The coastal area of South Carolina, known as the Lowcountry, is rich in history and tradition. Charleston is the area’s crown jewel, merging southern charm and hospitality with every modern amenity imaginable.
The region’s numerous coastal islands played key parts in the Civil and Revolutionary Wars. While it might be hard to believe when looking at the beautiful coastlines and lush greenspaces throughout the area, it’s true. Much of the region has lavish views and rich wildlife, so it can be difficult to pick a favorite place.
So, how do you choose?
Well, you’re in luck. We’ve listed the most popular Lowcountry landing spots to help you narrow down your options.
Summerville
A great place to raise a family with lots of things to do, Summerville has a population of just over 50,000. With a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and condominiums, Summerville has a lot to offer.
- Sweet Tea Trail
- Flowertown Festival
- Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site
- Hold My Tea Bar Crawl
With abundant wildlife, miles of beaches, and extensive marshlands, Summerville is an ideal place to live.
Mount Pleasant
Boating, fishing, and kayaking are popular with such proximity to the coast. Mount Pleasant is also a tremendous cultural haven with breweries, fine dining, galleries, and historical sites throughout the island.
With schools ranked in the top 1% of the state, a population of over 95,000, and numerous employment opportunities, this is a great place to raise a family.
Isle of Palms
Boasting lavish marshland amid beautifully developed residential areas, Isle of Palms provides professionally maintained golf courses, luxurious homes, and family-friendly activities and amenities.
You can also choose from fine dining locations and charming shops throughout the island. Families will find that the local award-winning schools are ranked in the top 1% of the state.
West Ashley
Offering a unique charm, you’ll find yourself amid farmers’ markets full of fresh produce, breweries featuring live music, a community pool, top-rated schools, and historic plantations.
West Ashley is the place for you if you want an iconic mix of traditional and modern styles.
And the good news is that the sights and sounds of Charleston are only a bridge away. Whether you are looking for a gated community or a neighborhood with tree-lined streets, the varying residential developments have something for you in West Ashley.
Sullivans Island
With only 2,000 residents, this picturesque island is one of the hidden gems in the Lowcountry. The laid-back atmosphere, secluded beaches, and rich history make Sullivans Island an idyllic place to live.
Reasons to live on Sullivans Island:
- Close Proximity to Charleston
- Award-Winning Schools
- Small Town Charm
- Stunning Beaches
- An Outdoor Lovers Paradise
- Historic Sites
- Fine Dining Options
North Charleston
Just north of Charleston, North Charleston has terrific dining options, historical sites, and various housing options. With a population of 121,000, this has more of an urban feel when compared to other Lowcountry islands on this list.
Some of the most popular neighborhoods are listed below:
- Oak Terrace Preserve
- Old North Charleston
- Park Circle
- Indigo Fields
- The Park at River’s Edge
There are several venues for live music, sporting events, live comedy shows, and other performances. There is also an excellent shopping area, including Tanger Outlet.
Kiawah Island
While luxury and grandeur exist in other island communities in the Lowcountry, Kiawah Island has them all beaten hands down. Along with hosting PGA events at the prestigious golf course, there are also dozens of fine dining options. If you’d prefer to be outside, you can enjoy paddleboarding, fishing, swimming, kayaking, hiking, and biking.
The most popular areas to live on the island are listed below:
- West Beach Village
- East Beach Village
- Vanderhorst Plantation
- Cassique
- Ocean Park
Folly Beach
Folly Beach is a popular place to live, with beautiful views, picturesque marshlands, and enviable beaches. While many properties are rentals, the island boasts over 2,000 permanent residents. Just under 20 square miles, the island is smaller than some but just as desirable. The homes include condominiums, split-level homes, and townhouses.
Some of the neighborhoods include:
- Sunset Point
- Turn of River
- Ocean Point Villas
- Turtle Bay
- Waters Edge
- Folly Beach Suites
Daniel Island
Bordered by the Cooper and Wando Rivers, Daniel Island provides a beautiful backdrop to any home. With a population of approximately 8,400, it is a less populated island than some of the other Lowcountry coastal islands.
Some of the best places to live on Daniel Island include:
- Barfield Park
- Downtown Daniel Island
- Cochran Park
- Center Park
There are numerous activities to do on Daniel Island. Some of the most popular are listed below:
- Waterfront Park
- Daniel Island Ferry
- Award Winning Golf Courses
- Paddleboarding
- Kayaking
Johns Island
The largest island in South Carolina, Johns Island, is home to 28,000 residents. Boasting beautiful views, coastal waterways, envious marshland, and impressive residential areas, Johns Island is a wonderful place to live.
Below are some of the more popular places to visit:
- Angel Oak Tree
- Charleston Aqua Park
- Charleston Tea Garden
- Low Tide Brewing
James Island
Beautiful beachfront properties are thoughtfully placed within wonderful green space. The homes include condominiums, townhomes, and single-family homes. Offering dog parks, disc golf courses, picnic areas, and hiking trails, there is always something to do outdoors on James Island.
Some of the more popular places to check out are listed below:
- James Island County Park
- Town Market
- Fort Johnson
- McLeod Plantation
- Pinckney Park
Seabrook Island
Dating back to the 17th century, Seabrook Island is thick with history. Offering beautiful coastal waterways to explore by paddleboard or kayak, wildlife is everywhere. Hiking and biking trails provide stunning views of the surrounding marshlands and beaches.
Some of the best places to live are listed below:
- North Beach Homes
- Salt Marsh Townhomes
- The Village at Seabrook
- Seabrook Island Villa & Cottage Communities
- Bohicket Marina
- The Seabrook Island Club
If you’re ready to move, why wait?
For over a decade, we have moved people all over the Lowcountry. Reach out to Smooth Move and let us handle all the details.