Kiawah Island Map

Description: This map shows streets, roads, beaches, rivers, lakes, buildings, golf courses, and trails on Kiawah Island.

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

Kiawah Island is a barrier island located in Charleston County, South Carolina, United States. The island is situated approximately 25 miles southwest of Charleston and spans about 10 miles in length. It is part of the Sea Islands chain along the Atlantic coast.

Geography and Climate

The island encompasses approximately 13 square miles of land area. Kiawah Island features 10 miles of beach shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean. The island's geography is characterized by maritime forests, salt marshes, and tidal creeks. The climate is subtropical, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F in winter to 80°F in summer.

History

The island takes its name from the Kiawah people, a Native American tribe that inhabited the area. European settlement began in the late 17th century. In 1699, Captain George Raynor received the island as a land grant. The island was subsequently used for indigo and cotton plantations during the colonial and antebellum periods.

In 1950, C.C. Royal purchased the island and used it primarily for timber production. The Kuwaiti Investment Corporation acquired Kiawah Island in 1974 and began its development as a resort destination.

Development and Golf

Kiawah Island is home to five championship golf courses. The Ocean Course, designed by Pete Dye and opened in 1991, hosted the 1991 Ryder Cup, the 2012 PGA Championship, and the 2021 PGA Championship. Other courses include Turtle Point, Osprey Point, Oak Point, and Cougar Point.

The island features a mix of resort accommodations and private residential properties. The Kiawah Island Golf Resort serves as the primary hospitality facility.

Wildlife and Conservation

The island supports diverse wildlife populations, including loggerhead sea turtles, bottlenose dolphins, and numerous bird species. White-tailed deer, alligators, and bobcats are among the terrestrial wildlife present. Kiawah Island has conservation programs focused on protecting sea turtle nesting sites and preserving natural habitats. Approximately 30 miles of paved trails and boardwalks provide access to natural areas while minimizing environmental impact.

Demographics

Kiawah Island was incorporated as a town in 1988. According to the 2020 United States Census, the permanent population was 2,013 residents. The population increases significantly during peak tourist seasons.

Main sights in Kiawah Island