Hit the beach on Kiawah Island. Beachwalker is the public beach access point and the easiest place to go. The Dunlin and the Andell Inn have shuttles to/from (about 10 minutes each way), otherwise there's a parking lot at the entrance.
For those of you who want to get a round in while you're on the island, Kiawah has five resort courses to choose from, ranging from The Ocean Course at the top end to more accessible options like Oak Point. Pricing and difficulty vary quite a bit across the five, so there is something for everyone regardless of skill level or how much you want to spend. We would recommend booking tee times early, as they tend to fill up.
Biking around Kiawah River and Kiawah Island is a great way to see the area. There are trails around the Dunlin as well as numerous routes along Kiawah Island. Seacoast Outfitters is one of ~5 rental spots in the area to use.
Coastal Expedition outfitters is located on the Dunlin property and offers kayak/paddle board rentals, river safari cruises, bird/wildlife trips, backwoods fishing, and more. For self guided rentals, typically you can rent day of. For the guided/longer form expeditions, they recommend calling to book ahead of time. The Greater Charleston area is home to more than 300 resident bottlenose dolphins. September is also the season to possibly get a glimpse of dolphins during strand feeding!
Estuary Beans and Barley is a coffee roaster and brewery on Johns Island. They roast their own coffee and brew their own beer, so it works whether you need a morning coffee or an afternoon pint. They have a great outdoor space with a wood fired pizza truck on site and often live music. One of our favs!!
Lost Isle is our favorite restaurant in the area. It is an outdoor fire-to-table spot on Johns Island, about 15 minutes from the Dunlin and the Andell Inn. Everything is cooked over a live wood fire and the food is incredible. Seating is all outdoors, so keep that in mind. They take reservations only Sunday through Wednesday but Thursday through Saturday is first come, first served.
We highly recommend a stop at Ryder Cup Bar at the Ocean Course Clubhouse overlooking the 18th hole, dunes and ocean. It's an iconic view for sunset and a drink with a full grill menu.
Tattooed Moose is a casual bar and restaurant right next door to Lost Isle. It is a Charleston institution that was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Big craft beer selection, great sandwiches, and a large outdoor yard. It is open late and a good spot if you are looking for something low key.
Maine Line Seafood is a small roadside seafood food truck on Betsy Kerrison Highway, just a minute before you turn into the Dunlin and about 10 minutes from the Andell Inn. Everything is fresh and it is one of the best lunch spots in the area. They are open from 11am to 3pm, and closed on Sunday.
A great chill vibe, right on the water, great spot to catch the sunset, and live music on Thursday nights!
An adorable wine and charcuterie spot with a charming atmosphere. Note their food menu is very limited, so plan accordingly.
Rosebank Farms Market is a local farm stand on Kiawah River Drive, right at the entrance of the Dunlin. They sell fresh local produce, some prepared foods, and other Lowcountry staples.
Great no-frills diner cafe with delicious breakfast and lunch.
Every trip needs a good sandwich stop at some point. Island Provisions has you covered, on the way from Kiawah back into Charleston.
Freshfields Village is your closest hub of restaurants/grocery stores/retail and more. The Andell Inn is located within the complex.