Explore Johns Island: Scenic Trails, Wineries, and Iconic Landmarks
Johns Island, South Carolina, is a hidden gem just outside of Charleston, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and Southern charm. Known for its sprawling oak trees, peaceful marshes, and vibrant local culture, Johns Island is a haven for nature lovers, history buffs, and food enthusiasts alike. Visitors are drawn to landmarks like the iconic Angel Oak Tree, thought to be over 400 years old, as well as the island’s serene trails, charming wineries, and beautiful waterways that offer kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching opportunities. With close proximity to Charleston, Johns Island provides easy access to a wealth of historic sites and lively festivals while maintaining its own relaxed, rural character. Whether you're exploring outdoor adventures, enjoying local Lowcountry cuisine, or unwinding at scenic marinas, Johns Island has something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for a memorable getaway in the heart of the South.
1. Marvel at the Angel Oak Tree
One of Johns Island’s most iconic attractions, the Angel Oak Tree, is estimated to be over 400 years old and stands as one of the largest living oak trees in the United States. With massive limbs sprawling over 17,000 square feet, this Southern live oak is a spectacular sight and a beloved symbol of the region’s natural beauty. The tree’s majestic canopy creates a peaceful spot to reflect on nature’s resilience and history.
Why It’s a Must-See: The Angel Oak Tree offers a rare glimpse at one of the oldest living organisms in the region, inspiring awe with its enormous limbs and tranquil surroundings.
How to Get There: Located in Angel Oak Park, a short drive from the center of Johns Island.
Nearby Eats: Stop by Wild Olive, a renowned Italian bistro nearby, for delicious pasta dishes and farm-to-table ingredients after visiting the Angel Oak.
Local Tip: Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene beauty of the Angel Oak Tree in a quieter setting.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2. Enjoy Wine Tasting at Deep Water Vineyard
As South Carolina’s only winery and vineyard, Deep Water Vineyard offers a unique tasting experience featuring wines made from local muscadine grapes. Set on 48 acres of lush vineyards, this charming winery allows you to explore the grounds, sample wines, and learn about the winemaking process. Their Firefly Distillery, which produces local spirits, is also on-site for those interested in a variety of tastings.
Why It’s a Must-See: Deep Water Vineyard offers a distinct, Southern-inspired wine experience on a picturesque property, where visitors can enjoy muscadine wines and handcrafted spirits in one beautiful location.
How to Get There: Located on Bears Bluff Road, about a 15-minute drive from the heart of Johns Island.
Nearby Eats: Stop by the Fat Hen, a Lowcountry French restaurant just a short drive away, known for its creative dishes and cozy atmosphere.
Local Tip: Check their event calendar for seasonal festivals and tastings, which offer live music and local food trucks for a lively experience.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3. Explore the Trails at Kiawah River
The Kiawah River development on Johns Island provides a peaceful network of trails winding through scenic marshlands, ancient oak groves, and along the river’s edge. Perfect for hiking or biking, these trails offer a chance to experience Johns Island’s natural beauty up close, with a mix of stunning marsh views and quiet, shaded paths. Wildlife spotting is common, with opportunities to see deer, herons, and even dolphins near the water.
Why It’s a Must-See: These scenic trails showcase the coastal beauty of Johns Island, with picturesque marshes, ancient oaks, and abundant wildlife along the way.
How to Get There: Located off Betsy Kerrison Parkway, Kiawah River is easily accessible by car from Johns Island’s main areas.
Nearby Eats: Andell Inn’s Porch Bar & Kitchen offers excellent Southern-inspired dishes and cocktails, just a short drive from the Kiawah River trails.
Local Tip: Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the area is home to a variety of native and migratory birds.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4. Kayak the Lowcountry Waters
Explore Johns Island’s waterways with a kayak tour along the Stono River or Kiawah River, where you’ll paddle through winding tidal creeks and salt marshes. Local outfitters, like Coastal Expeditions and Charleston Outdoor Adventures, offer guided tours led by naturalists who provide insight into the area’s ecology, wildlife, and history. It’s a unique way to experience the island’s natural beauty, with potential sightings of dolphins, herons, and other coastal wildlife.
Why It’s a Must-See: Kayaking the Lowcountry’s tidal creeks and marshes provides an intimate experience with Johns Island’s coastal ecosystem and a chance to see local wildlife up close.
How to Get There: Tours depart from various points around Johns Island, often accessible by car from the main island areas.
Nearby Eats: Post-kayaking, try The Royal Tern, a seafood grill and oyster bar known for its fresh, local dishes and relaxed, upscale atmosphere.
Local Tip: Book a sunset tour for the best lighting and cooler temperatures—it’s a magical time to be on the water.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5. Discover History at the Charleston Tea Garden
The Charleston Tea Garden, located on nearby Wadmalaw Island, is the only tea plantation in North America, making it a unique and fascinating day trip from Johns Island. Visitors can take trolley tours through the tea fields, observe the tea-making process, and sample fresh teas. Learn about the plantation’s history, the art of tea growing, and see some of the original tea plants imported from China.
Why It’s a Must-See: The Charleston Tea Garden offers a rare experience to see a working tea plantation, learn about tea production, and enjoy the lush fields and southern charm.
How to Get There: About a 25-minute drive from Johns Island, accessible via Maybank Highway to Wadmalaw Island.
Nearby Eats: Enjoy farm-fresh cuisine at The Tomato Shed Café, where you’ll find hearty, homestyle dishes and seasonal ingredients from nearby farms.
Local Tip: Pick up a tin of fresh tea at the gift shop as a unique souvenir of your visit to the only tea plantation in North America.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
6. Visit Johns Island County Park
Johns Island County Park offers miles of wooded trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as spacious picnic areas. The park’s 738 acres provide diverse landscapes, including dense oak groves, open fields, and marsh views, making it a favorite for nature lovers and families. The park also has an equestrian center, so you can explore on horseback for a unique perspective on the island’s natural beauty.
Why It’s a Must-See: This park combines beautiful, shaded trails with marsh views and offers unique activities like horseback riding, making it a great family-friendly destination.
How to Get There: Located on Mullet Hall Road, just off River Road, a short drive from central Johns Island.
Nearby Eats: Trophy Lakes Café, located nearby, offers quick bites and refreshments, perfect for a snack before or after exploring the park.
Local Tip: Bring a camera—sunset is especially beautiful in the park, with golden light filtering through the oak trees.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
7. Shop and Dine at Freshfields Village
Freshfields Village, located at the entrance of Kiawah Island, is a charming shopping and dining district. It features boutiques, galleries, and a variety of dining options in a walkable, village-like setting. During winter, Freshfields Village hosts holiday events, making it a festive spot to explore seasonal decorations, live music, and holiday markets.
Why It’s a Must-See: With local boutiques, restaurants, and seasonal events, Freshfields Village is a charming spot to shop, dine, and enjoy a day out.
How to Get There: Located at the crossroads of Johns, Kiawah, and Seabrook Islands, about a 10-minute drive from Johns Island.
Nearby Eats: Hege’s Restaurant offers French-inspired cuisine using locally sourced ingredients and is perfect for an elegant meal after shopping.
Local Tip: Check the events calendar, as Freshfields often hosts live music, farmers’ markets, and seasonal activities.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
8. Discover Hidden Gems at Bohicket Marina
Bohicket Marina, between Johns and Seabrook Islands, offers a scenic waterfront spot with shops, restaurants, and water activities. Walk along the docks, watch for dolphins, and enjoy views of the marsh and river. It’s a perfect spot for relaxing by the water or launching a fishing, kayaking, or boating adventure in the Lowcountry waters.
Why It’s a Must-See: Bohicket Marina combines beautiful marsh views, waterfront dining, and a range of outdoor activities, making it an ideal stop for a day on the water.
How to Get There: Located off Betsy Kerrison Parkway, Bohicket Marina is about a 15-minute drive from Johns Island.
Nearby Eats: Head to Salty Dog Café, a relaxed restaurant with seafood classics and outdoor seating with marsh views.
Local Tip: Arrive at sunset for some of the best views over the water and marshlands—an ideal spot for evening photography.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
9. Tour Historic Sites in Downtown Charleston
Just a short drive from Johns Island, downtown Charleston offers a mix of history, culture, and Southern charm. Walk down cobblestone streets, explore historic homes and gardens, and tour sites like Fort Sumter, the Old Exchange, and Charleston City Market. Winter is an ideal time to visit, as the mild weather and lighter crowds make for a pleasant day trip.
Why It’s a Must-See: Charleston’s historic district is one of the country’s most charming and well-preserved, offering a rich blend of Southern history, architecture, and unique cultural experiences.
How to Get There: A 20-minute drive northeast from Johns Island via Maybank Highway.
Nearby Eats: Try Husk, a famed Charleston restaurant that reimagines Southern classics with fresh, local ingredients.
Local Tip: Take a carriage tour for an informative and scenic way to explore Charleston’s historic streets and landmarks.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
10. Golf at the Links on Seabrook Island
For golf enthusiasts, the courses at Seabrook Island offer beautiful, challenging greens with ocean and marsh views. The Ocean Winds and Crooked Oaks courses, designed by Willard Byrd and Robert Trent Jones, make the most of the island’s natural beauty. Winter is an ideal season to golf here, as the mild weather offers pleasant conditions.
Why It’s a Must-See: Seabrook Island’s courses provide a unique golfing experience with stunning ocean views, lush landscapes, and top-notch facilities.
How to Get There: A short drive south on Betsy Kerrison Parkway from Johns Island.
Nearby Eats: The Pelican’s Nest, located on Seabrook Island, offers waterfront dining with seafood dishes and a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
Local Tip: Check availability in advance, as these courses are popular year-round, especially during weekends.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Johns Island offers a truly unique mix of quiet natural landscapes, historic charm, and vibrant local experiences. From exploring centuries-old oak trees to kayaking through peaceful waters and tasting Lowcountry wines, there’s no shortage of memorable activities to enjoy. Whether you're drawn to the island’s natural beauty, rich history, or laid-back atmosphere, Johns Island promises an unforgettable experience with a touch of Southern hospitality.
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