A golf cart can make getting around Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms one of the easiest parts of your vacation. But before you reserve the first cart that fits your group, it is worth thinking about how you actually plan to use it.
Do you need four seats or six? Is a lifted model worth it? Will you be heading out after dinner? How much beach gear will you bring along?
Choosing the right golf cart rental for a Sullivan’s Island or Isle of Palms vacation comes down to a few practical questions about your group, your plans and the kind of ride you want.
Here is how to narrow it down.
Quick Answer: What Golf Cart Should You Rent?
For most vacationers:
- Choose a 4-seater for couples, small families and groups of three or four traveling relatively light.
- Choose a 6-seater for larger families, groups or anyone who wants extra flexibility for passengers and vacation gear.
- Choose a standard model if easy access and straightforward transportation are your priorities.
- Choose a lifted model if you prefer a higher seating position, upgraded appearance and a more substantial ride.
- Choose an LSV rather than a traditional golf cart if nighttime driving or traveling between Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms is part of your plans.
Saltwater Rides offers 4-seater, 4-seater Luxury Lifted, 6-seater and 6-seater Luxury Lifted options, making it possible to choose a rental around the way you plan to spend your trip.
4-Seater vs. 6-Seater Golf Cart: How Much Room Do You Need?
A 4-Seater Is Best for Smaller Groups
A 4-passenger cart is generally a good fit for couples, families with one or two small children, quick trips between your rental, beach access and restaurants, and vacationers who will not regularly carry a large amount of gear.
If your group comfortably fits in four seats and you mostly plan to make short trips around the island, there may be little reason to move up to a larger cart.
A 6-Seater Gives Larger Groups More Flexibility
A 6-passenger cart makes more sense when five or six people regularly travel together, when you are vacationing with an extended family, or when you expect different friends or family members to join you throughout the week. It is also a better choice if your days include several stops around the islands.
There is another consideration beyond the number of people in your vacation rental: how many people will actually ride together?
A house with eight guests does not automatically require the largest cart if everyone has different schedules. On the other hand, a family of five that plans to go everywhere together will probably appreciate having six seats every day.
What About Beach Gear and Storage?
Beach vacations tend to generate plenty of extras: towels, bags, coolers, toys and other gear. A cart that technically seats your entire group can still feel crowded once everyone brings something along. Do not calculate capacity based on passengers alone.
Standard vs. Lifted Golf Carts
A standard cart is the straightforward choice for easy transportation, comfortable entry and exit, and simple trips to restaurants, shops, and beach access points. Lifted carts sit higher and offer a different ride experience, appealing to those who prefer a higher seating position, a more substantial feel on the road, and the upgraded appearance of a lifted design.
For families traveling with young children, older adults or anyone with mobility considerations, ease of getting in and out is a key factor to consider before automatically choosing a lifted vehicle.
Electric vs. Gas Golf Carts
For visitors primarily traveling around Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms, electric vehicles are particularly well suited to the shorter distances associated with island transportation. Gas carts cmay run longer without recharging, but they come with tradeoffs like engine noise, exhaust, and the need for fuel. For a Sullivan’s Island or Isle of Palms trip, however, the power source should not be the only deciding factor. Street-legal classification matters more.
Golf Cart vs. LSV: An Important Difference for Island Visitors
Visitors often use the terms “golf cart” and “LSV” interchangeably, but legally they are different vehicles.
An LSV, or Low Speed Vehicle, is equipped and registered for operation on qualifying public roads. Traditional golf carts have greater restrictions on where and when they can operate.
Planning to Drive at Night or Between Islands?
Saltwater Rides LSVs can be driven after dark and can also travel between Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island via the Breach Inlet Bridge. They are limited to roads with posted speeds of 35 mph or less and cannot cross the Isle of Palms Connector or Ben Sawyer Bridge into Mount Pleasant.
Always follow local regulations and rental instructions before driving.
Think About What You Plan to Do During Your Vacation
The best golf cart is ultimately the one that fits your itinerary.
Mostly Beach Days
If your vacation plans mostly follow a simple rhythm of going from your rental to the beach, grabbing lunch, and heading back again, a 4-seater golf cart is often all a smaller family or couple needs.
Restaurants, Shopping and Exploring
If you expect to spend more of the day moving between restaurants, shops, recreation areas and different parts of the islands, comfort and passenger capacity become more important.
Evening Plans
If you plan to go to dinner, enjoy an evening ride or travel after sunset, prioritize an LSV that is legally equipped for nighttime operation.
Traveling With a Larger Family
For families and multi-generational groups, consider more than the advertised seat count. Think about who will ride together, how much equipment you will carry, whether you will travel after dark, and if you will visit both islands.
Find the Right Golf Cart Rental for Your Island Vacation
Saltwater Rides offers 4-seater, 4-seater Luxury Lifted, 6-seater and 6-seater Luxury Lifted rentals for visitors to Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island.
Choose the cart that fits your trip, reserve it ahead of your stay and spend less time worrying about transportation once you get to the island.