Things to Do in Edisto Island SC
Visiting may feel like a step back to simpler times but there are plenty of things to do on Edisto Island SC. Relaxing on the beach may be the most popular pastime but there is something for everyone, even the most active. Edisto remains unblemished by high rises, neon and drive-throughs and your vacation holiday can be filled with indulgences for the body, mind and spirit.
Shop our Local Artists and Galleries
You will find shopping a delight at the locally owned bookstore, art galleries, clothing and gift shops. Edisto is awash in talented artists and crafters you can meet at the popular Bay Creek Arts and Craft Market which is open Wednesdays from April through October.
Explore by Land and by Sea
You will want to explore the creeks and marshes on an eco-tour, sunset cruise or boat tour guided by experienced local captains. Commune with dolphins, view plantation homes from the water and visit secluded beaches for some prime time shelling. Take a guided tour, rent a kayak or stand up paddle board and explore the waters yourself. Enjoy a bird watching excursion or search for fossils in one of our parks.
Off-shore and in-shore fishing charters present an opportunity to bring home dinner and experience Edisto’s waterways like you never have before. Bring your own boat and dock at the marina to refuel (yourself or your boat). Unless you are on a fishing charter, you will need a license for crabbing, shrimping or fishing and information is available at South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.
After you explore the Island via water, take a drive down the live oak lanes of Edisto and the surrounding lowcountry. Land tours are available and each tour is unique in its own way, presenting history and legend via various perspectives. Be sure to visit Botany Bay Plantation where you can kayak, hike to the boneyard beach, or travel by car through the driving loop to access points of interest for birding and nature enthusiasts. Check their hunting schedule before heading out to ensure they’re open!
Get Outdoors and Play
With over four miles of biking trails that take you on a scenery-filled loop through Edisto Beach and into the Edisto State Park and Botany Bay Wildlife Conservation Area, biking is very popular on Edisto. If you did not bring your own, you can rent a bike or a kayak to see the natural wonders of the Island. You can always load up your beach gear in a golf cart and head over to the closest access for a relaxing day at the beach. While you’re at Edisto State Park, make time to visit their Environmental Learning Center, that offers youth and adult programs, hands-on interactive exhibits, a touch tank and a movie theater! Before you go, be sure to check out their event calendar to see what fun activities they have going on.
If you crave outdoor activity, play some lowcountry golf at one of our local golf courses . Immerse yourself in the rich cultural history of Edisto Island at the Edisto Island Museum or visit one of the interactive shows at the Serpentarium Reptile Zoo and Gift Shop. You could always decide to spend a long day under the shade of an umbrella with that book that has been calling your name. Life is not complicated on Edisto, just choose your pleasure.
Take a Day Trip
There’s even more to do just a few miles from Edisto. Check out the surrounding beaches, state parks, wildlife areas, historic plantations in locations like Charleston, Beaufort, Port Royal and Hilton Head Island. For additional day trip destinations and events, visit South Carolina Lowcountry and Resort Islands.
