A Beachy Christmas along the Charleston Coast

a white wooden background with Christmas ornaments around the border with the words "A Beachy Christmas on the Charleston Coast" in black letters

Welcome to the magical coastal wonderland where the sun, sand, and holiday festivals unite perfectly. Immerse yourself in the joyous celebrations along the Charleston coast this holiday season, from the festive Isle of Palms to Edisto Beach. Carolina One Vacation Rentals invites you to experience the holiday season like never before. Consider what fun activities and events you can partake in a Beachy Christmas along the Charleston Coast.

A Coastal Holiday Extravaganza on Isle of Palms

Gingerbread men decorated with sprinkles and icing

Get ready to be dazzled by the festive spirit on Isle of Palms. The Holiday Festival on Front Beach promises a delightful blend of music, food, and holiday cheer. And we can’t miss Santa’s Cookie Workshop, which allows little ones to get a hands-on experience with holiday baking. And if you’re hunting for Christmas lights, there will be plenty around the island to drive by and enjoy with the family!

Holiday Festival on Front Beach

  • December 2nd, 2023
  • Time:2:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Santa’s Cookie Workshop at The Rec Center

  • December 19th, 2023
  • Time: 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
  • Must register by Friday, December 15th

Lights, Lights, Lights in the Charleston Area

Embark on a luminous journey at the Holiday Festival of Lights. You’ll be able to see James Island County Park transform into a sparkling paradise of lights, offering a captivating display of lights that will leave you breathless.

Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park

  • December 10th – December 31st, 2023
  • Time: 5:30 pm – 10:00 pm

Sparkling Sands and Festive Delights in Folly Beach

tylish christmas golden star illumination and fir branches with red and gold baubles, golden lights bokeh on front of building at holiday market in city street. Christmas street decor

Folly Beach epitomizes holiday fun with its tree lighting, parades, and ice skating on the sandy shores. Dive into the festivities and welcome the New Year with a unique Flip Flop Drop and the iconic Bill Murray Look-a-Like Polar Bear Plunge. Folly Beach is a grand island to visit during the holiday season, and after your next stay, you’ll want to come back every holiday season!

Community Tree Lighting

  • November 26th, 2023
  • Time: 7:00 pm

Santa Visits Folly Beach

  • December 8th, 2023
  • Time: 6:00 pm

33rd Annual Folly Beach Christmas Parade

  • December 9th, 2023
  • Time: 12:00 pm

Folly Beach Menorah Lighting Ceremony

  • December 9th, 2023
  • Time: 5:00 pm

Ice Skating on Folly Beach

  • December 15th – 17th, 2023
  • Time: Friday, 12/15 – 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
  •            Saturday, 12/16 – 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
  •            Sunday, 12/17 – 11:00 am – 7:00 pm

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

  • December 31st, 2023
  • Time: 7:00 pm

New Year’s Eve Flip Flop Drop

  • December 31st, 2023
  • Time: 11:59 pm

Bill Murray Look-a-Like Polar Bear Plunge

  • January 1st, 2024

Where Christmas Joy Takes Center Stage at Edisto Beach

Edisto Beach brings charm with its many different holiday events along the island. Join the Christmas Parade and indulge in the festive Holiday Market & Mingle, where you’ll find local vendors, food, and live music that creates a lively atmosphere to enjoy. Bring home that perfect gift for the ones you love at the Holiday Market this year.

33rd Annual Edisto Christmas Parade

  • December 9th, 2023
  • Time: 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Holiday Market & Mingle at Bay Creek Park

  • December 8th, 2023
  • Time: 10:00 am – 5:30 pm

A Tranquil Holiday Oasis at Wild Dunes

Christmas market with a local vendor painting trees and snow onto a wood piece to sell to a customer

Wild Dunes invites you and your family to relish in the holiday season with a market, movies, breakfast with Santa, and a New Year’s Eve celebration you won’t forget. Take advantage of the fun and the new memories you will make this holiday season at the resort.

Holiday Market on the Plaza

  • December 7th, 2023
  • Time: 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
  • Enjoy local vendors, food, and live music.

Holiday Family Movie Night

  • December 8th, 2023
  • Time: 7:00 pm
  • Indulge in fresh popcorn and hot chocolate.

Breakfast with Santa

  • December 2nd, 9th, and 16th, 2023
  • Time: 8:30 am – 10:30 am

Christmas Stories and Sweets

  • December 23rd, 2023
  • Time: 5:00 pm

The Duney Drop Family NYE Celebration

  • December 31st, 2023
  • Time: 8:00 pm

Stay with Carolina One Vacation Rentals

As you immerse yourself in the festive spirit along the Charleston Coast, make your stay extraordinary with Carolina One Vacation Rentals. Our comfortable and stylish accommodations provide the perfect backdrop for your holiday adventures. Book your beachy Christmas getaway now and create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy Holidays!

A Vibrant Autumn on the Coast of South Carolina: October Happenings

pumpkins lined outside of picture with words that say A Vibrant Autumn on the coast of South Carolina"

As the crisp breeze of autumn sweeps through the streets of coastal South Carolina, it transforms into a picturesque fall wonderland. Charleston is known for its charming Southern hospitality and rich history, which takes on a unique charm during the fall season. Staying in one of our Carolina One vacation rentals will allow you to experience fall at its best. Let’s peek at what is happening in the Charleston area this October that you may not want to miss.

Celebrate Fall at Edisto Beach: Fall Festival & Turtle Tide Art Auction

Three young women at a street festival/fair looking at handmade clothing

Nestled along the South Carolina coast, Edisto Beach is serene and picturesque, known for its natural beauty and coastal charm. While summer might be the peak tourist season, fall brings its unique allure to Edisto, with pleasant weather and exciting events like the Edisto Beach Fall Festival & Turtle Tide Art Auction. You and your family can join the fall festivities on Saturday, October 7th, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Enjoy live music with Edisto Gumbo from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. A street fair will be filled with vendors with arts & crafts food and items you can purchase. Be sure to check out the Turtle Tide Art Project Live Auction at 2:30 p.m., where they will be auctioning off ten turtles that have been beautifully decorated! The festival will be on Jungle Road just in front of Palmetto Plaza.

Savor the Flavor at the 4th Annual Cookin’ on the Creek BBQ Festival

If you’re a barbecue enthusiast looking for a mouthwatering fall event, the 4th Annual Cookin’ on the Creek BBQ Festival is a must-attend celebration. This festival is being held at Bay Creek Park on Friday, October 13th, from 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. and Saturday, October 14th, from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Friday will include music from Cody Webb and his band with a bit of BBQ sampling. Saturday will have more food sampling and live music. There will be an admission fee to this festival of $5 per person on Friday. You can purchase food & drink tickets for $1 each. Whether you’re a seasoned BBQ judge or simply someone who appreciates the art of smoked meats, this festival offers an unforgettable experience.

Journey Through Time: The Edisto & Beyond Historical Tour

Charleston, South Carolina, USA view of the French Quarter.

With its rich history and natural beauty, Edisto Island offers a captivating blend of cultural heritage and scenic wonder. If you’re a history buff, then this is the tour to immerse yourself in the island’s rich history. The “Edisto and Beyond Historical Tour” is a guided exploration of the island’s historical landmarks and broader regional history. Some locations you’ll learn more about are Gullah Culture and History, the Plantation Era, Historic Churches, and so much more. This tour is happening on Saturday, October 28th, from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Edisto Museum.

From seasonal festivals to mouthwatering cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this delightful time of year in Charleston. If you haven’t booked your stay in one of our Charleston vacation rentals, now is the time. All you must worry about now is packing your bags and embracing the vibrant fall season in this Southern gem!

Summer Events on the Coast of South Carolina You Don’t Want to Miss

Child in swimming pool. Having fun on vacation at the hotel pool. Colorful vacation concept.

It’s hard to believe that the summer is halfway through for many kids, and now is the time to visit the coast of South Carolina. Staying in one of our Carolina One vacation rentals will allow you and your family to be close to some fun in the sun. Let’s see what summer events you don’t want to miss here in the area.

Isle of Palms Beach Run

Young woman jogging along a beautiful deserted beach at dawn

Are you staying in one of our Isle of Palms vacation rentals and looking for something fun to do? Then look no further, as the annual Isle of Palms Beach Run is back on Saturday, July 29th, 2023. The 5k & 10K Run will begin at 8:00 am on the beach behind the Windjammer at 1008 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms. Don’t feel like running, then walk in their 5k walk or let the kids participate in the Youth Fun Runs at 8:30 am. There will be awards for the 5k and 10k runs after the fun runs for the kids. Registration online ends on Wednesday, July 26th, so register today! Who said you can’t exercise? Why on vacation?

19th Annual Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Festival

Is running not your thing, no worries, we have you covered. On Saturday, July 22nd, 2023, the Annual Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Festival is at the Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park. Here you’ll be able to learn more about the culture of the Gullah Geechee people and their history and traditions, and even see their basket art made from sweetgrass. Admission to this festival is free and will be from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. There will be other things to enjoy, like live entertainment and different activities. See how a basket is woven with sweetgrass and other crafts you can purchase. Think of the gifts you can go ahead and start getting for Christmas this year.

Movies in the Park

people watching movie in open air cinema in city park

One of the best things about vacationing on Edisto Beach is its different activities and summer events. Join Edisto Beaches Movies in the Park on Wednesday, August 9th, 2023, from 7:00 pm, and the movie will begin at dusk. Popcorn and admission into the event are free, and additional food and ice cream will be available for purchase. Bring your chair or blanket to sit back and relax while you watch the movie with the family. This event will take place at Bay Creek Park and is one you don’t want to miss.

Many other fun events are happening in the area, but we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your next stay with us at Carolina One vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to see you and your family as you explore the different events happening this summer on the coast of South Carolina!

Don’t Miss These Summer Events in the Charleston Area

Background with teal color paint boards, sun hat, sunglasses and starfish with the words saying Don't Miss These Summer Events

Can you believe that spring is here and before you know it, summer will be here too? It’s hard to believe that it was cold just a few weeks ago in most of the US, but now the warmer months are here to stay. Staying in one of our Carolina One vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to some of the action. Look below at what events you don’t want to miss in the Charleston area this summer.

Charleston Carifest

Two young ladies celebrating Bahamian Caribbean Festival with blue background and blue covered railings

If you’re looking for a little Caribbean vacation but don’t want to travel outside the states, check out the Charleston Carifest. This annual festival brings Bahamian Carnival Culture to the SC Coast, filled with music, parades, costumes, and more. Plus, you don’t want to miss being able to try some of the fantastic Caribbean food, such as jerk chicken, conch fritters, and Bahamian crawfish. Don’t miss this Caribbean festival from June 29th – July 1st, 2023, with the family!

 Movies in the Park

Family with adults and kids watching a movie outdoors on blankets and pillows laughing

Are you staying in an Edisto Beach vacation rental and looking for something for the whole family to enjoy? Beginning July 12th, 2023, join at Bay Creek Park to take part in a free movie night! The movies will start around dusk, so bring your chairs and blankets to sit and watch a family-friendly film. Every 2nd Wednesday between July & September, a movie will play in the park, along with free popcorn. Other drinks and snacks will be available to purchase. Think of the fun the whole family will be to sit and watching a movie as you make new memories.

Many other fun events happen later in the summer, including 4th of July fireworks around the area, like Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, and Charleston. If you still haven’t booked your Carolina One vacation rental this summer, now is the time. We can’t wait to hear which event was your favorite!

3 Tips for Affording Your Much Needed Vacation

 Summer should be the season for getting away from it all but taking a vacation isn’t as easy as it looks. For many Americans, vacation time can be very little, if any, depending on what they do for a living. The disparity in vacation time should explain why some people still a chance haven’t to take some time off in the summer, but many people aren’t going on vacation because they just can’t afford to. We have come up with three tips on how to afford your much-needed vacation to stay in one of our Carolina One vacation rentals below.

Forego a summer vacation

Orange cotton towel and sunscreen body lotion and hat in a orange tube on the background pool. Means for skin care, concept of relaxation and sun protection.

If you aren’t going on vacation because you can’t afford it, you need to open yourself up to the possibility of going on an off-season vacation. Most rentals and hotels will be booked from May to August, and people who rent during those times will have to pay a lot more than people who go during the off-season. When most people think about the ideal time to vacation they think about the summer, but you can have just as much fun during the fall, winter, or spring.

Time your travel

If you have to fly to your vacation destination, you could save a significant amount of money if you plan your flight for the right day and time. A lot of people will try to fly during the weekend, or on a Friday or Monday. Simply booking your flight on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday could save you a couple hundred dollars. Also see if you can get a flight early in the morning or late at night. Since we’re on the subject of travel, we should tell you to . . .

Avoid flying

family standing in front of car that is packed for a vacation ready to leave

When most people consider traveling for vacation, they immediately think of taking a plane. Airplanes can be expensive, but they take a lot less time than driving by car would. If you don’t want to have to pay for a plane ticket, but also don’t want to drive, consider getting to your vacation destination by train. Trains are bit more expensive than making your trek by car, but it’s considerable less expensive than having to fly. Amtrak and other rail services offer great discounts for people that travel during weekdays, and you could save hundreds in travel expenses.

While there are many other tips on how to save for your next vacation, we wanted to share these with you. If you are ready to make that dream vacation happen this year, give us a call. We hope to see you and your family soon!

Don’t Miss These 3 Events Happening Near Charleston in December

Happy Holidays message in calligraphy script handwritten in smooth brown sand with a starfish flourish

Can you believe that Christmas will be here in just a few short weeks? We can’t believe how fast 2022 has flown by, but we still have another month before 2023 will be here. The holiday season is a favorite for many of our guests to come and stay in one of our Carolina One vacation rentals. Look below at what three events you can miss this December here on the Charleston coast.

Holiday Festival of Lights

beautiful light display in a park with different color lights and a lake

The Holiday Festival of Lights happens yearly at James Island County Park. This park is close to both Charleston and Folly Beach. The Festival of Lights is open daily from 5:30 pm until 10:00 pm until December 31st, 2022. Some fun things you can do there are visiting Santa’s Village, where you can meet Santa Claus himself, enjoy a winter wonderland or enjoy the Palmetto’s workshop. Think of the new memories you and your family will make while visiting this fantastic event this holiday season.

Holiday Street Festival

Join the annual holiday festival in Isle of Palms for the Holiday Street Festival on Saturday, December 3rd, 2022. This event will include the tree lighting ceremony, live entertainment, crafts, delicious food, and more. There will even be a visit from Santa and plenty of activities for the kids. This event is free to attend and will be held from 2:00 pm until 7:00 pm. Come prepared to enjoy a little holiday cheer on the Isle of Palms this year.

27th Annual Christmas Light Parade

Christmas parade with snowman with colored lights at night

Look no further if you’re looking for something a little more like a Christmas parade. On Sunday, December 11th, from 5:30 pm until 8:00 pm, the Mount Pleasant Christmas Parade will be happening. This parade starts with a bang with an impressive fireworks show followed by the parade. You’ll see lit-up floats and different groups brightly as they march down the streets. What an incredible experience to see, and it may become one of your favorites in the area.

While plenty of other events are happening this December, we wanted to share these with you. Give us a call if you haven’t booked your next stay with us at Carolina One vacation rentals. We hope that you and your family have a wonderful holiday!

Spend the Holidays on the South Carolina Coast

Flat Lay Of Chalkboard On Sandy Background. Sunny Summer Decoration As Holiday Greeting Card. Sand And Beach Environment. English Text Happy Holidays

Are you and your family looking to do something a little different this year for the holidays? If the answer is yes, let us share a few reasons you should visit this year. Staying in one of our Carolina One vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to the fun. See below why you should spend your holidays with us on the South Carolina Coast.

Plenty of Space

family in a large home on holiday vacation

A big reason for spending the holidays this year in one of our vacation rentals is getting to bring the whole family. Depending on the size of your family will be a significant factor in what size home you’d need to stay in. We have homes perfect for a family of four and some that can sleep up to 20 people. With the size of the house comes the guarantee that you won’t be hearing arguments about who sleeps where and who is hogging the bathroom every morning. There will be plenty for everyone to have their own space. We can promise you that you’ll hear more arguments about leaving to go home than wanting to come back to the area year after year.

Large Kitchens

kitchen in newly constructed luxury home

Another great reason for spending the holidays here on the coast is the large kitchens in our vacation rentals. No need to worry about prepping food to bring on vacation when you can prepare your holiday food in your rental. Bake a few dozen cookies with the kids and let them decorate them. Start a new tradition this year to cook Thanksgiving dinner or Christmas dinner in your rental rather than going out to eat. No matter how big your family is this holiday season, we can promise you’ll have plenty of space in your rental to cook any sized meal for any family gathering!

There are many other reasons why spending the holidays on the Coast of South Carolina, but we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your next vacation to stay with us at Carolina One vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to hear which holiday vacation rental was your family’s favorite this year!

How to Enjoy the Best Fall Vacation on the SC Coast

One of several trees along Folly Beach outside Charleston, SC.

Do you have a vacation planned to the coast of SC this fall? If the answer is yes, let us share how you can enjoy it a little more. Staying with us at Carolina One vacation rentals allows you to enjoy what fall offers. Let’s look below at our few ways how you can enjoy the best fall vacation you’ve ever had on the SC Coast.

Weather

Two older people walking in public park under canopy of grand oaks on nice autumn day; woman carries a camera

The fall will bring not only the change of colors with the leaves but also cooler temps. The weather during the fall months will leave you wanting to stay longer and allow you to get out and enjoy the area more. The temps during September during the day usually are around 83° and a low of around 72°. October brings on cooler temps with a high of 75° in the day and a low of 62°. November brings much cooler days with a high of 67° and lows in the 50s. We always suggest bringing a light jacket and packing a pair of pants just in case you get a little chilly at night. The average amount of rain for September is around seven days and four days for October and November. No matter what the weather may be here, it’s better than being at home and not on vacation.

Fewer Crowds

Photo of beach, sand, ocean with birds sitting on beach on Isle of Palms, South Carolina

Another great reason why vacationing on the SC Coast during the fall months is there are fewer crowds. This means that when you visit one of the beaches in the area, like Folly Beach or Isle of Palms, you will get a better spot for the day. Fewer crowds also mean that going to local attractions and restaurants means less waiting time. Who wants to wait over two hours to grab a bite to eat when you can vacation this fall and get in with less wait. This is one of the best ways to enjoy your vacation this fall!

While there are many other reasons why you can have the best fall vacation here on the SC Coast, we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your next vacation to stay in one of our Carolina One vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to see you and your family as you experience one of the many reasons, we love the fall!

3 Activities You Don’t Want to Miss this Summer

family teens showing excitement over the summer break

It’s hard to believe that schools are out, and summer is upon us here on the South Carolina Coast. Summer is a great time in the Charleston area as there are so many different activities that you don’t want to miss. Staying with us at Carolina One vacation rentals will allow you and your family to be close to the fun. Let’s look below at our three activities you don’t want to miss this summer in the area.

Morris Island Boat Tour

view from morris island

The whole family can connect this summer by trying out the Morris Island Boat Tour. Morris Island is full of undeveloped land that is a gem to explore. The only way to get to the island is by boat. Taking a tour will allow you and the family to soak up 3 hours of exploring the island, looking at wildlife, and checking out new shells. We can promise you that you’ll never experience another island like this one again!

Charleston Riverdogs Baseball Game

Another fun activity that the whole family can enjoy this summer is going to at least one Charleston Riverdogs Baseball game. Fun for all ages, let the kids learn the “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” song, get those delicious hotdogs, and have a good time together. If you have little ones who are big ball players, check out the camps they offer at the stadium. Think of the new memories you’ll make as you watch a ballgame or two.

Explore the SC Aquarium

mom and daughter at aquarium viewing fish

If you have little ones who aren’t into the above activities, head on to the South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston. Here the family will enjoy the many different exhibits that they have to offer. There is an exhibit for everyone from seeing the Carolina Seas, The Shallows, the Touch Tank, and even the Coastal Plains area. Even Kids Coast has different activities on how the water filtration happens at the aquarium. This would also be a great activity to check out on a rainy day.

There are many other fun activities that you can pick from in the area, but we wanted to share these. If you haven’t booked your next trip to stay with us at Carolina One vacation rentals, now is the time. We can’t wait to hear how you enjoyed your summer vacation here on the South Carolina Coast!

What Essentials to Pack in your Beach Bag for your Spring Break Vacation

Beach items on beige paper background close up. Summer vacation concept

Are you headed to the Charleston area for spring break? Nothing says getting to spend time at one of the many beaches on the South Carolina Coast. Staying in one of our Carolina One vacation rentals is vital but having the right beach bag essential will help make your vacation a little easier. Be sure to check your “beach bag” basic list before you leave home to guarantee you will have a good time.

Beach Bag Essentials

Beach Bag

Do you have a bag you have claimed as your beach bag for all your vacations? Having the right bag can make ALL the difference in the world. Sure, we know that you can throw all your essentials into any bag, but did you know that all beach bags were not created. We suggest looking at the size, is it water & sand resistant, security, and stylish when searching for your bag. We have found that using a backpack, diaper bag (even if you don’t have little ones), or even a large utility tote bag works perfectly for a beach bag.

Sunscreen

woman holding and applying suntan lotion on a beach

Sunscreen is a must for any beach bag when you vacation to the Charleston Coast. Have a sunscreen designed for your beach activities like waterproof, sport, high SPF, etch. Dermatologists recommend that you use sunscreen with at least 30 SPF while enjoying the sunshine. Don’t forget to reapply throughout the day as you don’t want to ruin your vacation the first day you’re here with a sunburn.

Water Resistant Phone Pouch

Between the water, sun, and sand, the beach is filled with many things that can damage your phone. We know that phones are not cheap these days, and why would you want to ruin them the first day you’re on the beach enjoying them. Having a water-resistant pouch in your beach bag can be a lifesaver for many. If you do not have one, then a sandwich bag or Ziploc bag will do the same as a pouch. This way, your phone is protected from the elements at the beach, and you can continue to use it while enjoying your time soaking up the sun.

Reusable Cup

closeup of a glass reusable water bottle on the seashore of a lonely beach

When you spend your day in the sun and sand, you will want to stay hydrated. Throw a few water bottles in the cooler or bring a reusable bottle such as a Yeti Cup or S’well Bottle. These will help keep your drink ice cold all day long. The sun and salt will dry you out, so make sure that you have enough water to go around for everyone in the family. If you’re staying in an oceanfront vacation rental, you’ll be able to go back and refill as often as you’d like.

Baby Powder

This essential is a must-have in your beach bag for your next vacation. Whether you’re staying in an oceanfront vacation rental, or you decided to drive to the nearest beach access, sand will be all over you when you leave the beach. Bringing baby powder in your beach bag will magically get the sand off your body without any irritation and is perfect for all ages in the family.

There are many other things that you can pack into your beach bags, such as beach towels, hats and sunglasses, and light-colored shirts for the kids, but these are the essentials we thought you should have with you. If you are still looking for a place to stay this spring break, check out our Carolina One vacation rentals today. We can’t wait to see you and your family soon, and we’d like to know what you packed in your beach bag.