Group Health Insurance Agent in Kiawah Island, SC
If you're an employer dedicated to attracting and retaining talent or boosting employee productivity, offering a valuable health benefit is important. After all, accidents happen every day. And then, out of nowhere, you're sideswiped by another motorist. Having great health insurance coverage is essential in such scenarios. That's especially true in South Carolina, where group health insurance stands out as a key consideration for businesses. Not only does a comprehensive insurance plan safeguard the health and wellness of your employees, but it also plays a key role in drawing in and keeping top talent.
While you might be most familiar with traditional group health plans, making that your go-to option may not always be the best fit for your organization in today's ever-evolving healthcare landscape. How can you determine if it's truly the right choice for your business? If you've been asking yourself that question, you're not alone. Many small businesses are in need of a group health insurance agency in Kiawah Island, SC, to help them weigh their options. That's where working with Grey Cardinal Insurance Group starts to make a lot of sense.
Your Partner for Group Health Insurance Plans for Small Business
At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, we understand the importance of providing flexible, personalized, comprehensive, and cost-effective health benefits. Our knowledgeable group health insurance agents are ready to help you assess your needs and figure out the best group health plan options for your employees and your business.
Whether you're looking to implement traditional group health insurance policies or you're curious about ICHRA, Grey Cardinal Insurance Group is the name you can trust when it's time to navigate the complexities of employee benefits. Let's work hand-in-hand to create a health-benefits solution that empowers you, your business, and your employees.
What are the Advantages of Having Group Health Insurance for Small Business in Kiawah Island, SC?
At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, one of the first questions we answer for our clients usually centers around the benefits of having group health insurance. As it turns out, investing in group health insurance for your company provides you with many benefits, including:
Insurance Costs for Employees
Investing in a group health insurance policy for your business can significantly lower your insurance premiums. When the costs are divided between the business and employees, health insurance is also more affordable for your team.
More Insurance Options to Choose From
With group health insurance, your employees will enjoy increased access to a wider range of health insurance options due to reduced costs. With employers partially funding group health insurance, employees will find it easier to afford the coverage they require.
Reduced Tax Burden
Small businesses can take advantage of a valuable health care tax credit when they provide group health insurance to their employees. This tax credit serves as a financial incentive, making it more affordable for small business owners to offer essential health coverage. Employers also have the opportunity to deduct the expenses associated with group health insurance premiums from their taxable income. This deduction can significantly lower their overall tax liability at the end of the year, ultimately contributing to improved financial stability for the business.
Employee Retention and Recruitment
A recent study conducted by MetLife reveals that an attractive benefits package significantly influences employees' decisions to remain with their current employer or seek opportunities elsewhere. Among the various benefits, health insurance stands out as one of the most essential offerings that employees actively anticipate from their employers. This expectation underscores the vital role that comprehensive health coverage plays in employee satisfaction and retention in the workforce.
Group Health Insurance 101
What are group health insurance plans for small businesses? Group health insurance plans provide health coverage benefits to a specific group of individuals, usually employees of a company or organization. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), a group health plan (GHP) is associated with current employment. Employers with 20 or more employees are also required by law to offer their current workers and their spouses aged 65 or older the same GHP benefits, regardless of their age.
To better understand group health plans or group health insurance policies, it's useful to consider how they differ from individual health insurance. Individuals can apply to enroll in marketplace insurance providers for individual health plans. In contrast, group health plans are tailored specifically for the members of that group. For businesses, these health plans are often referred to as employer-based or employer-sponsored coverage.
How Does Group Health Insurance Work in South Carolina?
A group health insurance plan is typically coordinated with the help of a group health insurance agent in Kiawah Island, SC, and is sponsored and purchased by employers for their businesses. During the enrollment period, employees or group members can sign up for the plan. They also have the option to add eligible spouses and dependents, usually at an additional cost. The specifics of the plans can differ in terms of coverage levels, costs, number of participants, and the overall health of the members. Generally, a group with lower health risks tends to enjoy lower premiums.
Employees' contributions toward their premiums are deducted from their paychecks before taxes, making it a more cost-effective option. When a member of the group health plan visits a healthcare provider, the provider submits a claim to the insurance company, which then reimburses them according to the plan's coverage. Any remaining costs are paid out-of-pocket by the member, contributing towards their deductible or out-of-pocket maximum.
Group Health Insurance Options in South Carolina
Like the menu at The Ocean Room in Kiawah Island, SC, employers have a litany of options to choose from when it comes to group health insurance plans in The Palmetto State. With these different types of group insurance, employers can usually find a health plan that aligns with both their budget and the specific benefits they want to offer. Among the most popular choices are health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and preferred provider organizations (PPOs).
High-deductible plans serve as another option. Employers can also consider self-funded plans, where employees pay their premiums directly to the employer. In this arrangement, the employer takes on the financial responsibility for all health care claims once the employee meets their health plan deductible and out-of-pocket maximum.
Check out this group health insurance plan comparison in Kiawah Island, SC:
Fully Insured Group Health Insurance Plans
One of the most traditional options for group health insurance is the fully insured plan. Under this arrangement, your company pays a fixed premium to your insurance carrier annually, based on the number of employees participating in the coverage. The only instances that will cause your payment to change during the year are if an employee opts out or if there are fluctuations in the number of participants. The insurance carrier collects all premiums and handles any healthcare claims as per the policy you selected, while employees are responsible for any applicable deductibles or co-payments.
Level-Funded Group Health Insurance Plans
Level-funded plans, often referred to as partially self-funded plans, have been gaining traction among employers. Although these plans involve taking on more risk than fully insured options, they typically offer a more cost-effective alternative while still ensuring financial predictability. Level-funded plans can also provide greater flexibility in plan design compared to fully insured plans. You can think of them as a balanced option that bridges the gap between fully insured and self-funded plans. At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, your group health insurance agent will walk you through the pros and cons of level-funded plans to help you decide whether they're right for your business and employees or not.
Self-Funded Group Health Insurance Plans
Self-funded plans have traditionally been favored by large companies, but they're gaining traction among smaller businesses as well. In a self-funded arrangement, employers take on the full responsibility for funding and managing the health insurance plan. While this might seem like a disadvantage, these plans often offer more affordable premium rates and greater control over the specifics of coverage compared to fully insured or level-funded options.
What Do Group Health Insurance Plans for Small Business in Kiawah Island, SC Cover?
Group health insurance plans can differ significantly, but they generally cover a portion or all of the costs associated with medical care. This includes expenses for physician visits, longer stays at facilities such as Indigo Hall Assisted Living and Memory Care, approved inpatient and outpatient procedures, preventive care, prescriptions, and therapeutic treatments like physical and occupational therapy. They also cover emergency care, such as visits to the emergency room or urgent care centers. It's important for members to reach out to their health insurance providers to understand the specifics of what their plan covers and what their financial responsibilities are for both necessary and elective procedures.
Some group health insurance providers have also broadened their offerings to include mental health services and alternative treatments. Employers can further support their employees by providing extra coverage options, such as health savings accounts (HSAs) or health reimbursement arrangements, which can help alleviate some financial burdens.
Group Health Insurance Plans for Small Businesses vs. Individual Health Insurance Plans
When comparing individual and group health insurance, several key differences emerge. Like a group health plan, individual insurance covers either a single person or a family. However, the main distinction lies in how these plans are obtained: individual plans are purchased directly by the individual from an insurance provider or through a government marketplace, making the individual responsible for the total cost of their premiums. In contrast, group health plans are often facilitated by a group health insurance agent and share premium costs between the employee and employer.
Because group health insurance covers multiple people, the employer often has more leverage when negotiating premiums and benefits. However, all participants receive the same plan. On the other hand, individual healthcare plans can be tailored to suit a person's specific needs and budget, allowing for greater personalization.
Another important difference is the underwriting process for each type of plan. In individual plans, premiums may be higher for those with health risk factors and existing conditions if they choose not to purchase through a marketplace. Conversely, group insurance offers coverage at the same price for all employees, even those with pre-existing conditions. Individual health plans can also be portable, meaning they remain with the individual if they change jobs. This isn't the case with employer-sponsored plans; once an employee leaves, they must either find new coverage or continue their existing policy through COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act).
Why Work with a Local Group Health Insurance Agent in Kiawah Island, SC?
In today's marketplace, many small business owners go with franchise or "big name" agencies to find group health insurance. While not wrong, this course of action can end up costing your company - and not only from a financial point of view. Working with a local group health insurance agency can provide you with many benefits that big-box options can't provide. What are they, you might be asking? Let's dig in and find out why it's always best to search for "local group health insurance agency near me."
What Do Local Group Health Insurance Agents Actually Do?
A local group health insurance agent or broker - like those from Grey Cardinal Insurance Group - pulls on years of experience and knowledge to give you in-depth guidance centered around your group health insurance needs.
For a business owner, that includes audits on insurance benefits, group insurance plan recommendations for your employees, meeting with those employees to talk about additional benefits they need, and much more. For example, if you need to add benefits like vision, dental, or life insurance to your enrollment options, a group health insurance agent can walk you through your choices and the process as a whole.
But what about if you're just getting started? Navigating the often-complex landscape of health insurance can be particularly challenging for small business owners in such circumstances. A survey conducted by United Healthcare Consumer Sentiment revealed that only 7% of consumers could accurately explain common health insurance terms. That's why, at Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, we're committed to providing education for both you and your employees during enrollment meetings. Like Angel Oak Tree in Kiawah Island, SC, we stand tall for you and your business when you need us most.
Personalized Support
One of the biggest reasons to choose a local agent is the ability to customize your plan. No two group health insurance plans are exactly the same, and with ongoing changes in healthcare regulations, it can be challenging to understand the options available to you.
So, what can businesses do to tackle this challenge? The answer lies in partnering with a local health insurance agent in Kiawah Island, SC.
At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group locations, we prioritize listening to your needs and crafting a tailored plan that benefits both your business and your employees. During open enrollment, we take the time to meet with you and engage with your team to better understand the benefits they're looking for. This hands-on approach ensures that employees have direct access to our staff for any questions or concerns they may have. This level of support is something you simply won't find with large corporate insurance firms.
On-Call When You Need Them
Engaging a local health insurance agent offers numerous advantages, particularly in terms of access to information and support. Local group health insurance agents are readily available to answer any inquiries that may arise. For instance, when a small business owner wishes to modify their benefits packages, they can easily reach out to a local agent to discuss potential adjustments. The agent can provide guidance in developing a well-structured and appropriate employee benefits package that reflects employee feedback. This collaborative approach can enhance employee satisfaction and improve the overall management of benefits options.
Exceptional Customer Service
This point builds off the last point about local agents being on-call when you need them. Would you rather talk to a real person who you've spoken to before or an automated service when you have questions about your group health insurance? Pressing # to get help with one issue and then being transferred for help and starting the process over is very tedious.
With a local group insurance agent by your side, you'll have peace of mind knowing you'll have quick, quality customer service when you need it, and from a real person, too. If you need to submit a claim, your agent will be able to explain your coverage and options and walk you through the steps to complete your claim.
At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, our health insurance agents live in the same communities you do, so they know what you are going through or dealing with and are likely already on top of it for you. With that added peace of mind, you can focus more clearly on the core aspects of your business.
A Business Group Health Insurance Agency in Kiawah Island, SC, You Can Trust
No matter which group health insurance policy you decide on, Grey Cardinal Insurance Group is here to support you. Our experienced agents will collaborate closely with you to understand your needs and find the best health plan options for your business and employees. Reach out to us today to explore your small business group insurance options and get a quote.
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Latest News in Kiawah Island, SC
Miniature golf course proposed for Folly Road, while LoveShackFancy plants roots near Kiawah
Jenny Peterson jpeterson@postandcourier.comhttps://www.postandcourier.com/business/retail/putt-putt-proposed-for-james-island-sc/article_151d9586-addf-4e9b-a478-c7b21f6b3483.html
A miniature golf course with an onsite restaurant and bar has been proposed for a busy corner on James Island.The lot at Folly Road and Grimball Road Extension is currently empty and surrounded by a chain-link fence. It's across from Spyglass Seaside, a resort-style apartment complex.Plans have been submitted to transform the property into a development called Community Corner, which would include a miniature golf course with a restaurant, bar and retail space ...
A miniature golf course with an onsite restaurant and bar has been proposed for a busy corner on James Island.
The lot at Folly Road and Grimball Road Extension is currently empty and surrounded by a chain-link fence. It's across from Spyglass Seaside, a resort-style apartment complex.
Plans have been submitted to transform the property into a development called Community Corner, which would include a miniature golf course with a restaurant, bar and retail space on nearly three acres. The applicant is Grimball Corner Investments LLC.
The developer is looking to incorporate 114 parking spaces, most of which would be on another parcel across Grimball Road Extension. There is an existing traffic signal at the intersection, and sidewalks would be added to both sides of the property, renderings show.
The area is zoned for limited business, which allows for a variety of commercial uses and services that are compatible with residential areas.
Charleston’s Technical Review Committee, a staff-level look at site plans, considered Community Corner on Jan. 16. The city asked the owner to revise and resubmit plans based on concerns about stormwater runoff, flooding, traffic and other issues.
Charles Wilson of Grimball Corner Investments declined to comment about the development.
Pop-up no more
Think pink. Lots of it, in every shade.
That's what shoppers of Freshfields Village can expect when LoveShackFancy transitions from a pop-up to a permanent boutique at the Kiawah Island retail center.
New York City-based lifestyle brand was founded in 2013 by stylist, designer and creative director Rebecca Hessel Cohen who wanted to revel in the beauty of a rose-colored world.
The new Charleston area store offers an expanded selection of its uber-feminine women’s fashion and accessories, as well as perfume bedding and a children's collection.
In 2018, Cohen opened opened her first Charleston storefront at 218 King St. She now operates 20 stores throughout the U.S., from California to New York, and the United Kingdom.
Nearby in Freshfields Village, Café Eugenia, a to-go café and gourmet market, is expanding to a space next door and will be offering cooking classes and specialty workshops.
StretchLab, an assisted stretching studio, also opened 164 Gardeners Circle in the outdoor retail center. The studio offers help with increased mobility, improved posture and injury prevention through one-on-one stretch sessions for all fitness levels.
The franchise previously held a popup at the shopping center offering 15 minute demonstrations.
Another StretchLab is currently open on 151 Market St. in downtown Charleston.
Bank note
An Alabama lender has cut the ribbon on a new branch at 319 North Cedar St. in Summerville.
The site is the second in the Charleston area for Birmingham-based ServisFirst Bank, which for years has had an office in The Cigar Factory at 701 East Bay St. on the peninsula.
The Flowertown outpost will have 10 employees and features a drive-thru.
Coast-to-coast
Southern California lifestyle brand Jenni Kayne is making its Palmetto State debut on Charleston's busiest retail corridor.
The West Hollywood company said it plans to open its first retail location in the state on April 12 at 364 King St., between Calhoun Street and Burns Lane.
The 2,340-square-foot parcel will stock a full range of Jenni Kayne's coastal-inspired products, including apparel, accessories and décor. The store will also carry Oak Essentials, the founder's clean skincare line.
Drink up
A New Orleans-style restaurant in North Charleston is angling to add beer and liquor to its menu offerings.
The Seafood Pot recently applied to the S.C. Department of Revenue for on-site consumption of adult beverages in its Gas Lite Square location at 5629 Rivers Ave.
Taco 'bout Nexton
The Mexican-style restaurant El Patron Nexton is preparing to open and recently submitted an application to sell beer, wine and liquor at its at future Marketplace at Nexton space at 422 Cross Park Lane.
Premier Building Construction posted a sneak peek of the progress with floor-to-ceiling glazed overhead doors. The 2,900 square-foot restaurant will have indoor and outdoor bars and dining space.
A new chapter
A dark academia-inspired coffee shop and bookstore will officially open April 12 in Mount Pleasant.
Patrons of The Archive can buy a book, sit at the bar and enjoy a cocktail or mocktail, coffee, pastries and more in its corner spot at 700 Shelmore Blvd., near Mathis Ferry Road and the I'On neighborhood.
The store tailors to a subgenre of romance books and thrillers typically set in schools or secret societies, but will have something for everyone, owner Amanda Badeau said.
Enviro-outlet
Tanger Outlets in North Charleston will hold an Earth Day event April 19 from noon-3 p.m. with live music, native plant and bouquets sales, and a free gardening class. There will also be critters from the S.C. Aquarium, local vendors and hands-on workshops about protecting the environment.
Absolute Dinosaur Of An Alligator Struts Across The Kiawah Ocean Course Like it Owns The Place (It Does)
Cass Andersonhttps://brobible.com/sports/article/12-foot-alligator-kiaway-island-ocean-course-south-carolina-spotted/
The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island is among the most famous golf courses in America and golfers fork over an arm and a leg to play it with tee times going for $600 per golfer. With that, golfers get the chance to play the same course which has hosted PGA Championships won by Rory McIlroy and Phil Mickelson, and it will host again in 2031, but Kiaway golfers also get to cross paths with prehistoric alligators.I’m a born-and-raised Floridian. Alligators don’t phase me. I see ...
The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island is among the most famous golf courses in America and golfers fork over an arm and a leg to play it with tee times going for $600 per golfer. With that, golfers get the chance to play the same course which has hosted PGA Championships won by Rory McIlroy and Phil Mickelson, and it will host again in 2031, but Kiaway golfers also get to cross paths with prehistoric alligators.
I’m a born-and-raised Floridian. Alligators don’t phase me. I see gators quite literally every day as there is either one in the lake in my backyard or if it’s not there it’s in the pond across the street and I pass it while walking my dog. And I’ve seen some MASSIVE alligators in Florida, don’t get me wrong, it’s just rare to see anything as large as this alligator walking across the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island.
The viral video below was shared by @Top100Rick aka ‘Rick Golfs’ who maintains a very popular list of the ‘Top 100 Courses’ across America. He says a friend shared this video of the Kiawah Island alligator walking across the Ocean Course right in front of them like it owned the place.
Insane crocodile at the Kiawah Ocean Course! Props to the cameraman for getting close.
For a $600 green fee, you not only get to shoot a 103, but you get to meet this specimen!
My buddy sent me this. They literally walked right by him and then he crossed over the tee box… pic.twitter.com/YDaCAcQ63k
— Rick Golfs (@Top100Rick) April 2, 2025
Many have pointed out that he mistakenly called the animal a ‘crocodile’ and crocodiles only exist in the United States in South Florida, most certainly not in South Carolina. This true. It is an alligator. But you can look at the snout to see that.
As a Floridian, it is a little comical how many times over the years I’ve written about alligators in South Carolina in and around the Kiawah Island area. But over the years I’ve come to realize that the ‘low country’ is home to some of the largest alligators in the country. Whatever they’re putting in the water there (small sharks, redfish, turtles, etc) is keeping those gators nice and plump.
That alligator above reminded me of another one from nearby Fripp Island, just a little south down the coast, that is (was?) locally known as ‘General Sherman’ due to its massive size:
A 12-foot-long alligator was spotted crossing hole #4 at the Ocean Point Golf Links at Fripp Island–making its way to a nearby pond pic.twitter.com/tYKKhj4HyA
— World News Tonight (@ABCWorldNews) June 4, 2017
The Kiawah Island alligators will bite too, if provoked. A woman was killed by an alligator a handful of years ago when she tried to pet the gator while visiting a friend on Kiawah.
Mount Pleasant medical campus sells for $7M while Kiawah kicks off a new community
Teri Errico Griffis tegriffis@postandcourier.comhttps://www.postandcourier.com/business/charleston-sc-medical-roper-mount-pleasant-kiawah-island-ocean-pines/article_8c1fbb9c-f9e3-11ef-9bf2-43dc35939911.html
A real estate investment firm in Charleston has purchased a Mount Pleasant medical campus for $7 million.Reade Partners, co-founded by Matthew Campbell, Steve Kleiman and Michael Levine, acquired the property at 594 Lone Tree Drive as its looks to expand its portfolio in the region....
A real estate investment firm in Charleston has purchased a Mount Pleasant medical campus for $7 million.
Reade Partners, co-founded by Matthew Campbell, Steve Kleiman and Michael Levine, acquired the property at 594 Lone Tree Drive as its looks to expand its portfolio in the region.
The site near I-526 and Long Point Road is home to eight tenants, including health care providers Roper St. Francis, ATI Physical Therapy and Plastic Surgery of the Carolinas.
The East Cooper acquisition is the firm’s first foray into the Lowcountry medical real estate market.
"The campus is really, really well-located in Mount Pleasant," Levine said. "We're super bullish about the location and the growth of Mount Pleasant, which continues to explode."
Levine said the firm purchased the property at a basis of $300 per-square-foot, which is below replacement cost.
"It was already yielding good returns," he said, adding Reade Partners plans to streamline management and renovate the building.
All tenants will continue to operate under their leases.
In addition to the Mount Pleasant offices, Reade Partners also owns a six-unit multifamily property at 30-40 Isabella St. in Charleston they purchased for $1.8 million in 2023. They renovated the units for a roughly $4 million total investment. The seller was 30 Isabella Street LLC, which had owned the property for nine years.
"We're focused on multi-development, redevelopment, as well as larger office and medical office assets," Levine said.
Reade's partners hail from New York and Florida and have a mix of construction and financial backgrounds. Levine previously constructed office buildings in New York while Kleiman's family has built several multifamily residences in Florida and owns a number of medical offices there.
Looking ahead, Reade Partners plans to continue its growth by deploying capital into multifamily development and value add opportunities, as well as larger office investments.
Coming to Kiawah
A new luxury residential development is getting underway on Kiawah Island.
Ocean Pines in the West Beach area will feature 69 homes across seven building at prices starting at $2.4 million. Units will be available in two- to four-bedroom floorplans.
The first phase release call for 30 residences, with prices based on the layout plans and views.
Sales will be exclusively through Kiawah Island Real Estate. Memberships to the Kiawah Island Club are available to buyers.
The architecture is led by Amanda Mole, chief of architecture and design for Kiawah Partners, and Mark Permar, master land planner for the island.
Office setup
A College of Charleston graduate has leased out space downtown for his newly formed financial planning firm.
Hudnall Capital Advisors, founded by Ry Hudnall, plans to open its offices at 134 Meeting St. by the end of the month.
Hudnall is a 2002 graduate of CofC's business program and most recently was president and CEO of Mass Mutual South Carolina. His new venture will provide concierge level financial planning for clients nationwide.
Its future work space is in a 71,947-square-foot building built in 1987 in the peninsula's financial and legal district. An affiliate of Illinois-based Highland Ventures acquired the property, which has a long-term ground lease, for $23.75 million about five years ago. Other tenants include two law firms, K&L Gates and Haynsworth Sinkler & Boyd.
Rents on the rise
Charleston rents rose 0.5 percent from January to February compared to a 0.3 percent increase nationwide, according to research by rental curator Apartment List.
Year over year, rents are down 0.3 percent for the area.
Today the median rent in Charleston is $1,433 for a one-bedroom unit and $1,680 for a two-bedroom unit. Citywide apartment vacancy rate stands at 8.1 percent, down slightly from a year ago.
The national median rent of $1,375 is about 0.4 percent lower than 12 months ago.
7 Incredible Vacation Spots In South Carolina
WorldAtlashttps://www.worldatlas.com/places/7-incredible-vacation-spots-in-south-carolina.html
With spring right around the corner, South Carolina residents can feel the days growing warmer and the sun shining brighter. If this wonderful weather has gotten you in the mood to travel, you will not have to go far. In fact, some of the state’s most incredible destinations are right in your backyard. Whether you want to savor fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant, chase waterfalls in the mountains, or spot rare birds in a coa...
With spring right around the corner, South Carolina residents can feel the days growing warmer and the sun shining brighter. If this wonderful weather has gotten you in the mood to travel, you will not have to go far. In fact, some of the state’s most incredible destinations are right in your backyard. Whether you want to savor fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant, chase waterfalls in the mountains, or spot rare birds in a coastal wildlife refuge, these seven vacation spots promise an unforgettable getaway this year.
Edisto Island
Although Edisto Island is just over 40 miles from Charleston, it offers a complete change of pace, filled with serene beaches and rustic shops. Edisto Beach State Park, for example, is one of the state’s quietest beach parks, spanning 1,255 acres and featuring beautiful beaches and trails that stretch through maritime forests, salt marshes, and palmetto trees. Those looking to camp can do so at the park’s Live Oak Campground as well. Botany Bay, a coastal wildlife management area, is a great place to watch wildlife, home to species like the threatened least tern, loggerhead sea turtles, and neo-tropical songbirds. While Edisto Island does not have a shopping district, there are several local shops worth checking out. For a souvenir made by a local artisan, travelers can stop by With These Hands Gallery, which sells paintings, pottery, jewelry, vases, and more.
Murrells Inlet
Affectionately referred to as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina”, Murrells Inlet is the ultimate travel destination for food lovers. The MarshWalk is the perfect place to grab some fresh seafood, lined with waterfront restaurants. The Claw House, along the walk, features a waterfront patio and serves fresh oysters, shrimp, crabs, and other flavorful seafood dishes. Those wanting to lounge on the beach can visit Huntington Beach State Park, a 2,500-acre nature reserve with a pristine beach, 170 campsites, and three picnic shelters. For a waterfront stay, travelers can spend the night at Murrells Inlet Bed & Breakfast, which sits right along the inlet waterways. You may even spot an egret gliding by as you sip on your morning coffee on the porch!
Kiawah Island
Home to the famed Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Kiawah Island is the ideal vacation destination for a weekend of golfing, wellness, and relaxation. Those looking to spend their time golfing can choose from five resort courses which have hosted the prestigious 2012 and 2021 PGA Championships. The resort also offers 10 miles of private sandy shoreline, a highly rated spa, resort villas, and an oceanfront hotel so that you never need to leave the premises! However, if you want to explore other parts of the island, consider dining at one of its upscale restaurants, like FortyEight - Wine Bar & Kitchen, which has a selection of 48 wines by the glass, craft beers, and seasonal menus. For a taste of Kiawah Island’s art scene, travelers can check out the town’s event calendar, which includes events like piano bar performances, blues festivals, and film screenings.
Walhalla
Unlike coastal towns like Edisto Island and Murrells Inlet, Walhalla offers a mountain experience surrounded by forests and waterfalls. Waterfall lovers won’t want to miss Issaqueena Falls, a stunning 100-foot cascade fed by Cane Creek. The hike to view the fall is less than half a mile long. Next to the falls, Stumphouse Mountain Bike Park offers 14 miles of trails suitable for all skill levels. Even beginners can enjoy features like rollers, big berms, rock gardens, and tables. After exploring the area’s natural beauty, travelers can head back into town and take a stroll along Main Street before popping into one of the cozy local restaurants. Pete's Drive-In is a local favorite with a 1950s atmosphere, featuring records on the walls, checkered floors, and retro booths and chairs.
Travelers Rest
Located in the northwestern part of the state, Travelers Rest is situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The town is also one of the state’s most bike-friendly towns, so make sure to bring your bike! The Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail is the perfect place to bike, a 22-mile greenway that runs from Main Street to the neighboring town of Greenville. Along the trail, travelers will find trailside restaurants, park benches, and gazebos, giving you plenty of places to rest. The Poinsett Bridge is an interesting historic landmark to check out. This bridge, made of stone, is the oldest in the state, dating back to 1820. If you want to spend the night in town, consider reserving a night or two in the Swamp Rabbit Inn, a modern bed and breakfast that is located along Main Street.
Sullivan's Island
Sullivan’s Island, at the mouth of Charleston Harbor, is the perfect beach getaway for Charleston locals. For a day of swimming and sunbathing, travelers can enjoy Sullivan’s Island Beach, which offers 2.5 miles of sandy beaches. Fort Moultrie also lies on Sullivan’s Island, a Revolutionary War Fort that played a major role in defeating the Royal Navy in 1776. There are several local restaurants in town to try out. If you are craving seafood, Sullivan's Seafood & Bar is a great option, established in 1988 and serving everything from shrimp to snapper. If you're in the mood for South Carolina-style barbecue, Home Team Barbecue offers pulled pork, brisket, sausage, and wings.
Hilton Head Island
Known as 'America’s Favorite Island,' Hilton Head is one of the state's top travel destinations. In addition to spending the day on the beach, visitors can partake in a variety of water activities. Those wanting to go kayaking or paddleboarding can reserve a guided tour or rental with Island Water Sports. The Sea Pines Resort is another excellent way to appreciate the island’s nature, spanning 605 acres and featuring boardwalks, fishing docks, and bridges to explore the scenic wetlands. The island also has an exciting art scene to explore. If you enjoy live performances, make sure to check out the schedule for the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, which frequently hosts musicals and plays.
Final Thoughts
South Carolinians are fortunate to have so many beautiful destinations so close to home. Not only is the state home to some incredible islands, but towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains also offer ample places to go hiking or mountain biking. Whether you prefer to spend your vacation relaxing on a beach or hiking on a remote forest trail, you can rest assured that these vacation spots will leave you feeling rested and rejuvenated.
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