Those who desire the intimacy of a small, picturesque coastal town will find a comfortable and friend home in Awendaw. Best known for it Blue Crab Festival, this area draws crowds to many colorful celebrations promoted by the Sewee to Santee Heritage Commission that include the Awendaw Christmas Tree Lighting; the Sewee Coastal Retreat Center Fishing Tournament; the Festival of Homes, Music and Art; and the South Santee & Germantown Fish Fry. This small and charming community features the wonderful 50-acre Sewee Coastal Retreat Center with camping or lodging right on the water's edge. The center includes conference facilities, a boat dock, and a swimming pool. Shoreline camping is also available in the Buck Hall Recreation Area in the nearby Francis Marion National Forest. Dining and live entertainment at its finest is available in famous local restaurants that are known for delicious seafood pulled from local docks and rich estuarine waters.