Kiawah Island blends Lowcountry elegance, coastal architecture, and resort-style amenities—perfect for destination weddings, elegant business retreats, or private gatherings with a historic flair. Here are five standout venues where ambience meets professionalism:

1. The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort

• A Forbes Five‑Star/AAA Five‑Diamond oceanfront hotel offering refined ballrooms, the Sanctuary Chapel, and garden lawns overlooking the Atlantic.

• The chapel connects to the Grand Oaks Ballroom via a courtyard and colonnaded walkway, beautifully evoking Lowcountry historic charm, and seats up to around 150 guests for ceremonies.
  

2. River Course at Kiawah Island Club

• A riverside setting with breathtaking oak-lined views and lowcountry landscapes.

• Features a 4,500 sq ft ballroom with floor-to-ceiling windows, veranda access, and catering by an in-house culinary team. Ideal for elegant, foliage-rich gatherings.
  

3. The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort

• Iconic Pete Dye–designed golf course offering sweeping views of the Atlantic—dramatic backdrop for ceremonies and receptions indoors or on the lawn.

• Flexible clubhouse settings complement the natural Lowcountry ambiance.
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4. Arnoldus Vander Horst House

• A historic plantation home built in 1802, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

• Though less frequently used as a full event venue, its storied Lowcountry architecture and verdant surroundings make it an exceptional backdrop for portraits or heritage-themed receptions.
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5. Island Vicinity Historic Estates & Gardens

• While not always open for public events, several heritage homes and landscapes on the island evoke architectural storytelling and regional ancestry. These venues work best for portrait moments, intimate ceremonies, or historically themed enhancements—complementing any main event location.

Live Music Enhancement

If your event needs live entertainment, Melonbelly Acoustic Guitar Duo would be an excellent addition. Their tasteful, versatile acoustic performances—from serene ceremony melodies to refined cocktail-hour ambiance—enhance the venue’s historic elegance without overshadowing it.

Why These Venues Shine for Planners & Hosts

• The Sanctuary provides upscale architecture, lodging, ballroom capacity, and curated service—all in one location.

• River Course blends timeless nature with indoor comfort and exquisite cuisine.

• Ocean Course delivers unforgettable seaside scenery with flexibility for indoor/outdoor flow.

• Arnoldus Vander Horst House and other heritage sites offer depth, authenticity, and photo-worthy character.

• These choices cater to varying scales—from intimate lowcountry charm to resort-level sophistication.

Kiawah Island is a premier destination—early planning is key, especially for peak seasons. Adding the gentle ambiance of Melonbelly Acoustic Guitar Duo ensures your event harmoniously ties together environment, architecture, and sound for an unforgettable experience.

Wedding Venues on Kiawah Island, SC