Roofing Contractor inSeabrook Island, SC.

KIAWAH ISLAND, S.C. (WCIV) — This week it’s all about the bobcats on Kiawah Island. It’s a chance to celebrate the species by holding several educational events open to the public, with plenty to celebrate as there have been recent positive trends for the bobcat population.

A 100% survival rate this year and catching bobcats more easily are pros for the Bobcat Guardian Program on Kiawah Island.

It began two years ago when town biologists discovered that rodenticides being used on the island negatively affected the animals.

“We came up with a strategy to address that issue, and that was to have folks voluntarily stop using these products on the island,” said Jim Jordan, wildlife biologist on Kiawah Island.

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“They were fairly widespread used all across the island, so that first save Kiawah Island bobcats week kicked off our guardian program. Which was just a voluntary pledge that residents, businesses, entities...everyone on the island could take not to use these second-generation products.”

These products, known as anticoagulant rodenticides, control rat and mouse populations and are likely to move up the food chain.

More than half of the companies pledged to switch to other products since they have a large footprint on the island. Jordan said it made a huge difference overnight and among more than just the bobcats.

“We test raccoons, possums, alligators, birds of preyany animals we get our hands on, we take a sample and send that off,” said Jordan. “In those animals, pretty much across the board, we are seeing lower concentrations of SGAs, which is obviously a positive trend.”

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But Jordan realizes that the SGA issue isn’t just on Kiawah. The bobcats have been tracked on Seabrook Island as well as Johns Island.

“It was eye-opening when we figured out this was the issue,” said Jordan. “Once we started looking into it, it’s like look how prevalent this is here at Kiawah and certainly just as prevalent in about every community in SC, but no one is looking at it.”

That’s where Meaghan Keating, a Ph.D. student at Clemson University, comes in.

“I’m trying to dig in and understand how these bobcats are responding to SGAs and human development and try to understand future directions for the population and what the town can do to try to mitigate some of those threats,” said Meghan Keating, Clemson University Ph.D. student.

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Part of the process is tracking the bobcats every year.

“The GPS tracking collars take 5 points a day, and it shifts throughout the day so that they are getting different times, and every night it connects to the Iridium satellite and sends us those points on the web,” said Keating.

This year, there has been plenty to track, as all six bobcats are still alive and well. “We have got six different bobcats with working collars right now, so each color is an individual bobcat,” said Jordan.

Keating will continue her fieldwork until 2024 and hopes these positive trends will continue. She estimates that the number of bobcats on the island is probably in the 20s. Historically, there are usually 30 to 35, so the number has increased since the decline in 2017.

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Seabrook Island has its own Bobcat Guardian Program, which has also been very successful. Beyond the islands, no other programs are in place across the state.

If you are interested in learning more about this issue or bobcats, the last event of Save the Bobcats week is an hour-long walk to discuss bobcat habitat, livability, and how the community can support the town.

Visit the Town of Kiawah Island's website for more information about bobcats.

South Carolina is home to many popular cities, tourist destinations, forested mountains, sea islands, and historical landmarks. But, it is best known for its beautiful beaches, perfect for a sunshine and sand-filled getaway. Whether you are just stopping by or would like to stay a while to soak up the sun, you can head towards any of the state's charming small towns. But these beaches in South Carolina are for more than just lounging: you will find everything from private islands to numerous outdoor recreation activities to amusement parks and food trucks.

Myrtle Beach

With an abundance of hotels and resorts with beach views, Myrtle Beach is a popular sunny vacation destination situated in South Carolina's Horry County. The miles of beaches, warm subtropical climate, golf courses, and restaurants attract more than 20 million visitors to Myrtle Beach every year. While the sandy beach itself may be your first stop, there's no shortage of fun activities you can dive right into. Live music, theaters, water sports, and plenty of dining and shopping spots are only a few of the many things to do in Myrtle Beach.

Read MoreMyrtle Beach, South Carolina

Mitchelville Beach Park

Nestled on Hilton Head Island, Mitchelville Beach Park is one of the less populated beaches, perfect for relaxation and exploration. The area also offers a bathroom, a sand shower, and a few picnic tables, so you can spend the whole day there. Visitors can also venture across the bridge to Barker Field, which is ideal for recreational and sporting activities.

Sullivan's Island

Sullivan's Island is a small island community situated at the entrance to the Charleston Harbor in South Carolina's Charleston County. The town boasts over 2.5 miles of Atlantic Ocean beachfront, ideal for kayaking, fishing, sailing, photography, and more. Visitors can also enjoy the small town as well as its unique historical attractions.

Isle Of Palms

Neighboring Sullivan's Island, Isle of Palms is a barrier island that sits just off South Carolina's Atlantic coast. The town is situated about 24 km from the historic city of Charleston, boasting a picturesque beach and boardwalk. The community is also home to several big beachfront homes, luxury resorts, and local restaurants. Offering plenty of recreational activities, Isle of Palms is an excellent spot to enjoy the island lifestyle at any time of year.

Edisto Beach

Situated on the southeastern edge of South Carolina's Colleton County, the small town of Edisto Beach includes Edisto Island's only developed coastal area. It is also one of the most serene beaches, best for long walks, fishing, searching for seashells, and soaking up the sun. While there are no hotels, there are many rental opportunities, with several beach houses lining the shoreline.

Cherry Grove Beach

Located in the city of North Myrtle Beach in South Carolina's Horry County, Cherry Grove is only accessible by Sea Mountain Highway and Ocean Drive. This small neighborhood is primarily known for its historic Cherry Grove Pier and plenty of hotels, restaurants, and boutiques. Cherry Grove serves as an ideal spot for a peaceful getaway.

Seabrook Island

Seabrook Island is a barrier island situated in the southwestern portion of Charleston County. Seabrook Island boasts the privacy and tranquility of a small town, but is also close to everything you need. With miles of beaches to enjoy, this is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in nature.

Folly Beach

Folly Beach is a well-known surfing and seaside hotspot situated on Folly Island, approximately 18 km south of Charleston. Besides hosting several surf spots, the city offers stunning sunset and sunrise views. It is also home to Folly Beach Pier, which stretches over 1,000 feet into the ocean providing a picturesque view of the waters. With the North Atlantic Ocean in eyeshot, some visitors even spot the endangered whales in their respective migration seasons. The beautiful Morris Island Lighthouse is also just off the coast of the beach, great for exploration and photo ops.

Read MoreFolly Beach, South Carolina

Huntington Beach State Park

This 2,500-acre state park is situated close to Murrells Inlet in South Carolina's Georgetown County. The park features large sandy beaches, extensive fresh and salt marshes, and plenty of avian species to watch over the seasons.

Coligny Beach

Coligny Beach is one of the most well-known beaches on Hilton Head Island. Visitors can enjoy the sandy beaches and clear skies at Coligny Beach. The Coligny Beach Park that acts as an access point to Coligny Beach offers plenty of wonderful amenities for locals and visitors alike.

Kiawah Island

A barrier island situated about 40 km southwest of Charleston, Kiawah is mainly a private beach and golf resort. Kiawah Island is well-known for its various attractions including beaches, spacious villas, water-sport activities and the famous Kiawah Island Golf Resort. There are 10 miles of beaches and 30 miles of paved trails for biking and walking. The Kiawah River along with the island's numerous tidal creeks and salt marshes offers kayaking and canoeing opportunities.

Read MoreKiawah Island, South Carolina

With almost 2,876 miles of tidal coastline, South Carolina boasts a number of beaches to choose from. Whether you want to sit back and relax in the sun, go for a swim in the sparkling waters, or enjoy the attractions of each different beach, there is always something for everyone.

South Carolina is a charming state to visit because of its rich history and attractions, and it also boasts fantastic beaches. South Carolina's coastline is home to the USA's most beautiful and unspoiled beaches, stretched along the Atlantic. Some of these magnificent beaches attracting many tourists are located on the Grand Strand, a stretch of beautiful sandy shores between Georgetown and the Little River area. People head to this excellent state to enjoy some of the most transparent and pristine waters on beaches like Litchfield, Murrells Inlet, Surfside, and Myrtle Beach, where people find top fun things to do. Hilton Head Island is also a very popular destination among tourists, home to plenty of experiences and activities, and voted one of the best vacation destinations in the world. Here are 13 beaches with the clearest water in South Carolina.

More Secluded Beaches With The Clearest Water In South Carolina

The article was extended to add more gorgeous beaches in South Carolina that offer the clearest water as well as amazing activities to do for fun.

13 Sullivan’s Island

Located just a 20-minute ride from Charleston, Sullivan’s Island offers an excellent beach destination for families who wish to spend a nice summer day on the beaches. Most of the coastline is preserved in its natural state and offers simple activities such as swimming or building sand castles.

Related: South Carolina's Best Beaches, Ranked By Popularity

12 Surfside Beach

Surfside Beach has long been known throughout the Grand Stand as a top beach for fun family activities. Travelers stroll on the famous boardwalk that runs along the gorgeous coastline of Surfside Beach and soaks the view as they dine, shop, and engage in vibrant festivals. Kite flying and building castles may be a wonderful bonding activities for kids. Several beach offers facilities like showers, bathrooms, and ramps for persons with disabilities.

11 Pawleys Island

Pawleys Island is home to the most untouched shores and is recognized for its peaceful waters that are perfect for enjoying shelling, canoeing, biking, and kayaking with loved ones. Featuring white powdery sand, it is the best location for zoos, sculptures, and gardens with native plants. Pawleys Island offers a panoramic sight of the renowned creek in the area, not to be missed on someone's trip.

10 Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is the most popular beach destination and largest resort in South Carolina. This family-friendly tourist location features magnificent white-sand beaches and plenty of opportunities, keeping guests fully entertained. People will enjoy peace of mind while walking the long boardwalk and experiencing water activities such as surfing and scuba diving, collecting shells, and building sandcastle. For those looking for something calmer, they should head to North Myrtle Beach, where they can swim in the clear water, enjoy parasailing and kayaking, or pull up a sun lounger and relax.

Huntington Beach State Park

Only 30 minutes drive south of Myrtle Beach, Huntington Beach is a calm oasis covering an area of natural preserves and boasting a park with an untouched beach spread. Huntington Beach State Park is located in South Carolina, perfect for sun-seekers, nature lovers, and bird-watchers. It's also a popular spot for camping and picnics. There are also numerous tours available for incredible deep-sea fishing.

Hilton Head Island

While Hilton Head Island is one large beach boasting 12 miles of beautiful sandy shoreline, Coligny Beach Park, reached through an attractive public garden, is an ideal destination for those looking for a lovely family beach experience. Following the path extending to the water, people will enjoy excellent facilities, including comfortable swing seats, beach chairs, and umbrellas. After enjoying the pristine water, visitors take time to stroll around Coligny Plaza, just steps from the beach, where they savor a meal or a snack, get in some shopping, or rent a bike and enjoy a ride directly on the beach. The island also provides a shuttle bus service for those willing to park far away.

Kiawah Beachwalker Park

Only a short drive from the beautiful city of Charleston, Kiawah Island is home to impressive and unspoiled sandy beaches. Located between the Atlantic and vast woods, Kiawah Beachwalker Park is accessible from the mainland by a bridge. Public amenities such as washrooms, outdoor showers, picnic areas, a lovely boardwalk, umbrellas, and chairs are available. Kiawah is an excellent spot for couples and families.

Edisto Beach

The charming town of Edisto Beach is itself worth the journey from Charleston and is as famous for its restaurants, shops, galleries, accommodations, and vibe. Edisto Beach's unique charm makes it attractive for those looking for a quiet beach experience since it is known as one of the last uncommercial beach areas in South Carolina. The adventurous types will go kayaking, camping, fishing, and dolphin-watching or sunset cruising. Other fun activities include several great trails to follow, which can lead to stunning, more quiet places to stop and relax at the beach.

Seabrook Island

Located south of Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island boasts many charming beaches. Stretching four miles of pristine shoreline, the two main beaches, Pelican Beach and North Beach, are mysterious hidden gems famous for their peaceful and uncrowded feel. Sunset lovers should head to Pelican Beach, also known as "Sunset Beach," for amazing sunsets. And early risers and nature lovers will enjoy visiting North Beach due to its magnificent sunrises and abundant bird life, as well as pods of dolphins that feed offshore.

4 Folly Beach, Charleston

Another excellent sun spot just 20 minutes from Charleston is Folly Island, home to the beautiful Folly Beach. The charming Folly Beach boasts a fantastic fishing pier with a perfect view, ideal for a romantic selfie. It is also home to many adventures, such as kayaking, surfing, and paddleboarding. People enjoy strolling along the beach shores and admiring the ocean views. For a unique experience, it is suggested to rent a kayak around the inland shore of Folly Beach Country Park or go on a marine wildlife spotting cruise, where one will see dolphins, stingrays, and even sharks.

3 Hunting Island State Park, Beaufort

Attracting a million visitors each year, Hunting Island State Park is a popular destination offering breathtaking and unspoiled beach experiences, five miles of white sand, and spectacular views from its hunting island lighthousesignificant landmark. It is also home to diverse wildlife, some of which can be explored at the informative nature center, an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a camping experience, choosing from numerous campsites, most with easy beach access.

Related: You Might See These Animals When Visiting South Carolina's Beaches

2 Front Beach, Isle Of Palms

The Isle of Palms is an attractive beachside destination located 40 minutes east of Charleston and is as popular among locals as it is with visitors to the region. Most people head to Front Beach, where they enjoy beach activities, like sea kayak tours, sunset cruises, fishing, and surfing, and most of all, searching for beautiful sea turtles since they nest and lay their eggs in the dunes. Front Beach is very convenient since it has good public parking and easy beach access.

1 Litchfield Beach

A trip to Litchfield Beach and Golf Resort is a worthy journey. Close to Myrtle Beach, located only 30-minute drive south, Litchfield Beach amazes people with its majestic stretch of beach, no crowds, and no big resort flanking. In addition to the quiet beach experience, and great sunbathing, visitors seeking water activities can enjoy sea kayaking, Jet Skis, and fishing.

SEABROOK ISLAND, S.C. (WCSC) - An ongoing battle over short-term rentals is brewing on Seabrook Island, where homeowners say uncontrolled growth of properties is affecting their quality of life.

Homeowners Ted Flerlage and Paul McLaughlin said although they do not want to end short-term rentals on the island, the effects of recent growth have prompted them to call for a cap on short-term rentals.

“If you come here in July, around July Fourth, as a resident walking out boardwalk one, let’s say, to north beach, there’s no space, and that is a rental issue,” Flerlage, who has lived on the island since March 2020, said. “That is a noise issue. It is a parking issue because every spot on the limited parking area is taken.”

The two homeowners have spearheaded the Preserve Seabrook effort. A letter sent to residents as part of the effort says concerns “center on the uncontrolled growth of short-term rentals, especially on streets where there are many full-time and private residential properties.”

“We aim to retain a reasonable offering of properties that can be rented by guests who love to visit and vacation on our beautiful island, while ensuring Seabrook does not gradually morph into a resort community,” the letter states. “We believe adding a cap on the number of resort properties on Seabrook would protect the unique qualities of our island while allowing revenue generated through rental properties to continue to flow back to the town through state and county accommodation taxes that the renters pay.”

Over 300 residents have signed a petition to cap the number of short-term rentals on the island, according to McLaughlin.

The petition seeks a single question on the Nov. 2, 2021 ballot that asks if voters support:

“Seabrook, when I bought here in 2002 and built our house here in 2009, it was more like ‘Cheers,’” McLaughlin said. “Everybody knew your name. Now, with the influx of 500 rental properties and growing, it’s changed a lot, and the quality of life on the island has changed a lot.”

Seabrook Island Mayor John Gregg said a petition from those calling for a cap has been sent to a committee, which will conduct a factual inquiry and then report to town council with recommendations.

“The object for the ad hoc committee was to identify inquiries of factual matters that could inform council as it considers whether or not it is warranted to do further regulation,” Gregg said.

The mayor added that to operate a short-term rental on the island, homeowners need to have a business license and a permit from the town.

McLaughlin and Flerlage said they welcome the data-driven effort but want more communication from the town and to work with them on a solution.

“Our question to them: What is the tipping point? If 500 isn’t the tipping point, is it 600? Is it 700? Is it 800? So, in the meantime, we need to figure it out,” McLaughlin said. “We need to halt what’s going on. Everybody keeps what they currently have, and we study the problem, and we figure out what the solution would be. We don’t make the problem worse while continuing to study it.”

“These are people who live in South Carolina and vote in South Carolina who live on the island and vote on the island,” Flerlage said. “These are the people who are their direct constituents – the people who vote for the mayor and the town council. It’s more than 300 of those people who signed up, which is nearly as many as who voted for them in the last election on Nov. 2, and in our opinion, there has been no communication and we’ve been getting fairly short-tripped on the issue.”

Copyright 2021 WCSC. All rights reserved.

In 1978, a new lifestyle blossomed along the Carolina Lowcountry coast. In response, a new boutique island real estate company emerged. Pam Harrington Exclusives began by assisting discerning resort island visitors find seasonal accommodations on Kiawah and Seabrook.

Initially, the company’s activity centered around resort island homeowners who wished to rent their properties during the peak season. Pam and her husband, Dr. Monte Harrington, would pack the kids and move to the islands for the summer to oversee resort operations. Everyone pitched in, even the kids who delivered bikes to incoming guests. These initial years were the foundation for the meaningful relationships Pam builds with property owners, and guests alike.

When it came time to sell a beach rental, owners naturally sought out Pam Harrington Exclusives for assistance. Nobody knew them, or their property like Pam. Guests also turned to Pam for guidance with their own vacation home purchases. Pam Harrington Exclusives expanded to meet the growing market. Today, 45 years later, Pam Harrington Exclusives is a leader in luxury real estate sales – a transition that’s only natural.

Pam Harrington began her professional career as an intensive care nurse. Personal care and attention to detail and going the extra mile remain intrinsic in her business philosophy today. Heightened personal service is part of the lure and lore on the resort barrier islands of the Carolina Lowcountry.

“When I started out, I never wanted to be the biggest – I only wanted to be the best. After all, my NAME is on the door. Clearly everything that happens here reflects directly on me.”

“That’s why I’ve chosen such very special people to work with me. When you call Pam Harrington Exclusives, you may not actually speak with me personally. But I have every confidence that anyone you may contact on our staff will do everything they can to serve you. It’s a total commitment at Pam Harrington Exclusives.”

Pam Harrington boasts about her dependable team, “My agents are all committed, available, reliable, honest, and they love what they do and have a strong passion to help others find their dream home, just like I do. We want to take our clients from the very beginning all the way through to the end, and beyond.”

Over the last 45 years, Pam Harrington Exclusives has met the challenges of demand and downturn. Her company‘s continued success through both “high” markets and “low” markets is a testament to the longevity and values of the company. Success is based on a thorough knowledge of market conditions, as well as a true commitment to provide individualized, dedicated services to all buyers and sellers.

Today, The Pam Harrington Exclusives team continues to grow and evolve alongside the Kiawah and Seabrook communities - participating in community events, staying up to date on local matters and happenings, and providing knowledge to area newcomers.

As the islands’ populations grow so do the needs of the community. Pam Harrington’s support and commitment to the community is evident with her generous support of the new MUSC Sea Island Emergency Medical Pavilion. Upgrades to Bohicket Marina, and construction of Seafields Retirement & Senior Living Facility, are additional facilities being added to serve the increasing and aging population of the area.

The Kiawah Island name is recognized around the world, synonymous with world class golf and luxury. It’s original charisma and natural appeal remain uncompromised. The same is true of neighboring Seabrook Island – still intimate and essentially residential.

“Kiawah is truly a resort, first and second-home market. People come here looking for pleasures, fun, and wholesome memories with their family. This is what Kiawah and Seabrook both represent,” says Pam.

Although the islands’ population continues to grow, the concept of Pam Harrington Exclusives remains unchanged. Highly personalized service and a true commitment to patient, comprehensive representation have always been our priorities.

As a top-player in a competitive real estate market, Pam has nothing but appreciation and respect for her journey to success. She enjoys “the hunt” of helping folks find their dream home in the Lowcountry.

Pam Harrington Exclusives’ clients can truly count on a rewarding, simple experience with a dedicated, knowledgeable team.

“My staff was carefully chosen to complement my own experience, adding new dimensions of energy, expertise and talent. If one of us can’t answer a question or solve a particular problem, the other can. That attitude literally shows in our office layout – with open doors, easy access and an upbeat, friendly atmosphere. When you come in to see us, you’ll see for yourself.

I started doing business that way – and after 45 years, it’s been a highly successful strategy. You have my personal assurance that’s how things will stay at Pam Harrington Exclusives – Real Estate.”

At Pam Harrington Exclusives, we tend to create lasting friendships with our clients – business relationships that endure. Many clients came to us first for seasonal rentals. Many came back to stay.

Pam says, “I love what I do. It’s been a great ride, and I’ve enjoyed every single minute. I want folks to know that they can depend on my company and come back anytime. That’s my reward for these 45 years of hard work.”

For more information on Pam Harrington Exclusives and Island Real Estate, visit their website here or call 843.768.3635.