Isle of Palms County Park — Attraction in Isle of Palms

Arrive early for parking as this park fills up very quickly during the summer season. It is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. No food court or anything like that - for those things you'll need to walk down the strip to the little hotdog stand in the middle of Ocean Blvd - just follow the bend of the road around.

Last time I went prices were $10 per car,/ $20 per RV Monday Through Friday, and $15 per car / $40 for a Bus on Saturday and Sunday. Don't ask me what happened to the "RV" - apparently they are Buses on weekends but RV's the rest of the week, so if you're driving an RV there on a weekend assume you'll be paying the $40 rate for parking. There is NO PARKING ON PUBLIC ROADS NEXT TO THE PARK; however, you can find by-the-hour pay-for parking around the corner on Ocean Blvd that uses a kiosk - so you can stay all day if you want to.

There are lifeguards. The Park Service rents just about anything you want for beach leisure and playtime - things like "boogie boards", surf boards, chairs, umbrellas, that sort of stuff. For your sunscreen you'll have to visit one of the shops on the boardwalk.

There are showers and play areas for the kiddies. Rules are strictly enforced for the most part, but they are aholes about the stuff. "Gentle reminders" seems to be the rule when and if you accidentally screw up and/or get caught.

A very nice place for a day getaway vacation to the beach, plus your typical beach strip - well, you're ON it, just follow the bend around the corner towards those apartment looking buildings (3 of them) on the corner.

Last time I went prices were $10 per car,/ $20 per RV Monday Through Friday, and $15 per car / $40 for a Bus on...

We visited Isle of Palms last year on a whim and we were so pleased with the day trip from Columbia that we came back for our vacation this year. The parking is reasonable. If you park in the Isle of Palm parking lot, you must leave by 8pm. They close access to the beach, bathrooms, and lot. There are other ways to get to the beach but if you plan to leave from there, watch your time. You can park on the street in certain places as well. These spots use a pay meter service. It's pretty easy to understand. You'd pay up to 8pm, but if you're still there after 8, you don't have to pay. The IOP park offers bathrooms, misters, spray/showers, changing rooms, and a playground. They also have a vendor that sells small snacks, drinks, items, and rents chairs and umbrellas. Just remember that it will shut down at 8pm. The beach itself isn't necessarily great for shelling, but it is beautiful and you have plenty of area's to chose to sit. I like that the waves aren't overly crazy so I feel comfortable with my 6 year old playing in them without a hand when its high tide. When it's low tide, you have to go out farther to get into the waves and the breaks seem to be higher and more powerful. If you sit up near the park entrance you also have the benefit of Lifeguards on duty. They will pack up and leave after clearing the water if there is severe weather. They come back when it's clear. Plenty of restaurants and shops are within...

I recently visited Isle of Palms County Park, and it was such a relaxing and enjoyable experience! The park is beautifully maintained, with everything you need for a great day at the beach.

The beach itself is stunning—soft sand, clear water, and plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the ocean breeze. Even though it’s a popular spot, it never felt overcrowded, which made it easy to unwind and take in the natural beauty.

The amenities really stood out. The restrooms were clean and well-kept, and having outdoor showers to rinse off the sand was a huge plus. There’s also a convenient snack bar if you want to grab a quick bite, and plenty of shaded picnic areas to take a break from the sun.

Parking was easy and reasonably priced, which is always a bonus. The staff at the park were friendly and helpful, making the visit even more enjoyable.

What I loved most was how family-friendly it felt. Whether you’re visiting with kids, friends, or just by yourself, the park offers something for everyone. It’s the perfect spot for a beach day or even just a quick getaway to enjoy the ocean.

If you’re near Charleston and looking for a clean, accessible, and beautiful beach, Isle of Palms County Park is a must-visit. I can’t...