How to spend the perfect day on Kiawah Island

This winter we discovered a beautiful corner of South Carolina tucked away just outside Charleston: Kiawah Island.  

Thanks to some great off-season deals for cottages on the island, Kiawah caught our eye, and we were able to discover this gorgeous island at a fraction of the price it would have cost in the summer. (Sidenote: Their off-season still counts as warm weather for us escaping the Canadian winter!)

We spent a week on the island, and by the end of our stay had fine-tuned perfect way to spend February day.

Step 1 - Take a morning walk on the beach. 

Our VRBO rental was just a ten minute walk from the public beach. The Beachwalker Park was stunning, and the low season meant most mornings there were just a couple of other people on the beach. The walk to the beach was beautiful too, with lush palm trees and lots of birdsong to enjoy (something you forget how much you miss during the winter) 

Step 2 - Wander Freshfields Village

Kiawah Island is home to an adorable outdoor shopping complex - everything from restaurants, wine bars and a grocery store is here. Enjoy a lunch on the patio, or do a little shopping. We were travelling with a baby, but when she is older, this would make a great bike adventure - the island is very bike friendly!

Step 3 - Happy Hour at The Ocean Course Clubhouse 

There’s no better spot to enjoy a cocktail than overlooking this famous golf course. The ocean views are amazing, and the patio is the perfect spot to unwind. If you love margaritas, try the Gator Bite Margarita (it’s got a little bit of jalapeño kick! 

Step 4 - Chase that light

The sunsets on Kiawah Island were incredible. We made our way back to the beach about an hour before sunset, and explored the tide pools, rivers at low tide and  watched the sun go down over the low country. Yet again, we had the beach pretty much to ourselves. By far a highlight of the trip!