Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
11 200 m
Frequently asked questions
Isle of Palms Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — blue, clarity moderate, average temperature +22.0°C, warms up to +29.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Isle of Palms Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.8 m.
Isle of Palms Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Isle of Palms Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 11 200 metres.
Isle of Palms Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in May, June. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Isle of Palms Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — moderate. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Isle of Palms Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: jellyfish, stingrays. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Isle of Palms Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, Wi-Fi, kids playground, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Isle of Palms Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Isle of Palms Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: The Boathouse, Acme Lowcountry Kitchen, Coconut Joe-s Beach Bar & Grill. Cuisines available: Seafood, Southern. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Isle of Palms Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Hat.
Isle of Palms Beach: when is the best time to swim?
In the morning before 10:00 the water is calmer and there are fewer people. In summer months arrive early to find parking.
Isle of Palms Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Alcohol consumption on the beach is prohibited. Dogs must be on a lead. Take your rubbish with you.
Isle of Palms Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Isle of Palms Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children and active holidaymakers. Suitable for swimming, surfing, kayaking and dolphin watching. Not suitable for those seeking solitude — a popular spot.
Isle of Palms Beach: what makes this beach unique?
A barrier island with seven miles of pristine shoreline, known as the "Coney Island of the South". Here you can spot dolphins, kayak through salt marshes and enjoy Southern hospitality.
Isle of Palms Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Seven miles of pristine shoreline, Warm Atlantic Ocean waters, Developed infrastructure: parking, toilets, showers, lifeguards, Kayaking, surfing and dolphin watching opportunities, Numerous seafood restaurants, Only 30 minutes from Charleston, Family-friendly atmosphere. Cons: Crowded in summer months, Parking fills up early in the morning, Rip current risk, Paid parking, Jellyfish in summer.
Isle of Palms Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Sullivan-s Island, Fort Moultrie, Hunting Island State Park. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Isle of Palms Beach: does the beach have a Blue Flag?
Yes, the beach holds the international "Blue Flag" certification. This means the beach meets high standards of water cleanliness, safety and infrastructure.
Isle of Palms Beach: how do I get to the city of Charleston?
The beach is located near the city of Charleston. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Charleston.