Isle of Palms may be just seven miles long, but each section of the island offers its own personality, pace, and appeal. Whether you’re searching for a primary residence, second home, or investment property, understanding how the island is laid out can make all the difference.
As full-time Isle of Palms residents, we help buyers navigate these nuances every day. Below is a local perspective on the different areas of the island and what makes each one unique.
Ocean Boulevard
Best for: Iconic oceanfront living and long-term value
Ocean Boulevard is one of the most recognizable stretches of Isle of Palms, known for its direct oceanfront homes and sweeping Atlantic views. Properties along this corridor range from classic beach cottages to newly built luxury residences, many offering direct beach access and breathtaking scenery.
Buyers are drawn to Ocean Boulevard for:
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True oceanfront living with unobstructed views
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Strong long-term desirability and prestige
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A blend of timeless coastal charm and modern luxury
This area appeals to buyers seeking a front-row seat to the ocean and a lifestyle that feels both elevated and enduring.
Front Beach
Best for: Second homes, short-term use, and strong rental demand
The Front Beach area sits just inland from Ocean Boulevard and serves as the social and entertainment hub of Isle of Palms. With walkable access to restaurants, shops, beach access points, and seasonal events, this area delivers a vibrant coastal lifestyle.
Front Beach is especially appealing to:
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Second-home owners who want convenience and energy
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Buyers seeking strong rental demand and consistent interest
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Those who value walkability and an active beach-town atmosphere
This area continues to perform well for owners looking to balance personal enjoyment with income potential.
Hartnett Boulevard & East
Best for: Strong rentability, beach access, and long-term value
The area east of Hartnett Boulevard is one of the most desirable sections of Isle of Palms, particularly for buyers focused on strong rental performance and long-term appeal. With easy beach access, wider streets, and a mix of newer construction and well-maintained homes, this area continues to attract both lifestyle buyers and investors.
Buyers are drawn here for:
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Consistent rental demand driven by location and walkability
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Proximity to the beach without the congestion of busier areas
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A balance between personal enjoyment and income potential
This section remains a favorite for buyers seeking flexibility and long-term value.
Forest Trail Neighborhood
Best for: Privacy, larger lots, and a residential feel close to the beach
The Forest Trail area offers a more tucked-away, residential environment while still being just moments from the ocean. Known for its tree-lined streets and spacious properties, this neighborhood appeals to buyers who want breathing room without sacrificing proximity to the beach.
Homeowners are often drawn to Forest Trail for:
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Larger lots and a quieter setting
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A more established neighborhood feel
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Easy access to the beach while enjoying added privacy
This area is ideal for full-time residents or second-home owners looking for a peaceful coastal lifestyle.
The Residential Interior
Best for: Full-time living, community, and everyday convenience
Just off the main beach corridors, the interior neighborhoods of Isle of Palms offer a calmer, more residential feel. These areas tend to have less traffic and a strong sense of community, making them especially appealing for everyday living.
One of the highlights of this area is its proximity to the Isle of Palms Recreation Center, which hosts year-round programming including fitness classes, youth sports, community events, and seasonal activities that bring neighbors together.
Homeowners appreciate:
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A quieter atmosphere
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Close proximity to the Rec Center and community events
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Easy access to the beach and island amenities
This area continues to attract buyers looking for a true neighborhood feel paired with coastal living.
The South End of Isle of Palms
Best for: Convenience, accessibility, and strong rentability
The South End of Isle of Palms is one of the most convenient and strategically located areas of the island. Positioned closest to the Isle of Palms Connector, this area offers seamless access to Mount Pleasant and downtown Charleston while still maintaining a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
This area is especially appealing for:
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Strong rental performance driven by accessibility and demand
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A mix of full-time residences, second homes, and vacation properties
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Easy access to shopping, dining, and daily conveniences
The South End continues to perform well for buyers seeking both lifestyle enjoyment and income potential.
Wild Dunes Resort
Best for: Resort-style living, long-term value, and investment appeal
Wild Dunes is a gated coastal community offering one of the most complete resort lifestyles in the Lowcountry. With championship golf courses, tennis, dining, walking paths, and miles of beach, it continues to be one of the most desirable areas on the island.
Within Wild Dunes, buyers will find:
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Oceanfront homes and villas with strong rental demand
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Harbor-side residences with scenic views
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Golf course communities offering privacy, beauty, and long-term appeal
Wild Dunes is especially attractive to investors and second-home buyers seeking consistent demand, established infrastructure, and strong long-term value.
What Our Clients Say
“We recently had the pleasure of working with Josh McConnell on the purchase of a property in Isle of Palms, SC, and we couldn't be more grateful for his outstanding support throughout the process. From the very beginning, Josh demonstrated an exceptional level of professionalism and deep market insight that immediately set him apart.
His knowledge of the Isle of Palms area—from current market trends to the nuances of each neighborhood—was instrumental in helping us make informed decisions. Josh took the time to understand exactly what we were looking for, and his thoughtful guidance gave us the clarity and confidence we needed to move forward.
What truly stood out was Josh’s ability to balance expert advice with a calm, no-pressure approach. We always felt he had our best interests in mind, and his responsiveness and attention to detail made the entire experience seamless.
Thanks to Josh, we found the perfect property and felt confident every step of the way. We can’t recommend him highly enough to anyone looking to buy in the Isle of Palms area—he’s a true professional and an incredible asset in this market.”
– Seneca M.
Thinking About Buying or Investing on Isle of Palms?
We live here, work here, and know the island inside and out. If you’re considering a purchase or simply want guidance on which area best aligns with your goals, we’re always happy to help.
