How to Plan the Ultimate Road Trip from Atlanta to Kiawah Island
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, a trip to Kiawah Island may be just what you need to relax and restore. With miles of beautiful beaches and quiet marshland, this private island oasis is guaranteed to melt all your worries away. The best part? It’s just a short drive from Atlanta, GA – perfect for a weekend getaway! Read on to learn how to plan the ultimate road trip from Atlanta to Kiawah Island. Then, request access to our complimentary Destination Guide for suggestions about the best things to see and do when you arrive!
Unlock the Destination Guide!
Road Trips from Atlanta to Kiawah Island
A drive from Atlanta to Kiawah Island takes approximately five to six hours, depending on the traffic conditions. Whether you opt to take the fast route or the scenic route, there are a few different ways to get there. Here are some of our top recommendations:
Via I-20 East: The Fast Route
At 308 miles, this is the shortest and fastest drive from Atlanta to Kiawah Island. If you would like to spend less time driving and more time relaxing on the beach, this is the way you’ll want to go! Begin on I-20 East. When you reach Augusta, merge onto I-520 East. Then, follow the signs to exit onto SC 125 South. From there, it’s a smooth ride to Kiawah Island. While the second half of the drive will take you through some back roads, you will miss all of the heavy I-26 rush hour traffic. Plus, you’ll arrive with plenty of time for sightseeing! Check out the many shops and restaurants at Freshfields Village, take a stroll through Beachwalker Park, or simply check into your guest room and relax.
Via I-20 East and SC I-26 East: The Direct Route
If you prefer driving along the Interstate, this is one of the most direct routes to take. The entire journey is approximately 330 miles. Begin driving on I-20 East until you reach Aiken County. Aiken is a great halfway point to stop for a quick lunch, and you’ll find many restaurants in the center of town. Then, continue on towards Wagener until you reach Orangeburg. This stretch of the trip is the most scenic, as you will pass horse farms, cotton fields, lush forests, and quaint Southern towns. Once you reach Orangeburg, take the exit for I-26 East and follow it all the way to Charleston. Kiawah Island is just a short drive away.
Via I-75 South and I-16 East: The Scenic Route
For travelers looking to take the scenic route, we recommend taking I-16 East from Atlanta to Savannah to Kiawah Island. The entire trip is approximately 367 miles, but the longer drive is well worth the amazing views you’ll see along the way! Enjoy the ride as you pass live oak trees draped in Spanish moss, expansive marshes, and wide-open fields. Keep an eye out for deer, especially near dawn and dusk. It’s also a good idea to print out the map ahead of time, as it is common to lose cell reception on these back roads.
Book Your Stay at Andell Inn
Once you’ve reached your final destination, come relax and unwind at Andell Inn! With luxurious accommodations and top-notch amenities, there’s no better escape than our Kiawah Island hotel. Each of our villa-style suites is designed with our guests’ comfort in mind, and many of them feature fully equipped kitchens and spacious work areas. When you book your stay in our Two Queen Studio, you can even enjoy magnificent water views right from your window.
Known as one of the best lodging options in the area, Andell Inn is just minutes from the best attractions, golf courses, and restaurants. After a day of driving, soak your sore muscles with a soothing dip in our saltwater pool. Or, visit The Porch Bar and sip on a craft cocktail overlooking Andell Lake. No matter how you decide to enjoy your vacation, we guarantee that your stay with us will be an unforgettable one. Check our availability and start planning your Kiawah Island getaway today!