Things To Do
About Kiawah Island
Kiawah Island is ten miles of wide, immaculate, oceanfront beach that invites you to stroll or cycle for hours without interruption. The beach is complemented by the island’s river, meandering lagoons, pristine marshlands and maritime forests. It’s a haven for wildlife which includes over 400 alligators, 400 deer, and an amazing array of shorebirds! As a barrier island Kiawah has a unique Southern facing beach so you can enjoy the sunrise and the sunset from the very same beach! A leisure trail runs throughout the island and is perfect for long walks, jogs, or bike riding (biking on the beach is great too!)
Some popular sites to see
Marsh Island Park ~ View Tower ~ Kiawah Conservancy 262 Governors Dr Kiawah Island, SC 29455 Bass Pond Fishing Dock Rhetts Bluff Rd Kiawah Island, SC 29455 Night Heron Park Basketball courts, soccer fields, pool, market, and more.
Bike
Kiawah Island is renowned for its natural beauty and abundant wildlife. There is no better way to reach them than on a bicycle. Ride along 30 miles of paved leisure trails and 10 miles of hard packed beach Bike Rental Reservations: By Phone: Advance reservations are recommended for bike rentals, please call Recreation Reservations at 843-768-6001. Walk-Up Bike Rentals: We have 2 convenient locations for walk up service, offering rentals from half-day to monthly. Hours of operation vary seasonally, so please call ahead or make an advance reservation. Everyone welcome at both of these outlets. The West Beach Bike Shop: Located at the West Beach Pool Shop, steps from the Villa Front Desk and West Beach Conference Center. The Sanctuary Bike Pavilion: Located in East Beach Village at The Sanctuary, 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive. You will find bike rentals under the green awning in the west–side parking lot.
Dining
The Kiawah Dining Collection’s restaurants, cafés and eateries across the island offer a diverse range of culinary explorations that stay true to our coastal Carolina roots. A few of our favorites below: Cherrywood at Osprey Amazing BBQ and large selection of craft beers Player’s Pub at Cougar Classic American fare and pub food Tomasso at Turtle Point Contemporary Italian fare on an expansive back porch overlooking the course The Nest Market | Cafe For a quick bite to eat or provisions Visit the website below for more info on dining options. *Note: Some restaurants will require advance reservations so please plan accordingly.
Sanctuary Hotel
This stunning five-star hotel is worth a visit. Located beach front, it’s stunning views can be enjoyed from the Lobby bar (which is open in the afternoon so check for hours). The lobby is elegant and grand! Jasmine Porch is great for lunch or dinner - a lunch of Southern Favorites aptly named - Lunch on the Porch. Jasmine Porch also offers an incredible buffet breakfast best enjoyed with a mimosa.
Beach Access
East Beach and West Beach accommodations offer beach access in most neighborhoods, some of our favorites include: West Beach: Boardwalk 18, restrooms and rinse stations available. East Beach: Boardwalk 27, located near the Sanctuary If you are a guest of The Sanctuary, beach services are complimentary with your stay and do not need to be reserved.
Golf
In order to reserve a tee time, please contact KIGR Concierge ((800) 654-2924) to receive a preferred rate. The Ocean Course Home to the 2012 and 2021 PGA Championships as well as the iconic 1991 Ryder Cup dubbed the “War by the Shore”. This is the island’s most challenging course. It’s a walking course with caddies. Also at the Ocean Course is the Ryder Cup Bar with its wide porch and beautiful views of the beach and course. *Note: Ryder Cup Bar does not take reservations. Other Resort Courses: Osprey Point, Cougar Point, Turtle Point and Oak Point. All amazing courses! Each course has a restaurant as well. See above for more info on dining.
Tennis and Pickleball
Court Fees $44.00 per hour plus 5% tax. Roy Barth Tennis Center
Island Recreation
Kayaking, fishing, bird watching, paddleboarding, and fitness.
The Angel Oak Tree
On your way out to Kiawah from the airport if driving we encourage you to make a quick stop at The Angel Oak . The Southern Live Oak tree is a historical site and is considered to be the largest Live Oak Tree east of the Mississippi. It is estimated to be 300 to 400 years old. It’s a quick stop and on the way to Kiawah!
Freshfields Village
Check out Freshfield’s Village website for shopping and dining! A few favorites of ours: Hege’s For a gourmet dinner (be sure to say hello to owners Scotty and TJ) Coop Light bites and amazing frosé Café Eugenia 48 Wine Bar 48 wines on tap, full bar, and great cheese and charcuterie LaTela A favorite family-owned Italian restaurant Fuji Sushi and hibachi Cantina 76 Queso and tacos Urban Nirvana Amazing day spa Charleston Shoe Co. Java Java Great coffee shop Starbuck’s located inside Harris Teeter
Seabrook Island and Bohicket Marina
A few casual eateries right on the river and the Bohicket Marina has great fishing charters. Also for casual breakfast or lunch on Seabrook is the SDM Café-amazing quiche and crazy good selection of pastries!
Downtown charleston
Downtown Charleston is about 45-minute drive from Kiawah Island