Quality Roofing Services that Go Over and Above Your Expectations

Request a Free Estimate

Roof Repair in Isle of Palms, SC

When it comes to your home, what do you consider to be the important part? Many people might say the kitchen or bedroom. Others might say the living room, where Sunday night football happens and family time is always in full swing. However, if you were to ask a builder, chances are they'd say your roof is the single-most vital part of your home. That's because your roof serves as a protective barrier for everything underneath it, including your most precious cargo: your family. Without a strong and sturdy roof, you and your family could be exposed to the elements or worse. Could you imagine trying to go through life with a dilapidated roof in need of repairs?

One moment, you could be sitting around with your loved ones enjoying each other's company. The next moment, you're scrambling to get a tarp up on your roof because there's a last-minute thunderstorm about to hit your neighborhood. Everything from critters to rain and wind would find its way inside. Even small holes and repairs left to fester can quickly become bigger problems in the summer and winter, when Lowcountry pests and storms tear away at minor issues, making them major.

Whether you're looking for roof repair in Isle of Palms, SC to prepare for the inevitable or a complete roof replacement for long-term protection, Empire Roofing & Remodeling is your go-to choice for quality roofing services. Why take a risk with the part of your home that gives you the most protection year-round?

4 Reasons to Keep

Your Roof in Great Condition

Our team of experts at Empire Roofing is very passionate about roofing and, more specifically, keeping our client's roofs in great condition. We believe education can go a long way in keeping you safe, which is why we put together these points, so you understand how crucial it is to maintain your roof.

Roofers Isle Of Palms, SC

01. Your Roof Keeps Your Family Safe and Dry

The primary purpose of a roof is to shield your home from various weather conditions and potential threats. Without it, families would not have proper housing, so it is crucial to keep your roof in good condition to ensure the safety and comfort of its occupants. Could you imagine trying to help your kids with math homework with water dripping on your head? Without a well-built and maintained roof, you'll have to alter your way of living every time a storm swoops in or high-gusting wind picks up.

 Roofing Company Isle Of Palms, SC

02. Maintain Structural Integrity of Your Home

Did you know that the roof of your house serves as a crucial structural support that keeps everything together? Without it, your lighting, plumbing, and interior design would not be able to function properly. Once your roof starts to go, it's only a matter of time before other issues start popping up. Before you know it, you're dealing with home repairs that can quickly snowball out of control, and it all started with your roof.

 Roofing Services Isle Of Palms, SC

03. Keep Indoor Temperatures in Check

Your roofing system's insulation is a key factor in maintaining consistent indoor temperatures and reducing energy costs. By adding a layer of insulation, you can create a barrier that helps minimize the output required from HVAC units, leading to lower energy bills. And, if we're being honest, every penny saved in today's economy is worth it.

 Roof Repair Isle Of Palms, SC

04. Raise the Value of Your Home

Having a well-maintained roof is one of the biggest factors that goes into the resale value of your home. Put yourself in the shoes of the buyer - if you were interested in buying a home but found that it was in need of a roof replacement in Isle of Palms, SC would you buy the property? Probably not. But having a solid roof that has been maintained won't just raise your property value. It could also help you sell your home and put you in a better position to pass a home inspection.

If you know for a fact that your roof is in bad shape, it's imperative to consider roof repairs when necessary and even a roof replacement when needed. By and large, roofing jobs are almost always best performed by trained professionals like you'll find at Empire Roofing & Remodeling. Fortunately, our team of licensed experts specializes in both roof repairs as well as roofing replacements.

Protect Your Biggest Investment with

Roof Repair in Isle of Palms, SC

If your roof has minor or moderate damage, a roof repair may be all that's needed to fix the problem. This process can even prolong the life of an older roof. Most homeowners will face this project at some point, but it's best to hire a qualified roofing company like Empire Roofing to ensure it's done correctly, even if the damage seems easy enough to handle on your own.

Instead of replacing the entire roof, roof repair involves fixing a small, isolated area. The repair process may include patching holes and gaps or replacing damaged shingles and other materials, depending on the type of damage.

A qualified contractor will identify and evaluate the roofing problem before repairing it. You can look for signs of damage on your own by using binoculars to scan the roof from the ground. If you notice missing or broken shingles, nail pops, punctures or holes, cracked flashing, or granule loss, your roof needs repairing ASAP. When roof repairs are needed, Empire Roofing is ready to help.

 Best Roofing Company Isle Of Palms, SC

The Empire Roofing Repair Process

With years of high-level roofing experience, we have developed a tried-and-true system for roof repairs in South Carolina:

Insurance: At Empire Roofing, we like to work with insurance companies, not against them. If your home has insurance that protects you from roof damage, we can help make the insurance claim process easier. That way, we can get to your repairs quicker.

Scope of Work: Once insurance signs off on your roof repair work, we'll provide you with a detailed estimate that covers the repairs and scope of work needed to repair your roof. Of course, you'll also get plenty of info on pricing, a repair timeline, and our contact info.

Approvals: If building permits or HOA approvals are necessary, we will acquire those so that we can get to work on repairing your roof.

Prep: Before our team gets to work, we always take the time necessary to protect your home and property. We're talking roof tarps, dump zones, and ground cover for your landscaping.

Roof Repairs in Isle of Palms: Once we've got your home and property prepped, we'll start repairing your roof, so you can rest easy at night knowing your family is protected.

Cleanup: We know that repairing roofs can be messy work. That's why we make it a point to clean up after ourselves by removing debris and remnants of your roofing job from your property.

 Commercial Roofing Isle Of Palms, SC

Save Money and Stress with a Roof Replacement in Isle of Palms, SC

Request Service phone

Repairing a roof only addresses a portion of the structure, whereas replacing it involves removing the entire visible area. With a roof replacement, just about everything must be stripped away. That way, the deck is exposed, and repairs to sheathing, rafters, and trusses can be made before your replacement project begins.

And while it's true that a total roof replacement is more complicated and involves more work than roof repairs, with time, a roof replacement can actually save you money. That's especially true if your roof is sagging or in such a state of disrepair that a replacement is your only option.

At Empire Roofing & Remodeling, we would be happy to inspect your roof to determine what type of service you need, whether it's a roof repair or roof replacement. If we find that you really do need a replacement, you can rest easy knowing that you're in capable hands with Empire. We've been replacing roofs for years and have the professional tools and training to get the job done right the first time.

With that said, we know that getting your roof replaced is still a nerve-wracking experience. While every roof replacement is different, knowing how we approach roof replacements in South Carolina can help give you peace of mind.

The Residential Roof Replacement Process at Empire Roofing

01

Deliver
Materials

This is a wider card with supporting text below as a natural lead-in to additional content. This content is a little bit longer.

02

Move
Automobiles

Upon arrival, your roof replacement contractor from Empire will ask that you move all vehicles from your driveway or garage, except for any vehicle you won't need to use during the replacement process. This is done to allow you and your family to come and go as usual, without any obstructions. Additionally, it provides protection for your vehicles, as stray debris from the roof could potentially cause damage to your windshield or paint.

03

Old Roof
Removal

Once your contractor has prepared the area, they will remove your old roof in sections. They will start at the farthest corner of your roof from your driveway and work their way toward the dump trailer and new materials. As they remove a section, some of our contractors will begin installing your new roof while others will continue to remove your old roof. This is done to save time, money, and reduce foot traffic on your roof.

04

Protect Your Lawn
& Landscaping

As you prepare to replace your roof, the next step is to protect your property. Your contractor will start by tarping the ground where debris will be dumped and covering your shrubs and landscaping. This ensures that your property remains safe during the roof replacement process. It's also a good idea to consider protecting valuable items inside your home, depending on the size and scope of your roof replacement in Isle of Palms, SC.

05

Gutters
Cleared

As your Empire roof replacement team cleans up and removes sections of your roof, your gutters will also be cleaned out. This cleaning includes removing any debris from the tear-off, leaves, and other potential blockages. It should be noted that it's important to clean out your gutters periodically throughout the year to maintain the integrity of your roof. Don't wait to have your gutters cleaned until it's time for your roof to be replaced.

06

Roof Replacement
Begins

After removing your old roofing materials and after your gutters are clean, our team will get to work on installing your new roof. We can use a wide range of materials for your new roof, from asphalt shingles for residential homes to TPO roofing for businesses.

Using an asphalt roof as an example, your Empire roofers will systematically work their way around your house, following the areas that have already been torn off. After a portion is removed, the underlayment is laid, and the drip edge will be installed. From there, your starter shingles and regular shingles will then be applied, taking into account current and future weather conditions. Once your shingles are ready, our team will put on your ridge capping. From there, we'll tackle your home's ventilation system.

Remember - each type of roofing material will have a different installation method. Contact our office today to learn more about the material choices we have available and which option is best for your needs.

07

Roof Replacement
Cleanup

After we replace your old roof, it's time to clean up. We'll get to work quickly, making it a point to blow off your roof so leftover debris is removed onto dump tarps. Our team will also clear any remaining debris out of your downspouts and gutters. Once we're done cleaning up on top of your roof, we'll move to the ground, where we'll finish cleaning up. Once we leave, you'll have a hard time knowing we were even there - except for the beautiful new roof sitting over your head.

08

Workmanship
Inspection

At Empire Roofing & Remodeling, we take roof repair and roof replacements very seriously. After all, your family's well-being and safety are on the line. That's why we double-check all of our work to ensure the quality of your roofing project matches our extra-high standards. Once we verify the quality of our work and we ensure that you're happy, we'll thank you and move on to our next roofing project in South Carolina.

Roof Replacement or

Roof Repair in Isle of Palms?

At Empire Roofing & Remodeling, one of the most common questions we receive often revolves around whether a client should get their roof repaired or replaced. When it comes to home improvement, repairing or replacing your roof is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. It's crucial to select the right approach to guarantee that your roof is in its best condition and that you're getting your money's worth.

If you're unsure whether roof repair or replacement is best, consider these factors.

 Roof Replacement Isle Of Palms, SC

Age of Your Roof

Although roofs are designed to endure and shield you from harsh weather conditions, they do have a limited lifespan. Each roofing material has a sell-by date indicating when it needs to be replaced. For instance, asphalt roofing shingles usually last for about 20 years. As your roof reaches the end of its lifespan, it is often more efficient and cost-effective to replace your roof rather than repair it every few months.

 Home Roofers Isle Of Palms, SC

Condition of Your Roof

Is your roof deteriorating from an aesthetic standpoint, or has it suffered physical damage? Small visual issues resulting from minor damage are often best addressed by roof repairs. Extreme damage affecting your home's structural integrity often requires a full roof replacement.

 Commercial Roofing Contractors Isle Of Palms, SC

Area of Roof Damaged

Is your roof deteriorating from an aesthetic standpoint, or has it suffered physical damage? Small visual issues resulting from minor damage are often best addressed by roof repairs. Extreme damage affecting your home's structural integrity often requires a full roof replacement.

 Siding Isle Of Palms, SC

Future Plans

Ask yourself this: How long do you plan on living in your current home? To increase the value of their property, many homeowners choose to invest in home improvement projects such as updating their roofing systems. However, if you plan to sell your home and increase its value, it's important to consider roof repair vs. roof replacement timelines. If you've got a new job lined up and have to move soon, a complete roof replacement might not be feasible.

What Clients Say About Us

Trust the Empire Roofing &

Remodeling Difference

Looking for a roofing contractor that you can trust with your biggest investment? At Empire Roofing & Remodeling, LLC, we take pride in our workmanship and unflinching commitment to customers. As a family-owned business, we know how important your roof is to the safety of your family. We also know that money doesn't grow on trees. That's why we're happy to provide dependable roofing services at prices that won't break the bank.

Whether your roof needs simple repairs or a complete roof replacement in Isle of Palms, SC you can count on our licensed professionals. No matter the size of your project, we're here to serve you with quality, integrity, and a friendly smile. Contact our office today to get started.

Call Us Now

phone 843-704-8566

Free Estimate

Latest News in Isle of Palms, SC

Isle of Palms visitors with mobility limitations see new free accessibility tool

ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. (WCSC) - Visitors of the Charleston County Parks on Isle of Palms who have mobility limitations will now be able to explore the area independently.It’s all thanks to new technology donated by a nonprofit that strives to give those with limitations independent access to activities.The new addition is an off-road wheelchair, also seen at Folly Beach’s Parks and Recreation.These off-road wheelchairs provide free, independent access to different terrains and it’s a bit more advanced than...

ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. (WCSC) - Visitors of the Charleston County Parks on Isle of Palms who have mobility limitations will now be able to explore the area independently.

It’s all thanks to new technology donated by a nonprofit that strives to give those with limitations independent access to activities.

The new addition is an off-road wheelchair, also seen at Folly Beach’s Parks and Recreation.

These off-road wheelchairs provide free, independent access to different terrains and it’s a bit more advanced than a typical beach wheelchair.

The currently available beach wheelchairs can travel on the beach but must stay mostly on the mats; however, this off-road chair can travel sand, gravel, dirt or even snow. The only terrain it cannot travel is water because of the electric makeup.

The ride is said to be a bit rougher, but one of the most notable features is its ability to be controlled independently. This means no one will need to accompany or push users around, as the driver is in full control.

The chair was donated from a South Carolina nonprofit organization, Waymaker Offroad Wheelchairs, which is dedicated to helping people with mobility impairments enjoy outdoor activities with independence.

The Recreation Administrative Manager for Charleston County Parks and Recreation, Allysa Sturgell, says they are excited about the addition of the off-road chair and expanding visitor access with the freedom to explore.

“I think that’s really important, as we continue to remove our barriers through our parks, that we allow folks to travel and visit our parks and visit our nature and resources in that chair independently,” Sturgell said.

Sturgell says the off-road chair is also a great way for people to get access to outdoor activities without having to use their own private mobility aids on the beach.

“Having this resource is just really great. It also allows… people to use a different chair. So, some of these people have chairs that are tailored to them, and they don’t want to get them sandy, they don’t want to get them dirty. And so, by having this chair, it allows them to transfer into this chair, go have a great time out on the beach and then get cleaned up and transfer back into their chair that they use every day," Sturgell said.

The off-road wheelchair is free and available for check out on a first-come, first-served basis.

A chair reservation does not include park admission and, if reserved, can only be used in those designated County Parks on the Isle of Palms.

In the winter and slower months, the chair will be transported to different places, like interpretive centers, for continued use.

To rent the off-road wheelchair or read more about it, click here.

To find the rules on the chair or for more about Waymaker Offroad Wheelchairs click here.

Copyright 2025 WCSC. All rights reserved.

10 South Carolina Seafood Spots Our Readers Rave About

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.We asked our readers to vote for their favorite spots for fresh catch and local shrimp in the Palmetto State—here are their picks.When in Rome, do as the Romans do. When in South Carolina, find the nearest seafood dive and tuck into a platter of fried sh...

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

We asked our readers to vote for their favorite spots for fresh catch and local shrimp in the Palmetto State—here are their picks.

When in Rome, do as the Romans do. When in South Carolina, find the nearest seafood dive and tuck into a platter of fried shrimp—preferably one served with an ice-cold beer and an unobstructed view of the water. While you can take to Google or a guidebook to determine where to go for steamed oysters or shrimp and grits in the Lowcountry, we decided to consult the folks who care about good Southern seafood as much as we do: our readers.

Lee's Inlet Kitchen

When you’ve been around for more than 75 years, you’re bound to be doing something right. At this beloved institution in the fishing village of Murrells Inlet, try not to load up on the hot hush puppies they bring to the table on arrival—though it's awfully tempting. There's still so much more to savor, like the hand-peeled, cold-boiled shrimp pulled from the waters of nearby McClellanville or the thin and crispy onion rings—Lee’s is as famous for those as it is for the seafood.

Order: The Shrimp Salad ($28.95), made with boiled fantail shrimp and Duke's mayo, is another house specialty.

4460 US-17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576; leesinletkitchen.com

explore Murrells Inlet

Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks

It doesn’t get much fresher than this Hilton Head Island mainstay, where 90% of the seafood served comes directly from the surrounding waters. Because of its enviable position on the edge of Port Royal Sound, guests can watch a local fishing fleet (one of only two on the island) unload the day’s loot, which could include anything from white shrimp to soft-shell crab.

Order: From September through April, opt for the steamed local cluster oysters in the shell ($12 for a half bucket); the restaurant farms and harvests them.

1 Hudson Road, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina 29926; hudsonsonthedocks.com

Bowens Island Restaurant

Should you find yourself in the Holy City, make the worthwhile dirt-road detour to this family-owned restaurant that’s been a rambling fixture along Folly Creek since 1946. With its graffitied walls and worn-in wood floors, it doesn’t beg for attention, and it doesn’t need to. Deemed an American Classic by the James Beard Foundation in 2006, the Lowcountry seafood joint shovels fresh-steamed oysters onto trays September through the first half of May and dishes fried shrimp and hush puppies year-round. It’s all delicious—and it's made even more so if you snag a seat on the waterside deck.

Order: The shrimp (served boiled or fried) and fried fish platter is served with the seafood-dive-side-dish trifecta: french fries, hush puppies, and coleslaw.

1870 Bowens Island Road, Charleston, SC 29412; bowensisland.com

The Crab Shack

Situated on the main drag of the freewheeling beach town just 12 miles from buttoned-up Charleston, The Crab Shack is as family-friendly and flip-flop casual as its surrounds. Start with the the she-crab soup, but save room: The value seafood baskets—which you can order with flounder, shrimp, or scallops (or a combination of all three)—are generously portioned. Catch them at another location in Charleston as well.

Order: The marquee offering, The Charleston Steamed Seafood Bucket, includes two snow crab clusters, large domestic shrimp, and steamed oysters (market price).

26 Center Street, Folly Beach, SC 29439 and 8486 Dorchester Rd, Charleston, SC 29420; crabshacks.com

explore charleston

Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oyster Shop

Housed in a reimagined garage on Upper King Street, the Brooks Reitz-helmed restaurant turned 10 in 2024, but it’s been a neighborhood favorite from the start, thanks to a menu of mouthwatering fried chicken, expectedly fresh oysters, and surprisingly craveable salads. Add to the clever mix soft-serve ice cream and buckets of Miller High Life ponies, and you’ve found yourself one of the best meals in this restaurant-proud town.

Order: Even the bivalve-averse crowd may develop a taste for oysters after sampling Leon's char-grilled take, which swim in a melty swirl of lemon and butter and are topped with a generous sprinkle of parmesan. The "old-school" scalloped potatoes are also not to be missed.

698 King St, Charleston, SC 29403; leonsoystershop.com

The Sea Shack

Don’t let inevitable line out the door during summertime scare you off. This treasured counter-service spot with just 40 seats is an area favorite thanks to its wide array of offerings, from conch fritters to flounder sandwiches. It’s all made to order and to your liking—fried, grilled, or blackened. Wash it down with a glass of what they declare to be the best sweet tea on the island, and finish with a slice of strawberry Key Lime pie (when it’s seasonally available) or a cup of banana pudding.

Order: Hearty appetites should try the Shack Attack Combo ($17.95 for lunch, $19.95 for dinner), which combines a crab cake, fish, shrimp, scallops, and oysters on a giant paper platter. Homemade tartar sauce is the traditional accompaniment, but we think the brandy-infused gator sauce makes an even better platter slather.

6B Executive Park Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928; seashackhhi.com

explore hilton head

Sullivan’s Fish Camp

With its lofted ceilings, lacquered-wood booths, and commitment to retro branding, this Sullivan’s Island joint feels like it’s been there forever. In reality, it’s a newcomer—a spring 2022 top-to-bottom overhaul of a restaurant that had called the same spot home for 30 years. And while the nostalgically striped, umbrella-shaded patio is painfully charming, the takeaway window makes a strong case for a to-go lobster roll savored on the beach just a few blocks away.

Order: The shrimp fried rice ($24) puts a fresh coastal twist on a takeout mainstay. We also love the Key lime pie.

2019 Middle Street, Sullivan's Island, SC 29482; sullivansfishcamp.com

explore Sullivan's Island

The Wreck of the Richard and Charlene

So named for the trawler that was tossed ashore on the same spot during Hurricane Hugo in 1989, this dinner-only, no-reservations establishment on Shem Creek shrugs off formalities in favor of its dynamite views and deliciously simple seafood. The best seat in the house belongs to the wooden dockside bar, where sunset views and local craft beers are just an arm’s length away.

Order: Complete with red rice, coleslaw, a hush puppy, and a fried hominy square, the shrimp platter (from $17.95) is a true taste of the Lowcountry. The deviled crab is also worth a try.

106 Haddrell Street, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464; wreckrc.com

Shrimp Shack

This family-owned lunch spot has been an island institution since it first opened its doors in 1978, and its magic belongs to its simplicity. They're only open for lunch, and you order through a carry-out window—though you don't have to take your food home. Snag one of the picnic tables on the porch for an especially satisfying alfresco dining experience.

Order: Given the restaurant's name, it's obvious you can't go wrong with shrimp here, but the shrimp burger ($9.30), served on a bun with tartar sauce and mayo, is a true crowd favorite.

1929 Sea Island Parkway, Saint Helena Island, SC 29920; facebook.com/shrimpshacksc

Mr. Fish Restaurant

There’s something for everyone on the extensive menu at this landmark Grand Strand restaurant and seafood market owned by a fisherman father and his culinary school-trained daughter. Choose a South Carolina classic, like the Lowcountry boil, or make the most of the raw bar and order a sushi roll or two. Stretch mealtime into a full-fledged Mr. Fish experience by reserving a ride to and from dinner in the Mr. Fishmobile, a bright blue school bus that hits all the nostalgic high notes.

Order: The seafood tacos ($15) are made with your choice of mahi, tuna, or shrimp and are topped with chipotle-lime sauce.

6307 North Kings Highway, Suite B, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572; mrfish.com

Explore Myrtle Beach

10 Scenic Beaches Near Charleston For A Sunny Escape

There are plenty of good reasons to make the trip to Charleston, South Carolina: Historic homes make for colorful photo ops, the restaurant scene is fresh and inventive, and locally owned stores and boutiques make for unparalleled shopping. Some of the Holy City's greatest assets, though, aren't actually within the city limits...

There are plenty of good reasons to make the trip to Charleston, South Carolina: Historic homes make for colorful photo ops, the restaurant scene is fresh and inventive, and locally owned stores and boutiques make for unparalleled shopping. Some of the Holy City's greatest assets, though, aren't actually within the city limits.

Pack the sunscreen and load the car because the scenic beaches near Charleston are a gem. You won't find ultra-crowded beaches, just a quiet spot to relax and soak up the sunshine. The smooth sand, cool water, and near-perfect weather will make you think you've found pure bliss. Here, find our guide to the sun-drenched beaches that are just a quick drive from the Charleston Peninsula. They're worth the detour.

The 28 Best Things To Do In Charleston, South Carolina

1. Kiawah Island

While the 23-mile drive from the peninsula out to Kiawah Island takes about 40 minutes on a good day, the pristine stretch of sand at Kiawah's public Beachwalker Park is well worth it. It's quiet, especially for a public park, fronts the ocean, and also offers views of the Kiawah River. Beach chair and umbrella rentals are available seasonally, and dogs are welcome, as long as they're on a leash. Explore Kiawah Island's private beaches by renting a house or villa on the island or booking a stay at the Sanctuary, the island's luxurious oceanfront hotel.

2. Folly Beach

Just 12 miles from downtown, the "Edge of America" is the grooviest of Charleston's nearby beaches. It's a popular hangout for surfers, who frequent "The Washout," a stretch of coast known for having the area's best waves. Center Street, the bohemian beach town's colorful main thoroughfare, is lined with surf and souvenir shops and good eats, like Taco Boy and Rita's Seaside Grille, and is just steps away from Folly's 1,045-foot fishing pier.

3. Isle of Palms

The oceanfront county park on this barrier island has picnic tables, a sand volleyball court, and a playground for the littlest beach bums, making it a great place to take the whole family. Venture a little farther down the beach, beyond the park, to discover a number of fun beachfront bars and eateries, like family-friendly Coconut Joe's Beach Grill and The Windjammer, a classic dive bar and music venue that's as salty as they come. Paddle the intercoastal waterway from Isle of Palms where you may encounter dolphins and get up close to coves and marshes.

4. Seabrook Island

Though the island's nearly 4 miles of unspoiled beaches are private to residents and rental guests only (book your stay here), Seabrook is still worth a stop if you're already making the trip out to Kiawah's Beachwalker Park, which is just a few miles away. An Audubon International Cooperative Sanctuary, Seabrook is home to a variety of wildlife, including foxes, bobcats, deer, sea turtles, and bottlenose dolphins. Head to Bohicket Marina for a sunset stroll by the river, then plop down at an outdoor table at the Salty Dog Cafe for water views, East Coast peel-and-eat shrimp, and a cold beer or two.

5. Sullivan's Island

When it comes to old-school cottages, small town charm, and a spotless beach to boot, you won't find a dreamier destination than Sullivan's Island. While neighboring Isle of Palms has a lively resort feel, 3.3-square-mile Sullivan's tends to fly under the radar–and the locals like it that way. Be sure to stop by Poe's Tavern on Middle Street for a burger before you head back toward town. Flip-flops and salty hair are always welcome on the front porch.

15 Small Towns In South Carolina We'd Move To In A Heartbeat

6. Bulls Island

Accessible only by ferry, this barrier island is 45 minutes away from downtown Charleston and feels far away from the comforts of civilization. A good way to see the birds of this untouched island, and perhaps a playful dolphin if you're lucky, is on a guided paddling tour. Comb the beach for shells, walk Boneyard Beach where a forest is being recalled by the sea, or track foxes, bobcat, and deer.

7. Edisto Island

About 60 miles from Charleston, Edisto Beach's unspoiled coastline makes it worth the drive. Stay beachside for a dreamy vacation, or take a day trip from Charleston. One of four oceanfront state parks in South Carolina, palmetto-lined Edisto Beach State Park provides the picture-perfect backdrop for swimming, hunting for shells and sharks' teeth, fishing, or strolling. After a day on the island's trails, savor some seafood at the Waterfront Restaurant or the tacos at McConkey's Jungle Shack.

8. Morris Island

Hunt for shells and fossils near the candy cane–striped lighthouse on this uninhabited island just minutes from Charleston. Accessible only by boat, visitors can opt for several tour options, including riding out on a 55-foot power catamaran that's for the more adventurous traveler. For photography buffs, view the lighthouse from the shores of Folly Beach.

9. Pawleys Island

It takes a bit longer to reach from Charleston than some of the other beaches, but the slower pace on Pawleys Island is instantly soothing. This barrier island packs a lot into its four-mile stretch. Set off in a canoe or kayak to explore the salt marsh that separates this island from the mainland, or settle in for a day at the beach. There's shelling, fishing, and crabbing to be done. Sign up for surfing lessons—some of the best waves are near Pawleys Island Pier.

10. Capers Island

Similar to Bulls Island, Capers Island has its own forest of forgotten sea-bleached trees covering the shoreline. At low tide, you may see feeding dolphins and water birds like egrets and herons searching for a meal. Discover tide pools as you walk the beach, hike the island to see gators and deer in their natural habitat, or paddle along the shores and see jellyfish and crabs. Reach this undeveloped island by chartered boat, or take a kayak tour to learn about the area's ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Representing himself, Isle of Palms homeowner goes head-to-head with SC agency in 'sea wall' trial

COLUMBIA —The first day of testimony in the trial involving a retaining wall constructed on the Isle of Palms showcased the staunch determination with which Rom Reddy is prepared to fight the state's environmental agency to protect what he argues are his property rights.The May 6 hearing before Administrative Law Chief Justice Ralph Anderson revealed a battle that started as a property owner se...

COLUMBIA —The first day of testimony in the trial involving a retaining wall constructed on the Isle of Palms showcased the staunch determination with which Rom Reddy is prepared to fight the state's environmental agency to protect what he argues are his property rights.

The May 6 hearing before Administrative Law Chief Justice Ralph Anderson revealed a battle that started as a property owner seeking protections against rising tides, but has quickly turned into a self-described battle against the "police powers of the state," as Reddy said in his opening statement.

Wearing a black suit with a red tie, Reddy represented himself against the state Department of Environmental Services' counsel after firing his team of lawyers a week before the hearings were to begin. During the first day of the trial, he often took aim at the agency by referring to its representatives as "unelected bureaucrats."

"This is a hoax," Reddy said to a small courtroom in the Edgar A. Brown Building on Pendleton Street in Columbia.

Sallie Phelan, an attorney for DES, argued that the homeowners continued work on the structure, made mostly of concrete and reinforced with metal brackets, despite three cease-and-desist directives sent by the agency.

"We're here today about a total disregard of the law and a total disregard of the department's authority to regulate the coast and the beaches critical area," Phelan said.

DES attorneys are asking Anderson to uphold the validity of the penalties levied against the couple last July, reaffirm their jurisdiction over South Carolina beaches, and order the removal of the wall.

Reddy and his wife Renee, who appeared next to him in court, are defending the 150-foot wall they constructed between their home on Ocean Boulevard and the ocean in 2023.

Witness describes erosion, damaged wall

The hearings will include testimony over three days from a slate of witnesses, including current and former DES employees, a coastal engineering expert and an Isle of Palms resident.

Matt Slagel, a former beachfront management section manager for DES who responsible for reviewing applications within the state's beachfront jurisdiction was the first witness called to the stand.

In his testimony, he described a tenuous line of communication with the Reddys. The couple requested an emergency permit for sand scraping to repair dunes eroded in May 2023. Slagel said he denied the request, but told the Reddys they could stabilize the eroded area with sand fencing or vegetation.

Later, the agency learned of plans to place clay in the critical area of the beach. Slagel said he met with the Reddys and their contractor in June 2023 to discuss other ways to stabilize the area that avoided placing non-compatible materials in the beach.

At that time, Slagel said the clay had already been buried, which the agency did not learn until the discovery process for the trial began.

He testified that he didn't realize that a retaining wall was buried under the sand until December 2023. The wall was exposed following an unexpected nor'easter that month.

Photos presented in court showed the exposed wall reinforced with wood and metal brackets, and cracks filled with yellow foam.

"Following the nor'easter, (the wall) had started to tilt towards the beach. It was becoming undermined. It was starting to break apart at the seams," Slagel said.

Dark, wet sand in front of the wall meant it had been exposed to waves and water, Slagel said.

He said this meant the wall was situated in a critical area of the beach where wave action prevents plants from growing, or periodic inundation. Building and construction in this area is limited and often requires a permit from DES.

Reddy argued that the agency used deficient data to justify what is considered "periodic," referring to a storm damage survey Slagel conducted in December 2023 to document erosion from the nor'easter.

Reddy to attempt 'takings' claim

Reddy and counsel for DES spent much of the the first day of hearings questioning Slagel. Around 5:30 p.m., Jacques Prevost, a compliance manager for the agency who attended site visits and conducted inspections at the Reddys' property since 2023, was called to testify.

Reddy is also arguing that the agency's actions—penalizing the homeowners $289,000 and attempting to stop the construction of the wall—amounts to a taking of private property.

He referenced David Lucas, an Isle of Palms property owner, who in the 1990s, challenged the state's beachfront management laws.

Lucas purchased two properties on the island in 1986 with plans to build homes on the lots. The South Carolina Beachfront Management Act was enacted two years later and the state's Coastal Council, a predecessor to DES, told him he was not allowed to build.

He was successful in his challenge that ultimately reached the Supreme Court in 1992. Lucas has since become a vocal supporter of the Reddys in this case.

However, the takings claim is not one that can be tried in the state's administrative law court, Judge Anderson told Reddy when the hearing began. The ALC hears cases that are statutory in nature, and can review and enforce administrative orders issued by regulatory agencies.

Judge confirms SC authority to protect beaches in dispute over Isle of Palms seawall

A judge has ruled against two Isle of Palms property owners who challenged the state’s authority to stop construction of seawalls that worsen erosion of the public beach.In an unexpectedly strong opinion that supports the state’s 37-year-old beach protection law, Judge Ralph King Anderson III said South Carolina has authority over all areas of the sandy beach, despite arguments by the property owners that it does not.The preliminary ruling is not the final word on the issue, but it gives an idea of how he interprets...

A judge has ruled against two Isle of Palms property owners who challenged the state’s authority to stop construction of seawalls that worsen erosion of the public beach.

In an unexpectedly strong opinion that supports the state’s 37-year-old beach protection law, Judge Ralph King Anderson III said South Carolina has authority over all areas of the sandy beach, despite arguments by the property owners that it does not.

The preliminary ruling is not the final word on the issue, but it gives an idea of how he interprets the coastal law as his court prepares to hear the property owners’ full legal challenge over seawall construction next week.

Landowners Rom and Renee Reddy, who live on the beach at the lower end of the Isle of Palms, have challenged a $289,000 state fine over construction of a seawall they built along the shore in 2023.

The Reddys contend that it was their right to build the structure, which protected their home from the ocean, because the part of the beach where the wall was constructed is not within state jurisdiction. They also claim the state’s action against them amounts to taking their private property.

But Anderson’s ruling said the state has jurisdiction over that part of the beach, noting that the Department of Environmental Services “had the authority to impose the administrative order against’’ the Reddys. His ruling denied the Reddy’s request to overturn the fine before the full trial was held. .

Leslie Lenhardt, a lawyer involved in the case on behalf of environmentalists, cheered Anderson’s April 24 ruling.

“It’s an extremely positive ruling in that Judge Anderson made a legal conclusion that DES has jurisdiction,’’ she said. “That’s a real affirmation – and that’s great news.’’

The Reddy’s trial is scheduled to start Tuesday, May 6 at the Administrative Law Court in Columbia. Lenhardt pointed out that the case still must go to trial and the outcome of the DES enforcement case is not settled.

Rom Reddy, a wealthy owner of small newspapers and outspoken supporter of President Donald Trump, said he doesn’t think he’ll win his case when the trial is concluded in the administrative law court. But Reddy said he’s prepared to appeal any unfavorable decision to the state Supreme Court. He said he is planning a federal lawsuit and expects his legal case will eventually be decided by the U.S. Supreme Court. The Reddys have the support of David Lucas, a coastal property owner who won a similar legal case more than 30 years ago.

“This is not justice but tyranny,’’ Reddy said in a text to The State newspaper. “Ultimately, this is a question of whether a government can confiscate a citizen’s land in the name of environmental protection with no compensation.’’

Reddy expressed his displeasure with the administrative law court system, in which judges rule on disputed environmental cases. He said he deserves a jury trial, not “a trial by a judge who is part of the unelected agency state that accused and convicted me of wrongdoing with no due process.’’

Anderson has a reputation as a judge sympathetic to property rights who often rules against conservation and citizens’ groups seeking to stop state approval of environmental permits. That’s why the strong wording in his decision surprised conservationists and others who are following the case.

Department of Environmental Services officials have said little publicly about the case, but maintain in court documents their actions were legal under South Carolina law.

Reddy is so upset about the state’s dealings with him that he started a political action committee that favors cutting regulations and slashing the government workforce, as the Trump administration is doing at the federal level. He also has spoken against the confirmation of Myra Reece, the DES interim director whose agency fined him $289,000 and ordered the seawall to be removed.

According to court documents, the Reddys hired a contractor about two years ago to fill in 1,255 square feet of beach and build a hard erosion control structure, a government term referring to a seawall or bulkhead.

The structure was built after state officials learned of the Reddys’ plans and warned them not to move forward, a state enforcement document shows.

New seawalls on jurisdictional areas of the beach have been illegal since 1988. Reddy told South Carolina regulators he was trying to repair his yard from damage that occurred from a lack of protective dunes near the ocean.

The issue, which has sparked debate in the state Legislature, centers on sections of the seashore that fall outside of building restriction lines established decades ago to keep construction back from the oceanfront.

Enacted through a landmark 1988 law, the lines are intended to make sure new buildings and seawalls are not constructed so close to the ocean that they are hit by waves that worsen erosion of the public beach and damage seaside properties.

Now, parts of the state’s beaches have shifted inland of the building restriction lines, exposing sandy areas of seashore. The Reddys and their supporters say the state doesn’t have authority in the areas outside the restrictive lines. They note that the Legislature has made changes to the law in recent years.

The state’s argument boils down to this: Regardless of the location of the building restriction lines – known as setbacks and baselines – any area that becomes part of the sandy beach falls within state oversight as a result of South Carolina’s 1988 law.

Anderson’s ruling backed that argument. He said beaches include all seaside lands where the ocean regularly washes. Those are sandy areas where most vegetation cannot survive because salt water is toxic to many plants.

Anderson wrote that DES “undeniably has jurisdiction ... even if such lands fall landward of the setback line.’’

Lenhardt said the ruling is encouraging because Reddy’s legal case threatened the state’s long-standing beach protection law. The law allows for state jurisdiction of all sandy beach areas, not just those on the oceanside of building restriction lines, she said.

That’s important because beaches are eroding as sea level rise continues. The emergence of sandy beach areas landward of the building restriction lines demonstrates that shorelines are subject to change and property owners need to be aware of that, she said.

“With all this erosion from climate change and sea level rise, there is more and more often critical area (in state jurisdiction) landward of the setback line,’’ Lenhardt said.

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.
 Windows Isle Of Palms, SC

Service Areas