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.
Active
$6,500,000
0 Cole, Folly Beach, SC 29439
--beds
--baths
303Acres
Unimproved Land
Built in ----
303 Acres Lot
$-- Zestimate®
$--/sqft
$-- HOA
What's special
Protected shorelineNavigable tidal creeksSweeping marsh vistasPrivately owned barrier island
- 35 days |
- 823 |
- 62 |
Zillow last checked:
Listing updated:
Listed by:
Carolina One Real Estate 843-779-8660
Source: CTMLS,MLS#: 26014656
Facts & features
Property
Features
- Exterior features: Dock
- On waterfront: Yes
- Waterfront features: Beach Front, Marshfront, River Access, River Front, Tidal Creek, Waterfront
Lot
- Size: 303 Acres
- Features: 10+ Acres, High, Level, Wetlands, Wooded, Easements, Split Possible
Details
- Additional structures: Other, Storage
- Zoning description: Agricultural,Other,Residential
- Horses can be raised: Yes
Utilities & green energy
- Sewer: Septic Tank
- Utilities for property: None
Community & HOA
Community
- Features: Dock Facilities, Horses OK, Walk/Jog Trails
- Subdivision: None
Location
- Region: Folly Beach
Financial & listing details
- Date on market: 5/20/2026
- Listing terms: Any,Cash,Conventional,1031 Exchange,Other
Estimated market value
Not available
Estimated sales range
Not available
Not available
Price history
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 5/20/2026 | Listed for sale | $6,500,000 |
Source: | ||
Public tax history
Tax history is unavailable.
Monthly payment
Estimated monthly payment$1,822
All calculations are estimates and provided by Zillow, Inc. for informational purposes only. Actual amounts may vary.
HOA fees may include property taxes on listings classified as Co-Ops. Contact the listing agent and/or owner for fee details.
Mortgage interest rates are dependent on a number of factors, including credit score, down payment, and repayment length. Interest rate data provided by Zillow Group Marketplace, Inc. as of 1/1/1970 from various mortgage lenders with which we have lead or other similar arrangements; the Estimated Payment is an average of those rates.
See how much you could borrow to make a competitive offer.
Climate risks
Neighborhood: 29439
Nearby schools
GreatSchools rating
- 8/10James Island Elementary SchoolGrades: PK-5Distance: 3.6 mi
- 8/10Camp Road MiddleGrades: 6-8Distance: 5.7 mi
- 9/10James Island Charter High SchoolGrades: 9-12Distance: 6.1 mi
Schools provided by the listing agent
- Elementary: James Island
- Middle: Camp Road
- High: James Island Charter
Source: CTMLS. This data may not be complete. We recommend contacting the local school district to confirm school assignments for this home.
A local agent can set up tours, give advice and negotiate with sellers.








