11 best islands in South Carolina: Top spots to visit

South Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful and varied islands on the East Coast. And the best islands in South Carolina offer experiences for a variety of travelers, from those seeking luxurious golf course-lined retreats to quaint, small-town family getaways.

In this guide, we’ll help you compare each destination by lifestyle, amenities and long-term appeal, so you know what to expect when buying a second home in the area.

Best islands in South Carolina

1. Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island offers one of the most well-rounded experiences on the South Carolina coast, blending family-friendly amenities with upscale touches. Golfers love it for its 20+ courses, and cyclists flock to the 60+ miles of scenic bike trails. With a robust dining scene that includes spots like Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana and The Jazz Corner, and high-end resorts, it’s no surprise that Hilton Head is one of the top island destinations for its luxury feel.The coastal town’s popularity means it stays vibrant year-round, making it an excellent choice for long-term use or rental potential. However, the flip side of that appeal is seasonal congestion. Expect traffic and crowded beaches in the summer months. Looking for a space that can accommodate a large group of family and friends? Check out Pacaso’s Seaside house, located on Hilton Head Island.

Seaside in Hilton Head Island offers a perfect blend of indoor and outdoor living, ideal for enjoying the island's warm evenings and entertaining guests.

2. Kiawah Island

Image of the beach shore at Kiawah Island.

If you’re seeking privacy, exclusivity and top-tier amenities, Kiawah Island checks every box. This gated island is best known for its unspoiled beaches, protected natural landscapes, and the famed Ocean Course, which is consistently ranked among the top golf courses in the U.S.Its carefully planned community layout makes it feel peaceful and uncrowded, ideal for buyers who value serenity. That said, the controlled access and limited nightlife can feel a bit quiet if you’re used to more social or bustling beach towns. Still, as one of the best islands to live on in South Carolina, it offers a more quiet beach escape while having access to upscale amenities.Interested in purchasing a second house in Kiawah Island? Check out Pacaso’s Surfsong house. This luxury home is located just steps from Kiawah’s pristine beach.

Surfsong pool area with a kidney shaped plunge pool with poolside lounge chairs.

3. Seabrook Island

Image of the beach shore at Seabrook Island.

Seabrook Island offers a calm, residential alternative to its neighbor, Kiawah, with just as much natural beauty but a more understated atmosphere. The island is known for its peaceful pace, scenic marshes and low-density living. Plus, it’s home to a renowned equestrian center and two beautiful golf courses, Ocean Winds and Crooked Oaks.This South Carolina island is an excellent option for second-home shoppers who want a more local-feeling, lived-in community. While Seabrook has fewer shopping and dining options compared to other South Carolina beach towns, its appeal lies in what it doesn’t have: crowds, traffic and noise.

4. Edisto Island

Image of the beach shore at Edisto Island featuring two luxury beach houses.

Edisto Island is a top pick for second-home buyers who crave simplicity and nature. With no big-name resorts and just a handful of low-key restaurants and shops, it’s one of the last truly unplugged destinations on the coast. Here, life moves at a slower pace, and that’s the point.Edisto’s laid-back vibe makes it one of the best islands to live on in South Carolina for those who want peace over prestige. Just keep in mind, entertainment options and nightlife are minimal, making it a better fit for nature walks and stargazing than cocktail hours.

5. Fripp Island

Image of a sandy beach shore at sunset on Fripp Island.

Fripp Island blends a private island experience with an approachable, family-first atmosphere. Located near Hunting Island State Park, this gated community is known for its abundant wildlife, bike-friendly roads and safe, easygoing environment.It’s particularly attractive to second-home buyers with kids or grandkids, offering amenities like golf carts, tennis and beach access within a close-knit community. The gated access adds to the sense of seclusion, though it can also mean more planning for guests and deliveries.

6. Daufuskie Island

Daufuskie Island is perfect for buyers who want something rare and remote. With boat-only access, no traffic and a rich Gullah cultural heritage, this island offers a lifestyle that’s as unplugged as it gets. Think golf carts instead of cars, artisan shops instead of malls, and moss-draped oaks instead of high-rises.Its charm is undeniable, but living here means adapting to limited services and ferry-only transportation. If you’re buying a second home that doubles as a digital detox, Daufuskie Island is your island.

7. Folly Beach

Image of two women walking on the shore of Folly Beach.

Folly Beach brings boho beach vibes and a surfer’s spirit, and it's all just minutes from downtown Charleston. It’s one of the liveliest South Carolina beach towns, with live music, beachfront bars and a casual vibe that attracts both locals and visitors.It’s also a great option for second-home buyers who want proximity to city amenities. But with popularity comes congestion: summer parking can be tight and beach access is best enjoyed early in the day. Still, Folly’s personality and location make it a standout on any coastal shortlist.

8. Isle of Palms

Image of a small boardwalk on the Isle of Palms.

Isle of Palms offers a polished resort feel with excellent proximity to Charleston. With long stretches of beach, access to Wild Dunes Resort and abundant water sports, it’s well-suited for second-homeowners looking for a balance of relaxation and recreation.Rental demand is strong, especially in peak season, making it a good candidate for passive income, though that popularity means the island can feel quite busy. Yet, it remains one of the best islands in South Carolina for families, thanks to its clean beaches and activity-rich environment.Located on the quiet side of the island, Pacaso’s Paradise Palms house is just a short walk to the beach and available for co-ownership.

Paradise Palms on South Carolina’s coast delivers breezy outdoor living that complements a tennis-first lifestyle nearby.

9. Sullivan’s Island

Image of people enjoying the beach on Sullivan's Island.

Sullivan’s Island strikes a rare balance between quiet charm and high-end living. It’s known for its quiet residential streets, upscale dining and historical landmarks like Fort Moultrie, one of the top places to go near Charleston.With restrictions on short-term rentals, the island stays peaceful year-round—a major draw for second-homeowners who prefer community over tourism. While it’s not a nightlife hotspot, the calm, consistent atmosphere is exactly what many buyers are looking for.For 360-degree ocean views and a mix of relaxing indoor and outdoor living spaces, check out Pacaso's Coastal Treehouse, which is currently available on Sullivan's Island.

Coastal Treehouse delivers effortless indoor-outdoor days near Charlestons beaches and dining.

10. Hunting Island

Image of a lighthouse on Hunting Island.

Hunting Island isn’t a place to buy a home but a place to reconnect with the wild. As a protected state park, this barrier island offers hiking trails like Lagoon Access Trail and Diamondback Rattlesnake Trail, historical lighthouse views and untouched beaches that feel like a world away.Since it’s not residential, it works best as a day-trip destination or nature-filled weekend outing, particularly if you own on nearby Fripp Island or Beaufort.

11. Bulls Island

Image of tree branch on the beach at Bulls Island.

Bulls Island offers pure wilderness just a short ferry ride from the mainland. Part of the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, it’s a birdwatcher’s paradise and a top spot for hiking, kayaking and exploring the famous Boneyard Beach.With zero development or commercial activity, Bulls isn’t a place to live, but it’s a must-see for second-homeowners nearby who want a taste of untamed South Carolina coastline.Tip: Check out second home options at Kiawah Island or Hilton Head if you’re looking for luxury. However, if you want a vacation home that’s both near Charleston and has historic landmarks to explore, try out Sullivan’s Island.

What to consider before choosing a South Carolina island

Before choosing the best South Carolina island for your second home, consider the amenities provided, seasonal changes, and accessibility. When deciding on your slice of paradise, look at the following key factors:

Accessibility: Some islands, such as Daufuskie and Bulls, require ferries, while others, like Hilton Head or Isle of Palms, are bridge-connected.
Proximity to airports: The Charleston and Hilton Head airports are the closest to the islands.
Community vibe: Are you looking for a resort-style setting like Kiawah or Isle of Palms, or a quieter, unplugged place such as Edisto or Seabrook?
Amenities: Plan for your daily needs. Not every island has restaurants, shops or marinas.
Ownership rules: Rental restrictions, HOAs and local ordinances can impact how you use your home.

Seasonal factors: High-season crowds, off-season quiet and hurricane preparedness are all worth factoring into your decision.

Find the island that fits your lifestyle with Pacaso

At Pacaso, we help buyers find second homes in places that fit their lifestyle. No matter your preferences, we’ve got it: a luxury retreat on Kiawah Island, a family escape on Hilton Head or a laid-back surf town like Folly Beach.Our LLC co-ownership model lets you own a slice of a high-end second home for a fraction of the cost, with professional management and year-round enjoyment. Take a look at your potential vacation home in South Carolina today.

Best islands in South Carolina FAQs

01: What is the nicest island to visit in South Carolina?

Kiawah Island is often considered the nicest, thanks to its exclusivity, natural beauty and upscale design.

02: Which South Carolina island is best for families?

Hilton Head Island and Isle of Palms are top picks for families due to their safe beaches, amenities and recreational options.

03: What is the best secret beach in South Carolina?

One of the best secret beaches on a South Carolina island is the undeveloped beaches of Daufuskie Island. These quiet, wide stretches of sand have very few visitors and feel far removed from the busier resort beaches nearby.

With no large hotels and limited access by ferry or boat, many sections feel almost private. It is ideal for long walks, shelling, and spotting wildlife without crowds or noise.

04: What is the prettiest beach in South Carolina?

One of the prettiest beaches on a South Carolina island is Coligny Beach on Hilton Head Island. It is famed for bright white sand and stunning blue-green water that looks especially beautiful at low tide, making it a favorite for scenic strolls and photos.

11 best islands in South Carolina