Surrounded by the beauty of a barrier island, Wild Dunes invites you to slow down and embrace the outdoors. Wander sunrise beaches, collect shells along the tide line, and watch dolphins and sea turtles just offshore. Here, the rhythm of the Lowcountry inspires reflection, renewal, and simple coastal joy.
A barrier island just off Charleston’s coast, Isle of Palms offers seven miles of unspoiled shoreline and endless ocean views. Whether you’re walking barefoot at the water’s edge or watching the waves from the dunes, this coastline embodies the serenity of the Lowcountry.
Each tide reveals new treasures — sand dollars, whelks, scallops, and coquinas — along the beach. Wander in quiet reflection or make it a family adventure. Shelling is a peaceful, timeless pleasure that lets you bring home a little piece of the coast.
The island teems with life — pelicans glide above the surf, ospreys dive for fish, and dolphins play just beyond the breakers. From turtles nesting in the dunes to egrets in the marsh, every sight deepens your connection to the Lowcountry’s vibrant coastal ecosystem.
From May through October, Isle of Palms becomes a nesting ground for endangered loggerhead sea turtles. Guests can learn about local conservation efforts or witness hatchlings making their moonlit journey to the sea — an unforgettable reminder of nature’s rhythm and resilience.
DID YOU KNOW? Sea grass that washes ashore from nearby marshes helps lock sand in place—creating a natural barrier that protects our beaches from erosion. It’s protected by law, so please leave it where nature placed it.
Click here to learn about our conservation efforts.
Just north of Isle of Palms lies Capers Island, a protected heritage preserve accessible only by boat. Explore maritime forests, salt marshes, and the hauntingly beautiful “Boneyard Beach,” where weathered driftwood lines the shore. Here, you can experience one of the most untouched landscapes in South Carolina.
Barrier Island Eco Tours at Isle of Palms Marina offers unforgettable excursions to Capers Island. Cruise tidal creeks, explore driftwood-lined beaches, and learn about the region’s delicate ecosystems.
Stretching across 190 acres of protected maritime forest and dunes, this scenic trail runs from Station 12 to Station 29, with beach access at Station 16. Sandy paths wind through shaded coastal habitats — a quiet retreat perfect for walking, birding, or photography.
Meet owls, hawks, falcons, and eagles up close at this renowned conservation center. Stroll through the peaceful grounds, watch daily flight demonstrations, and learn how local conservation protects these extraordinary species — a favorite for nature lovers and families alike.
Thirty minutes north of Isle of Palms, this 66,000-acre refuge protects barrier islands, tidal marshes, and nesting habitats for loggerhead turtles and migratory birds. Accessible by eco-tour from Awendaw, it’s one of the Lowcountry’s most breathtaking examples of untouched wilderness.
Paddle or cruise through the scenic marshes of Shem Creek with expert guides. Learn about tidal ecosystems, spot herons and dolphins, and experience the magic of a true Lowcountry waterway — where shrimp boats, sunsets, and salt air meet.
Fun for all ages, enjoy the outdoors with bike-friendly paths.
Head out on a Lowcountry adventure with water excursions at Isle of Palms Marina.
Flow through yoga, find balance in a Reiki Circle, or enrich your stay with authentic Lowcountry experiences.
