In Isle of Palms, or IOP, flip-flops and tee shirts are the recommended attire. This South Carolina barrier island has a laid-back resort lifestyle without the tourists. Year-round residents mix with vacation-home owners and renters to form an affluent local community. Luxurious vacation rentals sit next to oceanfront villas on the famous Isle of Palms County Park Beach, while private golf course condos and quaint cabin rentals lie inland.

It’s the pristine sands, natural marsh creeks and picturesque scenery of IOP that have travelers coming back for more – not to mention the beautiful subtropical climate.

Vacation rentals in Isle of Palms offer family fun of all sorts. Watersports, fishing and beach activities are the big draw, with exquisite sightseeing and attractions right at your fingertips. The historic city of Charleston is just 10 miles away, with an abundance of dining, nightlife, entertainment, shopping and culture.

Browse Isle of Palms cabin rentals and beachfront homes to see first hand why this hidden gem is a destination on the rise.

Choose from an array of watersports in the area like jet skiing, wakeboarding, parasailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing and more. Charleston SUP Safaris will take you on a guided paddleboard pursuit of the beach’s relaxed creeks, as you gaze for local wildlife. Take the family on an extravagant fishing excursion with Drum Runner Charters, where you’ll troll for tuna, marlin and mahi. Or hit the Marina on Isle of Palms to board breathtaking sunset cruises and dolphin-watching tours.

Vacation rentals on the beach offer underwater activities, too! Snorkel through abandoned Civil War and WWII shipwrecks, or dive to the marine fossil beds in search for prehistoric dinosaur teeth.

Coastal house rentals aren’t only good for aquatic fun. The most popular sport on the island is volleyball, and tournaments are often held at the famous Windjammer Club. Cabin rentals inland put you near hiking trails and biking paths for a break from the beach.

Golfers marvel at Isle of Palms’ Wild Dunes Resort, with two 18-hole courses designed by the legendary Tom Fazio. Condo rentals along the course make it easy to play a round without making it an all-day affair.

Attractions surround the vacation rentals in Isle of Palms. Families of all ages will love the stunningly beautiful flowers at the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. It is the oldest public garden in America and boasts over one thousand different species of fauna.

If the Gardens leave your camera wanting more, hop on board one of the aerial sightseeing plane tours or hot air balloon rides. Catch a romantic sunset from high above the terrain or enjoy the photographic opportunities with the family.

The laid-back vibe in Isle of Palms makes it a premier destination for families, couples or friends looking to relax on the beach or take part in some adventure. Available properties range from quaint cabin rentals to beachside villas and breezy house rentals. Find the best deals and availability at TripAdvisor Vacation Rentals.