Nestled just across the Cooper River from historic Charleston, Mount Pleasant offers a delightful blend of breezy coastal living, historic sites, and waterfront beauty. It's a place where beautiful oak trees line quiet streets, and the vibrant culture of the Lowcountry thrives.

THINGS TO DO:

Golf at Dunes West Golf and River Club

Immerse yourself in a championship golf experience at Dunes West Golf and River Club, where Arthur Hills' masterful design seamlessly blends with the Lowcountry's stunning natural beauty.

LINK: Dunes West Golf & River Club

Stroll the Pitt Street Bridge

This retired trolley bridge turned pedestrian walkway offers stunning views of the marsh.

LINK: Pitt Street Bridge

Palmetto Islands County Park

A large park with walking trails, a water-play area (Splash Island Waterpark, seasonal), and picnic facilities. You can rent boats to paddle around the marshes and observe local wildlife.

LINK: Park Website

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

Step aboard the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier, explore the USS Laffey destroyer, and experience a Cold War submarine. It's a fascinating and educational experience for all ages.

LINK: Patriot's Point

Mount Pleasant Farmers Market

A vibrant market with local produce, crafts, live music, and food vendors.

LINK: Farmer's Market

Shopping at Mount Pleasant Towne Centre

An open-air shopping complex with a variety of stores and occasional free events.

LINK: Mt. Pleasant Towne Centre

Shem Creek, a vibrant waterfront district in Mount Pleasant, is a hub of activity where shrimp boats dock, dolphins play, and diners enjoy fresh seafood with stunning marsh and harbor views. It's the perfect spot to experience the lively maritime spirit of the Lowcountry.

THINGS TO DO:

Shem Creek Park Boardwalk

Enjoy 3,000 feet of boardwalks with panoramic views, perfect for watching boats, wildlife, and sunsets.

LINK: Shem Creek Waterfront

Nature Adventures kayaking and Paddle Boarding

Rent a kayak and explore the calm waters of the creek, spotting dolphins and coastal birds.

LINK: Nature Adventures

Enjoy a Palmetto Breeze Sunset Cruise

Depart directly from Shem Creek for a breathtaking cruise around Charleston Harbor.

LINK: Palmetto Breeze Cruises

Dine With a Waterfront View

Beyond Tavern & Table and Saltwater Cowboys, many restaurants along Shem Creek offer outdoor seating with fantastic marsh and water views. Explore others like Red's Ice House for a more casual vibe.

LINKS: Salt Water Cowboys | Tavern & Table | Red's Ice House

Charleston, often hailed as one of America's most charming cities, captivates with its cobblestone streets, architecture, and rich history. From vibrant culinary scenes to picturesque waterfronts, it's a city that effortlessly blends old-world charm with modern elegance.

THINGS TO DO:

Charleston City Market

Discover local artisan crafts, souvenirs, and get a feel for the city's unique energy.

LINK: Charleston City Market

Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours

A romantic and charming way to explore the historic district and learn about its storied past.

LINK: Palmetto Carriage Tours

International African American Museum (IAAM)

This newly opened museum explores African American history and culture, with a vital focus on Gullah Geechee heritage.

LINK: IAAM Museum

South Carolina Aquarium

Explore marine life from the mountains to the sea, with a focus on local aquatic ecosystems. Don't miss the sea turtle hospital.

LINK: SC Aquarium

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, the picturesque site of Amber and Suman's engagement, is one of America's oldest public gardens, famous for its camellias and azaleas. It offers diverse tours, including house, nature train, and wetland boat options, while also honoring the contributions and history of the enslaved Gullah people who shaped its legacy.

LINK: Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

Ghost Tours

Charleston is known for its haunted history. Take a walking or carriage ghost tour for a spooky and entertaining evening.

LINK: 10 Best Charleston Ghost Tours

Culinary Tours

As a renowned food city, Charleston offers various food tours that allow you to sample local delicacies and learn about the culinary scene.

LINK: Charleston Culinary Tours

Shopping on King Street

From high-end boutiques to antique shops and local art galleries, King Street is a shopper's paradise.

LINKS: Charleston Shopping Guide | King Street Shopping

White Point Garden (The Battery)

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Battery, a picturesque promenade with historic homes, cannons, and views of Charleston Harbor.

LINK: White Point Garden

Waterfront Park

Charleston's beloved Waterfront Park offers stunning views of the Charleston Harbor. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, a relaxing picnic, or letting kids play in the iconic Pineapple Fountain and interactive splash pad, it's a vibrant public space that beautifully connects the historic city with its maritime heritage.

LINK: Waterfront Park

Folly Beach boasts a laid-back, bohemian vibe, making it a favorite among surfers, artists, and anyone seeking a casual, fun-loving beach town experience. Its expansive beach and eclectic downtown offer endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure.

THINGS TO DO:

Folly Beach County Park

Provides a guarded swimming area, concessions, picnic areas, restrooms, and outdoor showers, making for a comfortable beach day.

LINK: Folly Beach County Park

Visit the Morris Island Lighthouse (from a distance)

While you can't access the lighthouse itself, the views from Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve are beautiful.

LINK: Morris Island Lighthouse

Bike Rentals

Rent bikes and explore the island's low-traffic residential streets and beach paths.

LINK: Cool Breeze Bikes

Dolphin Boat Tours

Several companies offer dolphin-watching tours from Folly Beach, often including stops for shark tooth hunting.

LINK: Dolphin and Whale Watching Tours

Shopping on Center Street

Browse the eclectic shops, boutiques, and surf gear stores that line Folly's main street.

LINK: Center Street Directory

Live Music

Folly Beach has a vibrant local music scene, with many bars and restaurants offering live performances, especially in the evenings.

LINK: Folly Beach Events

Isle of Palms is a barrier island paradise offering pristine beaches, a relaxed atmosphere, and an abundance of outdoor activities. It's the perfect escape for those seeking sun, sand, and the soothing sounds of the Atlantic Ocean.

THINGS TO DO:

Isle of Palms County Park

This park offers direct beach access with amenities like restrooms, picnic areas, and a playground, making it great for families.

LINK: Isle of Palms County Park

Go on a Barrier Island Ecotour

Discover the natural beauty of the lowcountry with naturalist-guided tours to Capers Island Heritage Preserve.

LINK: Capers Island Wildlife Exploration

Live Music at The Windjammer

This iconic beachfront bar often hosts live music and events, providing a lively evening atmosphere.

LINK: Events at the Windjammer