Nestled on the popular coastline of South Carolina is one of the most idyllic beach towns you might imagine. Isle of Palms sits just 12 miles from historic Charleston. This pristine barrier island is home to six miles of white, sandy beaches, oceanfront eateries, golf, and spas. As the name suggests, palm trees pepper this spritely family-friendly beach town which attracts cyclists, surfers, kayakers, and boaters. The island is extremely pedestrian and golf cart friendly, and there are plenty of festivals, live music, and outdoor activities to enjoy throughout the year.
We interviewed our Destination Manager to see how she would suggest spending three perfect days in one of Condé Nast’s Top 10 North American Islands.
Day 1: Beach Day!
Start your day off with a hearty breakfast at the Sea Biscuit Café where a homemade biscuit and their house specialty tomato pie are always winners. Bask on the street-side deck while you take in morning action on the island.
There’s no better place to kick off your Isle of Palms vacation than the beach. And with six miles of it, there’s plenty of space to spread out in the sunshine. A quick stroll leads you to the beach directly across from your Equity Estates residence, or drive down to Front Beach where oceanfront restaurants and frequent open-air events attract many beachgoers.
If you or the kids want to try your hand at surfing, Carolina Salt offers lessons from a locally known pro. If the waves aren’t cooperating for a day of surfing, let us rent you paddleboards, boogie boards, golf carts, and bikes to complement the perfect day at the beach.
For lunch, your Local Host made reservations at his favorite restaurant – Long Island Café. This hot spot is walking distance from the house and serves delicious cuisine they describe as, “A modest, inventive hybrid of French classism with South Carolina taste.” Don’t skip the She Crab Soup, as theirs is the best around. Freshly baked bread and off the boat seafood dishes are a must too.
After the beach, unwind with a cocktail or sweet tea on your spacious deck overlooking the action on Palm Avenue or cool off with a refreshing dip in the pool. For dinner, you’ll take a quick scenic drive to quaint Sullivan’s Island where you’ll enjoy Southern cuisine on the deck at the Obstinate Daughter. Fueled by local farms and fishermen, this Lowcountry favorite is well known for its great ambiance and eclectic menu. The Pecan Bourbon Crème Brulee is a perfect way to end your meal.
Day 2: Tour Historic Downtown Charleston
On your way to Charleston is The Refuge, where the macchiato is as flavorful as it is aromatic. The breakfast menu is packed with a variety of tasty options, but locals say their chicken and waffles or shrimp and grits can’t be beat.
Historic Charleston is a pedestrian’s dream with endless blocks of cobblestone leading to some of the most scenic historic sites in the Lowcountry. The musts on your list include a walk down iconic King Street, The Markets, and The Battery, all of which are outside. For true Southern History, visit Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum in the Charleston Harbor. A quick ferry ride will take you to Fort Sumpter National Monument. See where the first shots of the Civil War were fired and learn about the fort’s role, plus enjoy a beautiful view of the harbor, city, and the impressive Ravenel Bridge. If you’d like a more structured tour of downtown, Sweetgrass Tours and Charters offers the best walking tours in Charleston.
In the heart of Charleston are dozens of trendy venues with amazing menus. Your Local Host insists you try one of Charleston’s oldest establishments, Poogans Porch. This beautifully restored Victorian house is the perfect southern spot for brunch. You can expect masterfully prepared plates of traditional Southern dishes, served with a modern twist. We suggest their pimento cheese fritters to start.
If you’re traveling with children or lovers of marine life, the South Carolina Aquarium never disappoints. From giant sea turtles to snakes to alligators, the exhibits are impressive and enjoyed by visitors of all ages.
For dinner, may we suggest at Coda del Pesce with a front row seat to the ocean. The Italian inspired menu is creative and bright. Start your feast with the Snapper Crudo, followed by the Ricotta Gnudi and the Potato Crusted Wreckfish. You may have to be rolled back home, but it’s well worth the calories!
Day 3: Tee Time & Shem Creek
This morning, spend the day enjoying the many amenities of the Wild Dunes Resort. For breakfast, Woody’s Eatery is a perfect spot for a quick bite before enjoying the activities at the resort.
Whether it’s a tee time on one of their two courses, tennis on one of their seventeen courts, or a day at the spa, this beachfront resort offers something for everyone. With views of the ocean, lagoons, salt marshes, and the Intracoastal Waterway, the diverse golf courses will challenge all aspects of your game. There are over a dozen restaurants at the resort, so if you’re craving pizza, seafood, or Caribbean food and live music, you’ll find it.
If you’re more of a nature lover, we recommend checking out Shem Creek. First, grab lunch at Tavern & Table, a local’s favorite. Try their Grapefruit Rosemary Collins or Blood Orange Paloma to balance the richness of their delicious Burnt End Mac and Cheese.
Now begin to explore Shem Creek where we arranged paddleboards and kayaks. Discover the secrets of Shem Creek, Bayview Creek, and Crab Bank Island while paddling. Herons and egrets will buzz about searching for remnants on the many oyster beds while dolphins and manatees often frolic through the water.
Whether you spend the day swinging a club or paddling a kayak, you’ll be ready for dinner at home. No trip to Charleston is complete without a southern barbeque, and tonight you’ll swing into Home Team BBQ on Sullivan’s Island where your dinner order awaits. Mouthwatering pulled pork, chopped brisket tacos, and banana pudding are calling. There’s no better way to spend your final night than poolside with a cold drink and southern food as you recap your unforgettable beach vacation with loved ones.
At Home in Isle of Palms with Equity Estates
Equity Estates’ custom-built, six-bedroom vacation home places you in the exclusive Isle of Palms enclave. With ample outdoor living space including a place to sun next to your private pool and a prime location just steps from the sand, you may never want to leave. Additional features include newly refinished pine flooring, custom woodwork throughout, gourmet kitchen, elevator, multiple porches, beach access across the street, and ocean views. This residence is the perfect location for family and friends to gather for a memorable beach vacation.
Your Destination Manager will plan your itinerary before you arrive and make sure your stay is effortless by arranging reservations for activities, transportation, and dining. Leave the details to us, and arrive to a fully stocked kitchen and bar with groceries of your choice from the local market. With Equity Estates, comfort and luxury prevail.
Travel with Equity Estates for a unique and memorable experience. If you would like more information about investing with Equity Estates, please reach out to our Investor Relations team at 404.445.8501 or click to schedule a call. Your beach friendly Isle of Palms getaway awaits!
