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Explore the Hidden Gems of Kiawah Island

Perry Baker Perry Baker
Perry is a former photojournalist who now serves as the Interactive Manager for DiscoverSouthCarolina.com.
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Marshes on Kiawah Island
Kiawah Island might be known for its golfing, but it's also a place of natural beauty.

A place of natural beauty and hidden treasures - that's what you'll find on Kiawah Island. Here are a few ways to experience all it has to offer:

Experience Beachwalker Park

Couple walking on the beach at Kiawah Island
Simple pleasures become cherished memories when you stroll the shores of Kiawah Island.

Spend a day at Kiawah Beachwalker Park, the only public access beach on the island. This beach provides visitors with great facilities—showers and changing rooms, lifeguards, beach chair and umbrella rentals—and smaller crowds than other area beaches. With access to the Atlantic Ocean and Kiawah River, you will find a pristine beach and maybe even see dolphins feeding in the river.

Get Back to Nature

Bird fishing in water at Kiawah Island
A skimmer fishes on the water at Kiawah Island.

Learn about the island's most interesting inhabitants when you visit Heron Park Nature Center. This is the heart of the island’s nature conservation programs and a must-see attraction, especially if you have children. Here, you can view exhibits and live animals and learn about programs and activities open to guests and residents.

Two observation towers on the island also provide a great perch to observe wildlife in the marshes and waterways. The Marsh View Tower is located at the end of Marsh Hawk Lane and overlooks the Cougar Point golf course and surrounding marsh. Marsh Island Tower is in a small nature preserve in Vanderhorst Plantation, behind the second gate off Governor’s Drive just past Persimmon Court. A boardwalk takes you across the marsh to the tower.

Seek Culinary Delights

Everybody knows that South Carolina oysters and barbecue are divine, so be sure to get your fill of both by adding Mingo Point Oyster Roast and BBQ to your itinerary. Don’t miss this weekly Lowcountry cookout featuring an oyster roast, barbecue and delicious fixings.

Perry Baker
Perry is a former photojournalist who now serves as the Interactive Manager for DiscoverSouthCarolina.com.