With nearly 5 miles of beaches, Edisto Island in South Carolina’s lowcountry is home to historical sites, expansive marshes, outdoor recreation, and unrivaled sunsets. Located 42 miles from Charleston, this small sea island just off South Carolina’s coast provides a laid-back vibe for exploring the area and its history. Or, try your hand at crabbing off Steamboat Landing, casting a net for fresh shrimp, hiking, bird watching, cycling, fishing, or island golf.
Getting to Edisto Island is part of the adventure as access is via the 14-mile Edisto Island National Scenic Byway. This stunning drive soars over marshlands before making its way through ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss. The mystique of Edisto Island extends to the hauntingly beautiful bleached branches that decorate “boneyard beach” along the Botany Bay coastline. Nature enthusiasts will also appreciate Edisto Island’s 350,000 acres of protected wetlands at the ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge, and 4600 acres of maritime forest and trails at Botany Bay Plantation Wildlife Area.
Named for the Edisto Native Americans who first lived here, the history of this sea island has been woven over centuries of change - from English noblemen to early settlers, and from sea island cotton plantations to the ongoing legacy of Gullah cultural roots. History buffs can retrace the island’s history in the historic core of Edisto, or visit the carefully restored Reconstruction era Hutchinson House.
Wildlife is abundant in Edisto both on land and in the surrounding waters. Keep an eye out for egrets, pelicans, and deer, or dolphins skirting across Botany Bay. The area is also known as a prominent loggerhead turtle nesting area, which locals attribute to significant conservation efforts over the years. Speaking of reptiles, don’t miss South Carolina’s first serpentarium housed in Edisto.
For those simply looking to unplug and refresh on less-crowded sands, take advantage of the numerous public beach access points along the island, plus the stunning beach at Edisto Island State Park. You can always find a tranquil spot to set your beach chair! It’s the perfect South Carolina sea island getaway!
