With South Carolina boarding the Atlantic Ocean, the state holds numerous subtropical beaches and marsh like sea islands. If you have some spare time on your hands this summer, be sure to check out a few of these places along the coastline.

1. Bull’s Island Although this island is only a few miles off the coast of Charleston, you may think you are desolate upon entry. To get there you must take one of their four passenger ferry boats for a short 30 minute ride. You’ll most likely see a pod of bottlenose dolphins, bald eagles, and loggerhead sea turtles. On the island, you can explore the 16 miles of trails and 7 miles of sandy beach. There aren’t any cars on the beach so you might be able to spot a few alligators in the sun or a group of ducks on Jack’s Creek.
2. Sullivan’s Island Charleston’s beloved Sullivan’s is definitely one of the best beaches in South Carolina. It is one of the less populated areas and houses more locals than tourists. You won’t find restrooms or other beach facilities since most of the coastline is in it’s natural state. You’ll find several of Magnet’s own working at Obstinate Daughter which is one of the many the delicious restaurants found here.
   
   “

   I love Sullivan’s Island station 26 1/2. The parking is really abundant and easy to use. They even let you keep your wheels on the pavement for a slim $50.

   — Andrew Potts
3. Hilton Head Island This island alone features more than 12 miles of beaches and is celebrated as one of the premiere vacation spots on the East Coast. Between swimming, surfing, sunbathing, paddle boarding, boating, and fishing you will not run out of activities to do. Several golf courses are available to play in addition to a variety of shopping centers to explore. Visitors often enjoy the vibrant restaurants, family-friendly entertainment, and even nightlife.
4. Kiawah Island Home to one of the best golf courses in the state, Kiawah Island is just a short 45 minute drive from Charleston. Here you’ll enjoy Maritime forests, preserved marshes, and rolling sand dunes. Although there is only one public beach on Kiawah, it usually isn’t too busy due to the amount of private beaches owned by private residents. The beach is also pet friendly providing that dogs are on leashes at all times.
5. Hunting Island State Park This island is South Carolina’s most visited state park as it attracts more than a million visitors per year. The Hunting Island Lighthouse is one of the only in the state that is accessible to the public. Guests standing 130 feet above the ground take in views of the Atlantic Coast and surrounding maritime forest. There are over one hundred campsites with water hookups, showers, beach walkways, and playground for visitors to explore.

You don’t have to travel far this summer to escape Charleston. Visit a few of these beaches and you will see some of the most beautiful parts of South Carolina!