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.
The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens has the distinction of being the site of the country's oldest public gardens that date back to the 17th century. In this historically dramatic slice of nature, you'll find the nation's largest collections of azaleas and camellias. If you want to get a little closer to the natural beauty of this historic attraction, you can opt to take the nature train or boat tour that offer a chance to experience the plantation's wetlands, lakes, forests and marshes. Also, don't miss visiting the plantation's main house, adorned with a striking collection of period pieces and other artifacts that date all the way back to 1873.