Winter on the Isle of Palms (near Charleston) is all about coastal charm, cooler breezes, and a peaceful atmosphere that feels worlds away from the summer crowds. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, festive events, or simple relaxation, the island offers plenty to enjoy during the cooler months.

Explore the Waterways and Wildlife

Winter brings migrating waterfowl to the marshes and tidal creeks around Isle of Palms. Look for species like Lesser Scaup, White-winged Scoter, Red-breasted Merganser, Common Loons, Horned Grebes, Bonaparte’s Gull, and Palm Warblers. In nearby Lowcountry preserves, you may also spot blue-winged and green-winged teal, canvasback, ruddy duck, and ring-necked duck. These birds are drawn to the wetlands in winter because the water remains ice free and food is plentiful. Dolphins are also frequently spotted in cooler months, and local eco-tour boat rides take you through marshes and waterways where you can see them along with coastal birds and other wildlife.

Tee Off with Ocean Views

For golf enthusiasts, Isle of Palms offers the chance to play world-class courses with a backdrop of sweeping coastal scenery. The Links Course at Wild Dunes is open year-round, and winter’s cooler weather makes it one of the most comfortable times to enjoy 18 holes. With fewer crowds, you can take your time and soak up the views of the Atlantic while perfecting your swing. Also, be the first to golf on the soon-to-open transformed Harbor golf course which has just been updated with $9.5 million worth of improvements. Both courses offer golfers a chance to play on Tom Fazio’s premier golf courses.

Local Dining and Winter Seasonal Flavors

Winter brings bountiful local seafood, especially oysters, which shine in cold months due to clear water and peak freshness. Many restaurants highlight oysters, shrimp, and hearty Lowcountry stews on their menus during the season. This area has a strong oyster farm-to-table culture, and visitors should be on the lookout for oysters specific to the region such as:

• Caper’s Blades- Harvested from nearby Capers Island, these oysters are prized for their clean, salty flavor and deep cups filled with the oyster’s signature salty brine.
• Beaufort Oyster- From the waters around Beaufort, these oysters are plump, meaty, and briny, often highlighted on Charleston-area raw bar menus.
• Seabreeze or Shem Creek Oysters- Locally farmed near Mount Pleasant’s Shem Creek, these oysters are known for a balanced salinity and slightly sweet finish.

Beyond the raw bar, winter also marks the height of oyster roast season in the Lowcountry. At these traditional gatherings, clusters of local oysters are steamed under wet burlap sacks and then poured onto long tables where everyone digs in together. Pair them with hot sauce, saltines, or cocktail sauce, and you’ve got one of the most authentic Isle of Palms experiences of the season.

Cast a Line

Winter fishing in Isle of Palms is especially rewarding. Redfish are active and form large schools, and anglers also target trout, sheepshead, and black drum. Surf fishing often yields redfish and whiting on mild days. For a guided experience, charter companies such as Knot Stressed Inshore Charters, Headshaker Charters, and Capt. Ben Alderman’s Fly and Light Tackle Charters operate throughout the winter and provide excellent opportunities to reel in inshore favorites.

Seasonal Events Not to Miss

• Harvest Festival at Wild Dunes Resort Wednesday, November 26 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Celebrate autumn with a fall-inspired menu, carnival games, a petting zoo, and a bounce house.
• Holiday Street Festival at Front Beach Saturday, December 6, 2025 from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The island transforms into a festive hub with live entertainment, arts and crafts, food vendors, photos with Santa, and the annual holiday tree lighting.
• New Year’s Eve Glow Party at Wild Dunes Resort Wednesday, December 31 from 9:00 pm to 12:30 am. A family-friendly neon glow celebration with a DJ, desserts, and glowing décor. Adults 21 and older can enjoy an open bar to toast the New Year.

Where to Stay in Isle of Palms

For a seamless and memorable winter stay, Wild Dunes Vacation Rentals is the ideal choice for larger groups and families. Traveling is easy for guests as the Isle of Palms is located in Charleston. The vacation rentals offer exclusive access to the full amenities of Wild Dunes Resort. Enjoy the private barrier island from your own vacation home rental, with 1-7 bedroom options available. Guests will experience diverse views and full access to the resort amenities, including 24-hour customer service, heated pools, fitness centers, golf and racquet facilities, and all of the incredible food and retail options at Wild Dunes Resort. Guests escaping the cold weather should ask about long-term stay rates. Staying at Wild Dunes means enjoying comfort, convenience, and direct access to the best of Isle of Palms while being in the heart of the action.