Kiawah Island vacation rentals

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Popular amenities for Kiawah Island vacation rentals

Stay near Kiawah Island's top sights

Kiawah Beachwalker Park81 locals recommend
Freshfields Village50 locals recommend
Bohicket Marina & Market28 locals recommend
Hege's Restaurant21 locals recommend
La Tela Pizzeria19 locals recommend
Fuji Sushi Bar & Grill - Kiawah16 locals recommend

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Kiawah Island

  • Total rentals

    780 properties

  • Nightly prices starting at

    $90 before taxes and fees

  • Total number of reviews

    8.9K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    660 properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    80 properties allow pets

  • Rentals with a pool

    290 properties have a pool

Your guide to Kiawah Island

All About Kiawah Island

This tranquil island southwest of Charleston puts nature first, rigorously protecting its beaches, marshland, and forests. That means you might encounter a whitetail deer as you walk under the canopies of live oak trees in the island’s forest, or catch the flash of a snowy egret as you kayak through a marsh. Sea turtle and bottlenose dolphin sightings are common along the 10 miles of sandy beaches. Kiawah Island is a favorite getaway for golfers, too, its championship golf courses considered some of the best (and most picturesque) in the country. Visitors should note that the island, which is a gated community, prizes its peace and quiet: There’s a nighttime noise ordinance, and many areas can be reached on foot or by bike rather than car.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Kiawah Island

Spring and summer are the most popular times to visit Kiawah Island, but the weather stays mild year-round. In spring, temperatures range from the mid-50s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit. The summer months warm to prime beach weather, in the 80s. Summer can get muggy, though there’s an oceanfront breeze, and passing thunderstorms are common in the afternoons. Starting in October, temperatures start to cool down, though daytime temperatures rarely get below 60 degrees, even in January. Fall and winter are generally dry.


Top things to do in Kiawah Island

Beachwalker Park

Not every stretch of coast is open to visitors—some parts are accessible only to homeowners and their guests—but the public beach, Beachwalker Park, is one of the island’s best anyway. There, you’ll find calm waters and just enough amenities—beach gear rentals, a snack stand—to make a day of it. Just remember not to disturb the sea turtle eggs you may spy on the shore (Kiawah is a prime spot for loggerhead turtles in summer).

Captain Sam’s Inlet

At this inlet between Kiawah and neighboring Seabrook Island, you can watch bottlenose dolphins as they herd fish up onto the sandbar and then toss themselves up there to eat, a rare behavior known as strand feeding. Visit just before or after low tide to spot them.

Golfing

The island has twice hosted the PGA Championship, and when you step out onto one of the five public courses, it’s easy to see why. The fairways are designed by big famous golfers to play off the area’s seascape to spectacular effect.

Night Heron Park

This is the island’s main destination for getting to know the resident wildlife. Start off at the interactive nature center, where you can learn about the local snakes, turtles, and gators, before heading off on the 30 miles of trails through the forest.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Kiawah Island?

    Kiawah Island enjoys a mild climate year-round. Summers, from June to September, are typically warm with temperatures around 85°F (29°C). Winters, from December to February, are cooler with average temperatures around 60°F (15°C). The island receives most rainfall in July and August, while November tends to be the driest month.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Kiawah Island?

    Popular activities on Kiawah Island include bird watching, dolphin sighting, and nature photography. Many visitors also enjoy golfing at one of the island's five premier golf courses, cycling around the island, or simply relaxing on the beautiful beaches.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Kiawah Island?

    The most popular time to visit Kiawah Island is during the warmer months, from May to September. This period aligns with the Kiawah Island Golf Resort's 'Summer Family Program' that hosts a variety of activities. Additionally, the 'Kiawah Island Marathon' in December often attracts many visitors.

  • What are the best places to stay in Kiawah Island?

    East Beach Village, with its vibrant town center, is a favored location. Many also choose West Beach Village, known for its tranquil atmosphere. Vanderhorst Plantation, offering a more secluded experience, frequently attracts visitors looking for a quieter stay.

  • What are the best places to visit in Kiawah Island?

    Kiawah Island boasts several popular locations. Many visitors explore Kiawah Beachwalker Park, a public beach with picnic areas and a boardwalk. Others enjoy the Kiawah Island Golf Resort, known for its championship golf courses. The Marsh Island Park and Tower, providing panoramic views, is another sought-after destination.

  • What are some hiking trails in Kiawah Island?

    Kiawah Island has several hiking trails worth exploring. The Marsh Island Park Trail provides stunning island views, while the Beachwalker Park Trail offers a scenic beach pathway. The Night Heron Park Trail is also notable, known for its lush greenery and wildlife spotting opportunities.

  • What are some family activities to do in Kiawah Island?

    Families often find joy in exploring the Nature Center, where environmental education programs are hosted. Cycling around the island's extensive bike paths, playing at Night Heron Park, and visiting the Heron Park Nature Center are also common activities. Beachcombing along the island's pristine beaches is another engaging activity for the whole family.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Kiawah Island?

    Day trips from Kiawah Island often include a visit to Charleston, just 25 miles (around 40 kilometers) away, known for its historic sites and vibrant food scene. The Angel Oak Tree, an ancient and massive oak tree, is another popular day trip destination. The Audubon Center at Francis Beidler Forest is also a frequent choice for nature lovers.

  • What types of vacation rentals are available in Kiawah Island?

    Uncover the perfect home-away-from-home with our diverse selection of vacation rentals in Kiawah Island. From over 400 house rentals, over 180 condo rentals to over 40 cottage rentals, we've got you covered. For even more variety, explore our Airbnb Categories to find the ideal space for your getaway.

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Kiawah Island?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 610 vacation rentals in Kiawah Island featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

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