Kiawah Island
Steal away to an idyllic island boasting famed accommodations and enchanting wildlife.
Home to magnificent wildlife and 10 miles of protected shores, Kiawah Island remains an unspoiled sanctuary. Here, the world is your oyster; spend the day soaking up the sun on a private beach, tee off on a championship seaside course or retreat to an award-winning resort.
Things To Do
Where to Stay
On this charming island, a famous resort, a chic hotel, and a range of inviting rentals await.
Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Located on a beautiful barrier island mere miles from historic Charleston lies Kiawah Island Golf Resort, host of the 2012 and 2021 PGA Championships. The resort is also home to a beautiful seaside mansion, The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island, which has been honored with the prestigious AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Stars ratings.
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
An elegant Forbes Triple Five-Star beachfront hotel and spa offering 255 luxuriously spacious guest rooms and suites along with distinctive dining and shopping.
Andell Inn
Nestled within Freshfields Village, Andell Inn is Kiawah Island's charming boutique hotel. Both studio and one- and two-bedroom rooms feature full kitchens, living rooms, and luxury accommodations.
Kiawah Island Rentals
What's your pleasure? Kiawah Island rental properties offer an array of choices to suit every style, from spacious oceanfront homes and cozy vacation villas to waterfront condominiums and cottages.
Dining
From fine dining experiences to laid-back happy hours, savor everything Kiawah has to offer.
Ben & Jerry's Kiawah Island
Serving Kiawah Island euphoria in a cup, cone, sundae, and milkshake since 2018. Come on in and smell the waffle cones!
Cherrywood BBQ & Ale House at Osprey Point
Genuine Southern BBQ, house smoked over local hardwoods. Enjoy hearty BBQ platters, house made sauces, famous mac & cheese, signature sides, salads. Large craft beer list.
Kiawah Island History
Kiawah Island was named for the Kiawah Indians, who inhabited the land before the English arrived in 1670. In 1717, wealthy planter John Stanyarne purchased the island, and it wasn’t until 1950 that it changed hands again, to lumberman C. C. Royal. Royal began development of Kiawah’s small oceanfront community, but it was the Kuwaiti Investment Company who envisioned the island as a world-class resort. Since 1994, land use on the island has been subject to careful development agreements, ensuring the preservation of its delicate wildlife.
Popular Events on Kiawah
Kiawah Island has a variety of events throughout the year. Plan your trip using the Town of Kiawah's events calendar.
Wild Wonders
Kiawah Island is a beloved getaway and residential community, but its natural maritime setting is what makes it truly unique. The island has intentionally preserved more than 2,000 acres of its maritime forests, sand dunes and marshes, home to an array of wildlife including whitetail deer, alligators, bobcats, seabirds and sea turtles.