Johns Island: A Guide to the Hidden Gem of South Carolina

If you’re searching for a place to call home that offers a balance of natural beauty and modern amenities, Johns Island may be the perfect fit for you. From sprawling estates with old-growth live oaks to modern family-friendly neighborhoods, there’s a diverse range of housing options available on this island.

It’s worth noting that while Johns Island offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, it’s not completely isolated. While shopping and dining options may be limited, the island’s proximity to West Ashley and downtown Charleston means that commuting to work is still feasible. However, traffic can be a concern, particularly on weekends when visitors flock to Kiawah Beachwalker County Park. Despite this, many residents find that the island’s relaxed pace of life is worth the occasional traffic jam.

Eating Out on Johns Island

 

When it comes to eating out on Johns Island, you have a variety of options to choose from. The island offers a selection of local restaurants along Bohicket Road and Main Road, which are popular among residents. If you’re looking for some of the island’s most popular restaurants, head to Maybank Highway. You’ll find a range of options here, including contemporary takes on Lowcountry favorites at The Royal Tern, well-known barbecue, Italian, and seafood options, as well as Mexican restaurants, burger joints, and various other restaurants.

In addition to restaurants, Johns Island also has a few coffee shops on Bohicket Road and Maybank Highway. If you’re looking for fresh produce, the local farmers’ markets and produce stands are also popular with island residents.

Depending on where you live on Johns Island, you may also want to explore the restaurants at Freshfields Village and Bohicket Marina, or those in West Ashley or on James Island, which are just a short drive away.

To help you plan your dining experience, here is a table of the island’s most popular restaurants, along with their cuisine and location:

Restaurant	Cuisine	Location
The Royal Tern	Contemporary Lowcountry	Maybank Highway
Wild Olive	Italian	Maybank Highway
Fat Hen	French Lowcountry	John’s Island Road
Angel Oak Restaurant	Southern	Bohicket Road
Melvin’s Barbecue	Barbecue	Main Road
Tattooed Moose	Pub Food	Maybank Highway
Low Tide Brewing	Brewery	Maybank Highway

Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or a casual meal, Johns Island has something for everyone. So, go ahead and explore the island’s culinary scene and discover your new favorite restaurant.

Things To Do on Johns Island

When visiting Johns Island, the Angel Oak tree is an absolute must-see. This iconic attraction is considered to be the largest live oak tree east of the Mississippi River, estimated to be around 400 years old, and has a canopy that spans 17,000 square feet. It is no wonder that approximately 400,000 visitors make the trek down the dirt road near the intersection of Bohicket Road and Maybank Highway to see the Angel Oak each year.

In addition to the Angel Oak, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy on Johns Island. The Charleston Tea Garden, formerly known as the Charleston Tea Plantation, is a beautiful spot to visit, where visitors can learn about the history of tea production and enjoy a cup of fresh tea. Johns Island County Park, also known as Mullet Haul, is a great place to spend the day with family and friends. The park offers various activities such as fishing, hiking, biking, and kayaking.

Legare Farms is another popular attraction on Johns Island. Visitors can learn about the farm’s history and enjoy a tour of the grounds, which includes a petting zoo, a vegetable garden, and a butterfly house. There are also several farmers’ markets and produce stands on the island, offering fresh and locally grown produce.

For those who enjoy water activities, Johns Island offers access to the Stono River, Kiawah River, and Bohicket Creek. Residents and visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) in these waters. Just off the island, Freshfields Village, Bohicket Marina, and Kiawah Beachwalker Park offer shopping, dining, boat storage, and public beach access.

If you are a Johns Island resident with a Gold Pass from the Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission (CCPRC), you can park at Kiawah Beachwalker Park for free year-round.

Real Estate on Johns Island

If you are looking for a place to call home, Johns Island might be the perfect fit. With a variety of neighborhoods to choose from, there is something for everyone. Some of the most popular neighborhoods include Briar’s Creek, Hayes Park, and Headquarters Plantation. These neighborhoods offer a range of amenities, such as community pools, playgrounds, and golf and tennis courts. If you are looking for a luxury neighborhood, Kiawah River and Kiawah River Estates might be the right choice for you.

Other neighborhoods to consider include Oakfield, Rushland Plantation, Sea Island Preserve, Stonoview, and Villages in St. Johns Woods. Each neighborhood has its own unique feel, so it’s worth taking the time to explore them all before making a decision.

Keep in mind that if you are considering a home in Kiawah River or Kiawah River Estates, you should be aware of their distance from the mainland. Overall, Johns Island offers a range of housing options, from grand estates to fixer-uppers, and there is sure to be a neighborhood that fits your needs and lifestyle.

Apartments on Johns Island

If you’re searching for an apartment on Johns Island, your options are limited. You’ll mostly find apartments along Main Road and River Road. However, if you’re open to living nearby, there are plenty of apartment developments on James Island or on Savannah Highway in West Ashley, just after you leave the island.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top attractions to visit on Johns Island?

Johns Island offers a variety of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Some of the top attractions to visit on Johns Island include the Charleston Aqua Park, the Angel Oak Tree, and the Mullet Hall Equestrian Center. The Charleston Aqua Park is a fun-filled water park that offers a range of activities for all ages. The Angel Oak Tree is a historic tree that is over 400 years old and is a must-see for nature lovers. The Mullet Hall Equestrian Center is a popular destination for horse enthusiasts, offering horseback riding lessons and scenic trail rides.

Which restaurants are considered must-visit on Johns Island?

Johns Island is home to several top-rated restaurants that are considered must-visit destinations. Some of the most popular restaurants on Johns Island include Wild Olive, Hege’s, and The Royal Tern. Wild Olive is a cozy Italian restaurant that offers delicious pasta dishes and a great wine selection. Hege’s is a seafood restaurant that serves fresh seafood caught daily and offers a beautiful waterfront view. The Royal Tern is a casual seafood restaurant that offers outdoor seating and live music on the weekends.

How does one travel from Charleston to Johns Island?

Johns Island is located just a short drive from Charleston, making it easily accessible by car. Visitors can take Highway 17 South from Charleston to reach Johns Island. Alternatively, visitors can also take the James Island Connector and then the Maybank Highway to reach Johns Island.

What are the living experiences and community like on Johns Island?

Living on Johns Island provides residents with a strong sense of community. The island is known for its numerous community events that take place throughout the year, including the Johns Island Farmers Market and the Lowcountry Cajun Festival. The island also offers a range of housing options, from cozy cottages to spacious estates, making it an attractive place to live for families and retirees alike.

Can you find public beach access on Johns Island?

While Johns Island is not known for its beaches, visitors can find public beach access at the nearby Folly Beach and Kiawah Island. Folly Beach is located just a short drive from Johns Island and offers a range of beach activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Kiawah Island is a private island that offers public beach access and is known for its beautiful beaches and world-class golf courses.

What historical significance does Johns Island hold?

Johns Island played an important role in the Civil War, serving as a base for Confederate forces during the Battle of Charleston Harbor. The island is also home to the Angel Oak Tree, a historic tree that is over 400 years old and is considered a symbol of strength and resilience. Today, Johns Island is a popular tourist destination that offers a unique blend of history, nature, and community.