October is a great time to plan a fall getaway to the Charleston Coast. The weather is starting to cool down; there are plenty of fall events throughout the area, and you can still make time for a relaxing day by the ocean.
If you’re staying with Carolina One Vacation Rentals this October, you’ll have plenty to see and do near Edisto Beach, Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, Wild Dunes, Sullivan’s Island, and Charleston. From local fall festivals and Halloween fun to exploring what downtown Charleston has to offer. We wanted to share a few events and activities happening that you may want to check out on your next vacation.
Edisto Beach Fall Festival
If you’re staying on Edisto Island, make plans to stop by the Edisto Beach Fall Festival on Saturday, October 10, 2026. The festival will take over Jungle Road in front of Palmetto Plaza from 11:00 am until 4:00 p.m., and it is free to attend.
Spend the afternoon browsing the local arts and crafts, food vendors, and booths from many local businesses and organizations. Be sure to stick around to hear live music from Edisto Gumbo, who will be there from noon until 3:30 pm. Bring a chair or two and stay awhile.
Mermaids & Mateys Festival on Folly Beach
October starts off with one of Folly Beach’s most colorful events of the year. The Mermaids & Mateys Festival returns to Center Street on Saturday, October 3rd, 2026, starting at 10:00 am until 4:00 pm.
It’s your turn to dress up like a mermaid, pirate, or your favorite under-the-sea character and enjoy a day filled with live music, costume contests, local vendors, kids’ activities, and so much more. While this festival is free to attend, we recommend registering for tickets ahead of time.
So, if you’re planning a Folly Beach vacation in early October, this would be a great day to build a beach day around.
Fall Fun on Isle of Palms & Wild Dunes
There are several reasons this fall to spend time on Isle of Palms and Wild Dunes this October.
Runners and walkers can start the month with the Isle of Palms Connector Run on Saturday, October 3rd. The event includes both a 5K and a 10K, with a route featuring views of the Atlantic, marshes, creeks, and Intracoastal Waterway. There will also be a post-race festival featuring live music, vendors, an area just for the kids, and more.
Later in the month, the Isle of Palms Farmers Market returns on October 15th, giving you another chance to shop local and enjoy an afternoon on the island, feeling like a local.
And if Halloween happens to be your favorite part of October, keep an eye out for the annual Isle of Palms Halloween Carnival that happens on Saturday, October 31st, from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm. This year, it will be held at the Isle of Palms Recreation Center and will feature a drive-through haunted house, kids' entertainment, a golf cart parade, and more.
And if you’re staying in one of our Wild Dunes vacation rentals on October 24th, you’re in luck, as the Wild Dunes Frightmare by the Sea will take place. From 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm, guests of all ages can enjoy trick-or-treating throughout participating resort outlets and departments. Be sure to bring your best costume and see who wins the annual Halloween costume contest.
Enjoy a Fall Day on Sullivan’s Island
Not every day in October must revolve around a festival. If you’re staying in one of our Sullivan’s Island vacation rentals, set aside some time to explore the area.
October is a nice month for walking on the beach, visiting one of the many local shops and restaurants, or spending more time around the island before heading into Charleston. You can also stop by Fort Moultrie and learn a little more about the island’s history.
Explore Charleston During a Fall Tour
A trip to the coast would not be complete without spending some time in Charleston, and October brings one of the city’s longtime fall traditions.
The Preservation Society of Charleston Fall Tours take place throughout October every year. This year, however, marks the event's 50th year, with walking tours, house and garden tours, and other opportunities to explore the city's historic charm. Even if you’ve visited Charleston before, these tours offer a different look at the city and make a great addition to an October getaway.
Plan Your October Getaway
Whether you want to spend the day at one of the fall festivals, dress up for a Halloween event, explore downtown Charleston, or simply enjoy the beach in October, there is plenty to keep your family busy.
And with Carolina One Vacation Rentals, you can find a place to stay near the areas you’re looking to explore. This includes Edisto Beach, Folly Beach, Wild Dunes, Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, and the Charleston area. Start planning your October getaway and come see why fall is such a great time to explore the South Carolina coast with the family.