[2023 Travel Destinations] 8 Best Islands to Visit in South Carolina, USA

South Carolina is a state located in the southeastern United States. It is bordered by North Carolina to the north, Georgia to the west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. South Carolina is known for its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and southern hospitality.

The state is home to a number of major cities, including its capital, Columbia, as well as Charleston, which is known for its rich history and cultural attractions.

South Carolina is also home to a number of state and national parks, including Congaree National Park, which is home to the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. The state is also home to several military bases, including Fort Jackson, which is the largest and most active initial entry training center for the U.S. Army.

You will find some of the most beautiful and striking islands off the coast that are worth your visit.

Here are the most beautiful islands of South Carolina that are worth your attendance.

Kiawah Island
Bear Island
Dreher Island
Edisto Island
Goat Island
Harbor Island
Hunting Island
Lady’s Island

1. Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is a large, upscale barrier island located off the coast of South Carolina, in the United States. The island is situated in Charleston County and is accessible by bridge from the mainland. Kiawah Island is known for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for vacationers and second homeowners.

The island is home to several gated communities, as well as a number of luxury resorts, including the Kiawah Island Golf Resort and the Sanctuary Hotel. Kiawah Island is home to several championship golf courses and is a popular destination for golfers. The island is also home to a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, and tennis. Kiawah Island is a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of the region and to experience a high-end beach vacation.

2. Bear Island

Bear Island is a small island located in the Waccamaw River, in Georgetown County, South Carolina, United States. The island is part of the Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge and is only accessible by boat. Bear Island is known for its natural beauty, with forests, marshes, and wetlands that support a variety of plant and animal life.

The island is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, such as birdwatching and fishing. However, there are no facilities or amenities on the island, and overnight camping is not allowed. Bear Island is a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of the region and to observe a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat.

3. Dreher Island

Dreher Island is a small island located on Lake Murray, in South Carolina, United States. The island is part of Lexington County and is accessible by boat from the mainland. Dreher Island is known for its natural beauty, with forests, creeks, and wetlands that support a variety of plant and animal life.

The island is home to Dreher Island State Park, which offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, and camping. The park also has several hiking trails, a beach area, and a nature center. Dreher Island is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and is a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

4. Edisto Island

Edisto Island is a large barrier island located off the coast of South Carolina, in the United States. The island is situated in Colleton County and is accessible by bridge from the mainland. Edisto Island is known for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating, and beachcombing.

The island is home to several small communities, including the neighborhoods of Edisto Beach and Edisto Island. There are also several vacation rental homes and condominiums on Edisto Island, as well as a few small resorts. The island is home to several state parks and nature preserves, including the Edisto Beach State Park and the Edisto Island Serpentarium.

5. Goat Island

Goat Island is a small, uninhabited island located off the coast of South Carolina, in the United States. The island is part of the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge and is accessible only by boat. Goat Island is known for its natural beauty, with sandy beaches, salt marshes, and forests.

The island is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including sea turtles, which nest on the island’s beaches. Goat Island is a popular destination for birdwatching and other outdoor activities, such as beachcombing and picnicking. However, the island does not have any amenities or facilities for visitors, and overnight camping is not allowed.

6. Harbor Island

Harbor Island is a small, private island located off the coast of South Carolina, in the United States. The island is located in Beaufort County and is accessible by boat or ferry from the mainland.

Harbor Island is known for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating, and beachcombing. The island is also home to several small communities, including the neighborhoods of Harbor Island and Old House Creek. There are several vacation rental homes and condominiums on Harbor Island, as well as a few small resorts.

7. Hunting Island

Hunting Island is a state park and barrier island located off the coast of South Carolina, in the United States. It is the most popular state park in South Carolina, with over a million visitors each year. The island is known for its natural beauty, with 5 miles of pristine beaches, a saltwater lagoon, and a salt marsh.

The park also features a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, fishing, hiking, and birdwatching. There are also several historical sites on the island, including the Hunting Island Lighthouse, which was built in 1859 and is one of the few remaining lighthouses in the state.

8. Lady’s Island

Lady’s Island is a small island located off the coast of Beaufort, South Carolina, in the United States. It is part of Beaufort County and is accessible by bridge from the mainland. Lady’s Island is known for its natural beauty, with marshes, creeks, and estuaries that support a variety of plant and animal life.

The island is home to several small communities, including the neighborhoods of Marshlands and The Point, as well as the village of Port Royal. Lady’s Island is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with many opportunities for fishing, boating, and birdwatching.

All islands of South Carolina are beautiful and picturesque and they serve a perfect spot for all the tourists alike.

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