The Best Beaches in Charleston for a Little R&R

Give us the wide-angle view: what kind of beach are we talking about?
Thanks to its 10 miles of pristine coastline, Kiawah Island is generally regarded as one of the country's most beautiful barrier islands—and you can bet the asking prices reflect the admiration. The majority of the pristine sands are under private ownership, but the public can sample the scenery at Beachwalker Park, down at the southwestern tip of the island. The sands are soft as anywhere else on this nature-lover’s island, and best of all, you don't need a homeowner's deed to enjoy them.

How accessible is it?
It’s around a 45-minute drive from Charleston’s downtown, through Johns Island. There’s a parking lot for public use, and entry costs between $5 and $15 ($20 for RVs/campers), depending on the season. Beach chairs, umbrellas, and beach wheelchairs are available for rental as well, and there are restrooms on site.

Decent services and facilities, would you say?
There aren't many beachside amenities, but those that are offered feel higher-end than your standard fare. There are gleaming dressing and picnic areas, as well as a small vending facility for drinks and snacks. In high season, you can rent chairs and umbrellas, and even beach-accessible wheelchairs.

How’s the actual beach stuff—sand and surf?
Beachwalker Park definitely lives up to its name—you're venturing here to stroll along the sand, not to partake in high-octane water sports. The water is clean (though not clear) and canoeing and kayaking are both popular, especially around the Kiawah River, which runs parallel to the shore.

Can we go barefoot?
The soft sands are friendly to barefoot walkers, but they’re also firm enough to bike across. The entire stretch is clean and well-maintained.

Anything special we should look for?
If you’re lucky, you can spot dolphins feeding and playing at the point where the mouth of the river meets the ocean.

If we’re thinking about going, what—and who—is this beach best for? If relative tranquillity and wildlife are your bag, then this is the place. And while you may not be crazy about the entry fee, it may wind up working in your favor: it acts as a built-in crowd control feature, so you can enjoy the luxury of space outside of the very peak times.