Kiawah has always held a special place in my heart, and not just because I lived on neighboring Johns Island for 8 years. My husband, Chris, and I were married at the Kiawah Island River Course 15 years ago this April! Kiawah truly is a magic place, steeped in natural beauty. From the Spanish Moss shaded trails to the endless white beaches, it is a photographer’s dream backdrop!
Kiawah Island Family Portrait
RESTAURANTS
Breakfast
The Hemingway
Venture off the island to The Hemingway for gourmet coffee, southern chicken biscuits, and tasty ricotta toast. The elevated cafe offers a quality breakfast menu, full coffee bar, and exquisite wine and beer menu.
Lunch
The Tattooed Moose
The Tattooed Moose is the perfect halfway stop between Kiawah and Downton Charleston. It has burgers and beer and a great kids’ menu. It’s shaded by enormous oak trees, and there is plenty of space to let the kids run around and play.
Jasmine Porch
For upscale southern fare, Jasmine Porch hits all the right notes. Located in The Sanctuary, it is the perfect place for a delicious post-spa lunch or exquisite dinner. For a savory southern classic, be sure to order the fried green tomatoes with pimento cheese!
Dinner
The Ocean Room
Indulge in fine dining at The Sanctuary's renowned steakhouse, The Ocean Room. With an outstanding menu and even better view over the ocean, it’s the perfect way to complete a day at the beach or on the golf course.
Wild Olive
Wild Olive is worth the short 20 minute drive from the island! The authentic Italian eatery leans on local, seasonal and homemade ingredients to ensure their dishes are the absolute best- try the house-made pastas and salami! The vibe is as unpretentious as the food, and the staff is friendly and extremely knowledgeable about the menu.
SHOPPING
Rosebank Farms
The Rosebank Farms produce stand is an icon to residents and visitors of Kiawah Island. It’s the perfect place to stop for locally grown produce, fresh seafood, packaged goods, and fresh flowers. Be sure to buy one of the key lime pies! The stand is owned by Sidi Limehouse, a Johns Island legend. If you see a farmer that looks like Jerry Garcia driving a tractor down Betsy Kerrison Parkway, that’s SIDI!
ACTIVITIES
Kiawah Island Resort offers a variety of award-winning activities, from their unparalleled spa and shopping to the world-class golf courses and tennis center. The beach is wide and beautiful, with sea turtles and dolphins and waves that are just right for young kids. Here are a few other activities you may enjoy:
Bike Trails
Explore miles of marshland by bike! There are well-marked bike paths all over the island, connecting the various communities and weaving through the woods. You can even bike on the beach at low tide. There are several bike rental companies on the island, including Kiawah Island Bike Rentals, Seaside Cycles,and Alligator Bike.
Tidal Trails
Tidal Trails is an outdoor company devoted to providing memorable experiences on the water. You can book a nature tour via kayak, power boat, stand up paddle board or take surf and kayak lessons.
Visit the Angel Oak
The Angel Oak is the largest living oak, estimated to be nearly 400 years old! It is a gorgeous sight and worth the short drive to John’s Island.
FOR THE KIDS
Night Heron Park
Located within the Kiawah resort, this expansive 21 acre park is a nature-lover’s dream come true! There is the fascinating Nature Center, playground, hiking trails, pool, splash pad and more. Check the activities calendar for special events too, like movies in the park or alligator tours.
Kiawah River Goatery
For a truly memorable experience, stop by The Goatery, located in the Kiawah River community. Tour the farm, socialize with the friendly goats, pick eggs from the chicken coop or schedule a private yoga class (with goats!). It’s hands-on education at its finest!
Aqua Park
Located on Trophy Lakes on John’s Island, Aqua Park is a ridiculously fun floating playground. Climb, jump, slide and swim during the warmer months.
