It’s officially time to plan your summer fun. Here’s some good news for those vacationing on our barrier island: Kiawah Island events abound! Best of all, there really is something for everyone, from active adventures to eco-friendly explorations and wildlife encounters the whole family can enjoy.
Read on to learn about can’t-miss Kiawah Island events this summer.
Have a Dolphin Encounter
Enjoy a close encounter with South Carolina’s iconic marine mammal, the dolphin, as you explore inlets, creeks, and marshes in search of the resident pod. Set sail with local favorite seafarer Captain Jack right out of Bohicket Marina. Book your private tour for up to six in advance by calling (843) 343-1772.
Watch a Movie Under the Stars
Each Wednesday night from June 13 through August 15, you can catch today’s favorites and classic, kid-friendly flicks beneath twinkling skies — free of charge. This Kiawah Island event takes place at Freshfields Village from 8:30pm-10:30pm. Remember to bring beach chairs and blankets!
Work Up a Sweat on the Beach
Catch Live Acts
Each Friday from 6pm-9pm throughout the summer, make your way to Music on the Green, a complimentary music festival at Freshfields Village where you can spread out a blanket and listen to bands from the barrier islands and beyond play under the night sky.
Visit the Farmer’s Market
Go Near-Coastal Reef Fishing
Cast a line out over sandbars, wrecks, and artificial reefs to catch native Kiawah Island fish including redfish and black sea bass. These daily fishing charters are open to both families and seasoned anglers, so bring the whole crew and see what you can reel in for dinner. A single party of up to four costs $650, while five to six rings in at $750. For more details, information, swing by the Heron Park Nature Center or call (843) 768-6001.
Catch Sharks
Ever wished you could catch a shark? Make your dreams come true on a shark-fishing adventure that sets sail from Bohicket Marina. From makos to tiger sharks, you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with a variety of species. Custom charters start at $250 for 2 hours.
Send Kids to Adventure Camp
Tweens and early teens just wanna have fun — sometimes without their parents in tow. That’s where Kiawah Adventure camp comes in. Slotted for 8:30am-4pm the week of August 8, it features everything from disc golf, atlatl and pool games on Monday to paintball on Thursdays. Call (843) 768-6001 to reserve their spot.
Have a younger camper in tow, or visiting a different week? Kamp Kiawah offers kid-friendly options for fun on the island all summer long. Learn more in our post about the top family-friendly things to do on Kiawah Island.
Embark on a Wetlands Bike Tour
Get to know Kiawah Island’s landscape and fascinating wildlife from a different vantage point: on your bike. Pedal through dunes, salt marshes, forests, and more while learning about the diverse plant and animal life that calls Kiawah Island home. The cost is $20 per person, not including bike rental. The minimum age is 10. Call (843) 768-6001.
Indulge at an Oyster Roast
Score freshly barbecued oysters as the sun sets over the Kiawah River at Mingo Point Oyster Roast and Barbecue, a scenic, communal — not to mention tasty — gathering that’s not to be missed. At this beloved Kiawah Island event, there’s a kid’s zone, craft market and naturalists on hand, too. The event — held Monday evenings at 5:30pm, 6:15pm, 7pm and 7:45pm through August 27 — costs $49.95 for adults and $25.95 for children ages five to 12. Additionally, there’s a river cruise that costs $20 per person. Advance reservations are recommended. Call (843) 768-2121.
