Fall is the ideal season for a Lowcountry ramble to this former plantation now state-owned heritage preserve near Edisto Beach. Local photographer Jon Puckett recently visited this vast coastal gem of maritime forest, marshland, and perhaps one of the most wildly beautiful beaches along the South Carolina shore accessible by foot
Botany Bay Rd., off Hwy. 174
Edisto Island
Approximately 45 miles, about a one-hour drive from downtown Charleston
Owned by the state and managed by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Botany Bay is open for exploring on select days from sunrise to sunset; closed Tuesdays and scheduled hunt days (see below). Check in at the kiosk, park, and explore at will. There are no amenities so plan ahead. Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and bug spray. Bikes are welcome on the pathways, but leave dogs, metal detectors, drones, and alcohol at home. After your adventure, visit Edisto Beach for an old-school beach town with food, fun, and shopping: charlestonmag.com/features/edisto_beach.
Days Open in October: 1 & 8, 11-15, 19-22, & 26-29
Guided Beach Walks: Two Fridays per month, October 13 & 27, 10 a.m.-noon; there’s no registration, just meet at the beach parking lot before 10 a.m.
Find a Driving Tour & Map: dnr.sc.gov
