Real EstateHave You Discovered Wadmalaw Island SC?

By Terri Seignious, Guest Contributor

When most people think of Charleston SC they probably bring up images of romantic carriage rides, beautiful antebellum homes or possibly the majestic plantations just south of the city.  When I think of what makes Charleston so special, my mind immediately goes to one our best kept secrets – the island of Wadmalaw.

Where? Pronounced Wad–Ma–Law, the name more than likely has an Indian derivation from the Cusabo Indians or other native tribes that settled the land prior to the arrival of English settlers.  This is a pristine, 43-square mile sea island ( 10 miles long and 5 miles wide) just south of Charleston harboring a great deal of history, beautiful oak laden parcels of land and of course, being an island, is surrounded by water.  Some of the expansive long views across the Bohicket River, Stono River and North Edisto are the prettiest water views around.

Years ago when I retired from my corporate life and started into real estate I began educating myself about waterfront property around Charleston as well as large tracts of land which is where my particular interest lies. I live on Johns Island so I had a very strong interest in learning the inventory of property on Johns Island as well as the surrounding sea islands of Wadmalaw, Seabrook and Kiawah.

What I found when I started driving out to Wadmalaw Island were very special estate homes on the water (mostly hidden from the road) plus low density (which equates to a lot of privacy!) and the most incredible abundance of nature – all kinds of nature. I have seen flocks of turkey, fox, white squirrels, deer, bobcats and varied species of birds that would excite any bird enthusiast.

Wadmalaw Island has been an agricultural area and, around the Civil War, was home to Indigo and Rice plantations. Then, in later years, growing hundreds of acres of tomatoes and a number of southern garden vegetables for local Charleston restaurants. Many of the large old plantations on the island have conservation easements attached to them which will ensure an abundance of unspoiled natural beauty on the island for generations to come.  

The residents of Wadmalaw Island understand that this lifestyle is one that serves up a myriad of outdoor living. Hunting, fishing, crabbing, boating are what fills the days on this sleepy, rural island.  Surrounded by the Intracoastal Waterway, rivers and tidal creeks, exploring the endless waterways by canoe or kayak allows you to experience the coastal landscape up close.  

Surprisingly, although Wadmalaw is quiet, serene and feels like a secluded sanctuary, the drive into downtown Charleston is only 19 miles or only about 30 to 40 minutes depending on time of day.  If you have an afternoon while in Charleston drive out Maybank Highway and experience the beauty of one of our most special sea islands.

NOTE:  Experience the beauty and mystique that comes from living on Wadmalaw Island yourself.  From boating on the Intracoastal Waterway to marsh frontage that provides access to tidal creeks and kayaking, fishing and crabbing Wadmalaw has it all. Start searching now …