South Carolina boasts beautiful weather, sand, sun, fun, and comfortable temperatures for most of the year, making it the perfect warmer weather destination for your Christmas vacation. Along with the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean, the combination will have you packing your bags and pointing your compass toward the Palmetto State and the city of Isle of Palms. Enjoy a relaxing Christmas in South Carolina with loved ones this year!

Folly Flip Flop Drop

Instead of a ball drop like the one at Times Square, watch the flip flop slowly descend to ring in 2024. The giant flip flop sits atop the Tides Hotel. The drop starts just in time for the clock to strike 2024 and is followed up by an amazing fireworks show. The surrounding bars, restaurants, and other hot spots will be hosting parties, live bands, and more leading up to the big drop. The party starts at 9:30 p.m. on December 31, 2023, and wraps up around 12:30 a.m. on January 1, 2024.

Sullivan’s Island Polar Plunge

Celebrate the New Year with a bang…and a splash! Head to nearby Sullivan’s Island for the annual Dunleavy’s Pub Polar Plunge. The event benefits the Special Olympics. The event motto: Freezin’ for a Reason. Pre-plunge fun starts at the pub at 9 a.m., with a migration to the beach at 1:30 p.m. and the actual plunge at 2 p.m.

Folly Beach Polar Plunge

Come for the Flip Flop Drop, stay for the Polar Plunge. New Year 2024 will mark the 10th annual Bill Murray Look-A-Like Polar Plunge. “Freeze Your Bills Off,” as they say. The plunge pays homage to one of the funniest residents of Charleston and rounds out the weekend of New Year festivities at Folly Beach. Come for the Bill Murray Look-A-Like costume contest at 12:30 p.m. and stay for the plunge. The plunge takes place beachside at the Tides Hotel at 1:30 p.m. New Year’s Day.

New Year’s Eve Parties

There are a variety of hot spots with special NYE soirees just for adults. Some include Forte Jazz Lounge, Republic, Uptown Social, the Rice Mill, and many others. If you’ve found a new fun hot spot before the Eve, make sure to ask about their plans for the big night.

Bikes

Rent a bike and take a tour of the area. You’ll get some exercise at the same time and negotiate the tighter passages for a more complete Isle of Palms experience. Reserve adult bikes, children’s bikes, and add accessories like child seats or trailers. Don’t worry, all rentals include helmets, but you’ll want to ask about other safety gear and accessories like lights, extra baskets, and other accessories or gear you have for your bike at home.

Dewees Island

The island is just a short ferry ride away, and the peaceful place is a unique change. You won’t find any cars, stoplights, stores, or restaurants, in fact, the island is a representation of a perfect return to nature this New Year. Enjoy activities like fishing, kayaking, other beach activities, and an untouched forest to roam.

Fishing

The anglers of the group will want to make some time to drop a line this New Year. There is a myriad of fishing charters in Isle of Palms and the surrounding area that will take you to inshore and nearshore locations. If it’s adventure you crave, sail the deep waters of the Atlantic in search of your next big fish story! Most companies offer rental gear, tackle, and all the supplies for a productive day on the water. No matter the kind of adventure you take, make sure you secure the proper South Carolina fishing license before heading out.

Golf Cart Rentals

Leave the rental car parked, but still get around on four wheels. Hop on a golf cart to explore the island in a way no car can. Several area companies rent golf carts – offering you a different way to experience everything the island has to offer. Most carts are street legal, with headlights, taillights, blinkers, rearview mirrors, and more, so you can cruise the road as well. The best part is cruising down the sand to get to your next beach relaxation spot. Most carts can be rented by the hour, half day, full day, or a custom length of time that fits your New Year’s vacation stay.

Celebrate 2024 in Isle of Palms

You came to Isle of Palms to explore and experience a fun, relaxing getaway that rings in 2024. Before you plot out all your fun and exciting New Year island activities, book a vacation rental provided by Carroll Realty. We have units as small as 1-bedroom for a solo or sweetheart respite, all the way up to 7-bedrooms for a large New Year’s getaway with all of your loved ones.

Prepare and serve any home-cooked meal in the unit’s fully equipped kitchen. Spend time in a private outdoor space like a pool, balcony, or deck, or relax indoors in stylish bedrooms or living areas.
Contact us to start planning now!