Last Updated on February 4, 2024 by Nikole
Edisto Island is located in South Carolina, about an hour away from Charleston. If you are looking for a peaceful island getaway, you should plan a trip to this tropical paradise.
Whether you are looking for a place to stay on Edisto Island, looking for the best beaches, or trying to find things to do we got you covered.
In case you were wondering, Edisto Island does have a town but it’s more of a small town you can drive through in just a few minutes. If you find that Charleston is too crowded, come to this beautiful small-town island to kick back and relax away from the crowds.
Most small towns don’t typically have many activities to do, but Edisto Island doesn’t disappoint! Here is our official guide to fun things to do on Edisto Island!
Adventurous Things to Do On Edisto Island
From dining to rentals, Edisto Island has it all! There are several shops where you can rent a bike to explore the back roads or a kayak to paddle the inlet. Let’s explore some of the options available to you on the island
Rentals on Edisto Island
Kayak Adventures: Immerse yourself in Edisto’s breathtaking waterways by renting kayaks, paddle boards, or tours from Edisto Watersports.
Prices start at $25 per hour for kayak rentals, and their friendly staff will provide you with all the necessary equipment and help you choose the best routes.
Bike Rentals On Edisto
Explore the island on two wheels by renting bikes from Edisto Bike Shop. Prices range from $15 for half a day to $30 for a full day. With their well-maintained bikes, you can effortlessly cruise along Edisto’s scenic roads and trails.
Golf Cart Excursions
If you are staying at the campground in Edisto, you may want to consider a golf cart rental. For a fun and convenient way to get around Edisto, rent a golf cart from Edisto Cart Rentals.
Prices start at $60 for a half day or $350 for a full week, and their golf carts allow you to comfortably explore the island at your own pace.
Go Shopping
Shopping is an option on this smallish island. There are several places you can search the racks for your favorite beach t-shirt.
Revel: Try a locally owned gift shop, Revel. They have anything from honey to clothes. If you are looking for a cool trinket to remember your trip by, this is the perfect stop for you!
Edisto Pavillion Beach Store: The Edisto Pavillion Beach Store has all your shopping needs including clothes, sandcastle buckets, kid toys, and beach towels. We loved visiting this store because it was big and offered a variety of items.
Visit Local Eatery
If dining is one of your favorite things to do while on vacation, Edisto Island will not disappoint! Here are a few of the favorite local eating spots on the Island that you will HAVE to try!
Read our post about Best Places to Eat on Edisto Island for a more in-depth menu, pricing, and suggestions about what food is good on the Island.
- The Sea Cow Eatery: Indulge in delicious comfort food at The Sea Cow Eatery. From their famous shrimp po’ boys to hearty burgers, this local hotspot offers a casual and friendly atmosphere.
- Whaley’s: Savor fresh seafood dishes with a view at Whaley’s. Their waterfront dining experience provides a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the island’s coastal beauty while delighting your taste buds.
- Ella & Ollie’s: For a memorable fine dining experience, visit Ella & Ollie’s. This upscale restaurant features seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, creating exquisite dishes
Non-Beach Things to Do on Edisto Island
Edisto Island isn’t just surrounded by beautiful beaches there is so much more to do. Museums, shopping, and Preserves are waiting for your discovery- so let’s discuss some of these amazing places.
Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve
This 4,687-acre property is a combination of a wildlife management area and a heritage preserve, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
One of the highlights of the Botany Bay Preserve is the breathtaking 1.5-mile beach, adorned with weathered driftwood and bordered by dense maritime forests. This unique beach is often referred to as “Boneyard Beach” due to the skeletal remains of trees eroded by the tides, creating a hauntingly beautiful landscape.
For history enthusiasts, the preserve is a treasure trove of cultural and historical significance. The grounds are dotted with remnants of the past, showcasing the island’s rich heritage. The plantation house ruins, former slave cabins, and the original rice field trunks are just a few of the historical sites that can be explored.
Cost: Free
Hours of Operation: Open every day from sunrise to sunset/ Tuesdays are closed.
Also, keep in mind the area will be closed for the following hunting days: Sep.2, Sep.9, Oct.7 & Nov.11, Sep.15-Oct.10 (Excluding Sundays), Nov.20-Nov.25 & Dec.25-Dec.30, Oct.16-18, Oct.23-25, Nov.6-8, Nov.13-15, Dec.4-6 & Dec.11-13
Edisto Island Museum
Another great activity that doesn’t include the beach on Edisto Island is visiting the Edisto Island Museum. Housed in a restored 1930s farmstead, this museum offers visitors a glimpse into Edisto Island’s past through an impressive collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits.
The museum’s exhibits explore various aspects of Edisto Island’s history, including the Native American presence, the plantation era, and the impact of the Civil War. Visitors can also learn about the island’s unique Gullah Geechee culture, a vibrant African American community that has preserved its distinct customs and traditions.
Cost:
Adults: $8
Children 10 and under: Free
Military (Active & Retired w/ ID), Seniors (65+) & Children (10 – 17) -$5.00
Hours of Operation:
January & February – 11:00 to 4:00, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday
March-October – 12:00 to 5:00, Tues.-Sat.
November-December – 11:00 to 4:00, Tues. – Sat.
Edisto Island Serpentarium
Get up close and personal with a variety of reptiles at the Edisto Island Serpentarium. This educational facility houses a collection of over 50 different species of snakes, alligators, turtles, and other reptiles.
Visitors can explore the serpentarium at their own pace, learning about the biology, behavior, and conservation of these fascinating creatures. The facility also offers live venom extractions and daily reptile shows, providing an opportunity to witness these magnificent animals in action.
Price:
May 30, 2023 – October 28, 2023
Adults $19.99
Senior $17.99
Children 4-12 $14.99
Children 3 and under are free.
November 3, 2023 – November 25, 2023
Adults $15.00
Senior $13.00
Children 4-12 $10.00
Children 3 and under are free.
December 1, 2023 – January 13, 2024
Adults $12.50
Seniors $10.00
Children 4-12 $6.00
Children 3 and under are free.
Hours of Operation:
Spring 2024 Potential Reopening Date
March 1, 2024 – March 2 2024 Friday-Saturday
March 7, 2024 – May 2024 Thursday-Saturday
Edisto Island State Park
If you need some outdoor adventure, head to Edisto Island State Park. Even though this park does offer beach access this 1,255-acre park also offers visitors a wide range of recreational activities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and boating.
The park features over four miles of pristine beach, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Additionally, the park’s extensive trail system allows visitors to explore various habitats, from maritime forests to tidal creeks, providing ample opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting.
For those who prefer to be on the water, the park offers kayak and paddleboard rentals, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding marshes and estuaries. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at the park’s fishing pier or embark on a fishing charter for a chance to catch redfish, trout, and flounder.
Price:
Adult: $8
SC Seniors: $5
Child 6-15: $4
Child 5 and under: Free
Hours of Operation:
7 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily (extended to 8 p.m. during Daylight Savings Time)
Free Things to Do on Edisto Island
While there are plenty of paid attractions on Edisto Island, there are also extraordinary experiences that don’t cost a dime. From pristine beaches to encounters with dolphins and hunting for sand dollars, Edisto Island provides an array of free adventures that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Chasing Dolphins on Edisto Island
For an unforgettable experience on Edisto Island, head to this beach access point during the early morning or late afternoon hours. You might catch a glimpse of playful dolphins frolicking in the surf. While you are there, watch the beautiful sunset or sunrise!
They come close enough to the shore that you could probably touch them. We got so close to them when we went, but they spook easily so we were unable to swim with them.
Bring your camera and be prepared to capture these majestic creatures at their finest. Remember, it’s important to respect their natural habitat and keep a safe distance.
Hunting for Sand Dollars
Edisto Island is known for its abundance of sand dollars, those delicate and distinctive treasures of the sea. Visiting the beach to the left of Edisto Beach State Park at low tide, especially after a storm, presents the perfect opportunity to hunt for sand dollars.
These flat, white skeletons of sea urchins can often be found partially buried in the sand or hidden among seashells. Gently scoop them up and marvel at their intricate beauty. Remember to return any live sand dollars back to the ocean to ensure their continued existence.
Visit Any Beach Access
Did you know you can swim at the beach on Edisto Island? There are so many access points where you can park your vehicle and enjoy a day at the beach. Here are some notable beaches that are worth your time.
Beach Access Point at Edisto Beach State Park
Located at 8377 State Cabin Road, Edisto Beach State Park is a popular destination for beachgoers. The park boasts a beautiful stretch of coastline and offers amenities such as picnic areas, restrooms, and a gift shop. To access the beach, visitors must pay an entry fee.
Beach Access Point at Wyndham Ocean Ridge Resort
Wyndham Ocean Ridge Resort is a highly-rated vacation destination with direct beach access.
The resort provides a range of amenities, including pools, tennis courts, and golf courses. Visitors staying at the resort or with a day pass can enjoy the convenience of easy beach access.
Beach Access Point at Bay Creek Park
Bay Creek Park, located off State Highway 174, is another popular spot for beach access on Edisto Island.
In addition to the beach, this park offers fishing opportunities, a boat ramp, and a playground for families. The beach access point can be found at the end of the park, where visitors can enjoy a day of relaxation and ocean breezes.
Beach Access Point at Beachwalker County Park
Although technically not located on Edisto Island, Beachwalker County Park is just a short drive away on nearby Kiawah Island.
This park is renowned for its pristine beach and picturesque views. The park offers amenities such as picnic areas, restrooms, and a boardwalk to the beach. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the shoreline while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
In conclusion
Edisto Island offers a delightful array of activities for everyone seeking a memorable getaway. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply in search of relaxation, this charming island has something for you.
So, pack your bags, embrace the island’s tranquility, and embark on a remarkable adventure that will leave you with cherished memories. Your Edisto Island experience awaits!
