A residential community bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and lying 10 miles north of Charleston, this island, with its salt marshes and wildlife, has been turned into a vacation retreat, but one that is more downscale than Kiawah Island. The attractions of Charleston are close at hand, but the Isle of Palms is also self-contained, with dining, an array of accommodations, and two championship golf courses. Charlestonians have been flocking to the island for holidays since 1898. I-26 intersects with I-526 heading directly to the island via the Isle of Palms Connector (S.C. 517). Seven miles of wide, white, sandy beach are the island's main attraction, and sailing and windsurfing are popular. The more adventurous will go crabbing and shrimping in the creeks.
