Southern Living ranks S.C. islands

Columbia, S.C. — Southern Living magazine has released its readers’ picks for the best islands that can be found along the South Carolina coast, and Lowcountry locales dominated the list.

With 34 barrier and tidal islands dotted along the Palmetto State’s shoreline, there’s no shortage of favored destinations.

During the magazine’s “2024 South’s Best Awards,” readers had the opportunity to vote for the best islands in South Carolina, and 10 were selected.

Hilton Head Island was named as the best island in the state. “With 12 miles of public beaches, more than 24 championship golf courses, and around 250 restaurants, Hilton Head’s numerical stats alone prove why it’s one of the state’s most beloved islands,” Southern Living wrote.

“But the real magic, of course, belongs to its community — a mix of transplants and born-and-breds who are sure to make you feel right at home, whether you’re sampling local oysters at Hudson’s on the Docks or watching the boats come in at Shelter Cove Marina,” the magazine said.

The remainder of the South Carolina islands can be found throughout the southern half of the state, dotted around the Lowcountry region.

South Carolina islands

Southern Living’s readers selected the following islands to represent the best in the Palmetto State.

• 1. Hilton Head Island
• 2. Isle of Palms
• 3. Kiawah Island
• 4. Edisto Island
• 5. Sullivan’s Island
• 6. Folly Island
• 7. Hunting Island
• 8. Daufuskie Island
• 9. Fripp Island
• 10. Seabrook Island