Buy a home at a reasonable rate with a VA loan in Kiawah Island, SC

A miniature golf course with an onsite restaurant and bar has been proposed for a busy corner on James Island.

The lot at Folly Road and Grimball Road Extension is currently empty and surrounded by a chain-link fence. It's across from Spyglass Seaside, a resort-style apartment complex.

Plans have been submitted to transform the property into a development called Community Corner, which would include a miniature golf course with a restaurant, bar and retail space on nearly three acres. The applicant is Grimball Corner Investments LLC.

The developer is looking to incorporate 114 parking spaces, most of which would be on another parcel across Grimball Road Extension. There is an existing traffic signal at the intersection, and sidewalks would be added to both sides of the property, renderings show.

The area is zoned for limited business, which allows for a variety of commercial uses and services that are compatible with residential areas.

Charleston’s Technical Review Committee, a staff-level look at site plans, considered Community Corner on Jan. 16. The city asked the owner to revise and resubmit plans based on concerns about stormwater runoff, flooding, traffic and other issues.

Charles Wilson of Grimball Corner Investments declined to comment about the development.

Pop-up no more

Think pink. Lots of it, in every shade.

That's what shoppers of Freshfields Village can expect when LoveShackFancy transitions from a pop-up to a permanent boutique at the Kiawah Island retail center.

New York City-based lifestyle brand was founded in 2013 by stylist, designer and creative director Rebecca Hessel Cohen who wanted to revel in the beauty of a rose-colored world.

The new Charleston area store offers an expanded selection of its uber-feminine women’s fashion and accessories, as well as perfume bedding and a children's collection.

In 2018, Cohen opened opened her first Charleston storefront at 218 King St. She now operates 20 stores throughout the U.S., from California to New York, and the United Kingdom.

Nearby in Freshfields Village, Café Eugenia, a to-go café and gourmet market, is expanding to a space next door and will be offering cooking classes and specialty workshops.

StretchLab, an assisted stretching studio, also opened 164 Gardeners Circle in the outdoor retail center. The studio offers help with increased mobility, improved posture and injury prevention through one-on-one stretch sessions for all fitness levels.

The franchise previously held a popup at the shopping center offering 15 minute demonstrations.

Another StretchLab is currently open on 151 Market St. in downtown Charleston.

Bank note

An Alabama lender has cut the ribbon on a new branch at 319 North Cedar St. in Summerville.

The site is the second in the Charleston area for Birmingham-based ServisFirst Bank, which for years has had an office in The Cigar Factory at 701 East Bay St. on the peninsula.

The Flowertown outpost will have 10 employees and features a drive-thru.

Coast-to-coast

Southern California lifestyle brand Jenni Kayne is making its Palmetto State debut on Charleston's busiest retail corridor.

The West Hollywood company said it plans to open its first retail location in the state on April 12 at 364 King St., between Calhoun Street and Burns Lane.

The 2,340-square-foot parcel will stock a full range of Jenni Kayne's coastal-inspired products, including apparel, accessories and décor. The store will also carry Oak Essentials, the founder's clean skincare line.

Drink up

A New Orleans-style restaurant in North Charleston is angling to add beer and liquor to its menu offerings.

The Seafood Pot recently applied to the S.C. Department of Revenue for on-site consumption of adult beverages in its Gas Lite Square location at 5629 Rivers Ave.

Taco 'bout Nexton

The Mexican-style restaurant El Patron Nexton is preparing to open and recently submitted an application to sell beer, wine and liquor at its at future Marketplace at Nexton space at 422 Cross Park Lane.

Premier Building Construction posted a sneak peek of the progress with floor-to-ceiling glazed overhead doors. The 2,900 square-foot restaurant will have indoor and outdoor bars and dining space.

A new chapter

A dark academia-inspired coffee shop and bookstore will officially open April 12 in Mount Pleasant.

Patrons of The Archive can buy a book, sit at the bar and enjoy a cocktail or mocktail, coffee, pastries and more in its corner spot at 700 Shelmore Blvd., near Mathis Ferry Road and the I'On neighborhood.

The store tailors to a subgenre of romance books and thrillers typically set in schools or secret societies, but will have something for everyone, owner Amanda Badeau said.

Enviro-outlet

Tanger Outlets in North Charleston will hold an Earth Day event April 19 from noon-3 p.m. with live music, native plant and bouquets sales, and a free gardening class. There will also be critters from the S.C. Aquarium, local vendors and hands-on workshops about protecting the environment.

Discover Charleston-area favorites and lesser-known oceanfront communities.

The South Carolina coast is full of laid-back beach towns with wide stretches of sand, palm-lined bike paths, quaint boardwalks, and restaurants cooking up fresh-caught Lowcountry fare. I’ve spent much of my life frequenting the Palmetto State’s beach towns—visiting Kiawah Island every year and even living in Charleston for a period. Using my own experience and the expertise of a few locals, we narrowed down the list to the 10 best beach towns in South Carolina. See if your favorite made the cut below.

Isle of Palms

I’ve spent countless days on Isle of Palms, a small barrier island about 15 miles from downtown Charleston. It's one of the more family-friendly beach destinations in the area, and many visitors opt to stay at Wild Dunes Resort or rent a roomy oceanfront home. No matter where you are on the island, though, its leisurely pace, wide beach, and classic small-town vibes will entice visitors of all ages. One of my favorite things to do on “IOP,” as the locals call it, is to grab dinner at Islander 71 and watch the boats come in and out of the marina. I’d also recommend checking out the live music schedule at The Windjammer—or picking up a frosé (frozen rosé) to-go from The Co-Op.

Kiawah Island

In South Carolina, a beach town should evoke a nostalgic mix of humidity, salt water, and the distinctly earthy smell of pluff mud emanating from the salt marshes. Kiawah Island meets all of these criteria—and then some. A majority of the island functions as a gated private community, accessible only to residents, their guests, and those with reservations. However, there are a couple of areas open to the public if you want to do a day trip, namely Kiawah Beachwalker Park and the shopping center Freshfields Village. At the latter, you can load up on all your vacation essentials: groceries, beach reads, bathing suits, and more.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach may technically be a city, but it has all of the trappings of your classic beach town. There’s a bustling boardwalk, golf courses, go-karts, souvenir shopping, and, of course, a number of public beaches. “I’ve always been drawn to the nostalgia that you can find on Myrtle Beach,” says Betsy Fuller, owner of A Maker’s Post, a gift shop on Sullivan's Island. “One of my favorite movies, 'Shag,' is set there, and whenever I watch it, I daydream about going back to visit the beach town in the 1950s.”

While it might be synonymous with spring break crowds and families on summer vacation, this is a destination that always delivers beach fun—whether you’re hoping to spend the day by the water or keeping your schedule full from sunup to sundown.

25 Best Things to Do in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Pawleys Island

Relaxation is paramount when you’re visiting Pawleys Island, a barrier island beach town located between Myrtle Beach and Charleston. This is the type of place where time slows down, you’re encouraged to log off and enjoy the natural splendor of South Carolina’s coast. Spend your days crabbing, surfing (if the waves permit), fishing, golfing, or dining on classic Lowcountry staples like okra soup or shrimp and grits; just don’t forget to save time for the art of doing absolutely nothing. For a particularly romantic getaway, book a room at The Pelican Inn, an eight-bedroom bed-and-breakfast with a charming wraparound porch.

Folly Beach

"As someone who lives 10 minutes from Folly Beach, I certainly feel like I'm on vacation where I live,” says Katie Hirsch, the former director and chief curator of the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art. One of the closest beach towns to Charleston, it’s a great option for a day trip if you’re visiting the Holy City; just be sure to arrive on the earlier side if you want to beat the crowds and have an easier time parking. Plus, “if you're an early riser,” says Hirsch, you might want to “try finding shark teeth during a morning beach walk.” She also recommends grabbing some food at local favorite Jack of Cups Saloon for “unexpected bites inspired by Asian cuisine.”

Hilton Head Island

"Hilton Head Island is one of the best places to escape to if you want to be near a beach town but want a different environment from Charleston,” explains Hirsch. “It has modern touches but still keeps its Southern charm, appealing to both tourists and locals alike.”

The historic island is known for its golf courses and bike trails, but offers a wide variety of things to do. Gullah heritage tours, boat rides, paddleboarding, and birding are all itinerary contenders, and Hirsch also says the destination has “some of the best thrift stores.” If that’s up your alley, save an afternoon for exploring the goods at The Bargain Box, My Sister’s Closet, and The Church Mouse.

Sullivan’s Island

Sullivan’s Island continues to be a favorite South Carolina beach town—especially for Charlestonians. “The beach is very relaxed, and the marsh views are second to none,” says Fuller. “If you’re visiting, I’d recommend taking a long beach walk [and exiting] at Station 22.5, so you can head into ‘town,’ aka Middle Street, to do a little shopping.” This part of Sullivan’s Island is popular for its various eateries; there’s everything from Mexican and barbecue to burgers and seafood. Fuller recommends getting a table at High Thyme or The Obstinate Daughter, then grabbing a nightcap at Dunleavy’s Pub.

12 Best Beach Towns on the East Coast, According to Locals

Beaufort

The second-oldest city in South Carolina, Beaufort is often compared to Charleston; it’s historic, beautiful, and filled with oak trees and amazing architecture. Its proximity to the water is also a perk. Like Charleston, you’ll have to drive a bit out of the main hub to get to the beach. If you don’t mind parking your beach chair by Battery Creek, rather than the Atlantic Ocean, make your way to the Sands Beach on the southern end of Port Royal. The beach is free to the public, and there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained, including a boardwalk, an observation tower, and shark-teeth-hunting opportunities. For a true oceanfront spot, you’ll need to drive half an hour to Hunting Island State Park, where five miles of beautiful beaches live alongside marshes, a saltwater lagoon, and maritime forests.

Murrells Inlet

Murrells Inlet, or the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina,” makes this list for a few reasons. For starters, the historic fishing village has a feature known as MarshWalk. Spanning a half-mile along a natural saltwater estuary, the wooden boardwalk is home to several restaurants, including Bovine’s, Wahoo’s Fish House, and The Claw House. Head five minutes down the road and you'll arrive at the far-from-crowded Huntington Beach State Park, where you can find three miles of pristine sands to lie on. If you have some time, stop by Brookgreen Gardens, a 9,127 site that also includes a zoo and sculpture garden.

Edisto Beach

Located on Edisto Island, Edisto Beach isn’t your typical, buzzy beach town—and that’s the beauty of it. There are no stoplights, high rises, or chain restaurants on the island, and the town wholeheartedly embraces the magic of slow living. Visitors can explore the 4.5 miles of coastline, take a dip in the ocean, and search for shells, shark teeth, and other fossils that may wash up on shore. Biking, kayaking, and dolphin tours are also popular vacation activities. But if there’s absolutely one thing you can’t miss while visiting Edisto Beach, it's the glorious sunsets. Bring a blanket to Edisto Beach State Park, sit back, and enjoy the show.

With spring right around the corner, South Carolina residents can feel the days growing warmer and the sun shining brighter. If this wonderful weather has gotten you in the mood to travel, you will not have to go far. In fact, some of the state’s most incredible destinations are right in your backyard. Whether you want to savor fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant, chase waterfalls in the mountains, or spot rare birds in a coastal wildlife refuge, these seven vacation spots promise an unforgettable getaway this year.

Edisto Island

Although Edisto Island is just over 40 miles from Charleston, it offers a complete change of pace, filled with serene beaches and rustic shops. Edisto Beach State Park, for example, is one of the state’s quietest beach parks, spanning 1,255 acres and featuring beautiful beaches and trails that stretch through maritime forests, salt marshes, and palmetto trees. Those looking to camp can do so at the park’s Live Oak Campground as well. Botany Bay, a coastal wildlife management area, is a great place to watch wildlife, home to species like the threatened least tern, loggerhead sea turtles, and neo-tropical songbirds. While Edisto Island does not have a shopping district, there are several local shops worth checking out. For a souvenir made by a local artisan, travelers can stop by With These Hands Gallery, which sells paintings, pottery, jewelry, vases, and more.

Murrells Inlet

Affectionately referred to as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina”, Murrells Inlet is the ultimate travel destination for food lovers. The MarshWalk is the perfect place to grab some fresh seafood, lined with waterfront restaurants. The Claw House, along the walk, features a waterfront patio and serves fresh oysters, shrimp, crabs, and other flavorful seafood dishes. Those wanting to lounge on the beach can visit Huntington Beach State Park, a 2,500-acre nature reserve with a pristine beach, 170 campsites, and three picnic shelters. For a waterfront stay, travelers can spend the night at Murrells Inlet Bed & Breakfast, which sits right along the inlet waterways. You may even spot an egret gliding by as you sip on your morning coffee on the porch!

Kiawah Island

Home to the famed Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Kiawah Island is the ideal vacation destination for a weekend of golfing, wellness, and relaxation. Those looking to spend their time golfing can choose from five resort courses which have hosted the prestigious 2012 and 2021 PGA Championships. The resort also offers 10 miles of private sandy shoreline, a highly rated spa, resort villas, and an oceanfront hotel so that you never need to leave the premises! However, if you want to explore other parts of the island, consider dining at one of its upscale restaurants, like FortyEight - Wine Bar & Kitchen, which has a selection of 48 wines by the glass, craft beers, and seasonal menus. For a taste of Kiawah Island’s art scene, travelers can check out the town’s event calendar, which includes events like piano bar performances, blues festivals, and film screenings.

Walhalla

Unlike coastal towns like Edisto Island and Murrells Inlet, Walhalla offers a mountain experience surrounded by forests and waterfalls. Waterfall lovers won’t want to miss Issaqueena Falls, a stunning 100-foot cascade fed by Cane Creek. The hike to view the fall is less than half a mile long. Next to the falls, Stumphouse Mountain Bike Park offers 14 miles of trails suitable for all skill levels. Even beginners can enjoy features like rollers, big berms, rock gardens, and tables. After exploring the area’s natural beauty, travelers can head back into town and take a stroll along Main Street before popping into one of the cozy local restaurants. Pete's Drive-In is a local favorite with a 1950s atmosphere, featuring records on the walls, checkered floors, and retro booths and chairs.

Travelers Rest

Located in the northwestern part of the state, Travelers Rest is situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The town is also one of the state’s most bike-friendly towns, so make sure to bring your bike! The Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail is the perfect place to bike, a 22-mile greenway that runs from Main Street to the neighboring town of Greenville. Along the trail, travelers will find trailside restaurants, park benches, and gazebos, giving you plenty of places to rest. The Poinsett Bridge is an interesting historic landmark to check out. This bridge, made of stone, is the oldest in the state, dating back to 1820. If you want to spend the night in town, consider reserving a night or two in the Swamp Rabbit Inn, a modern bed and breakfast that is located along Main Street.

Sullivan's Island

Sullivan’s Island, at the mouth of Charleston Harbor, is the perfect beach getaway for Charleston locals. For a day of swimming and sunbathing, travelers can enjoy Sullivan’s Island Beach, which offers 2.5 miles of sandy beaches. Fort Moultrie also lies on Sullivan’s Island, a Revolutionary War Fort that played a major role in defeating the Royal Navy in 1776. There are several local restaurants in town to try out. If you are craving seafood, Sullivan's Seafood & Bar is a great option, established in 1988 and serving everything from shrimp to snapper. If you're in the mood for South Carolina-style barbecue, Home Team Barbecue offers pulled pork, brisket, sausage, and wings.

Hilton Head Island

Known as 'America’s Favorite Island,' Hilton Head is one of the state's top travel destinations. In addition to spending the day on the beach, visitors can partake in a variety of water activities. Those wanting to go kayaking or paddleboarding can reserve a guided tour or rental with Island Water Sports. The Sea Pines Resort is another excellent way to appreciate the island’s nature, spanning 605 acres and featuring boardwalks, fishing docks, and bridges to explore the scenic wetlands. The island also has an exciting art scene to explore. If you enjoy live performances, make sure to check out the schedule for the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, which frequently hosts musicals and plays.

Final Thoughts

South Carolinians are fortunate to have so many beautiful destinations so close to home. Not only is the state home to some incredible islands, but towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains also offer ample places to go hiking or mountain biking. Whether you prefer to spend your vacation relaxing on a beach or hiking on a remote forest trail, you can rest assured that these vacation spots will leave you feeling rested and rejuvenated.

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Southern Living selected eight South Carolina cities as places people might want to consider if they want to live or retire near the beach.

The magazine did not say specifically how the locations were chosen, only that “each one of South Carolina’s beach towns, barrier islands, and waterfront destinations is more scenic than the last.”

South Carolina has 187 miles of coastline and 34 islands, including barrier islands, sea islands and private islands. If you include tidelands it’s 2,876 miles, according to Discover South Carolina.

Selected were Hilton Head, Folly Beach, Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet, Kiawah Island, Hunting Island State Park, Pawleys Island and Litchfield and Georgetown.

Southern Living noted that readers have regularly selected Hilton Head and its 12 miles of beachfront as a favorite in the South’s Best annual poll.

“Hilton Head Island will give you just the right balance of small-town warmth and world-class sophistication,” the magazine said.

Bike trails, golf at one of the island’s 23 public courses, or eating in a waterfront restaurant were noted as highlights.

Southern Living called Myrtle Beach “as versatile as it is beautiful.”

“This list wouldn’t be complete without the shining star of the Grand Strand,” the magazine said.

The area has 60 miles of coastline and 14 communities.

Visit Myrtle Beach says on its website there are thousands of restaurants, live music, theaters, amusement parks, an aquarium, 90-plus golf courses (and mini golf), fishing and other watersports.

“Enjoy a relaxed beach day hunting for shark teeth along the shoreline in North Myrtle Beach, or gear up for some action-packed fun at the beloved boardwalk,” Southern Living said.

Folly Beach, 11 miles south of Charleston, “is a quaint and colorful destination known for its laid-back beach town vibes,” the magazine said.

They noted the number of beach rentals, surf shops, waterfront restaurants and the Folly Beach Pier, which was reconstructed over two years and reopened in December 2022.

The pier is considered one of the best places for saltwater fishing in the Charleston area.

Murrells Inlet, 13 miles south of Myrtle Beach, is located in the Long Bay region which drains into the Atlantic Ocean and includes the Waccamaw River. There is not a beach per se but there is a half-mile-long MarshWalk beside many of the restaurants.

It also has a view of Goat Island, a small island offshore where the owners’ of Drunken Jack’s restaurant once used goats to keep down the brush — and marijuana plants — and later they added peacocks.

The animals were a tourist attraction in their own right, but after water was chest high during Hurricane Ian in 2022, they were permanently taken to their winter location in Socastee. In their place are some metal sculptures of goats, the Sun News reported.

Southern Living called Kiawah Island “a nature lover’s dream.”

It’s a 10-mile-long barrier island with views of the Kiawah River and the Atlantic Ocean.

“If you’re looking for luxury, Kiawah Island has that too,” the magazine said. “You can book a stay at a world-class resort or tee off at one of the five championship golf courses.”

Kiawah is 25 miles south of Charleston where George Clooney, Reese Witherspoon, Richard Gere, and Bruce Willis own or once owned homes.

Hunting Island State Park is located near Beaufort and popular for outdoor recreation and historic lighthouse, Southern Living said.

“Make your trip memorable with a horseback ride along the beach or a paddleboarding session along the salt marsh,” the magazine said.

And a bonus for fans of “Forrest Gump,” the Marsh Boardwalk Trail is where the Vietnam war scenes were filmed. There’s a platform overlooking the water at the end of the trail, “one of the best spots in the Lowcountry to watch the sunset and enjoy the ocean breeze.”

No South Carolina beach list is complete without Pawleys Island and neighboring Litchfield.

“As one of the oldest seaside resorts on the East Coast, Pawleys Island is rich with historical charm and timeless beauty,” the magazine said. “The island’s calm atmosphere and 25 mph speed limit make it a popular spot for family outings.”

Three miles away is Litchfield Beach, a more developed beach “with modern comforts. Here you find tennis, golf, and uninterrupted peace and quiet,” Southern Living said.

Southern Living called Georgetown a “slice of Southern heaven” and “something out of a storybook.”

“As the third oldest city in the state, Georgetown’s streets are lined with towering oak trees, 200-year-old homes, and gorgeous historic properties,” the magazine said. “Cozied up beside the Sampit River is the heart of Georgetown, the Historic Downtown District.”

Front Street is full of shops and nearby is Harborwalk.

“Thanks to stunning sunsets and scenic river views, a stroll along this boardwalk will have you feeling like the main character in your very own fairytale,” Southern Living said.

Georgetown was incorporated in 1729 after Charleston 1670 and Beaufort 1711. About 10,000 people live in Georgetown now.

This story was originally published March 1, 2025 at 6:00 AM.

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Fans of legendary Southern writer Pat Conroy may be more familiar with Daufuskie Island than they realize. In his 1972 memoir "The Water is Wide," Conroy documents his yearlong experience teaching underserved students on Yamacraw Island. All the stories—as well as his gorgeous descriptions of the wild, largely uninhabited island, are true—and they all took place on Daufuskie Island. More than 50 years later, a lot has changed on Daufuskie Island, but its immense beauty, awe-inspiring landscapes, and relative obscurity have not.

Daufuskie is well within eyeshot of Hilton Head and Savannah, both of which draw millions of visitors each year. Nevertheless, it has maintained general anonymity. Over the past couple of decades, the world has slowly opened to the tiny barrier island. Many first-time visitors have spent their entire lives vacationing in Hilton Head and only recently thought to inquire about the little island across the Calibogue Sound. What they're discovering is a tight-knit community of some 400 locals who have found a slice of paradise in the mystical marshlands, unspoiled beaches, and secluded serenity of Daufuskie Island. A vibrant maker community and unyielding dedication to preserving the island's rich Gullah culture make the island unlike any other place on earth. Keep reading to discover the places that make it special and what to do when you go.

Tour The Island With The Gullah Diva

No one knows the island better than Sallie Ann Robinson. Known as the Gullah Diva, Robinson is dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of Daufuskie's Gullah Geechee people, direct descendants of enslaved people and other African Americans who created a distinct Lowcountry culture and dialect in the area. After a number of years away, the Daufuskie native returned home to share the island's incredible heritage via Gullah history tours, private catering, and a series of cookbooks that preserve the recipes of her people. On one of Robinson's tours, you'll have the opportunity to visit several historic island landmarks including a Gullah graveyard dating to the early 1800s, the 139-year-old First Union African Baptist Church, and historic Mary Fields school where Robinson was once one of Conroy's students.

Have A Private Beach Experience At Bloody Point

Daufuskie offers three miles of pristine sandy beaches at Bloody Point, a historic battleground between Native Americans and English settlers. With no high-rise condos to contend with the view and only a sprinkling of private homes set respectfully back from the sandy shores, you'll feel like you've been delivered to a private beach reserved just for you. Then, see how many shells you can collect and how many types of birds and sealife you'll spot without hordes of people scaring them away.

Peruse An Outdoor Art Gallery

One of the island's most visited destinations (and the perfect place to find a one-of-a-kind work to commemorate your trip) is Iron Fish Gallery. Chase Allen opened the metalworking studio on a limb in the early 2000s, and his career has slowly built since. In the backyard of a historic home, Allen creates colorful iron sculptures of fish, mermaids, crabs, and other coastal critters. Though his work has reached folks all over the world and was even honored in Martha Stewart's American Made Awards, Allen's homegrown operation has remained as humble as ever. Once you peruse the open-air breezeway turned art gallery, you're welcome to jot down a handwritten IOU, then leave with your selected piece. Allen will call you later for payment.

ironfishart.com; 168 Benjies Point Rd, Daufuskie Island, SC 29915; 843-842-9448

Discover New Treasures In An Old Schoolhouse

The two-room Mary Fields School was built in the early 1930s as a school for the island's Black children. It was the location where Pat Conroy lived (for several weeks) and worked during his year on Daufuskie. Today, it's home to Daufuskie Blues and School Grounds Coffee. At Daufuskie Blues, Leanne Coluter and Rhonda Davis perform the ancient Japanese art of indigo dyeing using the shibori technique. While you're fawning over their gorgeous hand-dyed scarves and shirts, pick up a coffee and sweet treat from School Grounds Coffee, located in the classroom next door.

daufuskieblues.com; 203 School Road, Daufuskie Island, SC 29915

facebook.com/p/School-Grounds-Coffee-100063645576161/; 203 School Road, Daufuskie Island, SC 29915

Cheers With Island-Distilled Rum

Nothing says "island" like a little bit of rum. At Daufuskie Island Distillery, you can find seven different varieties distilled in house, from traditional Gold and Silver to Spiced, Vanilla, Fire, and coffee-flavored Kona. Owner Tony Chase moved to the island more than a decade ago and hasn't looked back since. He recently expanded the distillery's outdoor patio space so you can enjoy a frozen pina colada while relaxing in a wooden rocker overlooking his several-acre property and marshy pond.

daufuskierum.com; 270 Haig Point Rd, Daufuskie Island, SC 29915; 843-342-4786

Indulge In Deviled Crab, An Island Delicacy

If you're looking for a bite to eat and a good time on Daufuskie, all roads lead to the Old Daufuskie Crab Company. Located at Freeport Marina, boats flock to the expansive hangout at all hours of the day for laidback eats and live music. Be sure to try the Deviled Crab and Scrap Iron Cocktail, both of which are island specialties that more than live up to their hype. Sunsets here are especially vibrant.

daufuskiedifference.com/restaurant; 256 Cooper River Landing Rd, Daufuskie Island, SC 29915; 843- 785-6652

Go Horseback Riding On The Beach

Riding horseback on a scenic sandy beach is a bucket list activity if there ever was one. You can check the unforgettable experience off your list after a visit to Daufuskie. Daufuskie Trail Rides offers guided beachfront rides from October through March, which is the off season for nesting sea turtles. If you visit any other time of year, you can still take an oceanfront ride with sweeping views of the Atlantic.

daufuskietrailrides.com; 11 Avenue of Oaks, Daufuskie Island, SC 29915; 843-384-4510

Live Like A Local At Haig Point

Many of Daufuskie Island's 400-some full-time residents live at Haig Point, a private residential community that offers resort-style living on 1,050 immaculately landscaped acres. In addition to 29 holes of golf, a swimming pool, two restaurants, tennis courts, and a lively tiki bar, the resort is also home to the historic 1910 Strachan Mansion and 1873 lighthouse, both of which are open to guests for overnight stays. To live like a local, book one of three Discovery Visits that include everything from a round of golf to overnight accommodations and access to the community's full list of amenities.

haigpoint.com; 843-686-2000