It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Fort Moultrie National Historical Park gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Isle of Palms, SC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Best Senior Service Care in Charleston to work for. Christine and Rick are very positive”
“Very Professional and excellent staff.”
“Our family has been using the services of Always Best Care for the past six”
“I cannot say enough wonderful things about Always Best Care Charleston! I am truly blessed”
“Always Best Care caregivers have been taking care of Dad for over a year. We”
“Like most I was not prepared for the transition to being the responsible one for”
“We have had several senior services for my Mother that we were really not happy”
“Good Afternoon! I hope you're doing well! I wanted you to know that my dad”
“The absolute best caregiving company to work for hands down! Rick and Christine are genuine,”
“This is a great company to work for. All their caregivers are dedicated and caring.”
“These people are lifesavers! We searched for months to find an in-home care agency for”
“Always Best Care has constantly provided quality care services for my wife over many months”
“Couldn’t imagine a better team of people to take care of my loved ones. Rick”
“Rick and Christine, of Always Best Care Charleston, are the exact people I would trust”
“I've known Christine and Ricky Johnson for more than 30 years and would highly recommend”
“I joined Always Best Care as the Director of Operations about 3 months ago. I”
“I have known Christine and Rick for years. Their actions and words repeatedly demonstrate their”
“I couldn't be happier that Ricky and Christine Johnson have joined Always Best Care Senior”
“How fortunate the Charleston community is to have Always Best Care to serve the needs”
“I have known Christine and Rick Johnson both professionally and personally for over 20 years”
“Best Senior Service Care in Charleston to work for. Christine and Rick are very positive and supportive and for that I love my Job.”
“Very Professional and excellent staff.”
“Our family has been using the services of Always Best Care for the past six months and are grateful for the assistance provided to my elderly parents. Initially Rick, one of the owners, met with us along with my parents to closely assess their needs. His warm, friendly manner was helpful in persuading my father to give the assistance a try for two days per week. Rick listened carefully to choose the best match in caregivers, and we could not be more satisfied than we are with our parents' caregiver. She has quickly become essential in their lives and makes a huge difference in whether or not they can remain in their home. Her manner with my parents is professional, but loving, always--- always--- going the extra mile to meet their needs. She is knowledgeable, hard-working, caring, and trusted to do what is in their best interest. We are thankful that someone told us about Always Best Care and ever grateful for our caregiver.”
“I cannot say enough wonderful things about Always Best Care Charleston! I am truly blessed to be a part of such a wonderful team! Christine and Rick are very dedicated to the work that they are doing, and it shows in everything they do. I have never had the pleasure of working for a company with more passionate and involved owners. They show up for their clients and caregivers in every way possible. They go above and beyond to treat everyone like family and enrich the lives of those around them. I am so grateful to be able to be a part of this journey and cannot wait to see all the great things they will accomplish!”
“Always Best Care caregivers have been taking care of Dad for over a year. We appreciate Christine and Rick very much. Quentin, Ann, Alexus , you and others have been a joy to have in our home and doing whatever needs to be done. You show your care and concern for Dad’s physical and emotional well being and you have become part of our family. I really rely on you when we can’t be home and know Dad is in good hands!!! Keep up the good work!!! Love you all.”
“Like most I was not prepared for the transition to being the responsible one for my Mom. Looking back there were signs of memory decline but after emergency surgery and move to rehab the combative paranoid person my sweet, witty, well read , soft spoken Mom became was shocking. Medication and skilled care were prescribed. Several missteps were made with both. Mom’s dark side resulted in first skilled care company dropping us which I totally understood. I was very straight with Christine and Rick regarding Mom’s recent ‘trips out on the ledge’. Rather than politely taking a pass on us...they spent 2 hours in person with us, 3 cumulative hours on the phone asking me questions and strategizing how to avoid the triggers that put Mom ‘on the ledge’, and 2 twelve hour days observing, testing and tweaking strategies. We are approaching 2 months with no major or reportable incidents. I don’t know how long this again found quality of life will last. I am thankful that one of the nurses referred me to ABC. I am tremendously thankful to be their client for the remainder of this journey.”
“We have had several senior services for my Mother that we were really not happy with, then we found Rick and his staff with Always Best Care. There name says it all ... always the best care. Their staff are warm, caring and assist my Mother seven days a week, and she loves seeing Rick. I couldn't ask for better care & highly recommend them to anyone who needs this type of service.”
“Good Afternoon! I hope you're doing well! I wanted you to know that my dad LOVES Rick and so does Amya!! I can't thank you guys enough for all that you guys are doing, not only for my father but me! Rick went out of his way today and that truly meant a lot :) My dad is so happy and that makes me happy! you guys rock!! thank you!!!”
“The absolute best caregiving company to work for hands down! Rick and Christine are genuine, loving individuals which make them amazing business owners/ bosses. They do not hesitate to make their employees and clients happy. I’m so thankful to have met these amazing people and be apart of their outstanding company.”
“This is a great company to work for. All their caregivers are dedicated and caring.”
“These people are lifesavers! We searched for months to find an in-home care agency for my aging mother. Previous agencies we used had high turnover and repeated no-shows, leaving us scrambling to adjust and worried sick about Covid exposure from a revolving door of caregivers. Christine and her staff came to our rescue and changed all that. Their caregivers were patient, loving, dedicated and RELIABLE. They provide service at the highest level and we would wholeheartedly recommend them to others. My mother deserves the best care and I wouldn't use anyone else.”
“Always Best Care has constantly provided quality care services for my wife over many months of required assistance. The caregivers provide professional services with a loving touch. They have always addressed any questions or concerns immediately with kindness. The administration checks with me, periodically, for a review and any input for improvement. I highly recommend this company.”
“Couldn’t imagine a better team of people to take care of my loved ones. Rick and Christine are the kindest and most genuine people. Their years of work in the customer service industry truly show through the care they provide to others. Aside from the physical and emotional care they provide, which is most important, they are reliable, punctual, trustworthy, and their connections with others last a lifetime. Everyone is family with Rick and Christine.”
“Rick and Christine, of Always Best Care Charleston, are the exact people I would trust and choose to care for my aging loved ones. They are loving, patient, knowledgeable and extremely detail oriented. They have decades of experience in the customer service industry and truly value the relationships with each of their clients.”
“I've known Christine and Ricky Johnson for more than 30 years and would highly recommend their services! They've built businesses from the ground up and this one is / will be a perfect fit for them and their clients. They come from, and have created, a large family where assisting others is part of their everyday lives. Their caring nature, solid work ethic and integrity will be highlighted through Always Best Care Senior Services Charleston and will be to the benefit of clients' loved ones.”
“I joined Always Best Care as the Director of Operations about 3 months ago. I bring 15 years experience in senior living to this brand new non medical home care company. We have put together an excellent team of personal assistant’s and are ready to accept new clients.”
“I have known Christine and Rick for years. Their actions and words repeatedly demonstrate their high expectation of what it takes to nurture a loving family and to be active members of a positive, supportive community. Both clients and employees will benefit from their consistent standard of compassionate honesty & integrity as well as the positive energy they bring to every encounter. I recommend them without reservation.”
“I couldn't be happier that Ricky and Christine Johnson have joined Always Best Care Senior Services. From years of experience in dedicated customer service to the love and care of their own (and extended) family, this is a wonderful fit! The Johnson's tireless work ethic, attention to detail and heart for people should give family members of clients absolute confidence and trust in their care. Bravo!”
“How fortunate the Charleston community is to have Always Best Care to serve the needs of seniors. Rick and Christine Johnson, known for their dedication to helping others, have prayerfully commited to finding and nurturing the best team possible to assist them on this mission. Thank you, Rick and Christine, for offering families peace of mind for the care of loved ones.”
“I have known Christine and Rick Johnson both professionally and personally for over 20 years now. I know them to be caring and loving. I with no reservations would have them care for my 93 year old father, If I still lived in the Charleston area. I can not state a higher praise to their character and integrity than that. Allen Sandridge”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Isle of Palms County Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Coda Del Pesce or visit Charles Pinckney National Historic Site, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Isle of Palms, SC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Isle of Palms, SC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Isle of Palms, SC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Published: Jan. 16, 2025 at 1:45 PM PST|ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. (WCSC) - Federal, state and local beach advocates are workshopping how to prioritize the protection of beachfront access along some of the Southeast’s most beloved waterfronts.The 11th annual South Carolina Beach Advocates conference opened its panel on Thursday. The conference began more than a decade ago with the intention of consolidating funding and beach management along the state’s coastline, something Administrator Nicole Elko said did not exist when...
Published: Jan. 16, 2025 at 1:45 PM PST|
ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. (WCSC) - Federal, state and local beach advocates are workshopping how to prioritize the protection of beachfront access along some of the Southeast’s most beloved waterfronts.
The 11th annual South Carolina Beach Advocates conference opened its panel on Thursday. The conference began more than a decade ago with the intention of consolidating funding and beach management along the state’s coastline, something Administrator Nicole Elko said did not exist when she took on the role.
“We’re all looking for funds, we’re all battling the same issue. Permitting takes a long time, projects take a long time and projects cost a lot more than they used to. It’s hard in these small communities and we need the state’s help,” Incoming Chair and Mayor of Isle of Palms Phillip Pounds said.
Several of the local communities have set up projects involving the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, who attended the conference. In a keynote speech, the group announced its most recent effort to renourish and preserve the shoreline in Myrtle Beach.
The $72 million project will cover 26 miles of the beachfront.
“Our beach projects, a lot of people go there to recreate and play, we know it’s a big economic driver for the state of South Carolina and the nation, but really the reason we build beaches is not just to recreate, it’s to protect the infrastructure behind the dunes,” Chief of Civil Works Jeff Livasy said.
This year, the group is hoping to implement long term, state commitment and create proactive initiatives rather than banking on emergency funding or projects. Elko said Governor Henry McMaster appropriated $5 million into the efforts this year, and previously, up to $50 million.
Eleven Lowcountry communities, including Georgetown, Hilton Head, Myrtle Beach, Kiawah Island, Isle of Palms, Folly Beach, Edisto Beach, Pawleys Island, Sullivans Island and the DeBordieu Colony Community Association, presented their findings from the past year.
Many of the beach access points faced detrimental challenges after the longterm impacts of inclement weather, including Hurricane Ian, a Nor’Easter in 2023 and Tropical Storm Debby in 2024.
Kiawah Island Mayor Brad Belt claimed its strongest struggles come from how to manage natural resources both on the marsh side and beach shoreline. The area suffered from inundation along the one major roadway which provides a single entry and exit point to islanders. Uniquely, the area is also mostly private owned spaces, with only an exception of Beachwalker Park, and the town’s 3 miles of roadway and 21 acres of land. This complicates efforts to use public sector funding to preserve the area.
Isle of Palms Administrator Douglas Kerr reported a continued concern for beach erosion along the Wild Dunes resort and Breech Inlet. The group has attempted improvements with a beach preservation ad hoc committee. Despite this, Kerr believes there needs to be money and permits in place to create strategies before a storm passes through and causes detrimental damage.
Folly Beach Administrator Aaron Pope mentioned a continuous cycle of efforts to renew and manage the beach, however political will and a lack of staff creates challenges for submitting grant applications or educating the community on efforts.
Sullivans Island Administrator Joe Henderson claimed similar issues with erosion on the eastern and western ends of town, plus stormwater management concerns. The town will move forward on plans to construct native stormwater infrastructure within the next two or three years.
The other seven panelists reference similar issues crowding their ability to preserve shorelines.
“You’re trying to outguess Mother Nature, you’re trying to anticipate a storm ‚and save as much money as you can while spending money on other projects as well. It’s a constant story to have to tell, the economic impact beach communities have,” Pounds said.
South Carolina beaches attract more than 140 million visitors every year, according to Elko’s findings. This generates $23.8 billion in economic impact for the state.
Elko also claimed beach tourism contributes $1.2 billion in state tax revenue, representing two-thirds of the state’s total tourism revenue. Tourists generate more than $1200 in economic development for every $1 invested into beaches, and more than $250 in state taxes for every $1.
The goal, Elko said, of the conference is to create resilience funding to protect the state’s most valuable asset for future generations.
The conference will continue into Friday. The group will hear from legislators and Governor Henry McMaster.
The next annual conference will be held Jan. 2026 in Hilton Head.
Copyright 2025 WCSC. All rights reserved.
South Carolina has a mystical, compelling charm like no other state in America. It is full of teeny towns with classic southern charm, whether it’s inland or coastal. There’s no shortage of things to do and see in and around these lovely little towns. From the historical downtown of Beaufort to the luxurious beach resorts of Isle of Palms and the gorgeous mountain scenery of Landrum, discover these South Carolina towns and unravel their secrets.Beaufort ...
South Carolina has a mystical, compelling charm like no other state in America. It is full of teeny towns with classic southern charm, whether it’s inland or coastal. There’s no shortage of things to do and see in and around these lovely little towns. From the historical downtown of Beaufort to the luxurious beach resorts of Isle of Palms and the gorgeous mountain scenery of Landrum, discover these South Carolina towns and unravel their secrets.
Beaufort is located on Port Royal Island and is the second oldest city in South Carolina. Its entire downtown is a designated historic district by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, so it is a natural choice destination for history buffs! Visitors can stop by the Beaufort Visitor Center and pick up a guide for a self-guided tour around the homes of the historic district before venturing over to the Beaufort History Museum, originally an arsenal. Lunch at Bricks on Boundary or the cute corner café, Blacksheep, will keep travelers satiated for a walk around the nearby Hunting Island State Park. The park features 3 public beaches, a lighthouse, a fishing pier, and nature trails that the whole family can enjoy. Stay at the top-rated 607 Bay; a bed and breakfast that also organizes charters or kayaking adventures for guests.
Known for being a gently developed beach along the South Carolina Coastline, Edisto Island is a perfect destination for anyone looking to be surrounded by beachy nature without all the hype and tourism. There are no hotels on Edisto Island, so visitors can choose to camp at Edisto Beach State Park or stay at a rental beach house advertised on Edisto Realty. Travelers love the easy flow of biking down the 5-mile Edisto Island Bike Path which winds around the back side of town. Rentals are available at Island Bikes and Outfitters. McConkey’s Jungle Shack is a local favorite for beachy drinks and classic sandwiches.
Home to Coker University, Hartsville is a small town in north central South Carolina that attracts visitors for its history, outdoor recreation, and charming downtown. A stay at the Mantissa Executive Suites & Spa is an intimate boutique hotel to spend evenings at with a rooftop bar and it is conveniently located across the street from The Blind Pig, serving up classic American fare and fabulous cocktails. In the mornings, travelers can grab a tasty coffee at Crema before heading to Kalmia Gardens, a public botanical garden with trails that wind through a variety of animal and plant life.
An hour north of Charleston, Isle of Palms is known for its world-class luxury for guests; from its top-notch golf courses to award-winning spas, Isle of Palms is for the lavish traveler. Wild Dunes Resort, the 1600-acre retreat, has two golf courses, a full-service spa, 1 clay tennis court, and 5 pickleball courts. The public Isle of Palms beach is great for sunbathing or catching a sunrise. The Islander is a rowdy way to end a day out in Isle of Palms with your friends and family; they have consistent live music, trivia nights, and delicious seafood sharables or main dishes like ahi tuna Bruschetta or local Oysters.
Walhalla or “Garden of the Gods” is a lovely mountain town in upstate South Carolina. Visitors can plan to book ahead for a one-of-a-kind stay in the Majestic Treehouse, a cozy cottage surrounded by 40 acres of forest, creeks, gardens, and trails to wander. In town, guests will find the Museum of Cherokee and Oconee History Museum or fun shops like Sunni Ann Mercantile Company. Nearby Sumter National Forest is a haven for hikers in the Southern Appalachians with waterfall views on trails like Big Bend Falls and Foothills Trail.
A small town dedicated to art in action, Lake City is a visual experience. Visitors to Lake City will find painted murals and sculptures like “Geisel’s Garden” throughout town, along with accessible art centers featuring exhibitions at Acline Studios or Trax Visual Art Center. Piggyback’s BBQ & Catfish is a local hub for southern fare with delicious bbq platters and catfish baskets. Overnights at the artfully designed 'The Inn at Crossroads,' will put travelers in the middle of downtown with an in-house bar and restaurant, Lake City Bistro. At Riverrat’s, kayaks and paddleboards are available for rent to paddle along the Lynches River.
In the piedmont of South Carolina, Laurens is a tight-knit, growing town of welcoming locals. Laurens has a rich history that can be tracked through the walls and exhibits of Laurens County Museum or sites like the Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site, the location of the Battle of Musgrove Mill, around half an hour away. Whiteford’s Giant Burger is a legendary spot to grab a hearty burger, serving customers since 1957 with quality being their highest priority. At Lake Greenwood State Park, anglers can rent equipment and catch a variety of fish: bass, crappie, bream, perch, catfish, or stripers.
Founded in 1880 and situated against the southern end of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Landrum is a delightful little town and a breath of fresh air. Hikers base themselves in Landrum to trek the popular Palmetto Trail’s Blue Wall Passage, a 14-mile moderate trail featuring a 30-foot waterfall. Post-hike food fuels are best fulfilled at Southside Smokehouse, known for its variety of specials and Cajun-inspired recipes. The Landrum Farmers Market is not to be missed on Saturdays from April through December featuring live entertainment, homemade foods or crafts, and fresh produce.
The scattered small towns of South Carolina offer a variety of landscapes, the famous southern charm from welcoming locals, and a kind of mysticism in the air that’s unmistakable and alluring. From the upstate southern end of the Appalachia’s to the relaxed Atlantic coastline, South Carolina truly has a small town for all kinds of kinds. South Carolina’s small communities have a way of carving unforgettable memories into all who wander around them.
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In suburban Philadelphia where I grew up, going to the beach meant driving east across New Jersey, paying per-person fees for access and pinning "beach tags" to bathing suits to prove the fees had been paid.I've long appreciated South Carolina's free public beaches, first as a child visiting most summers, then as an adult living here more than 20 years.But while the...
In suburban Philadelphia where I grew up, going to the beach meant driving east across New Jersey, paying per-person fees for access and pinning "beach tags" to bathing suits to prove the fees had been paid.
I've long appreciated South Carolina's free public beaches, first as a child visiting most summers, then as an adult living here more than 20 years.
But while the beaches are free, parking can be costly.
Just days ago Anna Sharpe reported that the Isle of Palms has increased its parking lot rate to $25 on a Saturday, Sunday or holiday from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Parking meters must be fed $3 per hour.
The $25 cost for parking lots matches the rate at the 445-parking-space Isle of Palms County Park, which is adjacent to the city's metered parking and lots near Front Beach (Ocean Boulevard) businesses.
That's expensive, but the important thing to know is that paying for parking on the Isle of Palms is almost entirely a matter of personal choice. I mean, you can't avoid paying if you park in a lot or at a meter, but you don't have to park there.
IOP, like neighboring Sullivan's Island, has many hundreds of free parking spots in the public right-of-way. On the Isle of Palms most of them are along Palm Boulevard on the east side of the business district, from 21st to 40th avenues and from 42nd to 53rd avenues.
There are limited spots on the west side of the island, along 3rd through 9th avenues between Ocean and Carolina boulevards.
Those who park in the free spots should know that parking enforcement is quite strict, and vehicles must be at least 4 feet off the pavement, which isn't always easy.
Last year the city's contracted parking enforcers — a company that got to keep 24 percent of the money from fines — issued more than 5,600 tickets for between $50 and $100 each.
One option to avoid fees and parking tickets on weekends is to take the free Beach Reach shuttle bus from Mount Pleasant Towne Centre, at Market Center Boulevard, where parking is free. If you're driving, it's of course inconvenient to stop just minutes from the beach and wait for a bus to take you there, but it does solve the parking dilemma.
When my family was living in Mount Pleasant with a young child, the Isle of Palms was our closest beach. We usually parked in the county park lot, or in a free space not far away, for two reasons: the availability of lifeguards and bathrooms.
People can use the county park and its services without paying to park there, and county residents can park there for far less than the advertised rate.
For regular beach-goers and, I would think, most families with children, a Charleston County parks Gold Pass is a great option. For $80 — $65 for those age 60 or older and $95 for non-residents — that covers parking and park entrance fees for a year, for up to 15 people per vehicle.
A Gold Pass includes festival admissions, too, and comes with discounts on things such as equipment rentals.
So, for those who live here, it doesn't have to cost money to park at the beach. And regular visitors to the Isle of Palms who want amenities and lifeguards should consider buying a Gold Pass.
ISLE OF PALMS — Prepare to pay more to park for trips to the beach this summer.The city of Isle of Palms approved a fee increase for the city's two lots and on-street parking, bringing the cost to park on a peak-season weekend up to $25.Daily rates for the municipal parking lots on Pavilion Drive will remain at $10 for March and April.Memorial Day through Labor Day, which is consi...
ISLE OF PALMS — Prepare to pay more to park for trips to the beach this summer.
The city of Isle of Palms approved a fee increase for the city's two lots and on-street parking, bringing the cost to park on a peak-season weekend up to $25.
Daily rates for the municipal parking lots on Pavilion Drive will remain at $10 for March and April.
Memorial Day through Labor Day, which is considered peak season, rates will increase to $15 during the week and $25 on Saturday, Sunday and holidays.
After Labor Day, rates will drop back to $10 for the rest of September and October. Parking will remain free in the offseason from November through February.
On-street parking will be more costly, too. Paid parking spots along Ocean Boulevard between 10th and 14th Avenue will rise from $2.50 per hour to $3 per hour.
The $60 seasonal parking passes, which allowed beachgoers to park in the municipal lots without daily payment, will now only be available to island employees. In its place, visitors can purchase a weekly pass for $100.
No fees or permits are required to park in the public rights-of-way, including the marked spaces along Palm Boulevard.
The city brought in over $1,300,000 in parking revenue in 2024, a roughly $47,000 increase from funds collected from paid lots and meters in 2023.
The rise in parking fees is meant to bring the city's rate to where the city "should have been in the first place," Councilman Jimmy Ward said during the meeting.
The fee increase is the first since 2020. City leaders voted to increase parking to its current rates of $2 an hour on-street, $10 during the week and $15 on weekends and holidays.
Before that, the lots cost $1 an hour and on-street parking spaces were $1.50 per hour.
The city also raised the prices of fines for parking violations to its current rates, which will not be impacted by the council's Jan. 28 decision.
Officials at the time said the fee increase was done to control the "unbridled growth" across the tri-county area.
"Our residents want us to do something about trying to control what's been happening to our island," Jimmy Carroll, then-mayor of the island, said at the time.
Mayor Phillip Pounds said the new rates model those of the Isle of Palms County Park, a Charleston County operated park with a 445-car capacity parking lot. Parking can cost up to $25 on holidays and weekends during the summer.
Visitors can purchase a Gold Pass from the county for $80 for Charleston County residents and $95 for non-residents, which allows visitors to bypass admission fees for several parks, including the Isle of Palms.
The decision to increase parking fees comes at a time when coastal communities are working to find funding for beach maintenance and renourishment projects.
Rising costs of mobilization and sand have pushed beach communities get creative in order to fund preservation measures, which leaders discussed during a South Carolina Beach Advocates conference on the Isle of Palms in January.
An estimated $60 million in locally funded beach management projects are slated for the Palmetto State's coastal communities this year, including roughly $3 million on the Isle of Palms.
More fee increases could be on the way for the Isle of Palms to help fund its next large-scale beach renourishment project, based on recommendations from the city's Beach Preservation Ad Hoc Committee.
"To be as proactive as the community would like to be has an enormous price tag," Interim City Administrator Douglas Kerr said on Jan. 16. "We have to raise revenues to fund all of these initiatives, and that's going to be a very tough part of this project."
Some gated communities, like Seabrook and Kiawah Island, pull from homeowners' and property owners' fees, while Pawley's Island relies on accommodations taxes to fund beach renourishment projects.
Protecting the South Carolina coast is a priority for many, including coastal community leaders, environmental advocates, state and federal lawmakers, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This week, these stakeholders are gathering at Wild Dunes on the Isle of Palms for the 11th annual South Carolina Beach Advocates meeting. (WCIV)ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. (WCIV) — Protecting the South Carolina coast is a priority for many, including coastal community leaders, environmental advocates, state and federal lawmakers, and the U.S. Army Co...
Protecting the South Carolina coast is a priority for many, including coastal community leaders, environmental advocates, state and federal lawmakers, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This week, these stakeholders are gathering at Wild Dunes on the Isle of Palms for the 11th annual South Carolina Beach Advocates meeting. (WCIV)
ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. (WCIV) — Protecting the South Carolina coast is a priority for many, including coastal community leaders, environmental advocates, state and federal lawmakers, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This week, these stakeholders are gathering at Wild Dunes on the Isle of Palms for the 11th annual South Carolina Beach Advocates meeting.
IOP Mayor Phillip Pounds emphasized the importance of preserving the coastline, describing the area as "a slice of paradise" with its seven miles of beach, easy access, ample parking, and vibrant local businesses.
However, maintaining the beachfront is both challenging and costly. Mayor Pounds revealed that the city plans to participate in a $20 million renourishment project next year, with the city bearing a significant portion of the cost. He expressed a desire for the state to play a more active role in funding such initiatives.
"For us not to have an ongoing state-level funding mechanism for beach renourishment is something that needs to change," said Pounds. "That's one of the main focuses of this group."
Pounds noted that future renourishment spending could reach $200 million in the coming decades. While the city plans to fund most of the work for now, Pounds acknowledged the need for external assistance.
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"We can't tax our way out of that scenario. We can't bring enough short-term rentals. We can't bring enough tourists to the island to pay for that," he said.
The city is exploring partnerships with the state and other entities, including early discussions with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Several other coastal communities have already partnered with the Army Corps.
Jeff Livasy of the Army Corps of Engineers highlighted the significance of their work in the region. "It means everything to us. Although we're a part of the federal government, we live, work and play here in the Lowcountry," Livasy said.
The Army Corps' Charleston division recently completed a renourishment project on Folly Beach. Livasy emphasized their long-term commitment to coastal projects, stating, "We partner with them for the long term. Not just annual projects. But some of our projects have a fifty-year life."
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