Rare opportunity to acquire Cole Island, a privately owned barrier island gracefully positioned at the confluence of the Folly River and Stono Inlet, just minutes from Folly Beach and historic Charleston. Encompassing approximately 300+/- acres of highland and marsh, this remarkable coastal sanctuary offers an extraordinary combination of natural beauty, privacy, historical significance, and long-term stewardship potential.Accessible only by boat via a short ride from the Folly Beach public landing or nearby marinas, the island unfolds through sweeping marsh vistas, navigable tidal creeks, protected shoreline, and a mature maritime forest shaded by centuries-old live oaks.Rich in American history, Cole Island is home to the remains of historic Fort Palmetto, originally constructed during the War of 1812, with layered ties to both the Revolutionary and Civil War eras. Largely preserved in its natural state, the island presents a compelling opportunity for conservation-minded ownership while allowing for thoughtful, low-impact experiential use. Existing activities have included guided excursions, kayaking along Cole Creek, and curated private gatherings that embrace the island's distinctive landscape and quiet seclusion. Cole Island may offer meaningful opportunities for conservation easements, estate planning strategies, and tax-advantaged ownership structures, all while preserving one of the Charleston coast's most irreplaceable land holdings. Buyers should verify any conservation, tax, or land-use considerations independently. One of the last privately held barrier islands in the Charleston market, Cole Island represents a truly rare legacy acquisition -- a place where history, ecology, and coastal beauty converge in a setting unlikely to be replicated.
As the MLS and public records start to fill up, we'll list the details here.
Public record
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Vacant Land
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Charleston County
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Last updated by owner on May 20, 2026.
Climate risks
10/10 Flood Factor
Estimated 80%+ chance of a flood reaching the building in the next 30 years
1/10 Fire Factor
Unlikely to be in a wildfire in next 30 years
10/10 Heat Factor
7 days above 105° expected this year, 20 days in 30 years
9/10 Wind Factor
99% chance of strong winds in next 30 years
3/10 Air Factor
3 unhealthy days expected this year, 3 days in 30 years
Provided by First Street
Historical weather
Folly Beach, SC • 29439
Average low and high temperatures (°F)
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40
58
46
66
54
72
63
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76
87
79
83
76
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73
63
68
57
58
47
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Sun exposure
100/ 100
Exceptional sunlight
Sunscore
This home ranks in the top 1% for direct sun exposure in Folly Beach. There appears to be minimal shading by surrounding buildings, terrain, and vegetation.
9.9 hrs
6.9 hrs
JuneDecember
Provided by Shadowmap
Redfin Estimate for 0 Cole
$5,958,276
$542K under list price of $6.50M
Nearby comparable homes
The Redfin Estimate uses 6 recent nearby sales, priced between $1.1M to $3.5M.