Island Surf Co: Beachwear and Swimwear in Charleston

What Island Surf Co offers

Island Surf Co is a Charleston-based swimwear and beachwear shop located on King Street in the heart of downtown. The store carries board shorts, swim trunks, one-piece and two-piece swimsuits, rash guards, and cover-ups for men, women, and children. They stock both their own house brand and established swimwear labels, with inventory that shifts seasonally and reflects what works for the Atlantic coast and local water conditions.

The shop also carries accessories that pair with swimwear—flip-flops, hats, sunglasses, and beach bags. Staff can help you find a fit that works for your body and your activity, whether you're planning to swim at Folly Beach, paddle at Shem Creek, or sit poolside. The store is small enough that you can browse the full selection in one visit, but busy enough on weekends and summer days that arriving early or on a weekday morning means more one-on-one attention.

Key Takeaways

• Island Surf Co stocks swimwear for all ages and body types, with both house-brand and name-brand options available year-round.
• The King Street location is walkable from downtown hotels, restaurants, and other shops, making it easy to fit into a Charleston visit.
• Staff can advise on fit and function—whether you need something for lap swimming, surfing, or casual beach days.
• The store carries matching accessories like hats, bags, and sunglasses, so you can complete your beach outfit in one stop.

Finding the store and parking

Island Surf Co sits on King Street between Calhoun and Broad, in the middle of Charleston's main shopping and dining corridor. If you're staying downtown or visiting the Historic District, the store is within walking distance of most hotels and attractions. Street parking on King Street turns over throughout the day, though spots fill quickly during lunch hours and on weekends.

The Broad Street parking garage is one block away and charges hourly rates. The Calhoun Street garage is also nearby. Both garages have elevator access and are safer than circling for street parking if you're unfamiliar with the area. If you're visiting during the busy season (May through September), arriving before 11 a.m. or after 4 p.m. means shorter waits at the register and more time to try things on without a crowd.

What to expect when you visit

The store is organized by gender and then by style—board shorts and swim trunks in one section, one-pieces and bikinis in another, with rash guards and cover-ups nearby. Dressing rooms are available, and the staff will pull sizes for you if you ask rather than making multiple trips. The shop is air-conditioned and a comfortable place to spend 20 to 30 minutes browsing, even if you're just passing through downtown.

Island Surf Co does not require you to buy anything to look around. If you're unsure about fit or style, the staff can show you what works for different body types and water activities. They can also tell you which styles hold up best in salt water versus chlorine, and which materials dry fastest if you're planning multiple beach days in a row.

Price range and what's usually in stock

Swimwear at Island Surf Co ranges from budget-friendly house-brand options to mid-range and premium labels. Board shorts and swim trunks typically run between $40 and $100. One-piece and two-piece swimsuits range from $50 to $150 depending on the brand and material. Rash guards and cover-ups fall in the $30 to $80 range. Accessories like hats and bags are usually $15 to $50.

The store carries more inventory in summer months (May through August) and lighter stock in winter. If you're visiting in March or November, call ahead to confirm they have your size and style in stock. The house brand tends to be available year-round, while name-brand inventory shifts based on what the distributor sends and what sells quickly in Charleston's market.

Trying on and returns

Island Surf Co allows you to try on swimwear in the dressing room. Because swimwear is a personal fit item, the store has a return policy—bring your receipt and the item with tags attached, unworn and unwashed, within a set window. Ask the staff for the exact timeframe when you purchase, as return windows vary by item and can change seasonally.

If you buy something and it doesn't fit right once you get home, returning it the same day or the next day (with tags still on) is your best option. Swimwear that has been worn, washed, or had tags removed cannot be returned, so make sure the fit is right before you leave the dressing room.

Other beachwear shops in Charleston

If Island Surf Co doesn't have what you're looking for, Finicky Filly on King Street carries upscale swimwear and resort wear. Stella Nova, also downtown, stocks contemporary swimwear and cover-ups. Both shops are within a few blocks of Island Surf Co, so you can visit multiple stores in one shopping trip if you want to compare styles and prices.

For budget-friendly options, Target and Walmart have locations in the Charleston area and carry basic swimwear year-round. If you're looking for high-performance or specialty swimwear—for example, for lap swimming or water sports—Dick's Sporting Goods at the Towne Centre mall carries athletic swimwear and rash guards alongside other sports gear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Island Surf Co sell men's and women's swimwear?

Yes. The store carries board shorts and swim trunks for men, one-piece and two-piece swimsuits for women, and rash guards and cover-ups for both. They also stock children's swimwear. Sizing runs standard, and staff can help you find your fit.

Can I order online if I can't visit the store?

Island Surf Co primarily operates as a brick-and-mortar shop on King Street. Call the store directly to ask whether they take phone orders or ship items. Many local Charleston shops have started offering this service, but policies vary.

What's the best time to visit if I want less crowding?

Weekday mornings, especially Tuesday through Thursday before 11 a.m., are typically quieter than weekends and summer afternoons. If you're visiting in May through August, arriving early gives you more dressing room availability and more staff attention.

Do they carry plus-size or extended-size swimwear?

Island Surf Co carries a range of sizes, though availability varies by style and brand. Call ahead if you wear an extended size to confirm they have options in stock. The staff can also suggest brands they carry that are known for inclusive sizing.

Is there parking right outside the store?

Street parking on King Street is available but limited and turns over quickly. The Broad Street and Calhoun Street parking garages are one block away and charge hourly rates. Both are easier options than circling for street parking, especially on weekends and during lunch hours.