Everything that Charleston touches turns to gold. The Holy City’s popular barrier islands of Kiawah Island, Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms have certainly proven that. And time and time again, vacationers name these colorful coastal towns among their favorites in our annual South’s Best reader poll. Though much larger than its southern neighbors of Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island, Johns Island often seems a bit hidden in plain sight. The fact that one-third of Johns Islands’ 84 square miles is actually part of the Charleston city limits seems to further disguise its identity as a destination of its own. Just a short drive from Charleston’s bustling peninsula, Johns Island offers a quieter retreat that’s still an easy shot from all the action. Its picturesque coastal marshland landscapes, waterfront views along the Stono and Kiawah Rivers, and diverse wildlife offer plenty to swoon over. Here’s the best way to spend time on the state’s biggest island of Johns Island.