Dewees Island Map

Description:

Description: This map shows where island is located in South Carolina.

Dewees Island is a barrier island located approximately 11 miles northeast of Charleston, South Carolina. It spans approximately 1,200 acres (486 hectares) and is accessible only by ferry or private boat, as there are no bridges connecting it to the mainland. The island is situated between the Isle of Palms to the south and Capers Island to the north, with the Intracoastal Waterway on its western side and the Atlantic Ocean on its eastern shore.

The island is privately owned and operates as a low-density, environmentally planned residential community with strict conservation guidelines. Development is limited to 150 homesites across the island, with the remaining land preserved as natural habitat. There are no commercial establishments, restaurants, or retail stores on the island. Golf carts and bicycles serve as the primary modes of transportation, as cars are prohibited except for service and emergency vehicles. The island maintains a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, with approximately two-thirds of its land dedicated as a conservation area.

Dewees Island features diverse ecosystems including maritime forest, salt marshes, tidal creeks, freshwater ponds, and dunes. The island is home to abundant wildlife, including alligators, deer, raccoons, and numerous bird species. The Dewees Island Conservancy, established in 1992, oversees environmental education programs and conservation efforts across the island.

The island's beaches stretch for approximately 2.5 miles along the Atlantic Ocean and remain undeveloped, offering pristine shoreline for residents and visitors. Dewees Inlet Beach, located at the northern end of the island, is known for excellent shelling opportunities and bird watching. The island has no formal settlements but rather scattered residential homes built according to strict environmental guidelines that minimize impact on the natural landscape.

Historically, Dewees Island was used by Native Americans for seasonal hunting and fishing before European settlement. It was later utilized for cattle ranching and timber harvesting during the 18th and 19th centuries. The island is named after Dennis Dewees, who purchased the property in the early 1800s. Modern development of the island as a conservation-focused residential community began in the 1970s, with careful planning to preserve its natural character. Today, the island offers a unique living experience that balances limited human habitation with environmental preservation, making it one of the most ecologically conscious developments along the South Carolina coast.