Kiawah Island beckons to those that seek an island vacation getaway that showcases the breathtaking backdrop of the lowcountry alongside pristine Atlantic Ocean beaches. Lured by the symphony of nature found on this barrier island gem off South Carolina’s coast, that include the rustle of palmetto fronds in ocean breezes, morning songs from Carolina wrens and Chickadees, and even the distant call of a red-shouldered hawk. It’s a playground where the Atlantic’s edge, the charm of Freshfields Village, and the elegance of The Sanctuary weave a tale of recreation tailored for those who crave both adventure and tranquility. Here, the hustle of urban life dissolves into the slow rhythm of the Lowcountry, where coastal forests, unspoiled beaches and the manicured greens of Kiawah’s world-class golf courses all converge to deliver a spectacular landscape for your Kiawah Island getaway.
A lush backdrop to explore
Your morning begins on Kiawah’s crown jewel: ten miles of pristine beach, a canvas of golden sand that invites for walks at sunrise. Here, the ocean is your companion—its rhythm a balm for the soul. Or stroll along sun-dappled trails that wind through the Maritime Forest, a shaded corridor of live oaks draped in Spanish moss, their gnarled branches forming a canopy that filters the golden morning light. Stop in at The Nest for a coffee and Parisian-inspired pastry. This isn’t just a walk; it’s a front-row seat to a world where nature has been perfecting its art for centuries.
As you meander toward the marsh, the landscape shifts—oaks give way to cordgrass, a golden expanse that sways with the tide. The air hums with life: a great blue heron stands statuesque, its slate feathers blending with the water’s edge, while fiddler crabs scuttle across the mudflats, their tiny claws raised like conductors of a chaotic orchestra.
For the adventurous, the Night Heron Trail beckons with its promise of alligator sightings. Yes, those prehistoric eyes might peer from the lagoon’s surface, a thrilling jolt to your senses. But it’s not just the fauna that captivates; the yaupon holly, with its glossy leaves and crimson berries, dots the path. Each step reveals a story—of survival, adaptation, and beauty—etched into the island’s fabric.
By midday, the sun climbs high, and Freshfields Village calls—a Lowcountry oasis where rustic charm meets refined leisure. Located on Kiawah Island, just outside of the gated, resort entrance, Freshfields Village is a must-see retail destination with 30 shops, diverse restaurants, a grocery store and spa services. You can pedal over on a rented bike as you weave through trails lined in live oaks dripping with moss. This isn’t your average shopping excursion; it’s quite simply, a curated escape.
Sip an iced coffee at Java Java or browse the boutiques for a handcrafted keepsake—perhaps a sweetgrass basket, woven with techniques passed down through generations. Lunch at The Station means savoring a shrimp po’boy, or grab and go for a picnic on the beach at Cafe Euginia, a cafe and gourmet market, named after Kiawah Island’s historic avenue. Freshfields is where relaxation meets sophistication.
A Quiet Afternoon at the Sanctuary
As the afternoon fades, The Sanctuary emerges like a grand finale—a luxurious haven where it seems only fitting to celebrate the arrival of the sunset. Relax with an afternoon at the Sanctuary’s renowned spa, or sink into a rocking chair on the oceanfront veranda, a cocktail in hand as the horizon blushes pink.
A Tennis and Golf Destination unlike any other
For the active, the 22 tennis courts at the resort’s acclaimed Roy Barth Tennis Center beckon, their clay surfaces a challenge to your backhand. This world-class tennis facility has become a vacation destination all its own, with an array of annual tournaments, instruction at all levels and a well-stocked pro shop.
For the golf enthusiast, Kiawah Island just might be your version of a golf mecca. With 5 distinctly different courses designed by some of the top course designers in the world, options for play are endless and no two rounds of golf will be the same. You might even tee off at The Ocean Course, home to two PGA Championships, and where the wind off the Atlantic tests your swing against a backdrop of dunes and sea oats.
It’s a place where every detail whispers exclusivity, yet the wild beauty of Kiawah remains the star. This is a destination for golfing royalty, and if you prefer “a good walk spoiled,” every course allows for walking your round. The easiest walking course is The Ocean Course, followed by Turtle Point, Oak Point, Osprey Point and then Cougar Point.
This is Kiawah: a sanctuary where you can trade your briefcase for binoculars and your deadlines for discovery. Whether it’s the elusive bobcat prowling at dusk or the osprey diving for its supper, the island’s wild residents remind you that rest isn’t just stillness—it’s connection. So, lace up your shoes, leave the city’s clamor behind, and let Kiawah’s trails lead you to a peace that’s as rare as the painted bunting flashing through the trees. Your escape awaits.
Stay in Luxury
If you want to experience true Lowcountry luxe, plan to stay in luxurious comfort within the Kiawah Island resort where your vacation can include days filled with adventure. From stunning oceanfront homes, to golf course views and charming villas, our collection of vacation rentals on Kiawah Island features incredible amenities and superb locations. Let our Concierge team plan a Kiawah Island experience that is unlike any you’ve ever imagined. From arranging for a private chef to cook for you to handling tee times for your group or setting up happy hour on the porch, these are just some of the ways you customize your stay for an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind vacation – and we have a team of people ready to help you plan it all.
Whether you’re a longtime oyster aficionado or are falling in love with them for the first time, you’ll notice right away that oysters from different regions have distinct flavors. Unlike most delicacies, oysters don’t get their flavors from a sauce or seasoning, they develop their unique salty brine from their environment. The coastal waters surrounding Charleston SC have their own ecosystem and produce oysters with a flavor that you won’t find anywhere else.
Local lore says, ” you should only eat oysters in months with the letter “R,” so help yourselves to all the oysters you can eat from September through April but take a break from them May through August.” While it’s true that “oyster season” used to be considered just the colder winter months, thanks to local oyster farmers working to support Charleston’s booming culinary scene, locals and visitors alike can now shuck locally harvested oysters year round.
For the freshest oysters, best variety, and enjoyable atmosphere, you’ll want to visit these 6 local oyster bars when you’re in the Holy City:
167 Raw is a New England style Oyster Bar in the heart of historic downtown Charleston, SC. You’ll keep coming back for the fresh seafood at this local-favorite hotspot that includes crispy oysters, scallop po’boys, pastrami’d swordfish sandwich or the lobster tostada, and of course, a best-in-class raw bar.
The Ordinary A Southern seafood hall and oyster bar with a commitment to support local and regional fishermen, crabbers, oystermen, farmers and producers. The sophisticated atmosphere in a restored, historic bank building reflects an upscale menu which features Smoked Mahe Pate, Vermillion Snapper, and their speciality, Oyster Moscow (a raw oyster topped with creme fraiche and caviar with a splash of vodka). Taste some of the best raw East Coast oysters with all the accoutrements, or crispy oysters with steak tartare, or even smoked oysters with hot sauce. Any way you slice it, The Ordinary is anything but that when it comes to local oysters and seafood.
Leon’s Oyster Shop An old school body shop turned casually sophisticated oyster & poultry spot, Leon’s has earn itself a James Beard nomination and a reputation for some of the best oysters in town. Designed with the comfort and ease of southern living in mind, the restaurant serves up flavorful oysters three ways (raw, fried, or Oysters Casino) alongside lowcountry staples including fried chicken and black-eyed pea salad. The casual yet intimate dining space, tasty menu, and variety of oysters are all topped off with a dessert of soft serve & sprinkles on Upper King Street.
Pearlz Oyster Bar This self-acclaimed “eclectic little oyster bar” in West Ashley or on downtown Charleston’s famed East Bay Street, offers a full raw bar with local and Gulf oysters and locally caught seafood. With oyster options from oyster sliders to southern fried, or even oyster shooters, you really can’t go wrong. Their full bar provides crafty cocktails, cold beers, and a lively environment.
Bowen’s Island Popular with Charleston locals, you could miss this gem if you don’t turn down the right dirt road on your way to Folly Beach. This authentic lowcountry oyster joint overlooks the water on a 13-acre island and serves up some of the best locally harvested oysters in town! Steamed or fried, you can get your local oyster clusters in full or half trays and shuck them like a local from any of the decks or event spaces. More than just oysters, the menu includes fried shrimp platters, homemade hushpuppies, and their take a on a lowcountry boil, Frogmore stew.
The Darling Oyster Bar Charleston charm meets vintage chic in this popular local oyster bar in downtown Charleston. Located in a restored 115-year-old storefront on King Street, its bright green booths give it the feel of a diner that might have operated in the same space 60 years ago. With a full 14-seat raw bar, The Darling offers 6 different types of oysters, both local and from afar, king crab, ceviche and more. The perfect spot for weekend brunch, serving up Shrimp & Grits, Lobster & King Crab Roll, and Chowder Fries (made with local clams).
If you’re planning a trip to Charleston and you want to put oysters on the menu, our concierge team can make a reservation at any of these local restaurants, or even arrange a private oyster roast for friends & family at any of our luxury vacation rentals. That’s about as classic lowcountry as you can get!
Nestled in the heart of South Carolina’s Lowcountry, Palmetto Bluff offers a serene escape that blends nature with luxury and southern charm. With its stunning landscapes, luxurious accommodations, and unforgettable experiences, it’s the ideal place for a relaxing getaway. From indulging in brunch at Buffalo’s to toasting marshmallows at River House, there’s so much to do in the Bluff your vacation is sure to be filled with memorable moments.
Morning in Palmetto Bluff: Brunch and a Dolphin Excursion
Begin your getaway at Palmetto Bluff with a leisurely brunch at Buffalos, an iconic eatery situated in the heart of Wilson Village. Overlooking the scenic May River, Buffalo’s serves up locally inspired dishes that are both delicious and comforting. You’ll want to linger over their famed fluffy buttermilk pancakes or the Southern staple shrimp and grits while sipping on a mimosa.
After brunch, embark on a dolphin excursion on the majestic May River. The tributaries and tidal creeks are home to playful bottlenose dolphins, and as you glide through the river, you’ll witness these beautiful creatures frolicking in their natural habitat.
If you’re looking for a quiet way to spend an afternoon, don’t miss a chance to relax at the world-class spa, located at within the Montage Palmetto Bluff. Like everything else about this incredible resort, the spa boasts a charming cottage-style design that seamlessly blends with the property’s lush surroundings. The spa is conveniently located just a short bike or golf-cart ride away from most accommodations on the property. Start your day with a fitness class, followed by a spa treatment, or grab someone special and indulge in a range of relaxing treatments for two.
When not just any Birdie will Do
In addition to The May River Golf Course, Palmetto Bluff’s well-regarded, 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, you can test your skills on the links at the new Crossroads. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Palmetto Bluff, a new option for golf lovers now exists — the Crossroads 9-Hole Golf Course. Completed in January 2024, Crossroads, is a 60-acre reversible golf course, ensuring a seamless experience for 18 holes. The Crossroads course at Palmetto Bluff promises a unique and engaging experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Evening: S’mores at River House
After a day of exploring, there’s nothing like winding down with a sweet treat by the fire. Head to the River House in Palmetto Bluff for an evening of s’mores under the stars. As the fire crackles, you can toast marshmallows and assemble the perfect s’more while taking in the serene beauty of the Lowcountry night. It’s a simple yet luxurious way to end your evening, creating memories you’ll cherish long after your trip. Or, end your day with a craft cocktail at Hush, the hidden speakeasy tucked behind a secret entrance below the River House.
Day Trip to Savannah, GA: A Journey Through History and Charm
A weeklong stay at Palmetto Bluff offers the perfect opportunity to include a day-trip to the nearby historic city of Savannah, Georgia. Located just an hour’s drive away from the gates of the lowcountry resort and steeped in southern charm all its very own, this iconic Southern city offers a glimpse into Revolutionary War history, intricate gardens and wide open streets intertwined with shady public squares and lush, centuries old parks. The 30-mile journey through scenic Lowcountry roads is quick and easy, making Savannah an ideal day trip to explore the historic Hostess City of the South.
Once in Savannah, begin your adventure with a trolley tour to get a sense of the city’s rich history and architecture. This guided tour offers insight into the city’s past and provides a great overview of its most iconic landmarks. From there, take a stroll along the famous River Street, where cobblestone streets are lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants.
It’s an Art Affair
Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene by visiting one of Savannah’s premier museums. The Telfair Museums include three distinct sites: the SCAD Museum of Art, the Telfair Children’s Art Museum, and the Jepson Center, where you can enjoy some inventive lunch/brunch bites at Wildflower Cafe. Each offers a unique perspective on art and history, making them must-visit destinations for art lovers.
Lace up your shoes and walk
Savannah is a city that’s made for walking, so take time to explore its picturesque squares. Forsyth Park, with its iconic fountain, is a perfect spot for a leisurely bike ride or a peaceful walk under the Spanish moss-draped trees. Be sure to spend some time strolling along Broughton Street, a vibrant shopping district filled with boutiques and local artisans. Stop in Dottie’s all-day café and market, for a towering shrimp po’boy while shopping on Broughton.
Stroll along Savannah’s riverfront, where you’ll find over 70 shops, galleries, restaurants, pubs and hotels along River Street, Factors Walk, and Bay Street overlooking the Savannah River. From here you can watch the cargo ships come in on the Savannah River as well as walk along the River Walk – a scenic brick walkway along the river.
Dining in Savannah: New and Notable
When it’s time to refuel, Savannah’s culinary scene offers plenty of delectable options. For brunch, head to The Collins Quarter tucked along a popular corner on Bull Street, for its inventive dishes and chic atmosphere. End your day with dinner at Common Thread, an upscale eatery offering a sophisticated menu with locally sourced ingredients, opened in Savannah by the same team that leads Farm in Bluffton, SC just a few miles up the road from Palmetto Bluff. For a taste of Southern cuisine, the locally loved Dining Room at Mrs. Wilkes Boarding House is a must-visit, offering southern home cooking favorites including fried chicken, meat loaf, okra & tomatoes and black-eyed peas.
Within walking distance of Forsyth Park, some of the city’s most picturesque acres, is Saint Bibiana a must-try, modern-inspired Italian restaurant. For a more relaxed dining experience, The Wyld Dock Bar offers fresh seafood with stunning views of the marsh. And no trip to Savannah is complete without a scoop of ice cream from Leopold’s, a beloved local institution.
When to Visit Savannah
While Savannah is a charming destination year-round, the best time to visit is in the spring and fall, when the weather is mild, and the city’s gardens are in full bloom. Spring also brings popular festivals such as the Savannah Music Festival and the SCAD Sidewalk Arts Festival, which showcase the city’s vibrant arts and music scene.
A getaway to Palmetto Bluff paired with a day trip to Savannah offers the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and southern culture. Whether you’re indulging in brunch, spotting dolphins on the May River, or exploring Savannah’s historic streets, this trip is sure to leave you with lasting memories.
Stay in Luxury
If you want to experience true Lowcountry luxe, plan to stay in luxurious comfort within the Palmetto Bluff resort where your vacation can include days filled with adventure. Our collection of vacation rentals in Palmetto Bluff features incredible amenities and superb locations. Let our Concierge team plan a fishing charter for you and your friends, or have a private chef waiting to cook your catch-of-the-day while you sit around the fire pit with a cocktail, telling stories of the big one that got away. And, while you’re there, why not plan a southern-style happy hour on the porch, or travel by private water taxi to explore the Bluffton Farmers Market? With our Guide to Exclusive Experiences, these are just some of the ways you customize your stay for an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind vacation – and we have a team of people ready to help you plan it all.
It’s time to pop the champagne, watch the ball drop, and say hello to 2026. In the Holy City, there are plenty of celebrations to go around. Don’t know where to spend New Year’s in Charleston? No worries! With an array of festive options to choose from, it is no secret that Charleston is one of the top cities to spend your New Year’s Eve. Whether you’re looking for a low key beachfront party or yearning to break out your black tie, the lowcountry offers every type of New Year’s celebration. Here are our picks for the top 5 New Year’s Eve parties in Charleston:
New Years Eve at the Aquarium Aglow
The countdown is on for this family-friendly, annual NYE event held at the South Carolina Aquarium designed for the early bird that doesn’t what to wait until midnight to ring in the new year. In addition to the full Aquarium Aglow experience, there will be a DJ keeping the party vibe hyped, plus stilt walker, face painting and fun for the entire family.
5:50-9:30pm
South Carolina Aquarium
100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston
Folly Beach Flip Flop Drop and Fireworks
Watching a ball drop to ring in the new year is so 1990’s, why not enjoy a flip flop drop instead? The town of Folly Beach rings in the new year with a street party on Center Street and the annual Flip-flop Drop. Center Street will be closed to traffic as revelers enjoy local restaurants and family-friendly festivities. The fun culminates when the huge, sparkly flip-flops descend to mark the stroke of midnight and the beginning of the new year.
Don’t let the Folly Beach fun end there. Wake up to a fun-filled, Bill Murray inspired Polar Plunge! This beloved annual event rounds out the weekend of New Year’s festivities on Folly Beach.
The annual plunge will take place beachside at the Tides Hotel at noon and will include a costume contest at 11am, commemorative t-shirts, and, of course, a plunge into the “chilly” Atlantic. All attendees are encouraged to come in costume.
The Duney Drop Celebration
This New Year’s Eve family event at Wild Dunes Resort on Isle of Palms offers a magical experience for the entire family. Tickets for adults include a 3-hour bar, non-alcoholic beverages, appetizers, desserts, and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. Children and teens will have their own celebratory experience that includes appetizers, desserts and a complimentary sparkling cider toast. Purchase your tickets early and don’t miss this spectacular even.
8 pm – Midnight
Palms Ballroom at The Sweetgrass Inn
5757 Palm Blvd., Isle of Palms
New Years Eve at The Ryder Hotel
No matter what time of the year, Charleston is always suited for a rooftop party. If you’re looking for a lively New Year’s Eve celebration, enjoy a night of celebrating under the stars and ring in the New Year at one of Charleston’s most scenic rooftops, Little Pine at the Ryder Hotel. Count down the clock and say cheers to 2026 at Little Pine’s New Year’s Eve Bash, Celebrate Under the Stars. Join us for a celebratory evening filled with live music, champagne, tasty bites, and delightful cocktails to start your new year off right.
9 pm – 1 am
The Ryder Hotel
237 Meeting Street
New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise
Looking for a New Year’s eve experience that will have you saying “Ahoy” to the New Year? Why not ring in the new year in style with an incredible dinner and sweeping views of the historic Charleston skyline. Cruise the Charleston Harbor aboard the elegantly decorated Spirit of the Carolina while enjoying live entertainment provided by Jay Miley.
6:30pm – Midnight
The Spirit of the Carolina
Patriots Point
40 Patriots Point Road, Mt. Pleasant
New Year’s Eve in the Heart of Downtown Charleston
If you’d enjoy ringing in the new year at the trendiest clubs along King Street’s famed Upper King Street, our friends at Republic Hospitality have you covered! From the opulent, ultra swanky interiors of Republic Garden & Lounge to the trendy “tequila meets sake” fusion destination of Mesu, if you want to celebrate VIP-style Republic Hospitality has just the spot for a fun-filled night of glitz and glamour for the 21 & over crowd.
Republic Garden & Lounge
Annual NYE party starting at 9pm
Tickets available via Eventbrite or at the door
Open bar and passed apps included in ticket price
Complimentary champagne toast at midnight
VIP Tables available – contact [email protected] for details
MESU
NYE kickoff Party starting at 10pm
$5 tickets available via Eventbrite or at the door
Complimentary salsa bar & midnight champagne toast
Lamar’s Sporting Club & Bourbon N Bubbles
A party-hoppers dream – celebrate with access to both of these popular nightspots for a memorable night where the fun never ends!
Annual NYE party starting at 9:30pm
Tickets available via Eventbrite or at the door
Open bar and passed apps included in ticket price
Complimentary champagne toast at midnight
VIP Tables available – contact [email protected] for details
Stay in Luxury
Book a stay at any of our luxury vacation homes in the heart of Downtown Charleston or on Folly Beach, Isle of Palms or Sullivan’s Island and you’ll be close to the festivities no matter where you plan to ring in the New Year. The team at Luxury Simplified Retreats goes above and beyond to offer guests an outstanding experience with beautiful beach rentals and unparalleled concierge services. Browse our Experience Packages to consider making your trip especially unique, then sit back, relax, and leave all of the planning to us. Plus, if you’re staying in one of our luxury vacation homes, New Year’s Eve can be just as fun spent at home. Whichever way you want to spend your last night of 2025, Charleston has the celebration. Pick your party and book your weekend before it’s too late!