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| How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Edisto Island, South Carolina |
An Insider's Guide to the Charms of Edislow
Edisto Island, affectionately called "Edislow" by locals, is a hidden gem along the South Carolina coast. Located about an hour south of Charleston, this tranquil barrier island offers a peaceful escape from the busyness of everyday life.
With its sandy beaches, sprawling marshes, scenic trails, and oak tree-lined roads, Edisto provides plenty of opportunities to relax and reconnect with nature. Beyond soaking up the sun and splashing in the waves, there are loads of ways to experience Edisto's rich history and culture. From its Native American roots to the thriving Gullah Geechee community, the island has a story to tell.
So whether you're planning a family vacation, romantic getaway, or just a quick day trip from Charleston, use this guide to make the most of your visit to Edislow.
When to Visit Edisto Island
Edisto Island enjoys pleasant weather for most of the year. However, the best time to visit is September to November. During this fall shoulder season, temperatures are mild, crowds are smaller, rates are lower, and there's no shortage of things to do.
The island also puts on several events in the fall, like the Cookin' on the Creek BBQ Festival and Edisto Plein Air Paint Out. Just be mindful of hurricane season, which officially runs from June through November. Storm activity typically peaks in late August and early September.
Where to Stay on Edisto Island
Since there are no hotels, you'll need to book a vacation rental home or condo for an overnight stay. Options range from beachfront properties to cozy cottages tucked away on tidal creeks. Airbnb and Vrbo offer an array of short-term rentals to suit different budgets and group sizes.
A few popular listings include:
Relaxing Water View Home: Spacious 3-bed, 3.5-bath rental with dock access
Marshfront Villa in the Trees: Secluded villa with epic marsh views
Creek Cottage: Charming 2-bedroom cottage perched over a tidal creek
Sulla Sabbia: Stunning 4-bedroom beachfront home with ocean views
Junglelow: Modern 2-bedroom cottage with large screened porch
Top Things to Do on Edisto Island
Enjoy Miles of Peaceful Beach
On the southern tip, Edisto Beach State Park offers gorgeous coastline, excellent shelling and fossil hunting, and stunning sunrises and sunsets. Pay the $8 park entrance fee to access 4.5 miles of sandy shoreline.
Explore Edisto's History
The Edisto Island Museum traces the island's past with exhibits spanning its Native American roots and prominent role in the slave trade. Right up the road, Hutchinson House stands as a tribute to Edisto’s post-emancipation Gullah culture.
Discover Botany Bay
Botany Bay Plantation Wildlife Management Area protects one of the largest undeveloped Barrier Island ecosystems. Highlights include Boneyard Beach, former indigo plantations, and scenic walking trails.
Meet Reptiles at the Edisto Island Serpentarium
This family-owned reptile zoo and education center provides an up close look at some of the island’s slithery inhabitants. Daily offerings include snake presentations and alligator feedings.
Get Outdoors
Pedal along scenic bike paths or walk interpretive trails during a guided ecotour with Botany Bay Ecotours. Their coastal excursions showcase the island’s natural splendor and cultural heritage.
Dine on Fresh Seafood
From dock-to-dish restaurants like Ella & Ollie’s to seafood markets selling fresh-off-the-boat shrimp and oysters, Edisto celebrates its coastal fare. Don’t leave without indulging in a quintessential Lowcountry Boil.
How to Get to Edisto Island
The nearest airports are:
- Charleston International (CHS) – 50 minutes
- Savannah/Hilton Head International (SAV) – 1 hour 40 minutes
You'll need to rent a car and drive onto the island, as there is no public transportation. The lone two-lane road makes for an easy trip. Locals remind visitors to relax and simply follow their lead by driving below the speed limit.
Getting Around Edisto Island
Once on Edisto, a bike or golf cart rental helps you easily navigate the quiet streets and dirt roads. Just remember to mind speed limits and local golf cart etiquette. Rentals are available from Island Bikes and Outfitters or Infinity Cart Rentals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Edisto Island
Still have questions about planning your perfect Edisto escape? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Is Edisto Island Family-Friendly?
Yes! Families appreciate Edisto's relaxed pace and abundance of outdoor activities. Attractions like the serpentarium and ecotours keep kids engaged while parents enjoy the peaceful beaches.
What is the Best Place to Watch the Sunset on Edisto?
Head to the southern tip of Edisto Beach State Park. Not only will you catch a spectacular sunset over the water, you’re also likely to spot dolphins swimming along the shoreline.
How Do I Get to Botany Bay Plantation?
Botany Bay is located on SC-174, about six miles from Edisto Beach. Just look for the signs for “Botany Bay Plantation and Wildlife Management Area.” There’s a small parking area at the entrance to the preserve trails.
Can I Rent Beach Equipment on Edisto Island?
Yes, Island Bikes and Outfitters rents umbrellas, chairs, and other beach gear. Reservations are recommended to guarantee availability.
Is There Golfing on Edisto Island?
While there are no golf courses on the island, the Plantation Course at Edisto is located about 30 minutes away in Edisto Beach. This semi-private 18-hole course offers scenic views along the marshes and creeks.
What Should I Pack for an Edisto Vacation?
Pack beach basics like swimsuits, hats, sun protection, and sand toys if kids are joining. Also be sure to bring bug spray. Other essentials are a bike lock, hiking shoes or water shoes to explore trails, and a beach blanket or chairs.
Are Pets Allowed at Edisto Accommodations?
Some vacation rentals allow pets, normally for an additional fee. Be sure to notify the property owner that you’ll be traveling with your pet when you book.
Is Ubereats or Doordash Available on Edisto?
Unfortunately rideshare services and food delivery apps don’t operate on the island. Luckily Edisto has some fantastic restaurants and seafood markets to enjoy throughout your stay!
What is the Closest Hospital to Edisto Island?
While there is a small clinic on the island, the nearest hospital is the Colleton Medical Center in Walterboro, about 40 minutes from Edisto by car.
Ready to Relax on Edislow
With so much natural beauty and small town charm, Edisto Island promises the perfect escape from the grind of daily life. Spend your days cruising scenic backroads or combing secluded beaches under swaying palms. Let hours melt away while savoring mouthwatering Lowcountry fare. Or immerse yourself in the storied culture cultivated by Edisto’s remarkable Gullah Geechee community.
However you choose to pass the time on Edislow, this special sea island will restore and rejuvenate mind, body and soul.
Have you visited Edisto Island? What tips do you have for planning the ultimate Edisto escape? Let us know in the comments!
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