Your Perfect Weekend Itinerary on Isle of Palms

If you’re wondering what to do in Isle of Palms, look no further! Whether it’s lounging by the Atlantic Ocean, hitting championship golf courses, or exploring historic Charleston, this guide will help you plan a Palms vacation that’s both relaxing and memorable.

Day 1: Arrival, Beach Time, and Evening Relaxation

Morning: Check-In & Settling In

Arrive by late morning and check into your Palms hotel or Wild Dunes Resort. Wild Dunes offers two notable Tom Fazio-designed courses: the Harbor Course, featuring views of Charleston Harbor, and the Links Course, situated along the dunes, making it perfect for avid golf enthusiasts.
If you opt to stay in Mount Pleasant, you’ll be minutes from both Ocean Boulevard and historic Charleston, while still enjoying easy access to IOP’s sandy shores.

Midday: First Beach Session

Head to Palms Beach on Ocean Boulevard. Reserve beach chair rentals in Isle of Palms and an umbrella from Just Beachy so you can sit back and admire the Atlantic Ocean.
Keep refreshments on hand with a cooler rental , complete with ice.
Add a dash of fun with beach games, such as sand volleyball or paddleball, against the backdrop of sandy beaches and gentle waves.
If you want tunes, grab a speaker rental from Just Beachy - Bluetooth-ready and fully equipped so you can set the vibe without lugging gear.

Afternoon: Water Sports & Park Exploration

After lunch on the sand, explore water sports: rent a kayak or paddleboard to glide toward Breach Inlet, taking in stunning views of Sullivan’s Island and the Intracoastal Waterway. Keep an eye out for dolphins near Palms County Park.
For a guided perspective, book a boat tour of Charleston Harbor to learn about Fort Moultrie (where the first submarine saw action) and hear Civil and Revolutionary War stories—these historical sites offer glimpses into South Carolina’s storied past.
If fishing appeals, grab your fishing line and try casting near Breach Inlet; you might reel in flounder or speckled trout.

Evening: Dinner, Live Music, & Sunset Walk

Freshen up, then dine at a local Palms restaurant serving Southern cuisine and fresh seafood—Lowcountry shrimp and grits or she-crab soup are must-tries. Look for spots with live music on covered patios.
Stroll along Ocean Boulevard at dusk, pausing to watch the sun dip below the horizon and take in the breathtaking ocean views.

Day 2: Golf, Nearby Islands, and Charleston Excursions

Morning: Tee Time at Wild Dunes

Rise early for a round at Wild Dunes Resort. The Harbor Course, set along Charleston Harbor, challenges golfers with tidal marsh vistas, while the Links Course winds through dunes and sandy beaches. During peak season, tee times fill up quickly, so be sure to reserve ahead.
If you prefer something shorter, consider the Isle of Palms Municipal Golf Course or a golf course in Mount Pleasant, both of which are within a short drive.

Late Morning: Sullivan’s Island History

Cross over to Sullivan’s Island, a unique barrier island just west of IOP. Explore Fort Moultrie, where defenders repelled a British fleet during the Revolutionary War. Snap photos of the brick fortress and reflect on its strategic role in the Civil War.
Grab a quick seafood taco or oysters at a local café before heading back.

Afternoon: Downtown Charleston & King Street

Drive across the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge into Downtown Charleston. Walk King Street, a mix of high-end boutiques and local shops, and admire antebellum architecture.
If time allows, visit the Holy City’s historic district, stopping by the Charleston Harbor Waterfront Park for ocean views and a glimpse of passing sailboats.

Evening: Charleston Dinner & Harbor Views

Dine in Charleston at a restaurant overlooking the harbor, where you can sample fresh seafood and Southern cuisine. After dinner, enjoy live music in the French Quarter or on a rooftop bar. This is a great way to cap off a day, blending vacation vibes with the historic charm of Charleston.

Day 3: Final Beach Time & Departure

Morning: Last Beach Moments

Return to Palms Beach for a final session of sun and sand. If you skipped Palms County Park earlier, visit now to enjoy shade under live oaks and maybe fly a kite or have one last picnic.
Borrow beach games or spend a few minutes fishing near the Intracoastal Waterway for a relaxed end to your trip.

Late Morning: IOP Marina Visit

Swing by the IOP Marina off Ocean Boulevard. Watch charter boats head out for half-day boat tours—mark your calendar for next time if you’d like a deeper harbor cruise.
Snap a photo by Breach Inlet and appreciate how this beautiful beach connects to a living ecosystem of salt marshes and waterways.

Check-Out & Farewell

Pack up and check out by noon. As you drive off the island, remember that the peak season runs from late spring to early fall. However, the shoulder months (April–May, September–October) offer fewer crowds and still-warm water. Start dreaming of your next Isle of Palms SC getaway; it truly is a fabulous place.

Tips for a Seamless Isle of Palms Weekend

Reserve Rentals Early
During peak season, Just Beachy’s gear sells out quickly. Book beach chair, cooler, speaker rentals, and beach games in advance so you arrive at a fully equipped setup.
Mix Beach Time with Exploration
Spend mornings on sandy shores, afternoons kayaking toward Breach Inlet or strolling through historic Charleston, and evenings sampling Southern cuisine with a view of the Charleston Harbor.
Plan for Outdoor Activities
Bring or rent a kayak to paddle the Intracoastal Waterway, fish with a fishing line, or book a boat tour to learn about Fort Moultrie and other historical sites along the coast.
Check Local Events
Look for beach volleyball tournaments, sandcastle competitions, or live music nights at Palms restaurants. Sometimes, local bars host reggae or jazz sessions under the stars.
Ask About Seasonal Specials
Many resorts and restaurants run off-season deals. If you visit out of peak, you might snag lower rates on Palms hotels or even tee times at Wild Dunes.