If you like a serving of history along with your outdoor adventure, then Bull Island is your dream destination. Located in Awendaw, SC, just a few minutes outside of Charleston, Bull Island Beach will draw you in to its dramatic stories and sunny shores. Once a haven for pirates, then later the site for the Martellow Tower which didn't survive the Civil War, this area was eventually developed into part of the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge in 1932. That unbreakable bond between history and nature is very much alive, and you can see it everywhere from the picturesque woodland trails all the way to the beach's inviting shores.
Cypress Gardens is a nature lover's paradise. Located just outside of Charleston, the gardens can be found inside a black water cypress swamp. This southern conservatory features some unbelievably beautiful flowers, like the camellia in the early part of the year to the antique roses that bloom in mid-spring. Still, the time of year doesn't really matter, as the garden's beauty knows no season. You can also explore nearly 4 miles of nature trails, the Butterfly House, the Swamparium that houses several species of fish, and much more. If you already appreciate Mother Nature and the great outdoors, this attraction will only add to your admiration.
If your kids love to have fun in the sun, there's no better place to let them run wild than Folly Beach, affectionately known as "The Edge of America." This beautiful barrier island is a quick 15 minute drive from downtown Charleston and the Folly Beach County Park is located at the east end of the island. Showers, bathrooms and other conveniences are close by, and the sand, surf and sun of this popular stretch of beach will fast become one of your family's traditions whenever you're in Charleston.
The Isle of Palms County Park features a highly attractive 600-feet of ocean frontage that can accommodate plenty of surfside activities. In addition to such amenities as showers, restrooms and snack bars, you'll also find boardwalks and picnic areas that are perfect backdrops for relaxing in the great outdoors by the sea. Also, there is a convenient place to rent beach chairs, umbrellas, Boogieboards and more.
Charleston's Kiawah Island has been consistently ranked as one of the nation's top beaches. Whether you're visiting for a day or on vacation for a week, you'll waste no time finding your place in the sun on these pristine sands or in the inviting surf. The beach stretches out nearly 10 miles, and within the area you'll also find golf courses and historic plantations, among other outdoor attractions. But no matter how many great things there are to see, you'll find yourself returning to Kiawah Island's unforgettable beaches again and again.
Drive just a few miles north of Charleston and you'll discover a great beach hideaway at Sullivan's Island Beach. You'll marvel at how inviting and clean the area is, and you'll waste no time kicking off your shoes to stroll hand in hand with your significant other. There are also plenty of historic homes that line the dunes, as well as Sullivan's Island Lighthouse that provide an excellent, unforgettable background for your time outdoors on the beach. If you get hungry, there are plenty of great authentic Lowcountry restaurants close by, so a great meal is not far away at all.