Summer on Isle of Palms brings more than just sunny beach days — it’s a season filled with festivals, live music, beach races, fireworks, and unforgettable cultural experiences. Whether staying right by the shore or exploring nearby Charleston and neighboring islands, there's something exciting happening every week.
Here’s your guide to the top events and activities to experience during your summer getaway.
Music on the Green at Freshfields Village
Every Friday night from May through August, Freshfields Village (about a 30-minute scenic drive from Isle of Palms) hosts free outdoor concerts featuring regional bands. Bring chairs or a blanket, enjoy a picnic, and dance under the stars. 6p-9p.
Isle of Palms Farmers Market
Discover the island's local flavor every Third Thursday afternoon. Fresh produce, handmade crafts, baked goods, and live music make this a must-visit.
- Where: Isle of Palms Recreation Center, 24 28th Ave.
- When: June 19, July 17, August 21, 4-7p.
Sea Turtle Nesting Walks
Isle of Palms is an important nesting site for loggerhead turtles. During summer mornings, volunteer-led turtle patrols monitor nests and sometimes offer public nest excavations. A memorable and meaningful experience for nature lovers of all ages.
Beach Yoga Classes
Start the day with sunrise yoga right on the sand — a peaceful way to stretch, breathe, and connect with the coast.
- What it is: Outdoor yoga classes held right on the beach, open to all levels.
- Where: Beach access points near Front Beach (25th Beach Access).
- When: Tuesdays at 7:30a
- Vibe: Relaxing, active, family-friendly, very casual.
Isle of Palms Independence Day Golf Cart Parade
Kick off the Fourth of July with a festive parade of decked-out golf carts.
- Where: Parade route starts at 4th and Ocean Blvd. & ends at 2nd and Palm Blvd.
- When: July 4, 10a
- Cost: Free to watch or participate (registration encouraged for entries).
4th of July Fireworks at Front Beach
Celebrate Independence Day with a dazzling fireworks show over the Atlantic Ocean. The fireworks launch from the beach behind Isle of Palms County Park around 9 PM.
- Where: Front Beach, Isle of Palms County Park, 14th Ave.
- Cost: Free (parking fees apply).
- Pro Tip: Skip the crowds — reserve a private beach spot at the Seaside Sparks Event at Wild Dunes for a spectacular (and more peaceful) viewing experience.
Water Adventures at Isle of Palms Marina
From eco tours to thrilling water sports, the Isle of Palms Marina is the starting point for all kinds of coastal fun. Join Barrier Island Eco Tours for dolphin-watching, crabbing, and sunset cruises led by expert naturalists, or rent kayaks, paddleboards, and jet skis for your own adventure on the water.
Isle of Palms Beach Run
The Isle of Palms Beach Run invites runners of all ages for a 5K or 10K race right on the sand, plus a Youth Fun Run.
- Where: Start/Finish Line are on the beach behind the Windjammer. (1008 Ocean Blvd.)
- When: July 19th at 8a
- Distances: 5K, 10K, and Youth Fun Run.
Where to Stay: Wild Dunes Vacation Rentals
From oceanfront villas to charming cottages, Wild Dunes Vacation Rentals offer the perfect home base for an unforgettable Isle of Palms summer. With golf, tennis, pools, beach access, dining, and more right on property — plus easy proximity to all the events above — it's the ideal place for both adventure and relaxation.