A barrier island along the South Carolina coast, undiscovered, unspoiled and just beginning to be found. Lush semi-tropical woodlands; nearly five miles of pristine beach; superb fishing, crabbing and shelling. This quiet island, cut off from the mainland by the Edisto River, began in antiquity. Archaeologists have explored numerous sites that Edisto Indians and others once called home.

Bought from Indians in 1674 by the British for a few tools, some trinkets, and a length of cloth, Edisto produced riches in indigo and then Sea Island cotton. Fairfield Ocean Ridge Resort offers upscale villas as a base for days spent on this shell-scattered beach, an 18-hole championship golf course and tennis courts. Bed and breakfast plantations and rental properties offer other island accommodations.