Kiawah Island

With 10 miles of undisturbed Atlantic beach and five world-renowned golf courses, including the site of the 2003 EMC World Cup, it's no wonder so many visitors come to Kiawah (pronounced KEE-a-wah) Island and decide to make it their home. Only 21 miles from historic Charleston, much of Kiawah Island is privately owned, but Beachwalker Park is open to the public.

History:

Named for an Indian tribe that inhabited the area in the 1600s, Kiawah was granted to George Raynor, a supposed pirate, in 1699. The island was handed down through two different families for the next 250 years until 1951, when it was bought, then sold again to a real estate developer who began developing the island into a world class resort.

What to Do:

Canoe through marsh-lined creeks and waterways or play tennis at the two Kiawah tennis centers, ranked among the top 50 tennis resorts in the U.S. With a variety of restaurants, shopping at the Straw Market and special children's programs, Kiawah Island is a perfect choice for family vacations.

Did You Know?

Bride’s Magazine named the Charleston area, highlighting Kiawah Island, as one of the world’s best honeymoon destinations. National Geographic Traveler called Kiawah Island the "Second Most Romantic Beach in America," and the Travel Channel honored the island as one of the "Top Ten Beaches for Families."