There’s a beach to suit every lifestyle outside of Charleston, SC.
After undergoing back surgery in Charleston, SC, you may think that the last place you’ll want to spend time is on the beach. But you may feel much better after a couple hours outside; the Vitamin D you get from the sun increases endorphins, which are the body’s feel-good chemicals. Follow these beach tips:
- Bring a good book, and you may end up forgetting all about the recovery process you’re going through.
- Bring a friend or family member for a stimulating game of chess while you listen to the gentle waves.
- Bring a sturdy cane and enjoy a therapeutic walk along the hard-packed sand of the shoreline, with your doctor’s permission, of course.
- Bring a lounge chair and get some needed rest. Don’t forget sun protection.
However you prefer to enjoy the natural beauty of the beaches surrounding Charleston, SC, you don’t have to go very far. The Southeastern Spinal Institute is located in Mt. Pleasant, which neighbors the Holy City, so you can find many calm, rarely busy beaches, as long as the weather cooperates.
Where the Sand Is
Charleston, SC, itself does not boast any beaches. The waterfront in the historic town is lined with a walkway and wall that also serves as a relaxing place to spend some recovery time after your back surgery. There are five major beach destinations, ranging from 10 to 20 miles from Mt. Pleasant or Charleston, SC. Each sports a unique beach town atmosphere in addition to miles of sand and surf.
Here is a brief overview of area beaches, from north to south:
- Isle of Palms
This 2,880-acre island, just on the other side of the Intercostal Waterway from Mt. Pleasant, can provide an ideal opportunity to recuperate in comfort at the island’s 5-star resort. You reach the beach whenever the fancy strikes. Isle of Palms is a 12-mile ride from downtown Charleston, SC, and it offers an array of hotel options.
The entire island is family friendly. This is where families come to play golf, sun on the beaches and enjoy an array of restaurants and entertainment activities in the evenings. Isle of Palms attracts a nice blend of tourists and locals.
- Sullivan’s Island
This island neighbors Isles of Palms; it’s only 3.3 miles long, but holds the distinction of being the only island that served as a setting for a Revolutionary War battle as well as an Edgar Allan Poe novel. You’ll find Sullivan’s Island offers both a welcoming seaside village and wide beaches.
While you may not be up to much activity other than lounging on the beach, Sullivan’s Island is well known for its watersports, history and folklore, local restaurants and shops — if not for you, then for your guests. The island is located at the mouth of the Charleston Harbor, minutes from Charleston, SC. Accommodations on the island are limited to private homes and townhouses.
- Folly Beach
Folly Beach sometimes is called “the edge of America” because it sticks out so far into the Atlantic compared to the rest of the east coast. From Charleston, SC, it’s a 15 to 20-minute drive.
The island seems to attract a younger crowd that can get rowdy at night. You’ll find, however, a number of less expensive hotels along the shoreline. While you’re lounging on the beach, don’t be surprised if you see a loggerhead turtle, bald eagle, dolphin, sea birds or several other endangered species.
- Kiawah Island
Kiawah is a 10,000-acre barrier island that has about 10 miles of shoreline where you can catch some great beach time. There’s a resort and world-class golf course that you or your guests might enjoy too, along with a wide range of hotels and private homes for rent.
About 21 miles from downtown Charleston, SC, Kiawah Island is home to about 4,100 residents. The miles of pristine beach sit beside preserved maritime forests, marshes and sand dunes where you might spot whitetail deer or turtles.
- Seabrook Island
The southernmost beachfront is on Seabrook Island, where you’ll find a peaceful setting in a 2,200-acre private residential community. Despite its seclusion, Seabrook Island has an abundance of family-friendly activities for guests.
You can rest peacefully on the white sand beach, recovering from back surgery, while your family takes advantage of everything from a children’s camp with certified counselors and two championship golf courses, to a tennis center, horseback riding, a fitness center, deep-water marina, shopping and award-winning dining.