Edisto Island
All You Need To Know About Edisto Island, Including Lots Of Facts To Make Your Vacation More Enjoyable And Knowledgable.
Edisto Island is located about 50 miles from Charleston, SC, and is separated from the mainland by the Edisto River. The island is easily accessed via a bridge linking it to the mainland. The island's main attractions are Edisto Beach, Edisto Beach State Park, North Edisto River and South Edisto River.
The island is renowned for its pristine natural environment, and many laws are in place to prevent it from turning into a developer's nightmare like so many other coastal areas along the southern Atlantic coastline. So Edisto Island is a refreshing change of pace and scenery.
It is also free from a lot of the vices of tourist traps like Miami's South Beach, and as such is one of the most family-friendly destinations in the region. While older teens and young adults might not find enough action to their liking, younger children and mature adults will love it.
Most people visiting the island will head to the southeastern-most tip, where the community of Edisto Beach is located. Here there is plenty of accommodation situated within walking distance of the shoreline. There are some great restaurants, as well as a few quiet drinking establishments that mirror the laid-back atmosphere.
Water sports are the main attraction here; swimming, kite boarding, windsurfing, fishing, sailing and boating are all extremely popular. Many creeks and inlets penetrate the island's coast, and provide a haven for those who love fishing, crabbing, shrimping, sailing, boating, kayaking and canoeing. Edisto River itself is famous for its catches, as well as the iconic treehouses that overlook it.
Edisto Beach State Park is a great day trip destination, though many choose to overnight here or even stay longer. Accommodation is restricted to cabin rentals and campsites for both tents and RVs. But the beach here is even more pristine than further south, and there are more activities to be had such as hiking, cycling, interpretive tours and more. During the summer months there are special loggerhead turtle viewing programs, where visitors can observe the turtles emerging from the ocean, laying their eggs, and returning to the sea. Later, people can see the hatchlings break free from the sand and begin the hazardous journey across the beach to the ocean and beyond. A further note for those visiting or staying in Edisto Beach State Park; there is strictly no alcohol permitted. Pets are also not permitted in or around the cabins, although they are allowed if on a leash at the campsites, trails and beach itself.
All in all, Edisto Island has something for all ages and all tastes, except those who want loud music, noise, gambling or seediness. It provides a welcome destination for families and the elderly. For the motion-impaired, it is one of the most accessible places in the entire state, allowing people with a range of disabilities to partake in many activities. Check out Edisto Island for your next vacation - you won't be disappointed!
