Activities on Kiawah Island
What are the Top Activities on Kiawah Island?
Kiawah Island is without a doubt a year-round destination. Our winters are mild and our summers wonderfully long; spring and fall offer the perfect balance of warmth and seasonal temperatures. Our fantastic weather makes Kiawah a prime spot for beach lovers, golfers, and tennis players. It’s also a hot destination for those who like fishing, swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, and biking, as well long days lounging on the beach. Here’s a look at some of the best activities on Kiawah Island and in the surrounding area. There’s something here for everyone in your group!
Beaches
With 10 miles of pristine shoreline, Kiawah Island is the beach lover’s dream come true. Access the interactive beach access map below and reserve your chairs and umbrellas to ensure a relaxing day in the sun.
- Beach Access and Boardwalk Map
- Beach Games to Go (Beach chair/umbrella rentals, games, etc.)
- Island Beach Services (Beach chair/umbrella rentals on the beach)
In addition to the private beaches you have access to as an ESPM guest, there is a gorgeous public beach, too. Beachwalker County Park has everything you’ll need including snacks, chairs, showers, a changing room, and more.
Biking
Thirty miles of paved biking trails await you and your family on Kiawah Island. Pack a picnic lunch, binoculars, a towel, a few bottles of water, and you’ll be ready for an island adventure on two wheels! Head out to destinations including the beach, golf courses, parks, restaurants, and shopping. Or just enjoy a day tooling around the island and enjoying the beautiful landscape. Don’t forget; these trails are pedestrian-friendly, so be sure to look out for those on foot. This is one of the most popular and best ways to enjoy the scenery! Learn more in our Kiawah Island bike guide:
Ultimate Kiawah Island Bike Guide
Bike Rentals
As a special bonus for our guests, we now offer beach gear credits with the majority of our vacation rentals! This means you will have a credit towards equipment rentals of all kinds — including bikes. Learn more about our partnership with VayK Gear and how to access your credit after you have reserved a property through us.
There are also numerous bike rental companies that will deliver bikes to your property. These include:
- Beach Gear Credit for ESPM Guests
- Alligator Bikes (Mention you are with ESPM and receive a discounted rate)
- Island Bike and Surf Shop
- Kiawah Island Bike Rentals
- Seacoast Sports & Outfitters
- Seaside Cycles
- Surfscooter Bikes
Guided Nature Tours
The sea islands are home to a diverse array of wildlife! See it all from birds to reptiles to dolphins.
Equestrian Center
From beautiful beach to scenic trail rides, the Equestrian Center at Seabrook Island offers horse lovers a wonderful experience. Rides are available for all skill-levels and ages.
Seabrook Island Equestrian Center
Fishing
Fishing excursions are popular for Kiawah Island vacationers. It’s a fantastic opportunity to spend the day out on the water. Whether you want to go onshore fishing or give deep-sea fishing a try, you’re sure to reel in an incredible catch.
- Affinity Charleston Fishing Charters
- Captain Mike Tucker Fly Fishing & Light Tackle Fishing Charters
- Drum Runner
- First Step Fishing Excursions
- Sonny Boy Charters
Golf
Premium golf is available on Kiawah Island. There are five championship courses, and each one offers incredible play and nonstop natural beauty. Fun fact: The Ocean Course is one of only five in the world to have hosted every major PGA event. It will soon host the PGA Championship in 2021.
Kayaking, Paddleboarding, and Surfing
Skimming on top of the water is such a fun experience, not to mention a workout! Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or surfboard and head out to explore the island waters.
Water Dog Paddle Co. – kayak & stand-up paddleboard specialists (Guided tours + kayak and paddleboard rentals)
Island Beach Services (Kayak and paddleboard rentals, surf lessons/equipment rentals)
Portrait / Family Photography
Your Kiawah Island vacation is the perfect time to capture memories while you’re with your family! The following photographers offer portrait and family photography sessions:
Tennis
Kiawah Island has been ranked No. 1 for the best tennis instruction and programming by TennisResortsOnline.com. This means you can play on some of the best courts and improve your game with top instructors. Select from the Roy Barth Tennis Center or West Beach Tennis Center. Between the two areas, you’ll have access to 19 Har-Tru clay courts, three hard courts, and two lighted hard courts.
Programs, Reservations, & Rentals
Resort Activities and Events
You’ll soon discover that there’s always something happening on Kiawah Island! While ESPM guests do not have access to the resort pools, you do have access to amenities such as tennis, golf, restaurants, children’s camp, recreation, and events. Check the Kiawah Island Activity Calendar below for more information. It is updated seasonally.