Travelers love to visit Kiawah Island, South Carolina! That’s why Travel + Leisure readers ranked Kiawah as, not only one of the top islands in the U.S. but one of the best in the world!
Why is Kiawah Island a great destination?
Consistently recognized by Travel + Leisure readers in the World's Best awards and recently the site of President Biden's visit, it's no wonder Kiawah Island has been making headlines. Discover why Kiawah is a town beloved by travelers and residents alike.
Convenient location
So, where exactly is Kiawah Island? Just 25 miles southwest of Charleston, our charming beach town is conveniently accessible from many major cities. An easy drive from Charlotte or Atlanta, you’ll find that Kiawah Island draws many North Carolinians and Georgians. Cities like New York, Chicago, and Washington DC are all just a short flight away from Kiawah Island.
Located on Johns Island, Charleston Executive Airport (JZI) is the best option for travelers who wish to charter flights. The closest commercial airport to the Island, Charleston International Airport (CHS), is approximately 40 minutes from Kiawah’s main gate. Several airlines offer non-stop flight options to Charleston, making air travel a breeze!
Laid-back leisure
Travelers looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city appreciate the relaxed nature of Kiawah Island. Surrounded by lush vegetation and natural beauty, it’s hard not to feel at ease here on Kiawah. There are countless ways to recharge on Kiawah Island, whether you want to relax on the beach or kayak through the salt marsh. With ten miles of unspoiled beach, there’s plenty of room to find a secluded place in the sand.
Private accommodations with luxurious amenities add to the appeal. Here, you’ll find a variety of vacation rental property types. Ranging from spacious single-family homes to beach cottages and villas, plenty of accommodation options await. Whether you’re looking for an oceanfront home with a private pool or a one-bedroom villa, you’re sure to find a Kiawah vacation rental to meet your needs.
Lots of things to do
Kiawah Island is a place where you can enjoy everything from biking, hiking, & walking trails, to golfing, beach-combing, and more. The island is just over 15 square miles but has no shortage of things to do on Kiawah Island.
Biking
We highly recommend renting bikes during your visit. Offering 30 miles of paved bike trails and 10 miles of hard-packed sand, travelers who enjoy biking will feel right at home on Kiawah Island. Bike around the island, and you’ll enjoy a front-row seat to some of the best views in the Lowcountry. From the tip of the Ocean Course to just outside the gate at Freshfields Village, biking is one of the best (and most enjoyable) ways to explore Kiawah.
Golf
Kiawah Island is home to five public golf courses: Cougar Point by Gary Player, Oak Point by Clyde Johnston, Osprey Point by Tom Fazio, The Ocean Course by Pete Dye, and Turtle Point by Jack Nicklaus. The courses on Kiawah Island are known to delight and challenge golfers of all skill levels.
The Ocean Course, the site of the 2021 PGA Championship, is a must-play for any avid golfer. This course was expertly designed to provide unobstructed views of the coastline from all 18 holes.
Tennis
Previously ranked the #1 Tennis Resort in the World, the tennis facilities on Kiawah Island are some of the best in South Carolina. The acclaimed Roy Barth Tennis Center boasts 22 courts, all surrounded by the natural beauty of Kiawah Island. Here, players of all skill levels can enjoy tennis year-round.
Eco-tourism
Nature lovers, rejoice! Kiawah Island is home to a diverse population of wildlife. On the island, you'll be among many species of birds and fish, bobcats, dolphins, sea turtles, alligators, and more. Take a guided tour on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to get a close-up look at Kiawah's incredible wildlife. Or, head to the Nature Center in Night Heron Park to learn all about the natural beauty of Kiawah Island.
Proximity to Charleston
Historic downtown Charleston is a scenic 45-minute drive from Kiawah Island's main gate and is perfect for a day trip. A popular destination in its own right, Charleston has been voted the Best City in the U.S. for the past 10 years in a row by Travel + Leisure readers. Recently, Charleston was also ranked the Best Small City in the U.S. in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards (2022). The Holy City features historical sites, an impeccable food and beverage scene, and bustling nightlife.
Recent Recognition and Awards
Don't just take our word for it! Check out Kiawah Island's most recent awards:
- Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards (2022): 25 Best Islands in the World
- Travel + Leisure Word's Best Awards (2022): 15 Best Islands in the Continental U.S.
- Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards (2022): Best U.S. Islands
- Dr. Beach (2022): Top 10 Beaches in America
- Golf Digest America's 100 Greatest Public Courses (2021-22): The Ocean Course
Come Visit Kiawah
With its breathtaking beaches and natural beauty, Kiawah Island truly is the perfect setting for a getaway with family or friends. Come see why Kiawah Island is a special destination that so many guests return to year after year.
