Isle of Palms is one of South Carolina’s hidden gems. Only 7 miles long, it flies somewhat under the radar compared to Sullivan’s Island or Kiawah, which attracts far more attention (and visitors!), making it more lowkey and less crowded Wild Dunes Resort is a huge draw for families and vacationers year-round, and tons of beach house rentals line the coast. Isle of Palms has a nostalgic beach town vibe, is super bikeable, and boasts an absolutely stunning beach. The best things to do on the island involve a beach chair and a good book.
Restaurants
Breakfast: Sea Biscuit Cafe
The Sea Biscuit Cafe is everything you want from a beach town diner: friendly staff, cute cottage location, mouth-watering southern breakfast. It’s open for lunch too and both are delicious.
Lunch: Long Island Cafe
For an upscale lunch, stop by the Long Island Cafe for some tasty french-southern fusion dishes. From the outside, it is small and unassuming, tucked away in a stripmall, but locals know what a treasure it is. The seafood-heavy menu gives many southern classics a modern twist.
Dinner: The Obstinate Daughter
While there are plenty of casual dinner options on the island, it is absolutely worth the short drive to Sullivan’s Island for a truly spectacular dinner at The Obstinate Daughter at least once during any Isle of Palms stay. The seasonal menu features homemade pastas, pizzas and fresh raw seafood.
To Do
County Park
The Isle of Palms County Park is right in the heart of Isle of Palms, with easy parking, showers and picnic tables if you want to make this your home base at the beach. There is a sweet little playground and summer snack bar, plus it’s walking (or biking/scooting/skating) distance to the “downtown” area.
Isle of Palms Marina
The Isle of Palms Marina is a welcoming marina with boat rentals and charters, family-friendly activities, a restaurant and marina store. When you need a break from the beach, it’s the perfect place to rent a boat or take a fishing charter and explore the intercoastal waterway.
Ben & Jerry’s
It may not be local, but the IOP Ben & Jerry’s feels about as small town, beachy ice cream shop as they come. Walk up from the beach in your swimsuit or bike over barefoot, order from a window and find a park bench to eat. Summer perfection!
The Windjammer
The Windjammer is an institution: a live music venue right on the sand with beach volleyball outside and unbeatable views of the ocean. It’s an awesome place to end a beach day with a cold beer, good company and great music.
Remember to book your family portrait before your trip! Call 843 442-0802 or fill out my contact form to schedule. My summer 2022 dates are filling up fast!!
