Plan Your Isle of Palms South Carolina Vacation

Looking for a Plan for Isle of Palms South Carolina Beach Vacation that combines relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty? Just 12 miles from downtown Charleston, the island features two championship golf courses with ocean views and a variety of outdoor activities, shopping, and dining options. Enjoy endless water activities like fishing, paddle boarding, surfing, kayaking, and boating along the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway.

History of Isle of Palms

Isle of Palms is a unique barrier island, estimated to be at least 25,000 years old.

While today it is a vibrant residential community and resort destination Luxury, the island’s significant development didn’t begin until the 1970s, with the establishment of the Palms Beach and Racquet Club, later renamed Wild Dunes.

How far is Isle of Palms from Charleston?

The Isle of Palms is located near Charleston, South Carolina, approximately 12 miles (19 kilometers) east of downtown Charleston, South Carolina.

The driving distance between downtown Charleston and the island is around 30-35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The two locations are connected by the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, which spans the Intracoastal Waterway.

Read More: Isle of Palms transportation

Dining options on Isle of Palms

With a thriving business district featuring local shops, restaurants, and a full-service grocery, you won’t need to leave the island for any of life’s necessities or pleasures.

1- Hudson’s Market

Pop into this market to enjoy coffee, grab-and-go wraps, and ice cream, or stock up on wine, beer, cheeses, desserts, fresh fruits, and Lowcountry treats.

2- Islander 71 Fish House & Raw Bar

This restaurant pays homage to the easygoing beach life of the 1970s, offering seafood, crafty cocktails, and one of the best sunset views, located next to the IOP Marina on the Intracoastal Waterway.

3- Beachside Burgers

It’s the perfect pit stop for a tropical drink, frosty beer, and refreshing ocean breeze, open spring and summer.

4- Coastal Crust on the Sweetgrass Plaza

Indulge in wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas and Italian-inspired dishes made with local ingredients and traditional recipes for an old-world style with today’s trends.

5- Coastal Provisions

Enjoy fresh Lowcountry seafood, prime meats, and gracious service in this romantic and intimate restaurant located in the Boardwalk Inn at Wild Dunes Resort, with a terrace and lounge area.

6- Huey’s Southern Eats

This relaxed restaurant features a casual lunch and small bite lounge menu, with a Charleston golf course view, located in the Links Clubhouse.

Where to stay in Isle of Palms SC?

Wild Dunes Resort on the Island Palms offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Boasting an extensive variety of accommodations and dining options, as well as two golf courses designed by renowned golfer Tom Fazio, it is no wonder this resort continuously attracts golfers from far and wide every year.

For the perfect summer escape, consider the Palms Oceanfront Hotel and Seaside Inn.

For those seeking true relaxation in style on the beach, there are options like Port of Call or Serenity’s seaside sanctuary, just steps away from the sand. No matter where you choose, you can expect to be spoiled by exclusive five-star accommodations during your Isle of Palms adventure.

The Isle of Palms activities

Start planning your in-Palms vacation today and enjoy the following activities:

Explore the Isle of Palms County Park

The Isle of Palms County Park is an excellent spot to spend an afternoon. The park features a playground, picnic areas, and a boardwalk leading directly to the beach.

Take a Dolphin-Watching Tour

The waters surrounding the island are home to many dolphins, and you can take a tour to observe them up close. These tours are offered by local tour companies.

Go Fishing

Island Palms has several piers and marinas where you can enjoy fishing. You can also book a charter boat tour for deep-sea fishing or contact our friend John Irwin at Fly Right Charters for redfish or fly fishing opportunities.

Visit the Isle of Palms Marina

The Isle of Palms Marina is a great place to admire the boats. You can also rent a boat or book a fishing charter right from the marina.

Play Golf

Island Palms is home to several golf courses, including the renowned Wild Dunes Golf Resort. The courses offer stunning views of the ocean and cater to golfers of all skill levels.

Go Kayaking

Kayaking is a popular activity on the Island Palms. You can rent a kayak or join a guided tour to explore the local waterways.

Take a Sunset Sail

Watching the sunset over the ocean is a magical experience, and you can enjoy it on a sunset sail from Island Palms. These tours are available through local tour companies.

To Know about more activities check this: Things To Do In Isle of Palms

Visit the Isle of Palms Recreation Center

The Island Palms Recreation Center features a gym, basketball courts, and tennis courts, making it a great place to stay active during your vacation.

Explore Charleston

Island Palms is conveniently located near Charleston, which is home to numerous historic landmarks, museums, and restaurants. You can plan a trip to Charleston to explore the city’s many attractions.

Is the Isle of Palms dog-friendly?

It seems that Isle of Palms is generally dog-friendly, among these areas:

Isle of Palms County Park

The county park appears to be open to dogs, as it is described as having a playground, picnic areas, and a boardwalk leading to the beach – typical amenities that would allow for dog walking and enjoyment.

Isle of Palms Marina

A marina is a place where you can “take a stroll and admire the boats”, suggesting it is an area welcoming to both people and their furry companions.

Overall, the island seems to cater well to dog owners and their pets. The availability of parks, marinas, and other outdoor spaces indicates that the island is generally dog-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their four-legged friends along on their island adventures. As with any destination, it’s always a good idea to check specific policies and restrictions, but the descriptions provided point to the island being an accommodating locale for dogs and their owners.