Five Reasons
To consider a long term stay on Kiawah Island
What’s better than a week on Kiawah Island? Three months on Kiawah Island.
Don’t get us wrong: a short stay here is certainly a little slice of paradise in its own right. But when you enjoy a long-term stay on Kiawah, you unlock a little extra island magic. Imagine having enough time to explore the miles of bike trails, try every restaurant in Freshfields Village, and see how the island transforms as the seasons change.
And here’s an extra perk: if your stay is at least 91 days, you pay no accommodations tax— that’s a 13% savings off the top, even before discounts are applied.
On the fence about whether a long-term stay on Kiawah Island is worthwhile? Here are five reasons we think it’s a solid choice.
1. You’ll become a part of the Kiawah Island community
There’s something to be said for staying on the island long enough to find your go-to vendors at the Freshfields Village Farmers Market. To make Jazz Night at Porch Bar a weekly tradition rather than just a one-time treat. And to be greeted by the smiling staff at Loggerhead Grill by name.
On this small island, a long-term stay can make you feel like a big-time part of the community. Stay long enough to get to know the familiar faces, and we can bet you’ll leave with some lasting friendships.
2. You can do more of what makes you happy
Kiawah Island may only be just over thirteen square miles, but that doesn’t mean there’s not enough here to bust your boredom for a long-term stay.
Love pedaling around on your bike? There are 30 miles of paths and over 10 miles of bikeable beach to explore. Nothing makes you happier than time spent on the green? There are five golf courses you can play on Kiawah Island—including the award-winning Ocean Course—plus two private courses for Kiawah Island Club members. And if retail therapy is more your style, Freshfields Village alone is home to thirty shops ranging from indie book stores to artisan jewelry shops.
3. You’ll be able to take time to fully enjoy all of the island’s nature.
One-week vacationers are faced with a lot of choices: should they spend the afternoon strolling the oak-lined paths of Allee of the Oaks or paddling along Marsh Creek? Climbing the lookout towers for birds-eye views of the island or visiting the rookery to spot nesting egrets?
True enjoyment of Kiawah Island’s nature can’t be rushed. Long-term visitors have the leisure of slowing down and taking it all in. Better yet: if you’re staying a while, you can take full advantage of all of the Nature Center’s offerings, from photography tours to fishing charters.
4. You’ll see Kiawah Island transform through the seasons.
Summer is a special time here, but those who stay to witness the change in seasons will feel like they’ve been let in on a secret.
Stay into the fall and watch as the crowds disperse even as the beach-going weather remains. Or start your stay in spring and watch the pelicans take flight overhead and the magnolia trees begin to blossom.
With year-round events to enjoy—including a Christmas display at The Sanctuary, the Cars on Kiawah, and a fall festival at Night Heron Park—you’ll see that summer’s warm weather is certainly not the only reason to visit Kiawah Island.
5. You can explore Charleston and beyond.
Want to spend some time seriously exploring our stretch of the south? Staying on Kiawah places you within a day-trip distance of some fun and historic destinations. Feast on fresh-from-the-boat shrimp and seafood in McClellanville, Beaufort or Wadmalaw. Or make a visit to John’s Island to stand beneath the magnificent Angel Oak.
Spend a day strolling around one of the historic plantations like Magnolia, Middleton Place or Boone Hall. And if you want to add in a little city-style excitement to spice up your seashore getaway, downtown Charleston is just a 45-minute drive away.
Find your long-term Kiawah Island accommodations.
Ready to plan your long-term visit to Kiawah Island? We offer special seasonal discounts on stays over four weeks at our oceanfront and scenic view villas—complete with living areas and kitchens for a luxurious at-home experience. Find your ideal home-away-from-home.
