Island Life
Island Insights
The History of Kiawah & More
The long, lovely stretch of land known as Kiawah Island has a unique physique and a storied history. Ten miles long and a mile and a half wide at its widest point, the first historical accounts of homo sapiens settling on the Island were in the 17th century. Even then, those who came here knew that this was a magical place. It remains so to this day. Our timeline highlights some of Kiawah’s most illustrious events of the past, followed by some facts about the Island that we so enjoy today.
Wish You Were Here: Our Lowcountry Location
Kiawah is a part of Charleston County and getting to the Island is easy. A causeway weaving through a stunning stretch of Lowcountry terrain joins the private Island to the mainland. Kiawah is a quick, 33-mile trip from Charleston International Airport (CHS), and only 10 miles from Charleston Executive Airport (JZI).
Sunny Side Up: Kiawah Weather
Year-round connection with nature comes standard on Kiawah Island. The weather is enviably temperate, with an average high temperature of 60 degrees Fahrenheit in winter and an average high temperature of 85 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer months. Typically, the coldest month is January, the warmest is July, and the rainiest is August.
Kiawah Government
The town of Kiawah was incorporated in 1988. Its primary aim is providing a responsive local government and maintaining local control of available, existing technical services by interfacing with boards and committees. The town operates as a Mayor-Council form of government.
Nice to Meet You: The Kiawah Population
Kiawah Island’s full-time resident population is approximately 2,000, with tourist and part-time resident population numbers ranging between 8,000 to 10,000 per day during the summer. The median age is 62 years old.
Explore Island Life
On the Water
H2OMG! With ten miles of gorgeous Atlantic shoreline, the shimmering Kiawah River, ribboning waterways, and tranquil lagoons, the Island is an everyday celebration of life in flow motion.
Out & About
From fairways to Freshfields, from Charleston to churches, Kiawah’s ideal location places residents in the heart of the Lowcountry and its most celebrated offerings.
Within Nature
The neighbors get a little wild on Kiawah—and we love it. With so many species of mammals, reptiles, and birds residing here, we’re dedicated to making sure they always feel at home.