“The Beach House” by Mary Alice Monroe, is set in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. The novel takes place primarily on the Isle of Palms and its surrounding areas. While the focus is primarily on the beach house and the natural surroundings, there are a few restaurants and specific locations mentioned in the novel. Here are some of them:
Isle of Palms
The main setting of the novel, Isle of Palms is a barrier island located near Charleston, South Carolina. It is known for its beautiful beaches, marshes, and wildlife. The Boathouse is a popular waterfront restaurant is located on Isle of Palms. It is mentioned in the novel as a place where the characters go to enjoy seafood and watch the sunset.
Shem Creek
A waterfront area in Mount Pleasant, near Isle of Palms, Shem Creek is mentioned in the novel as a place where the characters go to enjoy seafood and watch the sunset. The Wreck is another waterfront restaurant mentioned in the novel in is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It is known for its casual atmosphere and delicious seafood. Use the link to read the interesting story behind the name.
Charleston
The nearby city of Charleston is mentioned in the novel, and some scenes take place there. Charleston is known for its rich history, charming architecture, and vibrant culture. The Battery is a historic landmark in Charleston, located at the southern tip of the Charleston Peninsula. It is mentioned in the novel as a place where the characters go for walks and enjoy the views of Charleston Harbor. The Charleston City Market is mentioned in the novel as a place where the characters go to shop for local crafts, artwork, and souvenirs. It is a historic market located in downtown Charleston. It is worth the time to take a carriage ride through this beautiful city to find out more about it’s rich history. The Angel Oak is a famous live oak tree located on Johns Island, near Charleston. Some call it the most beautiful tree in the world. It is mentioned in the novel as a place where the characters go for a picnic and to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Sullivan’s Island
Another nearby barrier island, Sullivan’s Island is mentioned in the novel as a place where the characters go for walks and enjoy the beach. Many of Dorothea Benton Frank’s novels take place on Sullivan’s Island
While the novel primarily focuses on the beach house and the natural surroundings, these places add depth and flavor to the story, showcasing the charm and culture of the Lowcountry region of South Carolina.
In case you were wondering, there is a very committed Turtle Team on Isle of Palms. You can read about it here. There are also Turtle teams throughout the low country of South Carolina.