coast Vacations. Our collection of rentals in Sullivan’s IslandIsle of Palms, and Folly Beach provide you with tons of incredible choices for your family beach trip. Our rentals feature new renovations, beautiful decorations, ocean views, and unique amenities to ensure you have a top-notch comfortable stay. Plus, our concierge team can help you plan your trip every step of the way.    

Start planning your beach today by browsing our vacation rentals. We look forward to welcoming you to the Lowcountry! 

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