This laidback South Carolina beach town has charm in spades. Located on an idyllic barrier island, a friendly community resides throughout its coastal dunes, tight-knit neighborhoods, and local haunts. You’ll find all types of architecture dotting the coastal areas, as this is a place where people come to live out their dream life. Beyond the property lines is a diverse and interesting habitat where sea turtles nest on the shore and shipwrecks lurk beneath the surf. Pass the time here with beach volleyball tournaments, surf lessons, boat trips, and fishing charters. Its location near downtown Charleston means that top-notch restaurants, cafes, and city life are never too far away. In Isle of Palms, it seems you really can have it all.

Like much of South Carolina, Isle of Palms has a humid, subtropical climate. That means summer can be hot and oppressive, even if it’s the most popular time to visit. If you stay in one of the area’s vacation rentals between June and August, as most tourists do, you can expect temperatures in the upper 80s and low 90s Fahrenheit. While it makes for a refreshing dip in the ocean, bring a sun hat and plenty of SPF to protect yourself from the sun. For more pleasant temperatures (and fewer crowds), late spring and early fall offer light breezes and more favorable temperatures. Keep in mind that hurricane season peaks around September, so for more reliable weather, spring is best: overall, April and May win out for the best weather.

Isle of Palms County Park

This popular park is irresistible for its array of amenities and offerings, all of which are easily accessible. Spread out on a patch of grass, prop up a parasol on the fine sandy beach, unpack a homemade picnic at one of the scenic tables, or splash around in the warm ocean waters. When you want to stretch your legs, find your way to the boardwalk, which connects to the town’s namesake beach.

Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens

An oak-lined avenue welcomes visitors to the 17th-century Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens, just outside of Isle of Palms. This historic site serves up a slice of the region’s deep history, with preserved buildings and beautiful plants spread across 738 acres. Walking or driving tours are offered and, depending on the season, U-Pick Fields welcome visitors to pick your own peaches, grapes, and berries. There’s cultural programming throughout the year that informs about the plantation’s history and works to raise awareness about enslaved peoples.

Boat tour

Taking a boat tour is a great way to get another perspective of Isle of Palms, as much of the natural beauty here can’t be accessed by car or on foot. Secret coves, hidden wildlife, crabbing excursions, aquatic safaris, and even a haunted harbor are all on offer from one of the town’s several outfitters.