Welcome to Charleston Tea Garden
Located on Wadmalaw Island in South Carolina’s Lowcountry, the Charleston Tea Garden is just a few miles south of historic Charleston. Wadmalaw, one of the area’s most untouched islands, was first claimed for England in 1666 by Captain Robert Sanford. Today, it remains protected from commercial development, preserving its natural beauty. The island’s only connection to the mainland is a single bridge over Church Creek, making it a truly special destination.
With its sandy soil, subtropical climate, and abundant rainfall, Wadmalaw provides the perfect environment for growing Camellia Sinensis, the tea plant used for both black and green teas. The Charleston Tea Garden spans 127 acres and cultivates over 320 varieties, producing nine unique flavors, including the beloved American Classic Tea—the only tea in the world made entirely from U.S.-grown leaves.
A Living Tea Legacy
The Charleston Tea Garden became part of the Bigelow Tea family in 2003, when Eunice and David Bigelow purchased the farm and partnered with local tea expert Bill Hall to bring their shared vision to life. Their goal was to preserve and celebrate American-grown tea, transforming the Garden into a vibrant destination for tea lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Visitors to the Garden can explore the scenic property and tea farm, learn about the tea-making process, and enjoy the unique charm of Wadmalaw Island. Just a short drive away, guests can also visit Deep Water Vineyard, Charleston’s only domestic winery, or marvel at the ancient Angel Oak, a live oak tree estimated to be over 1,500 years old. Whether you're a tea enthusiast or simply looking for an authentic Lowcountry experience, the Charleston Tea Garden offers a journey into the rich tradition of American tea.
Experience America's Tea Garden
Come explore the beauty of Charleston Tea Garden, where hundreds of thousands of tea bushes throughout this tea farm stretch as far as the eye can see. Take a free Factory Tour to see how tea is made, or hop on our Trolley Tour for a fun and educational ride through the fields, with a stop at our greenhouse to see young tea plants up close.