Featured Image Credit: http://dhmrealestate.com/folly-beach/
As the summer days roll by it’s easy to feel like you’re running out of things to do, luckily there is never any shortage of outdoor adventures in Charleston! If you like walking through beautiful scenery, kayaking, paddleboarding, or doing really anything outside, than we have you covered!
Explore Shem Creek Park
Shem Creek Park is great for a leisurely afternoon stroll. It’s conveniently located right next to Shem Creek, so if all that walking makes you hungry there are lots of restaurants just around the corner. But before you let the restaurants draw you in, be sure to explore all the wooden boardwalks the cross over the marshland. Bring your fishing rod along or just sit and enjoy the view. If you’re looking to spend a day in the serenity of nature, Shem Creek Park is the place to go.
Take a stroll in Hampton Park
Hampton Park is one of Charleston’s largest parks and is located in downtown Charleston. It’s a free public park that is perfect for anyone who wants to walk, bike or run through nature without having to drive far to get there. It features a paved trail that winds through the park and is lined by incredible moss-covered oaks. With the trees leaning over the trails and repelling the summer sun, you’ll be stay cool while enjoying whatever activity you choose. And don’t forget to snap a few pictures of the many unusual oak trees before you leave. They look like something out of a movie.
Get on the water with Sunset Paddleboarding
Sunset paddle boarding, hosted by Coastal Expeditions, is an awesome way to not only see the natural environment of Charleston, but also learn some of the history behind it while getting a workout in. The paddleboard tours are offered in Shem Creek and Folly Creek. They last about 2 hours and paddle boarders often see Bottlenose Dolphins and other wildlife. Sunset tours are also offered! If you want to experience Charleston by water, learn about the ecosystems surrounding Folly and Shem Creek and catch a glimpse of some wildlife. Tickets are $52 per person.
Spend a day on Folly Beach
Don’t let the name fool you, Folly Beach is much more than a beach. The area is overflowing with restaurants, parks, playgrounds, and even a dog park for your furry friend.
If you want to have a relaxing day at the beach, take a stroll along Folly’s 1,045-foot pier and watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll be standing on the 2nd longest pier on the east coast! Or, sign up for one of the many boat excursions offered at https://visitfolly.com/
For a more active beach day, rent a bike and cruise through the parks and nature trails all along the beach. Or if you’re feeling extra adventurous, try out surfing, kayaking or paddleboarding. The beach is open year-round to the public and access if free. If you want to visit Folly Beach County Park, however, it costs $20 to park in the lot near the beach.