Ten more reasons to book your Charleston, South Carolina, vacation now.

Some of the Holy City’s greatest assets, though, aren’t actually within the city limits.

Pack the sunscreen and load the car because the scenic beaches near Charleston are a gem.

Kiawah Island

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You won’t find ultra-crowded beaches, just a quiet spot to relax and soak up the sunshine.

The smooth sand, cool water, and near-perfect weather will make you think you’ve found pure bliss.

Here, find our guide to the sun-drenched beaches that are just a quick drive from the Charleston Peninsula.

Folly Beach, South Carolina

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They’re worth the detour.

Be sure to stop byPoe’s Tavernon Middle Street for a killer burger before you head back toward town.

Flip-flops and salty hair are always welcome on the front porch.

Isle of Palms

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Edisto Island

About 60 miles from Charleston, Edisto Beach’s unspoiled coastline makes it worth the drive.

Stay beachside for a dreamy vacation, or take a day trip from Charleston.

For photography buffs, view the lighthouse from the shores of Folly Beach.

Seabrook Island, SC boats at marina

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This barrier island packs a lot into its four-mile stretch.

There’s shelling, fishing, and crabbing to be done.

Sign up for surfing lessonssome of the best waves are nearPawleys Island Pier.

Sullivan’s Island

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Reach this undeveloped island by chartered boat, or take akayak tourto learn about the area’s ecosystem.

Sullivan’s Island Beach is a three-mile-long barrier island with free street parking on one side.

According toExplore Charleston, Charleston, South Carolina, highlights five main beach towns.

Bulls Island, South Carolina

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Each has distinctive characteristics and activities.

Edisto Beach, South Carolina

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folly-beach-charleston

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Pawley’s Island, South Carolina

The beautiful undeveloped beaches ofPawley’s Islandare an idyllic spot to hunt for jingle shells, lettered olives, or the perfectly striped banded tulip shells. The nature center at Huntington Beach State Park can teach curious minds about the inhabitants of those shells. If you want even more shell-finding opportunities, head to the nearby 312-acre Myrtle Beach State Park that lines the Grand Strand coast.Credit: hiramtom/Getty Images

Capers Island, Charleston, SC

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