With so many styles and materials, selecting the perfect countertops for your home isn't always easy. Your counters must be practical enough for everyday use and unique enough to complement your style. They hold a demanding role as the go-to area for food preparation and cleanup and are often front-and-center when snacks are needed for parties. The very best kitchen countertops in Sullivan's Island, SC mix beauty and style, setting your kitchen apart from your neighbors. But they must also be durable and useful, so you and your family can enjoy them for years to come.
At Stone City Kitchen & Bath, we create countertops and kitchen cabinets that make a statement in your home where other features fall short. You've worked hard to foster an attractive appearance throughout the rest of your home, so why should your countertops be any different?
Here at Stone City KB, we combine the durability and elegance of natural stone with personalized attention for each of our valued customers. Unlike other countertop fabricators, we source our materials from across the globe, searching high and low for the best stones available. In doing so, we are able to produce some of the finest remodeling and renovation products in our industry, from granite, marble, quartzite, quartz, and recycle glass countertops to new kitchen solid wood cabinets.
By providing high-quality materials and unmatched customer service, our clients have the chance to make informed decisions they feel great about. Our mission is to provide:
Impeccable Quality: You can count on Stone City KB to design and craft your countertops and cabinets exactly as you imagined, with globally-sourced, high-quality materials.
Honesty & Integrity: Trust is a must when you invite someone into your home to discuss new kitchen renovations. We are privileged to serve you, and our technicians are dedicated to treating your home like it was our own.
True Craftsmanship: When we say personalized service, we mean it. Our artistry lies in getting the details of your project right, whether we're installing custom countertops or completely remodeling your kitchen.
As our testament to creating a better product for our clients, we use innovative technologies and the brightest minds in the business to create stunning countertops and cabinets. Because when it comes to your home, it needs to be as close to perfect as possible.
We offer a wide selection of stones and materials for your next kitchen renovation project:
If you're in need of a professional, fast, reliable company for kitchen cabinets, countertops, and remodels, look no further than Stone City Kitchen & Bath.
When you're remodeling your kitchen or having new countertops installed, there are a lot of decisions to be made. From countertop material choices to counter placement preferences, each decision is impactful, making for an overwhelming experience. Luckily, at Stone City Kitchen & Bath, we have a team of countertop experts who are more than happy to offer assistance and advice on your new countertop journey.
Most of our clients start by selecting the type of countertop material they want to use. If you're at this stage and aren't sure what to choose, ask yourself these questions:
Still unsure? Swing by our showroom and let us help. Our kitchen remodeling experts can give you a rundown of the features and advantages of all our countertop materials, from durability to upkeep. Once you have those questions answered, you can begin narrowing down your selection. And what better way to do that than with a breakdown of our most popular countertop material choices?
Granite countertops are, without a doubt, the most popular choice for homeowners who want to install new kitchen countertops. Granite has held that position for years, and while it has competition, buyers love its luxurious looks and natural composition. Like some countertop materials, no two granite slabs will look exactly alike, giving your kitchen a unique aura.
Granite is a great choice for families, especially if you have children, as it has a hard surface that can withstand chips and scratches. Pricing on granite can vary depending on where it's sourced and how large the slab is. But one thing is for sure - if you're in need of a reliable countertop material for day-to-day use, granite should be atop your list.
One of the biggest reasons granite countertops are so popular is because they can be quite affordable. That's especially important for families trying to stick to a kitchen remodeling budget. Prices of granite can vary, so be sure to speak with one of our expert associates at Stone City KB for the most accurate pricing.
Another popular reason to choose granite countertops over other materials is granite's resistance to scratches and chips. If you're like most folks, you'll be using your new countertops every day. Over time, counters can take a beating, especially when you have younger children. Fortunately, granite can withstand many scratches and chips, making it a popular choice for longevity and beauty. Remember, though - never use your granite countertops for dicing, cutting, or slicing. Use a cutting board instead, or you may damage your new countertops.
When sealed properly, your granite countertops in Sullivan's Island, SC can resist stains. In fact, if a spill dries on your counters, you should be able to scrape them off gently with a plastic scraping tool. That's not to say that granite can't be stained at all - acids and alkaline can do a number on granite, so avoid spilling those substances on your counters. With that said, if you seal your granite counters every year and clean up spills quickly with soap and water, you should be able to avoid most long-lasting stains. At Stone City KB, we are trained and certified for a permanent sealer with additional cost, that is warranty for 15 years. Don't forget to ask your sales representative for this permanent 15 years sealer as an option so you can be worry free.
Like stains, granite countertops are also resistant to heat. Granite is formed in nature with heat and pressure, so it makes sense that it would have inherent heat-resistant properties. This is great news if you use your oven or toaster oven to cook dinner. If you accidentally place a hot pan on your granite counters, you don't have to worry. While we recommend placing oven-hot pans on potholders, you should be safe to use your granite counters too.
Granite has many practical benefits over countertop materials, but it also has an aesthetic advantage. At Stone City Kitchen & Bath, all our granite slabs are unique. If your neighbors have new granite countertops installed, you can rest easy knowing their granite won't be exactly like yours. If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind, cost-conscious option for your kitchen countertops, granite is a fantastic choice.
Marble is a timeless material that exudes luxury. It has dynamic, detailed hues and is a very popular choice for homeowners in need of a high-end feel for their kitchen. Unlike granite counters, marble needs regular upkeep to maintain its beauty and durability.
Like granite, quartz are engineering countertops are durable and don't require too much maintenance. It is non-porous and doesn't need to be sealed, so scratches and stains are minimal. However, unlike granite, you should avoid placing hot items on quartz countertops or you could risk damaging them. If you like marble with white and gray vein movements, quartz countertops is your best choice.
No kitchen remodeling project would be complete without installing new cabinets. At Stone City Kitchen & Bath, our experienced craftsmen have created and installed hundreds of new cabinets. We know that deciding on your new kitchen cabinets' material, finish, and style can be hard. That's why we're here to help every step of the way!
Our team has the tools, training, and experience to help you choose the best cabinets for your kitchen. We'll consider your current kitchen layout, your color preferences, and more to provide personalized options for your project. And when it's time to install your new cabinets, you can rest assured we'll get the job done right at a price you can afford.
When it comes to kitchen remodeling in Sullivan's Island, SC installing new kitchen cabinets is a great idea. If you're already upgrading or replacing your kitchen countertops, having new cabinets that match the aesthetics of your kitchen makeover is a no-brainer.
At Stone City KB, we believe that everyone deserves an elegant, versatile kitchen with stunning cabinetry. That's why our team will work closely with you to discover the material, texture, and style of cabinets you're craving. Once we do, we handle all the heavy lifting, including cabinet design and installation in your home.
So, why should you install new kitchen cabinets alongside your countertops? Here are just a few reasons:
Many customers install new kitchen cabinets because they're already remodeling their kitchen and need their cabinets to match the aesthetics of their updated space. Do you want your kitchen to feel more open and airier? Do you have specific lifestyle requirements that necessitate a particular cabinet material? Our kitchen cabinet experts can help you find the perfect cabinet setup for your needs.
Having a uniform aesthetic throughout your kitchen and home is important. But from a practical standpoint, new kitchen cabinets often mean more kitchen storage. That's a big deal for families, especially when younger children are involved. If you find that your countertops are magnets for clutter, new cabinetry can help remove the mess and stress less. The more storage your kitchen has, the easier it will be to use your kitchen for cooking and entertaining.
Take a few moments and check out the bones of your current cabinets. Low-quality, cheap cabinets are often a turnoff for potential buyers. If you plan on selling your home in the next few years, one of the best ways to boost resale value is with new cabinetry.
Is it a pain in the side to cook in your kitchen? Whether it's due to clutter, design, or something else, many of our customers want new cabinets so that their kitchen is functional again. New cabinets give you more storage, as mentioned above, but they can also make your kitchen more functional, depending on design and remodeling preferences. If you love to cook for your family and get-togethers, investing in new kitchen cabinets can help you do more of what you love.
Whether you're looking to "wow" a new client or work colleague or just want to make your neighbors a little jealous, upgrading your kitchen cabinets is a great way to do so. Of course, first impressions have always mattered, but particularly so in real estate. When the time comes to sell your home, having custom cabinets and countertops in your kitchen can set you apart from other sellers.
Here at Stone City Kitchen & Bath, we specialize in custom kitchen countertops and cabinets designed especially for you. Whether you've been dreaming of traditional wood cabinets or need sleek, elegant granite countertops, we've got you covered. We are committed to affordable options while holding true to our craftsmanship and skills, providing customers with the best kitchen renovations in South Carolina.
If you're looking for the largest selection and the best prices, visit our showroom or contact us today. You've worked hard to make your home special, so why not your kitchen too? From design to installation, our team is here to help you every step of the way.
SULLIVAN’S ISLAND, S.C. (WCBD) – The Town of Sullivan’s Island is searching for those responsible for cutting down part of the island’s maritime forest. Town leaders are hoping to establish stricter penalties to prevent future cutting while residents are hoping the trees can be replaced.An employee with the town noticed the cutting around February 9th and reported it to town leaders leading to the town opening an investigation. Town leaders say preventing future cutting might be achieved through jail time or st...
SULLIVAN’S ISLAND, S.C. (WCBD) – The Town of Sullivan’s Island is searching for those responsible for cutting down part of the island’s maritime forest. Town leaders are hoping to establish stricter penalties to prevent future cutting while residents are hoping the trees can be replaced.
An employee with the town noticed the cutting around February 9th and reported it to town leaders leading to the town opening an investigation. Town leaders say preventing future cutting might be achieved through jail time or stricter fines.
“This is the epitome of selfishness,” says Town Councilman Scott Millimet reacting to the cutting.
Island residents were also upset with the cutting. “It’s clear these trees weren’t cut by accident, I mean they were purposefully cut to someone’s benefit,” says one resident.
A number of trees along Station 26, the width of a house were chopped and dropped in the town’s maritime forest. The island’s forest has become the center of a debate to save the town’s accredited land over the last several years.
“It damages everybody, it doesn’t just (damage) the two neighbors,” the resident said.
Dozens of trees have been marked and documented by town employees after being cut down. Councilman Millimet says residents couldn’t believe it when learning of the illegal cutting.
“General shock, frustration – bitterness,” says Councilman Millimet when referring to what he’s heard from residents.
Each tree cut down comes with a $1,040 fine but residents and leaders say that might not be enough to prevent future cutting.
“This just proves that there are those out there that until the punishment is enhanced, it’s going to continue,” says Councilman Millimet.
Councilman Millimet believes the fines should be raised and jail time considered for those responsible. “We can try to do some replanting,” says Councilman Millimet. “And then I think we also need to focus on enhancing the punishment.”
Advocates fighting for the future of the maritime forest agree with the measure. “While there are penalties, they are not severe enough to disincentive someone from potentially doing this again,” says Karen Byko, President of Sullivan’s Island 4 All.
With the damage already done along Station 26, leaders and residents hope they can stop additional chopping in the future.
“At the very least, I hope they replant these trees,” says the resident.
“There’s quite a bit of work to do but like I said we’ve got to get the ball rolling because the longer we wait, certain residents have shown that they will act in their own best interest and we’ve got to figure out how to prevent that,” says Councilman Millimet.
Town officials declined to provide a comment on the latest in the investigation.
SULLIVAN’S ISLAND — Sullivan’s Seafood Restaurant was an island staple from 1988 until Sept. 6, 2020, when owners Sammy Rhodes and Donna Rhodes Hiott permanently closed the local favorite. Ben and Kate Towill hope their restaurant — which opened in the 2019 Middle St. space May 17 — will honor the building’s past while ushering it into the future.Sullivan’s Fish Camp is now open, serving customers local seafood an...
SULLIVAN’S ISLAND — Sullivan’s Seafood Restaurant was an island staple from 1988 until Sept. 6, 2020, when owners Sammy Rhodes and Donna Rhodes Hiott permanently closed the local favorite. Ben and Kate Towill hope their restaurant — which opened in the 2019 Middle St. space May 17 — will honor the building’s past while ushering it into the future.
Sullivan’s Fish Camp is now open, serving customers local seafood and beach-themed cocktails Tuesday through Sunday.
The Towills are the owners of design and hospitality firm Basic Projects. Kate, head of design for the Charleston-based company, has led the design of residential and commercial properties, including an athletic club and Basic Projects’ two other restaurants: Basic Kitchen and Post House.
Alongside her husband, Basic Projects head of operations Eva Suarez and other members of the team, Kate led the two-year renovation of Sullivan’s Fish Camp, where she set out to create a 1970s-inspired beachside aesthetic. Her goal was to give the space a fresh look with elements honoring Sullivan’s Seafood, like a framed flag and original menu.
A place that feels new and nostalgic all at once.
“That’s been the biggest compliment that we have received is (people saying) ‘Oh it feels like it’s been here forever,’ ” Kate Towill said.
Leading the kitchen as executive chef is Davis Hood, who grew up on Isle of Palms with his brother Nathan, culinary director of Basic Projects. Hood, who recalls walking by the Middle Street building on his way to Sullivan’s Island Elementary School, is focusing on sustainability at the new Sullivan’s Island restaurant.
Local purveyors like Abundant Seafood, Tarvin Seafood, Lowcountry Oyster Co., Vertical Roots and Peculiar Pig Farm dot the Sullivan’s Fish Camp menu.
“It’s not your average fish camp in my eyes,” Hood said. “The whole concept of snout to tail cooking, we’re trying to bring that vibe but with fish. Understanding that the ocean is such an important part of our lives and not trying to have any waste.”
If there is one dish that epitomizes this approach, it’s the Sullivan’s Island Gumbo that features Tarvin Seafood shrimp, clams, okra, lobster broth, dayboat fish and Anson Mills Charleston Gold Rice. The West African style gumbo’s gluten-free base is made using chicken bones, lobster shells, shrimp shells, fennel, celery, palm oil and Bradford Family Farm okra, which replaces a roux as the stew’s thickening agent.
Ben Towill said the gumbo, along with the pan-roasted fish of the day and tempura nori tuna with furikake aioli have been some of the restaurant’s top sellers in its first weeks of service.
“We feel like the menu’s been received really well,” Ben Towill said. “Guests and everyone have felt really comfortable which has been a big bonus.”
Fresh seafood isn’t the only element that gives Sullivan’s Fish Camp that desired beachside feel. Self-described “fruity” cocktails like the tequila-based Sumter’s Watch, rum-based Sullivan Swizzle and the frozen paloma will immediately put patrons on island time.
Sullivan’s Fish Camp is open for dinner from 5-10 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, and lunch is currently served from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. The restaurant plans to eventually serve lunch and dinner daily.
For more information, visit sullivansfishcamp.com or call 843-883-2100.
SULLIVAN’S ISLAND, S.C. (WCBD)- Sand dunes across the Lowcountry kept people safe from Hurricane Ian, but now they are going to need some repairs after the storm eroded sand from the shores.“All things considered the town made out very very well. We can’t find anywhere on Sullivan’s Island where the ocean penetrated behind that primary dune,” said Andy Benke, the Town Administrator for Sullivan’s Island.The island had two places where the storm eroded a significant amount of sand. At Station ...
SULLIVAN’S ISLAND, S.C. (WCBD)- Sand dunes across the Lowcountry kept people safe from Hurricane Ian, but now they are going to need some repairs after the storm eroded sand from the shores.
“All things considered the town made out very very well. We can’t find anywhere on Sullivan’s Island where the ocean penetrated behind that primary dune,” said Andy Benke, the Town Administrator for Sullivan’s Island.
The island had two places where the storm eroded a significant amount of sand. At Station 22, rainwater that collected behind the first wall of dunes found its way back out to the ocean through a low lying part of the dunes.
The ocean waves smacking up against dunes as tall as 12 feet were eroded at Station 28. The sand that remains makes some of the larger dunes look like a cliff. But, Benke says that’s what they’re supposed to do.
“There are dunes and vegetation that provide relief and change of elevation so that when there is a wave event it slows the wave down quite a bit” said Benke. “The town has this wide track of land between the mean high water mark and the private property line. That’s an extra added protection that we have.”
On Folly Beach, Mayor Tim Goodwin is also dealing with issues from beach erosion.
“We have noticed dune erosion just from Ian,” said Mayor Goodwin. “We know that we need to do some work on the beach. We’ve already started planning on what we can do as a city.’
Unlike Sullivan’s Island, Folly Beach is a federal partner with the Army Corps of Engineers. That means that the city can receive federal funding to help repair their sand dunes. Mayor Goodwin is awaiting the engineers’ report to decide what needs to be done.
“The Army Corps of Engineers has been here to do a survey and we’re waiting on their data to be processed,” said Mayor Goodwin.
“Right now the Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island and Folly Beach coastlines experienced significant erosion,” said Wes Wilson, a Project Manager for the Army Corps of Engineers.
That process might not be finished until the beginning of 2023 according to the Army Corps of Engineers.
“We’re going to collect that survey information. We’re going to analyze the date and estimate costs and write a report that will be used to see if that project qualifies for emergency rehabilitation,” said Wilson. “Two main factors to consider during the process are the significance of the event and the significance of the damages of the event.”
After that, Congress has to decide whether to give supplemental funds to the Army Corps of Engineers to undertake the repairs.
Officials and engineers want people to remember that the dunes are here to protect and damage to them is much better than damage to people, buildings or roads.
“Sand dunes disappear because we build sand dunes and we work hard to keep sand dunes on the beach because that’s the first line of defense for the beach,” said Mayor Goodwin.
Dominion Energy hoped to sell the beachfront Sand Dunes Club on Sullivan’s Island for $19 million to a company owned by Ben Navarro, but now plans to sell it for much less — $16.2 million — to the former owner of Money Man Pawn.The $19 million offer from SDC Island Resident Club LLC, a subsidiary of Navarro’s Beemok Capital, evaporated after the state Public Service Commission ordered the utility to seek bids for the property.Dominion received three bids for the 3.5-acre space and ...
Dominion Energy hoped to sell the beachfront Sand Dunes Club on Sullivan’s Island for $19 million to a company owned by Ben Navarro, but now plans to sell it for much less — $16.2 million — to the former owner of Money Man Pawn.
The $19 million offer from SDC Island Resident Club LLC, a subsidiary of Navarro’s Beemok Capital, evaporated after the state Public Service Commission ordered the utility to seek bids for the property.
Dominion received three bids for the 3.5-acre space and has asked the Public Service Commission to approve the highest one, the $16.2 million offer.
“Although Dominion Energy would have preferred to sell the property to SDC Island Resident Club LLC for $19 million, that option no longer exists, and the company has concluded that $16.2 million is a fair price for the Sand Dunes Property,” Rhonda O’Banion, media relations manager for Dominion, said April 18.
The PSC order was meant to ensure that utility ratepayers’ interests were being served by seeking the highest price for the property, but appears to have cost them $2.8 million instead.
PSC spokesman Rob Bockman said the commission can’t talk about pending cases under rules of judicial conduct.
Dominion has said in filings to the commission that the sale of the property would not change the utility’s rates or pricing.
Prior to the PSC order in February, Navarro’s company was widely expected to buy the property, partly because Sullivan’s Island signed an agreement with Beemok more than a year ago outlining how the 3.5 acres and historic club could be used.
“While Beemok decided to not take part in the public bid process to acquire the Sand Dunes Club, we are hopeful that the process results in a positive outcome for the Sullivan’s Island community at large,” said Chris Allen, a spokesperson for Beemok Capital.
The company rebuffed questions about why it lost interest after previously offering what would have been by far the highest bid.
The top bid of $16.2 million came from John Derbyshire on behalf of a company called JLLM LLC. In South Carolina, limited liability companies (LLCs) are often created for real estate deals.
“We are hopeful that the property transaction will receive all necessary approvals, and we can move forward in the best interest of our customers and the communities we serve,” said O’Banion.
Derbyshire declined to comment. He’s a former owner of Money Man Pawn, a large chain of pawn shops known for their eye-catching yellow-and-green paint scheme, which was sold for $30 million in 2013.
Derbyshire is also known for accumulating extensive property holdings through foreclosure sales, and for buying local restaurant properties. In 2020, one of his affiliates bought Shem Creek Bar & Grill for $4.9 million, and at the time he owned properties that housed restaurants on Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms.
The Sand Dunes Club plan laid out in the memorandum between Beemok and Sullivan’s Island called for using the power company’s facility as a membership club for island residents.
The agreement detailing how the property could be used applies regardless of the owner, according to the town. It’s actually five adjoining properties, and houses could potentially be built on four of them.
The Sand Dunes Club building is protected as an historic structure and could not be demolished without the town’s permission.
The beachfront venue was once part of Fort Moultrie. In the 1950s, South Carolina Electric & Gas bought the property from the federal government for $27,000 as properties associated with the fort were being sold.
With a large clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis courts and direct beach access, it was used for decades as a corporate retreat, by island residents, and rented out for events and meetings. Dominion Energy acquired the property when it bought SCE&G.
Charleston, South Carolina, has been topping 'the best of lists for years. The historic city has always had a ton to offer, attracting tourists for its southern charm, world-class culinary offerings, antebellum architecture, and lively arts and entertainment scene. Further adding to Charleston's appeal are its beaches.Sitting just a few miles from downtown Charleston is a series of easily accessible small barrier is...
Charleston, South Carolina, has been topping 'the best of lists for years. The historic city has always had a ton to offer, attracting tourists for its southern charm, world-class culinary offerings, antebellum architecture, and lively arts and entertainment scene. Further adding to Charleston's appeal are its beaches.
Sitting just a few miles from downtown Charleston is a series of easily accessible small barrier islands where visitors can enjoy an afternoon at the beach or vice versa. With such close proximity to the city, visitors can choose to base themselves on the beach instead. Each one of the Charleston beaches has its own distinctive vibe and attributes. Here is an overview to help find the perfect fit!
This popular Charleston beach manages to maintain a balance between upscale and classy, as well as hip yet family-friendly. The island is self-catering with ample accommodation options, an extensive retail district, a diverse range of restaurants, and a full-service grocery store. The beach has lifeguards on duty, and there are dressing rooms, restrooms, and snack bar facilities centrally located at the oceanfront County Park.
There are roughly six miles of beach with over 50 access points, so hitting the sand on Isle of Palms is super convenient. The island's two golf courses, The Links Course and Harbor Course were both designed by a world-renowned golf architect. Visiting the Windjammer is a must. A long-time staple of the island (more than 50 years in business), the Windjammer is an oceanfront sandbar that hosts frequent concerts, beach volleyball tournaments, and more. Oh, and dogs are welcome at the Windjammer too!
This quaint 3.3 square mile island can be summed up by three S's: serenity, slow pace, and simple pleasures. The town has actively worked to preserve its quiet character, and as such, short-term rentals of less than 30 days are prohibited. Nestled between Charleston Harbor and Isle of Palms, it remains close and convenient to explore for the day while staying elsewhere.
One of the oldest-standing forts on the East Coast is located on Sullivan's Island. Fort Moultrie was first constructed as a Revolutionary War defense in the 1700s but was once again put to use during the Civil War. Fort Moultrie is open to the public and remains a top tourist attraction. Fabled author Edgar Allen Poe was stationed at Fort Moultrie during his stint in the army, and Sullivan's Island served as the setting for some of his literary works. Nowadays, the quirky and eclectic Poe's Tavern pays homage to its namesake and is one of the most beloved local eateries.
Sullivan's Island is the perfect spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and simply have a relaxing day at the beach. The wide, flat beach is great for strolling along the shore or riding bikes at low tide, and the prevailing winds are excellent for kiteboarding. Ocean enthusiasts can also fish, kayak, and paddleboard, and land-lovers can enjoy the island's several parks and recreation areas too. The restaurants along Middle Street offer wonderful food and alfresco dining in a fun atmosphere, often with live entertainment.
Affectionately referred to as the 'edge of America', Folly Beach is a funky beach community that has retained much of its charm and unique character. A long-time haven for surfers, College of Charleston students, artists, and salty seafarers, Folly Beach has somewhat of a cult following amongst vacationers too. Folly-devotees return to their beloved beach year after year and rarely venture elsewhere. The island has a relaxed, working-class vibe, and long-time locals foster a palpable sense of community.
Swing by Bert's Market and fill up the cooler before hitting the beach. Bert's is a local institution that adheres to its 'we may doze but we never close' slogan; they are open around the clock and are much more than just a market. Folly Beach is regarded as one of the top surfing destinations in the southeast, and there are two full-service surf shops on Folly. Experienced surfers can head to The Washout section of the beach, or novices can take a surf lesson with one of the several surf schools on the island. Kayaks or stand-up paddleboards are an excellent way to explore Folly's extensive network of marshes and inlets.
The main shopping and dining hub of Folly Beach is Center Street, and it is well worth a stroll. The eclectic shops have lots of local and handcrafted items rather than just tacky souvenirs. Center Street and the surrounding blocks are also packed with dozens of eating and drinking locales for every taste and budget, as well as bars and nightlife. Come as you are - the ambiance everywhere is unpretentious, and flip-flops are always welcome.
One of the best ways to get around the 12-square-mile island is by golf cart. Just be aware that they cannot travel down Center Street (but they can traverse it to cross to/from the East and West sides of the island).
Although Kiawah is a huge vacation destination, it wasn't initially included as one of the main Charleston-area beaches simply because many areas of the island and its beaches are private. Kiawah is gated, and visitors can only access certain restricted areas with a guest or owner's pass; not everything is accessible to the public. Nonetheless, Kiawah is worth a mention as it is a popular vacation spot and has its own unique draw.
As one may expect, Kiawah is a luxury vacation destination. The resort accommodations, vacation home rentals, and amenities are world-class, as are Kiawah's dining options. The island's five golf courses are also top-notch, frequently hosting PGA Tour and other top-level events. Kiawah was also named the #1 tennis resort in the world!
Visitors can take advantage of public beach access at Beachwalker County Park, just before the guard station. Bring your own bike to enjoy the full 10 miles of pristine Kiawah Island beach without needing to show a pass.
While the Charleston area is surrounded by dozens of barrier islands, these beaches are the main hot spots to stay and play. The beaches make a great addition to any Charleston vacation itinerary, but they each have plenty to offer as a stand-alone destination too. Visitors can settle down, relax, and enjoy the slower pace of island time!