Local Information

Barrier Islands

Welcome to Barrier Islands

Charleston's barrier islands are one of a kind. Old oaks draped with Spanish moss rise majestically from the ground and the area hums with cicadas in the summer, evoking an old-timey feeling of warm evenings spent collecting fireflies and watching the sunset over the creek. Here, you'll discover untold Southern charm and hospitality from the many friendly faces who call the Barrier Islands home. Lets discover the distinct character of these one-of-a-kind communities.

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Spotlights of Barrier Island

James Island

Just across from Charleston is James Island, where residents make their homes among the town's historic charm and tidal marshes. Many homes are within large subdivisions, and you can find historic properties, cozy waterfront homes, and new construction throughout this community. 

Over 10,000 people live on the island, and the residents take immense pride in preserving the area's small-town feel with a plethora of festivals and community celebrations — such as Carolina Green Fair and Holiday Festival of Lights. James Island is also where the Lowcountry Cajun Festival takes place, and where you can visit the beautiful Folly Beach. 

Johns Island

About 30 minutes from Charleston, nestled between the Stono River and Kiawah River, Johns Island is a lowcountry paradise. It's quiet, surrounded by marshes and farmland, and has kept its small-town southern atmosphere amid Charleston's growth. 

A hidden gem in Johns Island is the historic Angel Oak, one of the oldest trees east of the Mississippi River that has become a symbol of the area. 

Kiawah Island

Considered "the happiest seaside town in America," Kiawah Island has a rich history extending beyond the 18th century, when pirates, planters, and entrepreneurs have all made their home on the island. Today, the area is a gated resort community. 

Kiawah Island offers today's residents a luxurious way of life among the lowcountry charm that Charleston is famous for. The Kiawah Island Resort has two swimming pools, two restaurants, a bar, and a golf course. 

Seabrook Island

Like Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island is a gated residential community, providing a relaxing atmosphere amid Charleston's beautiful scenery. The island borders the Atlantic Ocean and Edisto Island, about 30 minutes from Downtown Charleston, and has many opportunities for waterfront homes. Seabrook Island has the best modern amenities, like its Racquet Center with 15 lighted tennis courts and full-service pro shop, along with a large equestrian center, golf course, upscale Freshfields Village, and more.

Wadmalaw Island

Wadmalaw Island was first settled in the mid-1600s, and still retains a small community feel with its few thousand residents about 35 minutes from Downtown Charleston. The island is a true treasure, offering unspoiled natural gems in its marshes and southern oak trees. A bridge over Church Creek is the island's only connection to the mainland. Wadmalaw Island is home to America's last working tea farm, the Charleston Tea Plantation, and is the site of the historic Irvin-House Vineyards.

Capers Island

Capers Island isn't your typical island getaway. The island is a great hidden gem with hiking trails, camping available with permit, and it is only accessible by boat. The island offers plenty of driftwood for a campfire and is known to be active with wildlife. While there are no buildings on the island, it is only 15 miles from Charleston.

Barrier Island Attractions

Find Your Own Island Paradise

Discover Charleston's natural beauty among its barrier islands, and find your niche among these unique lowcountry communities. If you desire extraordinary living in these charming southern treasures, choose RARE Charleston for your real estate needs. Connect with us today to experience the barrier islands for yourself. If you're selling your piece of paradise in one of Charleston's barrier island communities, work with us to reach the largest audience of interested home buyers; list your property with RARE Charleston to get the real estate results you're looking for.

Selling a home in Barrier Island? We can certainly help you out with that, too!