West Ashley: A Guide to Charleston’s Charming Suburb

If you are considering living in the West Ashley area, you will find that it is easy to feel at home here. With a variety of local restaurants, small businesses, big-box stores, and other well-known chains, you can take care of your shopping and errands with no more than a 10 to 15-minute drive. The area is easy to navigate, with major roads such as Savannah Highway, Ashley River Road, Sam Rittenberg Boulevard, and Bees Ferry Road taking you to most places you need to go.

Moreover, if you want to explore beyond West Ashley, Charleston’s downtown area is easily accessible via the Ashley River Bridge. Additionally, Folly Beach, Kiawah Beach, and Edisto Beach are all within a 20 to 45-minute drive. With I-526 running through the middle of West Ashley, Charleston International Airport (CHS), the Tanger Outlets, and other local attractions are also just a 10-minute drive away without traffic.

Eating Out in West Ashley

When it comes to dining out in West Ashley, there is no shortage of options. Whether you’re in the mood for Indian, Italian, Mediterranean, Mexican, or Asian cuisine, you’ll find it all in this area. Additionally, West Ashley is home to several popular barbecue and burger joints that are sure to satisfy your cravings.

For a more upscale dining experience, Angel Oak Restaurant is a top choice among locals. This small restaurant located on Savannah Highway near Bees Ferry Road offers a fine dining experience that is sure to impress. If you’re willing to venture a bit further, neighboring Johns Island also has a few popular options.

If you’re looking for something lighter, West Ashley has plenty of options for you as well. From breakfast spots to smoothie shops and coffee houses, you can find a quick bite to eat throughout the area. And if you’re in the mood for fast food, most of the well-known chains have a presence in West Ashley.

Overall, West Ashley offers a diverse range of dining options that are sure to please any palate. Whether you’re in the mood for a fancy night out or a quick bite on the go, you’ll find it all in this bustling area.

Things to Do in West Ashley

If you’re looking for things to do in West Ashley, you won’t be disappointed. This area is home to several attractions that offer both indoor and outdoor activities for all ages.

One of the most popular attractions in West Ashley is Magnolia Gardens. This former plantation boasts beautiful manicured gardens and walking trails that are perfect for a leisurely stroll. If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to check out the petting zoo and Audubon swamp boardwalk. Magnolia Gardens also hosts a Chocolate Walk each Valentine’s Day, which is a fun activity for couples and families alike.

Another great option for outdoor activities is the West Ashley Greenway. This walking and biking trail spans over 10 miles and offers scenic views of the area’s natural beauty. If you prefer water activities, there are several public boat landings and kayak put-ins available for use.

For a fun night out, head to the Citadel Mall Stadium 16. Although the mall itself is no longer a shopping destination, the theater remains a popular choice for catching the latest blockbuster. If you’re looking for more active indoor fun, consider visiting the local trampoline park or bowling alley.

If you’re traveling with kids, there are several parks and playgrounds in the area that offer a variety of activities. Stono River County Park is another great option for outdoor fun, with hiking trails, a fishing pier, and picnic areas.

Finally, one of the biggest perks of living in West Ashley is its proximity to the rest of the Charleston area’s attractions. You can easily spend a day at the beach, walk across the Ravenel Bridge, or explore the shops and restaurants on King Street downtown. And the best part? You can do all of this without paying the higher home and rent prices found on the Charleston area’s barrier islands or across the river.

Real Estate in West Ashley

West Ashley offers a diverse range of real estate options for first-time homeowners and luxury buyers alike. The area is home to several popular neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Some of the most sought-after neighborhoods in West Ashley include Ashland Plantation, Ashley Harbor, Avondale, Boltons Landing, Carolina Bay, Church Creek Landing, Croghan Landing, Edgewater Park, Grand Oaks Plantation, Hunt Club, Northbridge Terrace, Shadowmoss, South Windermere, The Crescent, Village Green, and Windermere.

Many of these neighborhoods are large and feature smaller neighborhoods, or “villages”, within them. For instance, Carolina Bay is one of the largest neighborhoods in West Ashley, with thousands of homes and several miles of sidewalk-lined roads. Within Carolina Bay, the Essex village is filled exclusively with raised “Charleston single” style homes, while the area around the neighborhood’s central park is ground-level and single-story homes with detached garages.

Poplar Grove, located just outside of West Ashley, is one of Charleston’s hidden gems. The neighborhood currently consists of two main sections, The Preserve and The Landing, and also features other sections with larger lots where many homeowners have their own horse barns. Poplar Grove’s amenities include a Boat House with a large community dock and kayak outposts, as well as a pool, fitness center, and observation deck overlooking Bulow Landing and Rantowles Creek.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a luxury buyer, West Ashley has a lot to offer in terms of real estate options. With its diverse range of neighborhoods and amenities, you’re sure to find the perfect home that fits your needs and budget.

Apartments in West Ashley

If you’re looking for an apartment in West Ashley, you’ll find a range of options to fit your budget and lifestyle. Many of the apartment homes in West Ashley offer luxury amenities, such as clubhouses, pools, and fitness centers. Some of the newer multi-building facilities offer modern designs and updated features. Young professionals who work in downtown Charleston may find West Ashley to be a convenient location, as the morning commute is typically an easy drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best dining options in West Ashley?

West Ashley offers a wide range of dining options to suit any taste and budget. Some of the most popular restaurants in the area include:

• Swig & Swine: A barbecue joint that serves up delicious smoked meats and classic sides.
• The Glass Onion: A farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on Southern cuisine.
• Early Bird Diner: A retro-style diner that serves breakfast all day and classic comfort food.
• Wild Olive: An Italian restaurant that features house-made pasta and wood-fired pizza.

What types of properties are available in the West Ashley real estate market?

The West Ashley real estate market offers a variety of properties to suit different needs and preferences. Some of the most common types of properties in the area include:

• Single-family homes: These are the most common type of property in West Ashley, ranging from small starter homes to large estates.
• Townhomes and condos: These offer a more affordable option for those who want to own property in the area.
• Apartments: There are several apartment complexes in West Ashley that offer a range of amenities and floor plans.

Can you find luxury apartments in West Ashley?

Yes, there are several luxury apartment complexes in West Ashley that offer upscale amenities and features. Some of the most popular luxury apartments in the area include:

• The Ashley: This complex offers spacious floor plans, high-end finishes, and resort-style amenities.
• The Palmettos at Ashley River: This complex features a saltwater pool, fitness center, and private balconies.
• The Standard at James Island: This complex offers modern apartments with designer finishes and high-tech features.

What are the latest developments in West Ashley news?

West Ashley is a growing and evolving community, with several recent developments and projects in the works. Some of the latest news and updates include:

• The West Ashley Greenway: This popular trail is undergoing a renovation to improve safety and accessibility.
• The West Ashley Circle: This new traffic circle is expected to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion in the area.
• The West Ashley Master Plan: This comprehensive plan outlines the future development and growth of the community.

How does West Ashley fit into the Charleston metropolitan area?

West Ashley is a vibrant and diverse community that is an important part of the Charleston metropolitan area. It is located just west of the Ashley River and is connected to downtown Charleston via several bridges and highways. The area is home to several major shopping centers, parks, and attractions, and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

What historical significance does the name ‘Ashley’ have in Charleston?

The name ‘Ashley’ has a long and storied history in Charleston. It is named after Anthony Ashley Cooper, the 1st Earl of Shaftesbury, who was a prominent English politician and one of the original Lords Proprietors of Carolina. The Ashley River, which runs through West Ashley, was named in his honor. Today, the name ‘Ashley’ is a reminder of the area’s rich history and heritage.