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Isle of Palms and Wild Dunes Real Estate

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Isle of Palms in Charleston, SC

Life on Isle of Palms

Bordered by Sullivan’s Island and Breach Inlet to the south, and Mount Pleasant and the Intracoastal Waterway to the west, Isle of Palms is Charleston’s northernmost Barrier Island and offers easy access to the beautiful sweeping beaches of the Atlantic Ocean.  Despite being only twenty minutes from downtown Charleston, arriving on Isle of Palms means arriving in a relaxed, family-friendly beach community.

The island has long served as a popular vacation destination spot dating back to the 19th century, and real estate on the island remains attractive to those who want to enjoy all the amenities of living near the water including sandy beaches and a full-service marina.  Properties vary from updated 1970’s era ranch homes (originally built by J.C.Long as low-cost housing for WWII veterans) to homes with deepwater slips or oceanfront views.  An abundance of activities, dining options, and nightlife, make it a popular spot for vacationers and residents alike.

 

Isle of Palms beaches in SCWild Dunes

Wild Dunes is an island resort within the Isle of Palms that is home to full-time residents, vacationers and many rental properties.  Located on the northernmost end of the island, it boasts award winning tennis and has been recognized by TENNIS magazine as one of the “Top 50 Tennis Resorts in the Country”.  In 1980, Wild Dunes became even more popular with the addition of the Tom Fazio designed golf course which attracts up to 70,000 visiting golfers every year.  Other amenities include resort style pools throughout the community and a variety of dining options. Wild Dunes has many different types of homes, both near the beach and on the golf course, as well as a full-service hotel.

 

A Family Friendly Atmosphere

The island is family oriented and enforces strict rules to make sure it stays this way. The beach prohibits alcohol, glass bottles of any kind, fireworks, camping, bonfires, and littering.  Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all time (this includes being in the water). These rules keep the island safe, clean, and upscale for its residents and visitors.

 

Restaurants on IOPWater Sports and Activities

The main water sport on the island is kite surfing due to the island’s gentle waves and ocean breezes. Surfing, kayaking and paddle boarding are also popular.  The county park, part of the Charleston County Parks system, offers many amenities for enjoying a day at the beach such as lifeguards, bathrooms, showers, picnic tables and beach chairs for rent.  Every year there are tons of fun things to do on Isle of Palms.  One popular competition is the Annual Sand Sculpting Contest during Charleston’s Piccolo Spoleto festival. On July 4th, the Island hosts a spectacular fireworks show, and in October, the IOP Connector 10k Run and Walk for the Children benefits local children’s-related charities.

 

Dining On The Island

Isle of Palms offers plenty of mouth watering dining options, but their southern cooking is what hooks you in. If you are interested in beach-side dining, there are many options.  Some of the most popular spots on the island include:

  • Windjammer: a well-known restaurant that offers live music, beach volleyball competitions and a fun atmosphere
  • Banana Cabana: right off the beach with ocean-views and a casual, beach-influenced menu
  • Coconut Joe’s: bringing a little bit of the Caribbean to SC with an open air rooftop bar with a great view
  • Acme Cantina: upscale, yet casual elements of traditional coastal cuisine with classic fare
  •  The Sand Bar: located in the Wild Dunes Resort and offering high-end food with a traditional southern flare
  • The Boat House: fresh, local cuisine with a long history of serving “slow food”

All-in-all, Isle of Palms attracts families wishing to escape from the college scene and surround themselves in a relaxing environment.