How to Get To/From and Around Kiawah: Your Ultimate Guide
Nestled just off the city of Charleston, Kiawah Island is a serene, secluded paradise that offers a tranquil getaway unlike any other. Despite its beauty, the remoteness of Kiawah Island comes with its own set of transportation challenges. In this guide, we’re going to de-mystify the process of reaching and navigating Kiawah Island, ensuring that your journey is as smooth as possible.
**Getting There**
Your adventure begins at Charleston Airport (CHS), which is approximately a 45-minute drive from the island. You’ve got 2 main options as a source of transportation to and from the island:
1) Rent a Car (roughly $90/day or $500/week)
Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach Kiawah Island. Websites like www.rentalcars.com offer a variety of vehicles available for airport pickup. Having a rental car allows you to explore the island at your own pace and take day trips to nearby attractions. Many car rental companies offer useful add-ons like GPS and child seats. It’s a hassle-free and flexible option that enhances your overall travel experience.
2) Rideshare to the Island (roughly $75) and Private Car Service to Return (roughly $160)
Alternatively, you could use a rideshare service like Lyft or Uber to get to the island. Bear in mind there are no rideshare services or public transportation available on Kiawah Island, however the island is quite pedestrian and cyclist-friendly so if you are able, this could be a great option for you. When you are arranging your rideshare, a great tip is to check both apps (Uber and Lyft) as the prices can vary drastically. When you’re ready to return to the airport, you can arrange a private car service such as Island Transport.
3) Getting Around Kiawah Island by Bike ($45 for 3 days / $62 for a week)
One of the most immersive ways to explore Kiawah is by bike. Bike rentals are available at reasonable prices from bikekiawah.com. Cycling not only offers a fun way to get around the island (see our article on bike riding around Kiawah here and our map of the best trails here, but also provides access to areas like “Eagles Point”, which are usually restricted to residents.
**Buying Groceries and Provisions**
Remember to stock up on supplies at the grocery store in Freshfields, called The Village market, which is conveniently located at the entrance of the island. Here’s the exact location. If you’re using a ride share service to get to the island, consider asking your driver to stop here so you can get your groceries on your way in.
Planning your trip to Kiawah Island is crucial. Whether you choose to rent a car, use rideshare services, or cycle, there are plenty of convenient options to make your journey smooth and enjoyable. Just remember, the serene beauty and tranquility of Kiawah Island are well worth the effort. So, start planning today and prepare to immerse yourself in the peacefulness of Kiawah.
