The Isle of Palms is a barrier island off the east coast of South Carolina with stunning views and a variety of fun activities for the whole family. Isle of Palms vacation rentals range from simple cottage accommodations to condominiums with all the modern amenities you desire. Spend a summer trip enjoying the mild climate and beautiful parks and beaches in the area while being within walking distance of all the hotspots. Make sure to go out on a dolphin-watching trip then reel in the catch of the day on a fishing charter. Here are the top 10 things to do in Isle of Palms with kids.
1. Take a Barrier Island Eco Tour
Book a Barrier Island Eco Tour to enjoy a curated experience of the South Carolina coast and the area surrounding Charleston. This organization offers a variety of tours for your family to enjoy. Take a trip out to Capers Island, a state-owned Island just north of the Isle of Palms that boasts lush natural vistas and options for camping. Not feeling so adventurous? Join a fishing or crabbing expedition, or stay within the Charleston area for a beachside cookout. Dolphin Discovery sunset cruises are an exciting way to get a glimpse of the local marine life.
2. Spend a Day at The Beach
Head to Ocean Boulevard, between 10th Avenue and 14th Avenue, to check out Isle of Palms’ beach front. A popular summer destination for locals and visitors, this sandy beach offers mild, swim-safe waters and a clean stretch of warm sand. Spread out a towel or blanket, and spend the day reading and working on your tan. Help the kids build a sandcastle, or head to the water to cool off. Off-leash hours for dog owners make this beach great for families with a furry friend in tow.
3. Experience Civil War History at Fort Sumter
Located on an island in Charleston Harbor, just off the coast of Isle of Palms, Fort Sumter is an exciting piece of American history that’s accessible only by boat. Book a tour boat trip from downtown Charleston to get to this civil war monument. Once on the island, join a guided tour to learn more about daily life in the fort during the 1800’s. Experienced guides offer fascinating insights into the construction and use of Fort Sumter, as well as the marine life that now makes its home here.
4. Relax at Country Park
Book a vacation rental on the Isle of Palms for easy access to Country Park, a beautiful beachside park area that’s perfect for an afternoon of outdoor recreation. Let your kids run free in the playground, or pick up a friendly game on one of the sand-filled volleyball courts. If you plan on staying until dinner time, grab a rental umbrella and a park grill, and enjoy an outdoor barbecue with views of the beach sunset.
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5. Take the Kids to Charleston Fun Park
Head to the Mount Pleasant area of Charleston to spend a day at Charleston Fun Park. This family-friendly amusement park includes bumper cars, a mini-golf course, and an arcade. Let older children take turns climbing the wall, which features a 35-foot supervised ascent with four levels of difficulty. Or, enjoy an exciting gemstone mining experience, where kids can use an authentic gold-rush era mining equipment to find beautiful polished stones.
6. Become a Part of The Island With an Engraved Brick
Near the marina, a stretch of the Isle of Palms is paved with bricks that are engraved with the names of visitors and locals. Take a peaceful walk down this uniquely paved street, or get your own brick engraved by filling out a form on the town website. Be sure to do so before your stay to ensure you get some uniquely personalized vacation photos.
7. Play a Round of Golf at Wild Dunes Resort
Book your vacation rental within Wild Dunes resort to experience the Isle of Palms in luxurious fashion. Families with kids can enjoy this resort’s proximity to the local beach, as well as the numerous nearby restaurants and cafes. Reserve a tee time and practice your golf game on the rolling hills of the Wild Dunes golf course.
8. Go On a Bike Ride
Do as the locals do and rent a bicycle for a few hours or a few days in order to take advantage of the easy biking infrastructure on the Isle of Palms. Cycling is one of the most popular modes of transportation on the island and in the Charleston area. Specialized bike shops and beach sports equipment stores on the Island and near the beach offer a range of wheels suitable for kids and adults alike. Bike along the beach or find a local trail to enjoy an active day away from it all.
9. Visit the Marina
The marina on Isle of Palms features a large capacity along with complimentary cable and Wi-Fi so you can feel at home in floating accommodations. Rent a boat, or book a fishing charter to get out on the water and experience the South Carolina coast. On land, stop by the Marina Market for an ice cream or soda, and enjoy the picturesque views of the water and nearby beach.
10. Browse the Farmer’s Market
Find the Isle of Palms Farmer’s Market in Country Park each week between late August and October. Browse fresh produce, artisan crafts, and of course, high-quality seafood. A vacation rental near the park means you can grab something fresh and healthy to feed your family, even while on vacation.
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