Ask me where my happy place is and Kiawah Island will immediately come to my mind. There is something truly special about this Lowcountry destination. I get so excited to pack my bags, my shades and sunscreen. I know that sunny skies, calm waters and relaxation are ahead!
Welcome to Lowcountry
Whether you fly into Charleston or exit off Route 95 in your car, you notice a difference driving down the meandering roads towards Kiawah Island. Kiawah Island is located on the coast of South Carolina, about 40 minutes outside of Charleston. Large oak trees with low lying Spanish moss provide a canopy to the road, giving flashbacks of movies filmed in the sleepy South.
The air is balmy and you take a deep breath. Ahhh … your pulse begins to slow down immediately. Much needed decompression time from the daily hustle … coming right up! As you drive through the circle and approach the gates of Kiawah Island Resort, you notice the neatly cut grass, lush trees and beautiful landscaping. You have arrived.
Kiawah Island Resort
Kiawah Island Resort is a private beach and golf club on the Atlantic’s sea island of Kiawah. It consists of 10 miles of beautiful, wide open beach and is a natural paradise. Lagoons, marshland and natural coastal habitats are home to an astonishing array of flora, fauna and wildlife. Clearly, much care is given to preserve the area’s natural beauty and living creatures.
What To Do
There is plenty to do on Kiawah Island Resort. Activities include 5 PGA level world class golf courses, Roy Barth Tennis Center, Night Heron Park, biking, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, eco walks, nature center, kids camps and other activities for adults and families to enjoy. Or you can simply grab a good book, plop on your beach chair and enjoy the beach, gentle waves and warm sun that welcomes you. The huge, wide open beach provides a beautiful backdrop while offering excellent privacy.
You can also go on day trips from Kiawah to nearby Charleston, Shem Creek, and other nearby marinas and beaches. Rent a boat, book a fun tour of Charleston, and enjoy the plethora of restaurants for foodies! With Charleston only 40 minutes from Kiawah Island, it is easily accessible for an evening of craft cocktails, unique eats, low country classics and high end restaurants.
Where to Stay
There are several lodging options on Kiawah Island. The resort is sprinkled with condos, villas, and large private homes. It is also home to the 5-star Sanctuary Hotel.
- The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort: A member of Preferred Resorts, this oceanfront, five diamond resort stands at the center of this sprawling coastline. You can stay in one of their plush rooms or suites. Several casual and fine dining options are onsite as well. Enjoy their indoor and outdoor pool, fitness center, pamper yourself at their acclaimed spa and salon. Schedule 18 holes of golf. Or simply relax under your umbrella at the beach.
- Andell Inn: Part of the Marriott Bonvoy collection, the Andell Inn is located in Fresh Fields Village. Rooms overlook the peaceful lake. Many rooms contain kitchenettes with rooms ranging from single to two bedroom suites to accommodate families. A saltwater pool and gym is onsite. Conveniently, a daily shuttle to the beach is provided to guests to Beachwalker Park.
- Rent a Villa, Home or Condo: If you want more space, you can rent coastal style homes that suit your taste and range from one bedroom to several bedrooms to accommodate any size group. Reservations can be made directly through Kiawah Island Resort. Alternatively, you can tap into other privately owned properties listed under other management companies such as VRBO, Booking.com, Vacasa, Sweetgrass Properties, Kiawah Island Getaways and Airbnb. Ideally, you should book in advance as reservations during high season can be quite limited.
Investment Options
- Buy Investment Property: New construction on the island has occurred recently. Interestingly, there are several new, modern style homes under construction as well as coastal styles — many still available for purchase. With the arrival of the pandemic and COVID lockdown, Kiawah Island has experienced a surge in real estate pricing, with home prices skyrocketing. Q2 2022 Kiawah Island Report showed an extremely strong market, with home sales prices doubling.
- Fractional Ownership: Fractional ownership options are available with Timbers Kiawah, which provides luxe oceanfront condos. Members have reciprocity privileges with other Timbers resorts as well.
- LowCountry Senior Living: A new 62+ life plan community is now open for purchase called Seafields at Kiawah Island. Independent living, luxe condos and several fine amenities are available at this newly constructed community.
Unwind Time in Kiawah Island
Undeniably, Kiawah Island is my happy place and it may easily end up to be yours too! It’s beautiful year round with temperatures on the milder side. It’s the perfect destination when you’re in need of some peace and quiet from the daily hustle. Just a few days in Kiawah Island will truly recharge your batteries in no time.
Settled in and now you’re hungry? Check out my Kiawah Island Ultimate Dining Guide for great food and more good times!
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