Lowcountry Real Estate
Johns & James Island
On the western side of the Charleston harbor sits beautiful James Island. This large sea island is surrounded by several natural waterways including the Wappoo River to the north, the Stono River to the west, and Charleston harbor on the east side. Nicknamed “Jim Isle”, this area was home to seventeen plantations as well as a hub for fishermen and shrimpers in the 1800’s.
Located to the west of James Island and separated by the Stono River sits rustic Johns Island. This unique island has a long history dating back to the 1600’s where nomadic tribes of Native Americans, including the Kiawah and Stono tribes, used these lands for hunting and fishing.
James Island
James Island has a rich, yet diverse history. Some of the history is echoed today through the ancient Live Oaks to the old powder magazine that sits where Fort Johnson used to stand. Today, James Island is quickly expanding and has become a premiere location for a variety of buying possibilities. James Island offers an array of choices from old, plantation-style homes to creek side cottages, to newly constructed condominiums.
Residents and newcomers alike enjoy a plethora of activities both during the summer and winter months on James Island. It is minutes from beautiful Folly Beach and just a short drive from downtown Charleston. However, many don’t feel the need to leave the island as there is so much to do. The multitude of creeks, waterways, beaches, and marinas provide a waters-sports haven. Surfing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and fishing are some of the most common hobbies for the water lovers while others can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the 643 acre James Island County Park which is also home to Charleston’s Festival of Lights during Christmas.

“Prices typically are less expensive than in Mt. Pleasant, and the younger crowd enjoys this. Folly Beach is the closest beach to James Island, being no more than 15 minutes away from the furthest point. There are a lot of homes on tidal creeks, since you can find water at almost any neighborhood."
Buying Charleston Real Estate
Website

“Johns Island offers all the benefits of living just beyond the city while still having easy access to Charleston’s shopping, dining and entertainment. The community also is close to the Charleston Tea Plantation, the only tea plantation in North America. There’s also the year-round Johns Island Farmers Market open each Saturday, and the nearby municipal golf course is popular among the neighbors."
Post and Courier
Newspaper
Johns Island
European settlers moved into the area taking advantage of the fertile land that Johns Island had to offer and established numerous plantations and farms. By the 1800’s Johns Island was a full fledged farming community. To this day, Johns Island yields some of the highest quality, homegrown produce in the south thanks to the many active farms that are still in operation. Every Saturday, visitors and locals alike are invited to the Johns Island Sustainable Farmers Market featuring over 50 local vendors and farmers, live music, and entertainment for the kids.
Johns Island is also home to Angel Oak, one of the oldest, most spectacular Oaks left in the south. Located in the scenic Angel Oak Park, it stands over 65 feet tall and is estimated to be between 400 and 500 years old. It is considered a must-see attraction by locals and newcomers alike. Johns Island is just a 10 minute drive to downtown Charleston, but if feels like worlds away. The island is surrounded by rivers and waterways as well as small tidal creeks which makes it a prime location for waterfront real estate. Just inland from the Stono River are beautiful plantation style homes and cozier family cottages tucked away between old Oak forests. The scenic views and rustic lifestyle are staples of Johns Island.
Latest Blog Articles
Your turn to make a move
Have questions about Charleston, SC real estate? Contact us today:
Contact Matt Anderson