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You’ve already been charmed by Charleston, maybe even made the trip to some of South Carolina’s best small towns like Bluffton, Georgetown⁠ and Mount Pleasant. But there’s a lot more awesomeness waiting to be discovered in the Palmetto State…or, shall we say, just off the coast. South Carolina has some really incredible isles that are perfect for vacation, whether you’re intrigued by pirate lore, love exploring salt marshes, fancy a birdwatching holiday or just need a stress-free escape where wild horses run free. Here, the best South Carolina islands and where to stay on each one.

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1. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

One of South Carolina’s most popular tourist destinations for a plethora of reasons, Hilton Head Island offers an incredible mix of natural wonder, upscale delights and outdoor activities. You can book whale watching and dolphin spotting boat charters, hit the links, go cycling, hiking and kayaking, play tennis and polo, do some shopping, snap pics in front of the red-and-white-striped Harbour Town Lighthouse and, of course, catch some rays on the beach.

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2. Daufuskie Island, South Carolina

No doubt you’ve heard of Hilton Head Island and Savannah in the neighboring state of Georgia. Sitting just off the coast between these well-known vacation destinations is a tiny hidden gem called Daufuskie Island with a population of just 500 residents. There aren’t hotels or big-name attractions. Instead, it's a place of peace, quiet and magical natural wonders—bottlenose dolphins bob in the waters and loggerhead turtles nest on the shore.

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3. Kiawah Island, South Carolina

In terms of true vacation destinations, Kiawah Island is a hole-in-one. It has a huge gated luxury beach and golf resort with loads of swish accommodation and amenities like world-class fairways. You don’t need to be a guest to explore the island, which is open to the public. Daytrippers from Charleston often drive over to enjoy the sandy beaches, hiking and biking trails, tours at Heron Park Nature Center and Marsh Island Park.

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4. Capers Island, South Carolina

A pretty, undeveloped barrier island oasis, Capers Island is the perfect spot for a family vacation. Beaches, maritime uplands and salt marshes provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventure. It’s excellent for birdwatching and wildlife peeping. Be sure to bring your camera to the eye-catching “boneyard beach” where old tree stumps dot the sandy expanse. Bonus: accessibility from Charleston means no long travel days with the kiddos.

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5. Deveaux Bank, South Carolina

By now you’ve likely gathered that birding is a big deal in South Carolina. Deveaux Bank, a horseshoe-shaped spit of sand at the mouth of the North Edisto River estuary, takes it to the next level as the island actually encompasses a 215-acre sanctuary that’s a protected nesting habitat for many sea and shorebirds. If you’re keen to see eastern brown pelicans and black skimmers, hightail it over to Deveaux Bank.

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6. Seabrook Island, South Carolina

Seabrook Island is a downright dreamy place to live or visit. A lot of people choose to reside in this private, oceanfront community. That’s because it’s pretty as a picture with natural beauty galore, nationally recognized birdwatching, two award-winning golf courses, near-empty beaches, a racquet club, an equestrian center and stunning houses we’d happily call home. And the fact that it’s just a few miles from downtown Charleston yet retains a sense of seclusion definitely helps, too.

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7. Bear Island, South Carolina

A nature lover’s dream, Bear Island feels rugged and remote despite sitting just an hour outside Charleston. This undeveloped and pristinely beautiful 12,021-acre Sea Island is part of the ACE Basin estuarine reserve area and managed by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. That translates to ample opportunities for bird watching (it’s among the top-ranked spots for twitchers in the entire state) and wildlife viewing, fishing, hiking and biking.

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8. Edisto Island, South Carolina

For a fantastic family-friendly holiday, consider Edisto Island. A laid-back Lowcountry Sea Island not far from Charleston (some people even call it home and commute into the Holy City, just to give you a sense of proximity) that’s approximately 68 square miles and has loads of low-key appeal in the form of sandy beaches and outdoor activities for all ages, including hiking and camping in Edisto Beach State Park.

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9. Fripp Island, South Carolina

Fripp Island doesn’t scream "Shiver me timbers" in that really obvious sort of way. But its treasure hunting past is really interesting and the legends live on. Though, these days, the most seaward of the barrier islands feels a lot less pirate and more residential vacation resort with sandy beaches, tennis courts and golf courses. It’s also a designated wildlife sanctuary. Visitors and residents frequently see great blue herons, wood storks and dolphins.

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10. Port Royal Island, South Carolina

If you’ve spent some time in South Carolina or are generally familiar with the Palmetto State, Beaufort probably rings a bell. Port Royal Island is the island where the aforementioned seaside city resides. There are beautiful beaches, scenic walking trails, boat tours and tons of opportunities for birdwatching. It's also a popular pick for foodies, specifically seafood lovers who come from far and wide to sample fresh-caught Lowcountry fare.

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11. Callawassie Island, South Carolina

Callawassie Island may be one of the hundreds of barrier and sea islands, but this 880-acre private slice of paradise just 17 miles from Beaufort sets itself apart from the rest with its coastline, tidal creeks, lagoons, salt marshes and moss-draped trees. There’s also a butterfly garden and a golf course. Callawassie Island is accessible via the half-mile-long causeway that connects it to the mainland as well as by boat.

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12. Johns Island, South Carolina

Sure, bigger isn’t always better. But, then again, sometimes size ups the appeals of a place. Sprawling 738 acres, Johns Island, the largest island in South Carolina and famously a filming location for The Notebook is enchantingly beautiful with miles of wooded trails, farms and lakes. Back to the whole size thing…its most famous feature, the massive ancient Angel Oak stands a whopping 65-feet tall and shades an area of 17,000 square feet.

South Carolina is a charming state to visit because of its rich history and attractions, and it also boasts fantastic beaches. South Carolina's coastline is home to the USA's most beautiful and unspoiled beaches, stretched along the Atlantic. Some of these magnificent beaches attracting many tourists are located on the Grand Strand, a stretch of beautiful sandy shores between Georgetown and the Little River area. People head to this excellent state to enjoy some of the most transparent and pristine waters on beaches like Litchfield, Murrells Inlet, Surfside, and Myrtle Beach, where people find top fun things to do. Hilton Head Island is also a very popular destination among tourists, home to plenty of experiences and activities, and voted one of the best vacation destinations in the world. Here are 13 beaches with the clearest water in South Carolina.

More Secluded Beaches With The Clearest Water In South Carolina

The article was extended to add more gorgeous beaches in South Carolina that offer the clearest water as well as amazing activities to do for fun.

Sullivan’s Island

Located just a 20-minute ride from Charleston, Sullivan’s Island offers an excellent beach destination for families who wish to spend a nice summer day on the beaches. Most of the coastline is preserved in its natural state and offers simple activities such as swimming or building sand castles.

Related: South Carolina's Best Beaches, Ranked By Popularity

12 Surfside Beach

Surfside Beach has long been known throughout the Grand Stand as a top beach for fun family activities. Travelers stroll on the famous boardwalk that runs along the gorgeous coastline of Surfside Beach and soaks the view as they dine, shop, and engage in vibrant festivals. Kite flying and building castles may be a wonderful bonding activities for kids. Several beach offers facilities like showers, bathrooms, and ramps for persons with disabilities.

11 Pawleys Island

Pawleys Island is home to the most untouched shores and is recognized for its peaceful waters that are perfect for enjoying shelling, canoeing, biking, and kayaking with loved ones. Featuring white powdery sand, it is the best location for zoos, sculptures, and gardens with native plants. Pawleys Island offers a panoramic sight of the renowned creek in the area, not to be missed on someone's trip.

10 Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is the most popular beach destination and largest resort in South Carolina. This family-friendly tourist location features magnificent white-sand beaches and plenty of opportunities, keeping guests fully entertained. People will enjoy peace of mind while walking the long boardwalk and experiencing water activities such as surfing and scuba diving, collecting shells, and building sandcastle. For those looking for something calmer, they should head to North Myrtle Beach, where they can swim in the clear water, enjoy parasailing and kayaking, or pull up a sun lounger and relax.

Huntington Beach State Park

Only 30 minutes drive south of Myrtle Beach, Huntington Beach is a calm oasis covering an area of natural preserves and boasting a park with an untouched beach spread. Huntington Beach State Park is located in South Carolina, perfect for sun-seekers, nature lovers, and bird-watchers. It's also a popular spot for camping and picnics. There are also numerous tours available for incredible deep-sea fishing.

Hilton Head Island

While Hilton Head Island is one large beach boasting 12 miles of beautiful sandy shoreline, Coligny Beach Park, reached through an attractive public garden, is an ideal destination for those looking for a lovely family beach experience. Following the path extending to the water, people will enjoy excellent facilities, including comfortable swing seats, beach chairs, and umbrellas. After enjoying the pristine water, visitors take time to stroll around Coligny Plaza, just steps from the beach, where they savor a meal or a snack, get in some shopping, or rent a bike and enjoy a ride directly on the beach. The island also provides a shuttle bus service for those willing to park far away.

Kiawah Beachwalker Park

Only a short drive from the beautiful city of Charleston, Kiawah Island is home to impressive and unspoiled sandy beaches. Located between the Atlantic and vast woods, Kiawah Beachwalker Park is accessible from the mainland by a bridge. Public amenities such as washrooms, outdoor showers, picnic areas, a lovely boardwalk, umbrellas, and chairs are available. Kiawah is an excellent spot for couples and families.

Edisto Beach

The charming town of Edisto Beach is itself worth the journey from Charleston and is as famous for its restaurants, shops, galleries, accommodations, and vibe. Edisto Beach's unique charm makes it attractive for those looking for a quiet beach experience since it is known as one of the last uncommercial beach areas in South Carolina. The adventurous types will go kayaking, camping, fishing, and dolphin-watching or sunset cruising. Other fun activities include several great trails to follow, which can lead to stunning, more quiet places to stop and relax at the beach.

5 Seabrook Island

Located south of Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island boasts many charming beaches. Stretching four miles of pristine shoreline, the two main beaches, Pelican Beach and North Beach, are mysterious hidden gems famous for their peaceful and uncrowded feel. Sunset lovers should head to Pelican Beach, also known as "Sunset Beach," for amazing sunsets. And early risers and nature lovers will enjoy visiting North Beach due to its magnificent sunrises and abundant bird life, as well as pods of dolphins that feed offshore.

4 Folly Beach, Charleston

Another excellent sun spot just 20 minutes from Charleston is Folly Island, home to the beautiful Folly Beach. The charming Folly Beach boasts a fantastic fishing pier with a perfect view, ideal for a romantic selfie. It is also home to many adventures, such as kayaking, surfing, and paddleboarding. People enjoy strolling along the beach shores and admiring the ocean views. For a unique experience, it is suggested to rent a kayak around the inland shore of Folly Beach Country Park or go on a marine wildlife spotting cruise, where one will see dolphins, stingrays, and even sharks.

3 Hunting Island State Park, Beaufort

Attracting a million visitors each year, Hunting Island State Park is a popular destination offering breathtaking and unspoiled beach experiences, five miles of white sand, and spectacular views from its hunting island lighthousesignificant landmark. It is also home to diverse wildlife, some of which can be explored at the informative nature center, an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a camping experience, choosing from numerous campsites, most with easy beach access.

Related: You Might See These Animals When Visiting South Carolina's Beaches

2 Front Beach, Isle Of Palms

The Isle of Palms is an attractive beachside destination located 40 minutes east of Charleston and is as popular among locals as it is with visitors to the region. Most people head to Front Beach, where they enjoy beach activities, like sea kayak tours, sunset cruises, fishing, and surfing, and most of all, searching for beautiful sea turtles since they nest and lay their eggs in the dunes. Front Beach is very convenient since it has good public parking and easy beach access.

1 Litchfield Beach

A trip to Litchfield Beach and Golf Resort is a worthy journey. Close to Myrtle Beach, located only 30-minute drive south, Litchfield Beach amazes people with its majestic stretch of beach, no crowds, and no big resort flanking. In addition to the quiet beach experience, and great sunbathing, visitors seeking water activities can enjoy sea kayaking, Jet Skis, and fishing.

JOHNS ISLAND — For Chris Gibson, the grassy field off Seabrook Island Road looks like a physical therapy clinic where he can also continue the boxing classes that help with his Parkinson’s disease.

“The exercise is my medicine,” said Gibson, who splits his time between homes on Kiawah Island and Austin, Texas.

For others, it will be a much-needed Emergency Room that is nearly an hour closer to those coastal communities than those in Charleston.

Officials from Medical University of South Carolina and members of the community gathered Sept. 8 to hold a groundbreaking ceremony for the MUSC Sea Island Medical Pavilion. Some details and planning are still being determined, but the hope is to have it open by the end of 2023 or early 2024, said MUSC Health CEO Patrick Cawley.

The clinic, which will include around the clock emergency care and medical specialties like cardiology, orthopedics and physical therapy, is a result of a public-private partnership that included South Street Partners, which donated the land for the clinic worth nearly $5 million. Soon after starting development on Kiawah a decade ago, the company surveyed residents and the need for round-the-clock medical care “came through loud and clear,” said Chris Randolph, a partner in South Street. The company and MUSC have been talking about the project since 2014.

“We’ve been at this for some time,” Randolph said.

The clinic fits with one of MUSC’s core beliefs that “the best care is delivered locally,” said MUSC President David Cole. The groundbreaking “represents the first tangible step towards fulfilling the expectations and the needs of the entire Sea Islands community,” he said.

It would also not be possible without donations and support from members of that community, Cole said. That includes people like Gibson, who with his wife, Dee Dee, has been coming to Kiawah for 40 years. The whole time, she has wanted a hospital nearby, and for a simple reason.

“We’re not getting any younger,” Dee Dee Gibson said.

That is a concern for residents and one of the reasons Kiawah is donating $1 million to the effort for greenspace, said Mayor John Labriola said.

“The accessibility (of health care) has been a real concern,” he said. Getting an ER is “a really wonderful thing to hear.”

The project has moved forward and gotten through the state’s Certificate of Need process despite the fact that the seasonal nature of the population and the seeming lack of permanent normally wouldn’t fit for such a clinic, Cawley said.

“Health care, like a lot of things, is built upon population,” he said. But officials continued forward with the idea that “this community is going to support this project,” Cawley said. “We just need to build it.”

Some major health crises, such as heart attacks, strokes or major trauma “are absolutely time-dependent on you getting to an Emergency Department,” where patients can be treated and stabilized, he said. “This definitely cuts down on any problems that way.”

South Carolina is home to many popular cities, tourist destinations, forested mountains, sea islands, and historical landmarks. But, it is best known for its beautiful beaches, perfect for a sunshine and sand-filled getaway. Whether you are just stopping by or would like to stay a while to soak up the sun, you can head towards any of the state's charming small towns. But these beaches in South Carolina are for more than just lounging: you will find everything from private islands to numerous outdoor recreation activities to amusement parks and food trucks.

Myrtle Beach

With an abundance of hotels and resorts with beach views, Myrtle Beach is a popular sunny vacation destination situated in South Carolina's Horry County. The miles of beaches, warm subtropical climate, golf courses, and restaurants attract more than 20 million visitors to Myrtle Beach every year. While the sandy beach itself may be your first stop, there's no shortage of fun activities you can dive right into. Live music, theaters, water sports, and plenty of dining and shopping spots are only a few of the many things to do in Myrtle Beach.

Read MoreMyrtle Beach, South Carolina

Mitchelville Beach Park

Nestled on Hilton Head Island, Mitchelville Beach Park is one of the less populated beaches, perfect for relaxation and exploration. The area also offers a bathroom, a sand shower, and a few picnic tables, so you can spend the whole day there. Visitors can also venture across the bridge to Barker Field, which is ideal for recreational and sporting activities.

Sullivan's Island

Sullivan's Island is a small island community situated at the entrance to the Charleston Harbor in South Carolina's Charleston County. The town boasts over 2.5 miles of Atlantic Ocean beachfront, ideal for kayaking, fishing, sailing, photography, and more. Visitors can also enjoy the small town as well as its unique historical attractions.

Isle Of Palms

Neighboring Sullivan's Island, Isle of Palms is a barrier island that sits just off South Carolina's Atlantic coast. The town is situated about 24 km from the historic city of Charleston, boasting a picturesque beach and boardwalk. The community is also home to several big beachfront homes, luxury resorts, and local restaurants. Offering plenty of recreational activities, Isle of Palms is an excellent spot to enjoy the island lifestyle at any time of year.

Edisto Beach

Situated on the southeastern edge of South Carolina's Colleton County, the small town of Edisto Beach includes Edisto Island's only developed coastal area. It is also one of the most serene beaches, best for long walks, fishing, searching for seashells, and soaking up the sun. While there are no hotels, there are many rental opportunities, with several beach houses lining the shoreline.

Cherry Grove Beach

Located in the city of North Myrtle Beach in South Carolina's Horry County, Cherry Grove is only accessible by Sea Mountain Highway and Ocean Drive. This small neighborhood is primarily known for its historic Cherry Grove Pier and plenty of hotels, restaurants, and boutiques. Cherry Grove serves as an ideal spot for a peaceful getaway.

Seabrook Island

Seabrook Island is a barrier island situated in the southwestern portion of Charleston County. Seabrook Island boasts the privacy and tranquility of a small town, but is also close to everything you need. With miles of beaches to enjoy, this is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in nature.

Folly Beach

Folly Beach is a well-known surfing and seaside hotspot situated on Folly Island, approximately 18 km south of Charleston. Besides hosting several surf spots, the city offers stunning sunset and sunrise views. It is also home to Folly Beach Pier, which stretches over 1,000 feet into the ocean providing a picturesque view of the waters. With the North Atlantic Ocean in eyeshot, some visitors even spot the endangered whales in their respective migration seasons. The beautiful Morris Island Lighthouse is also just off the coast of the beach, great for exploration and photo ops.

Read MoreFolly Beach, South Carolina

Huntington Beach State Park

This 2,500-acre state park is situated close to Murrells Inlet in South Carolina's Georgetown County. The park features large sandy beaches, extensive fresh and salt marshes, and plenty of avian species to watch over the seasons.

Coligny Beach

Coligny Beach is one of the most well-known beaches on Hilton Head Island. Visitors can enjoy the sandy beaches and clear skies at Coligny Beach. The Coligny Beach Park that acts as an access point to Coligny Beach offers plenty of wonderful amenities for locals and visitors alike.

Kiawah Island

A barrier island situated about 40 km southwest of Charleston, Kiawah is mainly a private beach and golf resort. Kiawah Island is well-known for its various attractions including beaches, spacious villas, water-sport activities and the famous Kiawah Island Golf Resort. There are 10 miles of beaches and 30 miles of paved trails for biking and walking. The Kiawah River along with the island's numerous tidal creeks and salt marshes offers kayaking and canoeing opportunities.

Read MoreKiawah Island, South Carolina

With almost 2,876 miles of tidal coastline, South Carolina boasts a number of beaches to choose from. Whether you want to sit back and relax in the sun, go for a swim in the sparkling waters, or enjoy the attractions of each different beach, there is always something for everyone.

There are plenty of good reasons to make the trip to Charleston, South Carolina: Historic homes make for colorful photo ops, the restaurant scene is fresh and inventive, and locally owned stores and boutiques make for unparalleled shopping. Some of the Holy City's greatest assets, though, aren't actually within the city limits. Pack the sunscreen and load the car because the scenic beaches near Charleston are a gem. You won't find ultra-crowded beaches, just a quiet spot to relax and soak up the sunshine. The smooth sand, cool water, and near-perfect weather will make you think you've found pure bliss. Here, find our guide to the sun-drenched beaches that are just a quick drive from the Charleston Peninsula. They're worth the detour.

1. Kiawah Island

While the 23-mile drive from the peninsula out to Kiawah Island takes about 40 minutes on a good day, the pristine stretch of sand at Kiawah's public Beachwalker Park is well worth it. It's quiet, especially for a public park, fronts the ocean, and also offers views of the Kiawah River. Beach chair and umbrella rentals are available seasonally, and dogs are welcome, as long as they're on a leash. Explore Kiawah Island's private beaches by renting a house or villa on the island or booking a stay at the Sanctuary, the island's luxurious oceanfront hotel.

2. Folly Beach

Just 12 miles from downtown, the "Edge of America" is the grooviest of Charleston's nearby beaches. It's a popular hangout for surfers, who frequent "The Washout," a stretch of coast known for having the area's best waves. Center Street, the bohemian beach town's colorful main thoroughfare, is lined with surf and souvenir shops and good eats, like Taco Boy and Rita's Seaside Grille, and is just steps away from Folly's 1,045-foot fishing pier.

3. Isle of Palms

The oceanfront county park on this barrier island has picnic tables, a sand volleyball court, and a playground for the littlest beach bums, making it a great place to take the whole family. Venture a little farther down the beach, beyond the park, to discover a number of fun beachfront bars and eateries, like family-friendly Coconut Joe's Beach Grill and The Windjammer, a classic dive bar and music venue that's as salty as they come. Paddle the intercoastal waterway from Isle of Palms where you may encounter dolphins and get up close to coves and marshes.

4. Seabrook Island

Though the island's nearly 4 miles of unspoiled beaches are private to residents and rental guests only (book your stay here), Seabrook is still worth a stop if you're already making the trip out to Kiawah's Beachwalker Park, which is just a few miles away. An Audubon International Cooperative Sanctuary, Seabrook is home to a variety of wildlife, including foxes, bobcats, deer, sea turtles, and bottlenose dolphins. Head to Bohicket Marina for a sunset stroll by the river, then plop down at an outdoor table at the Salty Dog Cafe for water views, East Coast peel-and-eat shrimp, and a cold beer or two.

5. Sullivan's Island

When it comes to old-school cottages, small town charm, and a spotless beach to boot, you won't find a dreamier destination than Sullivan's Island. While neighboring Isle of Palms has a lively resort feel, 3.3-square-mile Sullivan's tends to fly under the radar–and the locals like it that way. Be sure to stop by Poe's Tavern on Middle Street for a killer burger before you head back toward town. Flip-flops and salty hair are always welcome on the front porch.

6. Bulls Island

Accessible only by ferry, this barrier island is 45 minutes away from downtown Charleston and feels far away from the comforts of civilization. A good way to see the birds of this untouched island, and perhaps a playful dolphin if you're lucky, is on a guided paddling tour. Comb the beach for shells, walk Boneyard Beach where a forest is being recalled by the sea, or track foxes, bobcat, and deer.

7. Edisto Island

About 60 miles from Charleston, Edisto Beach's unspoiled coastline makes it worth the drive. Stay beachside for a dreamy vacation, or take a day trip from Charleston. One of four oceanfront state parks in South Carolina, palmetto-lined Edisto Beach State Park provides the picture-perfect backdrop for swimming, hunting for shells and sharks' teeth, fishing, or strolling. After a day on the island's trails, savor some seafood at the Waterfront Restaurant or the tacos at McConkey's Jungle Shack.

8. Morris Island

Hunt for shells and fossils near the candy cane–striped lighthouse on this uninhabited island just minutes from Charleston. Accessible only by boat, visitors can opt for several tour options, including riding out on a 55-foot power catamaran that's for the more adventurous traveler. For photography buffs, view the lighthouse from the shores of Folly Beach.

9. Pawleys Island

It takes a bit longer to reach from Charleston than some of the other beaches, but the slower pace on Pawleys Island is instantly soothing. This barrier island packs a lot into its four-mile stretch. Set off in a canoe or kayak to explore the salt marsh that separates this island from the mainland, or settle in for a day at the beach. There's shelling, fishing, and crabbing to be done. Sign up for surfing lessons—some of the best waves are near Pawleys Island Pier.

10. Capers Island

Similar to Bulls Island, Capers Island has its own forest of forgotten sea-bleached trees covering the shoreline. At low tide, you may see feeding dolphins and water birds like egrets and herons searching for a meal. Discover tide pools as you walk the beach, hike the island to see gators and deer in their natural habitat, or paddle along the shores and see jellyfish and crabs. Reach this undeveloped island by chartered boat, or take a kayak tour to learn about the area's ecosystem.