Near Kiawah Island: Notable Sights & Cities

Near Kiawah Island, explore beautiful and historic Charleston, South Carolina, stately plantations, an eclectic surfing town, and much more!

Charleston, South Carolina is only 45 minutes inland from Kiawah Island and is well worth exploring while you're in the area. This historic port city is a beautiful southern treasure. I recommend a carriage ride through the city - the guides are well-informed and a lot of fun - you'll have a great time and will learn so much about the city! See the beautiful historic homes along the Battery, stop in the shops along King Street, and dine in any one of a number of world-class restaurants. Charleston has become a Mecca for fine cuisine, attracting chefs of every style from around the world.

Definitely set aside a day to enjoy this incredible city – or plan your vacation around one of Charleston's renown festivals, like Harborfest featuring magnificent tall-ships from around the world, or the Spoleto Festival featuring artisans and performances of all sorts as part of Charleston's "exchange-program" with a small town in Italy.

Visit our Charleston page to read much more on this beautiful city so you can make the most of your vacation!

Folly Beach, South Carolina is also near Kiawah Island - just 20 minutes north - and is on the way to Charleston (with a slight easterly detour). Stroll along the pier, enjoy fresh seafood as you look out over the water, and soak up the vibe of this unique spot on the beach.

Several historic plantations lie along the banks of the Ashley River near Kiawah Island. Open for tours and lunch, any of these plantations make for a beautiful day trip. Check out:

• Drayton Hall Plantation – The main house has been preserved as stands much as it did more than 250 years ago. Explore the house, the gardens and learn this history of this Southern estate.

• Magnolia Plantation & Gardens – Site of the original Drayton family home and its gardens, some of which are more than 325 years old, you can tour this plantation, by foot or a private tour train around the property. Children will love the petting zoo as well.

• Middleton Place Plantation – Only ruins of the original house remain, but its formal, terraced gardens and the Butterfly lakes overlooking a bend in the Ashley River takes your breath away. Tour the gardens, enjoy a true Lowcountry lunch, take an evening "wine stroll," or even spend a night in the Middleton Inn.

  Though all of the plantations are extraordinary, Middleton Place is my personal favorite. The best time of year to go is late spring when the azaleas that cover the gardens are in full bloom!

The area surrounding Kiawah Island is rich with history, beauty, culture, and fun! Be sure to check out our page on Charleston, South Carolina for even more ways to explore and enjoy the sights near Kiawah Island - including sailing in Charleston harbor, world-famous festivals, garden and ghost tours, and much more!