Kiawah Island vacation rentals
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Top-rated vacation rentals in Kiawah Island
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Popular amenities for Kiawah Island vacation rentals
Kiawah Island beach vacation rentals
Cottage in Folly Beach
4.78 out of 5 average rating, 231 reviewsA little slice of paradise - Walk to beach
Villa in Kiawah Island
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 116 reviews4401 Windswept Villa, Kiawah Island, SC
Vacation home in Seabrook Island
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviewsShort, Easy Walk To Beach, Pet Friendly Treehouse
Rental unit in Charleston
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 133 reviewsThe Folly River Flat at Folly Beach NOW WITH DOCK!
Home in Folly Beach
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 123 reviewsMassive family PORCH and hot tub, center of Folly!
Cottage in Mount Pleasant
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 419 reviewsThe Boathouse
Home in Saint Helena Island
5 out of 5 average rating, 103 reviewsPeaceful treehouse with spectacular views on Fripp
Home in Seabrook Island
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 198 reviewsBeach House- 0.4 Miles from the Ocean STR 0055
Kiawah Island condo rentals
Condo in Seabrook Island
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 135 reviewsRiverside Condo with Marsh View Balcony
Condo in Wild Dunes
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 209 reviewsIsle of Palms-Beachside Port O'Call
Condo in Saint Helena Island
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 135 reviewsFrippin’ Fun Vacation - Fripp Island
Condo in Edisto Island
4.86 out of 5 average rating, 132 reviews★2BR Wyndham Condo on Golf Course 1/2m from Beach★
Condo in Charleston
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 181 reviewsLittle Oak Love | 5 Minutes to Folly | Marsh Views
Condo in Edisto Island
4.79 out of 5 average rating, 237 reviewsTeal on the Rocks Villa
Condo in Edisto Island
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 152 reviews422 Oristo Lodge
Condo in Saint Helena Island
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 134 reviewsLa Sirena , First Floor Ocean View 1 BR Villa
Kiawah Island house rentals
Home in Wadmalaw Island
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 338 reviewsHistoric Southern Home in Paradise
Home in West Ashley
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 159 reviewsPerfect 1-Bedroom Guest Suite - Great Amenities!
Home in Folly Beach
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 153 reviewsLux Beach Bungalow Ocean Views Heated Pool
Home in Saint Helena Island
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 124 reviewsThe Tidewatch: Beachfront Retreat on Harbor Island
Home in North Charleston
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 186 reviewsThe Marie is Ready to Host You and Yours
Home in Seabrook Island
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 117 reviewsBrand New Island Getaway
Home in Johns Island
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 110 reviewsClassy Johns Island Retreat w/ King Bed + Firepit!
Home in Folly Beach
4.87 out of 5 average rating, 250 reviewsSteps 2 the BEACH * Folly Beach Cottage *
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 40 cottage rentals, over 180 condo rentals to over 400 house 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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