Sand dollar found on the Isle of Palms beach

Welcome to your ultimate summer guide to the enchanting Isle of Palms, SC!

Only a short 30-minute drive from the City of Charleston, SC, lies a hidden gem—an island getaway that promises the perfect escape. For more than a decade, I have been returning to this idyllic beach town each summer, and with each visit, my love for it grows.

Now, in this post, I am excited to share with you everything you need to know about the breathtaking Isle of Palms before going on your own unforgettable adventure!

Let’s dive right in!

The Ultimate IOP, SC Summer Guide

Getting to the Isle of Palms

Arriving on, the Isle of Palms, SC, is a breeze when you fly into the conveniently located Charleston International Airport. Upon landing, you have two options to reach the island: take an Uber or opt to rent a car if you plan on exploring beyond the island’s borders, such as venturing into Charleston.

Renting a car is highly recommended if you want to explore Charleston and its surrounding areas. However, if your intention is to stay only on IOP, you can easily get an Uber over then rent a bike and leisurely explore everything the Isle of Palms has to offer.

Do you want to rent a car for your stay? I recommend you make your reservation in advance! Charleston International Airport experiences high demand, and securing your rental ahead of time is recommended.

With your rental car ready, it’s a quick 30-minute drive to the beautiful Isle of Palms! As you cross the scenic IOP connector bridge, you’ll feel your anticipation building as you approach this paradise-like destination. And if you haven’t rented a car, don’t worry; a quick Uber ride from the airport will get you to you to IOP!

Where to stay on the Isle of Palms

Traveling with a sizable group to the Isle of Palms, SC? Look no further than renting a spacious house that perfectly fits everyone!

Along the picturesque beach, you’ll discover an abundance of stunning rental options that cater to large groups. These amazing properties often have a pool right outside, providing a stunning vista of the beach. Inside, you’ll often find lots of space, with some even offering a game room or similar communal area, perfect for bringing everyone together.

Opting for a rental gives you the freedom to prepare your own meals, adding convenience and flexibility to your getaway. To find the perfect house for your group, be sure to explore VRBO and AirBnB, specifically searching for Isle of Palms, SC rentals. One of my favorite beachfront rentals in IOP is Casa Banana– if you are traveling with a large group this is a really fun rental house in a great location!

Alternatively, if you prefer the comforts of an oceanfront hotel, the Wild Dunes Resort is a great option. Nestled along the beach, this stunning resort promises a captivating experience, blending luxurious accommodations with amazing surroundings!

Whichever option you choose, you are going to have an awesome time in IOP!

Things to do on the Isle of Palms

Spend the day on the beach

For those beach-bums, this paradise is the ideal beach destination. Stretching across an impressive 7 miles, the Isle of Palms offers an abundance of exploration opportunities, ensuring you’ll discover your very own slice of relaxation along its coastline.

Spend an afternoon in the water and try out wind surfing, it’s very popular here. Take refreshing dips in the ocean, perfect for swimming and cooling off from the hot SC sun. Grab a boogie board and ride the waves, we always have a lot of fun doing this!

To make your beach experience even better, consider renting beach chairs, you can easily find some to rent in the downtown area of IOP or your rental house/hotel might offer them! There’s also plenty of room for beach toys, so bring along favorites like spike-ball, soccer, frisbee, and more.

Rent a bicycle

If you like to explore, having a bike at your disposal during your stay on the Isle of Palms is an absolute must!

Begin your mornings with a bike ride along the sparkling ocean – a great way to start your day.

In the afternoon, hop on your bike and make your way to Coconut Joe’s, a fun spot where you can enjoy a refreshing piña colada on the rooftop, all while taking in breathtaking views of the ocean.

For a change of scenery, venture beyond the Isle of Palms and pedal your way to Sullivan’s Island, a neighboring gem with its own unique charm. Explore the island’s treasures at your leisure, immersing yourself in its rich history and natural beauty.

And should you find yourself in need of any last-minute groceries or essentials, simply pedal over to Harris Teeter, a convenient supermarket where you can find everything you need.

If you like to explore and adventure- rent a bike for your stay on IOP!

Riding a bike down the beach in IOP South Carolina

There are so many places to explore on the island and surrounding islands. Having a bike is a lot of fun, pull down onto one of the public beach access trails and take a quick dip on a hot day to cool off on your ride.

You can most likely rent a bike through the house rental if your choose that route
You can rent one on the small strip of shops on IOP, Island Mermaid
Rent the bike for your entire stay (nice to have it as an option)
Some bikes come with baskets bring a backpack just incase yours doesn’t have one
Bikes ride well on the hard sand on the beach- don’t bother trying to ride through the soft sand it doesn’t work

Search for seashells on the Isle of Palms

The Isle of Palms has amazing shells!!

Enjoy strolling along the shoreline, scanning the sand for these treasures. The Isle of Palms boasts a diverse mix of shells, you can even find beautiful sand dollars!

I like to go on my own personal shell-hunting adventures daily on the Isle of Palms!

Wake up early and walk the beach along the shoreline
Keep your eye on when low tide will be, make it a point to get on the beach at that time!
Take a walk on the beach at dusk, a lot of cool creatures come out along the shoreline: hermit crabs, starfish, conchs, snails, horseshoe crabs, smaller crabs, dolphins, etc.
There are sand dollars to be found! Some of the most beautiful ones I’ve found in the US

Go shopping

The Isle of Palms town center has a small strip, where you’ll discover a variety of shops offering an array of IOP-themed apparel.

For even more shopping options, venture across the connector to Mount Pleasant. The Mount Pleasant Towne Centre offers a nice blend of stores and restaurants, creating a lively atmosphere. Don’t miss out on Palmetto Moon and Lizard Thicket, two of my favorite shops that are definitely worth a visit!

Lizard Thicket store Mt. Pleasant street art

If you end up with a rainy day with nothing to do on the beach, drive over to the outlets. 4840 Tanger Outlet Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29418. There are lots of stores for everyone.

Wake up for sunrise on the Isle of Palms

Prepare for a truly magical experience on the Isle of Palms by checking the weather and selecting the clearest day for a remarkable beach sunrise. Set multiple alarms a few minutes before daybreak, ensuring you don’t sleep though this!

As the sun begins to rise, wake up and make your way to the beach!

The sunrise along the beach is nothing short of stunning. With only a handful of early risers by your side, you’ll bask in the privilege of starting your day in such a magnificent way. The crashing of the waves, combined with a symphony of hues—pinks, oranges, and reds—intermingling in the sky, creates a canvas unlike any other. This tranquil and serene moment is truly special, the best way to start your day, once you experience this you will see what I mean!

Set your alarms, force yourself out of bed and make it a priority to witness this captivating sunrise— it’s simply the best way to start your day in IOP!

Isle of Palms beach sunrise over the ocean

Skateboard around the Isle of Palms

The streets that line the picturesque beaches of the Isle of Palms are smooth, quiet and perfect for skaters.

With minimal traffic, these streets offer a safe and enjoyable environment to skate around in the nice weather.

With plenty of sunny days and mild temperatures, you’ll find yourself in skateboarding in full sun, be sure to wear sunscreen. When the heat starts to get to you, just head to the beach to cool off!

Go parasailling

The Isle of Palms, the perfect destination to experience the exhilarating activity of parasailing.

Imagine yourself soaring high above the island, suspended in the air as you take in the breathtaking panoramic views. From this vantage point, you’ll witness the beauty of the entire island stretching out before you, providing a unique perspective that few get to experience.

As you float above the water, keep a keen eye out for playful dolphins gracefully swimming beneath you. The sight of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is a truly awe-inspiring moment!

Parasailing offers a blend of excitement and relaxation, making it an ideal activity for those seeking a little adventure while also enjoying a sense of serenity. The feeling of weightlessness combined with the thrill of being high above the island creates an unforgettable experience!

Parasailing over the ocean along the Isle of Palms

Tidal Wave Water Sports does an awesome job, the staff are a lot of fun and the boat ride out is a great time in itself. Bring sunscreen, water & a GoPro!

Visit Downtown Charleston

Make sure to carve out some time to venture beyond the Isle of Palms and explore the captivating city of Charleston during your stay in South Carolina. Just a short 20-minute ride away, this historic town holds a charm and allure all its own.

Prepare to be enchanted by the beauty and uniqueness that is Charleston. Stroll along its picturesque streets lined with stunning architecture and immerse yourself in the rich history. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be captivated by the blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy that defines this remarkable city.

You will find endless shopping opportunities, small local boutique stores and renowned brands, a the perfect mix. Check out some local restaurants that cater to every palate, and discover the fun bars Charleston offers!

A must-visit destination in Charleston is the Charleston City Market. Once a site of historical significance as a slave market, it has transformed into a hub for local artisans who showcase and sell their unique goods. Browse through their creations, appreciating the artistry and craftsmanship that make this market a cultural treasure.

Don’t miss the iconic Rainbow Row, a row of pastel-colored historic houses that have become an emblem of Charleston’s charm. This enchanting location provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable photo-op, allowing you to capture a piece of Charleston’s captivating beauty.

Hangout at The Windjammer

Located at the heart of the Isle of Palms, right on the beachfront, The Windjammer is a hotspot that should be on your radar when visiting IOP.

The Windjammer offers a fun and inviting ambiance, making it the perfect destination for a memorable night out! Check to see if Darius Rucker will be playing while you are on IOP, he’s usually at the Windjammer a couple times each summer!

Where to eat on the Isle of Palms

Coconut Joes

A great place to go for lunch or dinner after hanging out on the beach all day, or stop by for a piña colada.

Papi’s Taqueria

Tacos right next to the beach!? The perfect combo.

Acme LowCountry Kitchen

In town a little more but another great place to eat if you are looking for something different.

Low country boil

This is a meal to make at home but a whole experience in itself! You can do this if you have a full kitchen to cook in. A southern specialty! So much fun to make and absolutely delicious. Go to Simmons Seafood to pick up the crawfish and shrimp, a little store right on IOP. Here is a good recipe to follow.

Ben&Jerrys

There’s a Ben & Jerry’s right on Ocean Blvd across from the beach on IOP! Walk here and grab an ice cream to cool down from the hot sun or after dinner for the perfect night cap.

Relaxing in the pool at the beach house enjoying the view

Isle of Palms Conclusion

The Isle of Palms is undeniably a remarkable destination, offering a unique blend of relaxation and exploration. This charming beach town serves as the perfect summer escape, where you can find relaxation, fun and tranquility away from the hustle of everyday life.

IOP offers the flexibility to shape your trip according to your preferences. If you’re looking for ultimate relaxation, bask in the sunny shores, soak in the waves, and embrace the art of doing nothing. Alternatively, if adventure calls, embark on new adventures each day, exploring the hidden gems and engaging in exciting activities that IOP has to offer. The choice is yours, and the possibilities are endless!

Have you experienced the wonders of IOP? Are you in the midst of planning a trip and have questions or need guidance? Please share your thoughts, questions, and excitement in the comments below. I’m here to provide any assistance you may need! I’d love to hear form you!

The Ultimate Isle of Palms, SC Summer Guide