Beaches on Seabrook island and Isle of Palms (Charleston, Kiawah Island: rent, condos)

[redstephie]

Our last minute flights are booked and we have to make a decision as to where we want to stay in a couple of weeks time.
It's a toss up between Seabrook Island and Isle of Palms (Wild Dunes) I'm aware that they are probably totally different but this is where we can find available accommodation.
How are the beaches there? Is the sand white and fine like the gulf beaches in Florida or coarse and gritty?! Just wondering as this could swing our decision.
I've been reading about the beach renourishment programme on IOP. Apparently it's been completed but are there still pipes and dredgers to spoil the view?
Thankyou.

[ohioaninsc]

Both are grittier than Gulf coast beaches, that's just the way the sand is here. Seabrook is a lot less crowded, as you can only get on the island if you are a property owner or have a pass saying you are staying at a resort property or are a guest of a property owner. There is nothing built up on the beach at Seabrook though, compared to the houses and condos right up on IOP, which is also a public beach. IOP has more to do though, w/ several beachfront bars and restaraunts. The only thing on the beach at Seabrook is the Club, which you can only use if you're staying in condo/villa owned by a member.

Its a prettier drive to Seabrook. The road out to there, called Main Rd, at times and the Betsy Kerrison Pkwy at times has areas where the Live Oaks branch out over the road, making a cool tunnel affect. There are some good roadside farmers markets on that road too. The one place, about halfway out there, if I remember is pretty good sized and has great peaches, and melon.
IOP is a little easier to reach Charleston from.

[beachme]

I agree and your closer to downtown and all charleston has to offer at IOP. The beach is still beautiful...

[SCDweller]

I would recommend IOP as well for its close proximity to the city and Mt. Pleasant activities. Beach sand is the same both places. Out at IOP they are building up the end of the island by Wild Dunes and you can see the barge dredging off shore. It is three miles out though, so not exactly "right there." It was there last week when I was there, and I'm not sure when it is scheduled to be removed.

[Jim3310]

It depends on who is going and what you like to do.

Quiet family time & just chillin'? Seabrook.
Want to get out & shop one day & hit the restaurants & night life? IOP
jim

[redstephie]

O.K. We've gone for the quiet 'chillin' option! Seabrook.
Really looking forward to our trip now and I can't wait to see beautiful Charleston and all it has to offer.
Thanks for your replies.

[Jim3310]

You'll love it.
There is great golf & tennis right there.

There should be a Friday night lawn party at Freshfields & possibly an outdoor movie on Wednesdays.
The Shops of Freshfields Village, Current Events
Bring chairs for that.

Hit the Sanctuary for a drink too. Just tell them that's what your going to do at the guard shack.
Charleston, SC Hotel: The Sanctuary Hotel, Kiawah Island’s Luxury Beach Hotel, South Carolina
Bring money for that...
jim

[redstephie]

Hit the Sanctuary for a drink too. Just tell them that's what your going to do at the guard shack.
Charleston, SC Hotel: The Sanctuary Hotel, Kiawah Island’s Luxury Beach Hotel, South Carolina
Bring money for that...
jim[/quote]


Thanks Jim. I've just looked at their website and am wondering just how much money we should take................. Lifesavings perhaps?!

[Jim3310]

My daughter opened the Sanctuary & was a manager there, so we would visit her once in awhile.

2 people, 2 drinks each @ $12 per drink + tip = $60
nice salty snacks though...

You can just say your going to the art gallery there & walk all over the place.

Also, you can rent bikes & travel the bike paths on the Island, that really is a great way to spend the day.
jim

[redstephie]

Drinks at The Sanctuary sound like an excellent idea. My daughter and I will use it as an excuse to shop for new outfits - my husband will be thrilled
Thankyou soooo much!