Isle of Palms Magazine Winter 2016-17

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Isle of Palms has always been a
favorite among tourists in the summer. When
school is out and those balmy breezes waft
through palms, folks love to gather to share a
dip in the ocean or a tasty fish platter at a local
eatery. However, when fall and winter hit, the
real magic happens on IOP. Marathons, special
events and oyster season dot the landscape in this coastal
town as temperatures drop. The
words “off-season” have no validity
in this vibrant community that provides visitors and locals
with opportunities to make lasting memories year-round.
“It is our hope that the ‘Secret Season’ will allow us to
bring family-orientated events to the Island in the period
when our business is slow,” said Mayor Richard Cronin.
“Events that residents will enjoy; events that those who live
nearby will attend.”
Sunsets that paint the sky in warm amber hues can
be seen regardless of what time of year you find yourself
on the island. Discover your new favorite band at The
Windjammer or enjoy a weekend brunch at The Refuge.
While the streets may be a little calmer, the night life
and local gems that inhabit the coastal stretch are always
bustling. Live like a local and cast a fishing line from the
pier or play a round of golf on one of the Island’s two
world-class courses.
Outside of walking the beach in search of sharks’ teeth,
shells and turtle watching, folks can participate in a number
of activities put on by The Recreation Department.
“The IOP family is really unique; everyone looks out
for everyone else,” said Cronin. “From the young to the
not so young, everyone is caring and giving. Whether it is
helping one’s neighbor recover from a storm or watching
kids share eggs at the Easter egg hunt, we are truly a
unique community.”
For example, a Halloween Carnival will take place
from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 31. Jump castles, face
painting and costume contests are on the docket, along
with a variety of concessions.
On Dec. 3, Isle of Palms will transform into a beach-
side winter wonderland. Come check out the amazing
light displays, a variety of live entertainment, plenty of
holiday gift hunting and a visit from old St. Nick.
Another bonus to exploring Isle of Palms outside of the
summer months comes in the form of discounted beach
rentals. Vacation rents are significantly lower and availability is
easier to find starting in October. Enjoy your morning coffee
seaside, with the undulating waves and surfers in the distance.
From an annual yard sale to Doggie Days at The Rec,
IOP makes sure neighbors and visitors have fully booked
calendars. Whether you want to try out some line dancing
or improve your knitting skills, the possibilities are endless.
Explore the many nooks and crannies of IOP on foot, from
the comfort of a golf cart or on a two-wheeled cruiser.
“Being mayor allows me to interact with so many
of the wonderful residents we have on our island,” said
Cronin. “I also get to work with an outstanding group of
employees; they all go that extra mile to make this a safe
and nurturing place to live.”
For more on this unique Lowcountry island, log on to
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By Kalene Mccort
| | 7
The
Secret
is Out
Isle of Palms all Year-round