Travel Spotlight on Edisto Island and Its 18 Best Attractions

Edisto Island is one of South Carolina’s hidden coastal gems; a patchwork of palm forests and white sandy stretches that curves its way around the eastern seaboard just less than one hour’s drive south of Charleston. While relatively unknown on the typical tourist trail, most visitors will discover this Island’s true charm lies in precisely its obscurity and remoteness, and many come in search of the quietude, relaxation and isolation that abounds. With a number of top-quality courses within easy reach, Edisto has also established itself as one of the most popular golfing destinations in South Carolina, toting the parkland/links Plantation Course as one of the best in all of America’s coastal lowlands. For families and younger travelers, the Island also offers up some great biking and hiking trails, along with a number of wildlife parks and rich arrays of fauna to boot.

Edisto Beach State Park: South Carolina’s seaside garden

This is the go-to place for budding explorers and nature buffs on Edisto Island. Come here for a day wandering the coastal woodlands or biking through the maritime forests that spread out behind the beach. Maybe choose to spend a night camping amidst the palm trees or basking in the calm of a cozy traditional cabin. If you’re after a little more action then rest assured, there’s fly fishing, sea kayaking and historical sites to boot.

The Plantation Course at Edisto offers top-class golfing facilities since 1973

The Plantation Course has provided both visitors and inhabitants on Edisto Island with an oasis of beautiful parkland golf for more than 40 years. Hailed as a calming and quiet playing ground that comes with all the frills of South Carolina’s natural beauty, the plantation is well-cultivated, peaceful and green in the extreme.

Get wet on the rivers with Edisto Watersports and Tackle!

Offering one of Edisto Island’s largest array of water-based activities, from sea kayaking and river tours, to fishing charters and gator hunts, the folk at Edisto Watersports and Tackle are truly passionate about what they do. Small groups and a super-friendly atmosphere are two of the hallmarks of every excursion, and visitors can expect some truly magnificent views of the Island’s coast along the way.

Authentic cooking for carnivores at Po' Pigs Bo-B-Q

Slow-cooked pork cuts and tender meat dishes make this one a bona fide barbeque experience, and not just a glorified grill restaurant without any of the flair. Southern BBQ sauces flow like the Edisto River, while the atmosphere oozes with a South Carolina charm from beginning to end. Expect lots of meat and an overload of food!

Watch the tidal swells in pure luxury at the Wyndham Ocean Ridge

Immerse yourself in the wilds of South Carolina at this fully-fledged ocean resort that spills onto the wide beaches of Edisto Island and comes complete with no less than three separate swimming pools, a number of tennis courts and an on-site gym. Expect unbridled luxury and great access to the region’s major sites.

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