2025 Charleston Visitor Mag | Traveler of Charleston | Jan-June
Explore with Charleston’s Original Carriage Tour
Why walk when you can experience Charleston with our fourlegged tour guides? Since 1972, Palmetto Carriage Works has been Charleston’s go-to carriage company, blending history, charm, and the stories only our family and horses know best. Start your journey at the Big Red Barn, where you’ll meet horses like Bezos, our treat-loving king, and Howard, who’s been known to race other horses back to the barn. With 25 blocks of jaw-dropping mansions, lush gardens, and iconic landmarks ahead, our expert guides and friendly horses are here to make your tour unforgettable. Ready to ride into history?
TRAVELER OF CHARLESTON TEAM
TIFFIN SIMMONS has worked in marketing and advertising for 20 years in diverse industries. She resides in Mount Pleasant with her husband and three children. Tiffin is also very active on the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) of her children’s school. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and watching her favorite sports teams.
Welcome to Charleston, South Carolina! We invite you to experience the Lowcountry’s rich history, beautiful scenery, and vibrant culture. Inside this issue, you’ll find articles highlighting the best lunch spots for a taste of our town and the city’s thriving show scene, from theater to live music. Whether you’re exploring our historic downtown or enjoying an afternoon performance, let this guide help you create unforgettable memories in our fair city.
LAUREN B. JOHNSON has worked as a magazine editor and writer for more than 20 years in New York, Baltimore, and Charleston. She lives in Mount Pleasant with her husband, three children, and a Dalmadoodle rescue puppy. An avid dabbler in creative and outdoor pursuits, Lauren is happiest when reading, cooking, running, and adventuring with her energetic crew.
CRAIG MCLAUGHLIN has been a Charleston resident since 1995 and started his own design business, mclaughlin design, in 2004. When he’s not humbly changing the world with his ground-breaking design, you can find him on the water enjoying life in the Lowcountry.
$17 all day pass to 4 points around the harbor from Downtown Charleston to Mt. Pleasant (Patriots Point). Includes dolphin watch.
Grab dinner at Kings Tide, Concerts and events at Credit One Stadium. Also include the following: cash bar, bathroom, climate controlled and sunset cruises.
[ WELCOME ] to CHARLESTON
EACH YEAR, MILLIONS FLOCK TO THIS PORT CITY to explore its history, culture, and architecture and bask in its Southern goodness. In recent years, Charleston has become a preferred destination for shopping and outdoor adventuring, while its incredible culinary scene continues to attract global attention.
But the Holy City also has a storied past. An early English settlement, Charleston has survived wars, fires, earthquakes, hurricanes, and more to rise up as one of the country’s top travel destinations.
From arts and theater to fine dining and watersports, Charleston truly offers something for everyone. As you’re visiting our beloved city, take time to get acquainted with her history, celebrate her charms, and delight in her amazing beauty.
1670
English colonists settle Charles Town on the Ashley River
1718
Blackbeard the Pirate sails into Charles Town Harbor with four ships; takes hostages for ransom
1740
Charles Town becomes most critical port in North America for exporting
1775-1783
Revolutionary War; Siege of Charleston in 1780
1791
President George Washington visits, lodging at what is now the HeywardWashington House, and attends a reception at the Old Exchange and a social at McCrady’s Longroom
1718
Pirate Stede Bonnet is hanged at White Point 1680
Charles Town relocates to the peninsula; population 1,000
1736
Dock Street Theatre opens; first building in Colonial America used exclusively for theatrical performances
1770 College of Charleston founded
1783
City renamed “Charleston”
1824
Charleston Museum opens to the public (founded in 1773)
1827-1828
Young Army recruit named Edgar Allan Poe is stationed at Fort Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island
1864
1920 Preservation Society founded to protect historic resources
H.L. Hunley sinks
U.S.S. Housatonic in Charleston harbor
1989 Hurricane Hugo hits the city and surrounding areas with 135 mph winds
2023 International African American Museum opens
2016 Joseph P. Riley Jr. retires after 40 years as Charleston mayor
1861 Confederate troops fire the first shots of the Civil War upon Fort Sumter
1886 Major earthquake hits Charleston, damaging 2,000 buildings, killing at least 60 people
1977 Spoleto Festival USA begins
2006 Charleston Wine+Food Festival founded
2005 Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge over the Cooper River opens
Landmarks we Love
Experience Holy City history and revel in our beautiful public spaces while visiting these favorite attractions at little to no cost
Angel Oak
As many as 400 years old, the majestic Angel Oak towers 65 feet high and measures 25.5 feet around. The wellshaded park offers a picnic area and gift shop.
3688 Angel Oak Road, Johns Island
Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
For a bird’s eye view of the harbor, follow the 2.5-mile bike/pedestrian lane along this iconic cable-stayed bridge spanning the Cooper River. Park free at East Bay & Cooper Sts. downtown or at Mt. Pleasant’s Memorial Waterfront Park.
The Battery Bordered by the Ashley and Cooper rivers, this landmark defensive seawall and promenade along the lower Charleston peninsula is now famous for its stately antebellum homes.
East Battery Street & Murray Boulevard, Charleston
St. Michael’s Church & Graveyard
St. Michael’s Church is the oldest church edifice in the City of Charleston, standing on the site of the first Anglican Church built south of Virginia. In the 1680s, a small wooden church – the first in the new town of Charles Town – was built on this spot for the families of the Church of England and named St. Philip’s. John Rutledge, the first governor of South Carolina and signer of the U.S. Constitution, is buried in the graveyard here.
80 Meeting Street, Charleston
Riley
Waterfront Park
This 12-acre public park along the Cooper River boasts peaceful pier swings, dolphin watching, and the iconic Pineapple Fountain.
1 Vendue Range, Charleston
Rainbow Row
This well-photographed strip of pastelhued historic houses is awash in colorful tales explaining its unique look. One story holds that the color code helped drunken sailors coming in from the port remember where to bunk.
83-107 East Bay Street, Charleston
DISCOVER MORE!
Scan this QR code for additional sites and expanded descriptions.
ST. MICHAEL’S CHURCH
One perfect DAY
SINGLE-DAY ITINERARIES THAT CAPTURE THE LOWCOUNTRY’S
CHARM
OUR COLORFUL CITY HARBORS MORE CULTURE, DINING, SHOPPING, HISTORY, AND NATURE THAN A PERSON COULD EVER SOAK UP IN JUST 24 HOURS, BUT WITH THESE DAY-BY-DAY AGENDAS, YOU’LL ENJOY A GOOD SLICE OF ALL THE AREA HAS TO OFFER. THE DETAILED ITINERARIES TRAVEL THROUGH PENINSULAR CHARLESTON AND BEYOND. CHOOSE YOUR FAVORITE OR COMBINE THEM FOR A MORE IN-DEPTH EXPERIENCE.
DO CHARLESTON PROPER
This agenda highlights Charleston’s storied 350-year history. Start with a stroll through the historic district south of Broad Street, where you’ll see the Battery and White Point Garden, Rainbow Row, Waterfront Park and the Pineapple Fountain, and the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon. To perk up a morning filled with activity, visit Carmella’s Cafe and Dessert Bar for organic coffee, scrumptious breakfast sammies, and authentic Italian sweets. Prefer to riding to walking? See all of this and more on a sightseeing bus tour
From there, venture through the Historic Charleston City Market to find souvenirs, local artisan offerings, and sweetgrass goods before grabbing lunch at Port of Call Food Hall (casual court) or Fleet Landing (sit-down seafood).
Then, head to the northside of Market Street and climb aboard a carriage tour for a guided exploration of famous landmarks, charming churches, and storied sites. For an even more in-depth experience, consider a combo deal adding on a harbor cruise or Fort Sumter tour
You could also finish the day shopping famed King Street and dining at one of the city’s award-winning restaurants (it’s best to make reservations).
Close with an evening show at the Dock Street Theatre, Charleston Music Hall, or Theater 99 (see page 26 for a full lineup of theater, music, and comedy venues).
FAMILY FUN DAY
With must-sees along the Cooper River, this itinerary begins at Liberty Square, easily reached with the free DASH shuttle (orange route 210). For morning fuel, grab acai bowls at Beech Cafe or pastries from Saffron Bakery
Now, decide which destination suits your group: The South Carolina Aquarium lets you commune with coastal life (ever fed a stingray?) and see North America’s deepest tank. At the International African American Museum, dig into eye-opening exhibits about the African American experience from the arrival of enslaved Africans to modern cultural, political, and economic influences. Or board the Fort Sumter Tours ferry to stand where the opening shots of the Civil War were fired.
Grab lunch from East Bay Deli or Ted’s Butcher Block for a picnic and play at Gadsdenboro Park. Then walk to the Charleston Maritime Center and hop the Charleston Water Taxi at half past the hour. Watch for dolphins during the boat ride across Charleston Harbor.
Disembark at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, where you can explore military history aboard the World War II-era aircraft carrier USS Yorktown and imagine flying to the moon in an Apollo 8 replica.
Afterwards, take the water taxi to Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina for an early seafood supper at Charleston Harbor Fish House. Just don’t miss the boat’s final downtown departure at 7pm. Or if the Charleston Riverdogs are playing, revel in hometeam baseball, gourmet dogs (try the Homewrecker slathered in coleslaw and pimiento cheese), and incredible sunset views.
You’ll find more kid-centered fun with the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, Charles Towne Landing, Barrier Island Eco Tours, and Schooner Pride.
WATERFRONT PARK
EAST OF THE CITY
A ride over the Cooper River Bridge brings you to the bustling town of Mount Pleasant for a day of sunshine, shopping, and sightseeing. If breakfast calls, exit the bridge via Coleman Boulevard to find Metto Coffee & Tea, Vicious Biscuit, Vintage Coffee Cafe, Page’s Okra Grill, Toast! All Day, and more.
If you’re feeling adventurous, kick off with a stand-up paddleboard or kayak tour at one of the outfitters on Shem Creek, then grab lunch at any of the restaurants along this waterfront hotspot. Prefer a more relaxed morning? Settle onto the sand at Isle of Palms or Sullivan’s Island — arrive early to secure a parking spot. Both beach destinations serve up plenty of delicious lunch options.
From there, head to Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens, a centuries-old working plantation boasting the iconic Avenue of Oaks, Gullah storytellers, original slave cabins, antique rose gardens, a tropic conservatory, and a well-stocked seasonal farm stand across its 738 acres.
From there, return to the modern world at Mount Pleasant Towne Centre. The openair center brings together more than 65 national and local retailers and restaurants, including Belk, Arhaus, and Barnes & Noble. Many are open until 8pm, letting you indulge in an evening of delicious food and upscale shopping.
RAVENEL BRIDGE
charleston gift guide
Want to take a piece of Charleston home with you? Discover these unique items that help you keep the spirit of our city alive long after you visit.
The Happy Southerner
1036 Johnnie Dodds Blvd, Mount Pleasant Charleston Rainbow Row watercolor pillow printed on a white pillow cover with a zipper. Dimensions: 20x12 (includes poly insert). Price: $50. thehappysoutherner.com
Gold Creations
74 South Market Street
14K Yellow/White Gold Diamond Palmetto & Moon Pendant from $995. Also available in Sterling Silver. This Palmetto Tree pendant symbolizes South Carolina’s heritage and coastal beauty. goldcreationschas.com
Sweetgrass Basket
Historic City Market
Sweetgrass basket artists continue a Gullah tradition carried over from West Africa. Using sweetgrass, palmetto, and other local materials, they craft intricate baskets celebrated for their beauty and cultural significance. $100 and up.
Deep Water Vineyard
6775 Bears Bluff Road, Wadmalaw Island Charleston’s only vineyard & winery featuring muscadine and blended wines. Enjoy onsite tastings or subscribe to the Wine Club online. deepwatervineyard.com
Reservations recommended. Call or visit our website to buy tickets and to check cruising/sailing/event schedules.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
charleston live!
YOUR TICKET TO THE CITY’S THEATER, MUSIC, AND COMEDY SCENE
OVER THE PAST DECADE, Charleston has set the stage for cultural tourism, with bold offerings in music, theater, comedy, and more. Beyond Spoleto Festival USA, which draws upwards of 80,000 visitors to the Holy City for two full weeks each May and June, this arts-centric city pulses with creative energy year round thanks to a rich collection of five-star venues and top-notch performers. “We’re proud to be part of a vibrant arts community that attracts an exceptional caliber of talent across a wide range of creative fields,” reflects Charleston Gaillard Center CEO Lissa Frenkel.
Audiences and artists alike are drawn in by the city’s distinctive mix of history and modern entertainment. “Visitors can enjoy top-quality live shows, often straight from Broadway, but in a very unique historical atmosphere,” reflects Kyle Barnette, artistic director of the Footlight Players, the city’s oldest theater company. As Charleston Stage Company managing director Timothy Rogers sees it, “our mission is simple: to inspire, entertain, challenge, and provoke thought.”
CARMINA BURANA AT THE CHARLESTON GAILLARD CENTER
VARIETY SHOW
From hit Broadway shows to lyrical operas, the Holy City celebrates world-class artists and entertainers with multidisciplinary performances on a variety of stages. Downtown’s nonprofit arts hub, The Charleston Gaillard Center produces, commissions, and presents year-round programming from local, national, and international performers. Among the musicians, authors, acrobats, magicians, comedians, and actors gracing its stage this spring will be the touring cast of Broadway hit Dear Evan Hansen, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater ensemble, writer Amor Towles, and Charleston Symphony Orchestra players.
HEAR THIS
Roughly a third of the Gaillard’s size at 900 seats, the College of Charleston’s stunning Sottile Theatre provides a more intimate audience experience for chamber and orchestral music, piano, ballet, and opera. Built in the 1920s and meticulously restored six years ago, the space boasts giant Italianate murals and an illuminated dome.
Beyond downtown, the North Charleston Performing Arts Center draws some of the hottest shows from The Great White Way as well as headlining acts in music, comedy, and theater to its 2,300-person proscenium theater. Highlights from the spring schedule include shows by North Charleston POPS!, Riverdance, Dancing with the Stars, ZZ Top, Jim Gaffigan, Les Misérables, and more.
Jazz, rock, classical, country — the Lowcountry likes to listen. And Charleston Music Hall may be one of the coolest places to hear talented musicians from across the country. Dubbed a listening room, this 965-seat fan-favorite venue boasts great acoustics and encourages artist-audience interaction.
To connect with the city’s history, The Sound of Charleston showcases music defining Charleston’s 350-year history, from gospel and Gershwin to jazz and the classics. The family-friendly show is held at the historic Circular Congregational Church.
For a more modern sound, jump back to the present day at one of the area’s hip live music destinations. Choose from The Music Farm and The Refinery downtown, The Windjammer on Isle of Palms, The Pour House on James Island, and Firefly Distillery in North Charleston.
Over on Daniel Island, the world-class arena Credit One Stadium draws headlining talent and top country stars like Parker McCollum, Cody Johnson, Thomas Rhett, and Megan Moroney.
CHARLES TOWNE LANDING
MEGAN MORONEY
PHOTO BY GEOFFREY CLOWES
PLAY TIME
In 1736, the curtain lifted on the historic Dock Street Theatre, America’s first dedicated theatrical structure. Since then, Charleston has acted as a star player for community and professional stages.
Still central to the cast, the Dock Street received a $19-million renovation in 2010 that introduced state-of-the-art technology and patron comforts. Resident Charleston Stage Company produces more than 100 performances each season. On this spring’s playbill: thrilling Hitchcock homage
The 39 Steps, Tennessee Williams’s beloved The Glass Menagerie, and upbeat musical Legally Blonde
Also in the historical spotlight, The Footlight Players remain Charleston’s longest running theater company, having formed in 1931. Inside the cozy Queen Street Playhouse, a cotton warehouse-
COMEDY CENTRAL
Beyond serious stage dramas, Charleston also has a knack for funny business. Bringing hilarity to the spotlight since 2000, Theatre 99 offers high-energy improv comedy shows every Wednesday through Saturday evening. These quick-witted entertainers deliver uproarious and unscripted shows based on audience suggestions, creating off-the cuff content each time they take the stage.
Audiences can also engage with the stage at The Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre, which runs interactive comic mysteries in a cabaret theater
MORE ENTERTAINMENT ONLINE!
turned-community theater, this group stages intriguing dramas and hilarious comedies, as well as monthly musical performances. Their 93rd season includes two-man lyrical spoof Gutenberg!: The Musical!, Tony Award-winning Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, and Sondheim’s beloved modern classic Into the Woods
Offering a more contemporary experience, small professional troupe PURE Theatre draws adventurous audiences to the intimate Cannon Street Arts Center to witness consequential new works from a diverse mix of Broadway veterans and local talents. This year delivers the world premiere of ornithological musical Pleasure Never Lies; Ms. Holmes & Ms. Watson, an irreverent riff on Doyle’s iconic detective tale; and The Shark is Broken, a Broadway play about the choppy filming of Hollywood’s first summer blockbuster, Jaws.
beside the City Market.
Past downtown, the Wit’s End Comedy Club and Lounge in North Charleston invites local and national stand-up and sketch comedy acts to its black boxstyle performance area.
Scan this QR code for additional sites and expanded descriptions.
BY
THEATRE
PHOTO
BEN EGELSON PHOTOGRAPHY
PARKS CHARLESTON COUNTY
LUNCH BREAK
Playing tourist have you famished? Downtown Charleston offers a smorgasbord of midday dining options perfect for fueling your afternoon adventures. Here are a few of our favorites…
LINGER OVER LUNCH
Whether for the atmosphere or the eats, these delicious destinations beckon diners to sit and savor.
167 Raw: This lively New England-style oyster bar celebrates shellfish with a raw bar and classics like lobster rolls and seared scallops. 193 King St.; 167rawoysterbar.com
Felix: This elegant French brasserie invites patrons to leisurely gather over plates of croquettes, salade, sandwiches, pommes frites, and more. 550 King St.; (843) 2036297, felixchs.com
Fleet Landing: At this waterfront restaurant, enjoy Southern seafood staples and fresh views of Charleston Harbor. 186 Concord St.; (843) 722-8100, fleetlanding.net
Magnolias: Find upscale Southern staples like pimiento cheese and shrimp and grits at this fine dining favorite. 185 East Bay St.; (843) 577-7771, magnoliascharleston.com
Millers All Day: From loaded home fries to cinnamon roll french toast, scramble up breakfast anytime at this all-day brunch bistro. 120 King St.; (843) 501-7342, millersallday.com
The Watch: The rooftop venue atop the Restoration Hotel serves airy skyline views alongside elevated pub fare. 79 Wentworth St., 7th floor; (843) 518-5115, thewatchcharleston.com
167 RAW SIGNATURE LOBSTER ROLL
FLEET LANDING
QUICK BITES
Fast service and charming character make these casual eateries ideal for a meal.
Bodega: The vibe is fresh here, with NY-style sammies on kaiser or ciabatta, vibrant murals, and roll-up garage doors for an airy feel. 23 Ann St.; (843) 297-4772, eatdrinkbodega.com
Carmellas: Beyond indulgent desserts, this gourmet cafe offers crave-worthy sandwiches with fresh Italian meats and cheeses on house-made bread. 198 East Bay St.; (843) 722-5893, carmellasdessertbar.com
Edmund’s Oast Brewing Co. & Taproom: Cheers to house beers on tap, woodfired pizzas and pub fare, and spacious courtyard seating. 1505 King St.; (843) 7183224, edmundsoast.com
Gaulart & Maliclet: This quaint bistro pairs très bon soups, salads, baguettes, and cheeses with affordable and delicious house wine. 98 Broad St.; (843) 577-9797, fastandfrenchcharleston.com
Lewis Barbecue: Nab a picnic table on the backyard patio and dive into this awardwinning pitmaster’s Central Texas ‘cue. 464 North Nassau St.; (843) 805-9500, lewisbarbecue.com
Rodney Scott’s BBQ: Go whole hog at this unassuming joint that serves up pit-cooked barbecue with classic picnic
sides. 1011 King St.; (843) 990-9535, rodneyscottsbbq.com IN & OUT
These grab-and-go counters and markets offer little seating but awesome flavor.
Callie’s Hot Little Biscuits: Find hot buttermilk biscuits loaded with pimiento cheese, fried eggs, blackberry jam, and the like. 476½ King St.; (843) 737-5159, calliesbiscuits.com
Caviar and Bananas: Inside this epicurean corner market, discover unique salads and sandwiches, as well as yummy gelato. 51 George St.; (843) 577-7757, caviarandbananas.com
Da Toscana Porchetta Shop: Sidle up to the counter for a traditional Italian sammy, made with seasoned, roasted, and thinly sliced pork on fresh focaccia. 109 President St.; dtporchetta.shop
Mercantile & Mash: This food emporium offers soup, salads, and sammies, plus all-day breakfast, sushi rolls, poke, and Buddha bowls. 701 East Bay St.; (843) 7932636, mercandmash.com
Queen Street Grocery: Beyond corner store goods, this eclectic shop sells crepes, smoothies, and hot pressed sandwiches. 133 Queen St.; (843) 723-4121, queenstreetgrocerycafe.com
The Pass: The lofty sandwiches from this artisan deli and market get piled high with interesting meats and toppings. Gabagool, anyone? 207A St. Philip St.; (854) 4443960, thepasschs.com
EDMUND’S OAST BREWING CO. & TAPROOM
CALLIE’S HOT LITTLE BISCUITS BAKER’S DOZEN
THE PASS SUCH A NICE ITALIAN BOY PANINO
Sea.Life.
love saving money?
Of course you do! Check out these exclusive coupon offers that you can instantly use. Simply visit TravelerofCharleston.com/coupon or scan the QR code with your smartphone for savings!
Adventure
Sightseeing Bus Tour
$5 off ticket when booked online.
Code: TRAVMAG25
See page 46
Boone Hall Plantation
$3 off adult admission. Present ad on page #5 at gate. No advance reservation is required.
See page 5
Charleston Harbor Tours
$5 off adult ticket when you book online.
Code: TRAVMAG25
See page 24
Drayton Hall
$2 off audio tour.
Code: TRAVELER2
See page 23
GrayLine Historic City Bus Tours
$3 off adult Historic City Tour. Code: CITY3 enter near bottom of checkout page. See page 47
Middleton Place
$3 off per adult. Present ad at counter
See page 23
Nature Adventures Kayak & Paddleboard Tours
10% off tours and rentals.
Code: TRAVELER enter near bottom of checkout page.
See page 21
Old South Carriage
$2 off per person on Daytime or Haunted Tours when booked online.
Code: MAG25
See page 7
Palmetto Carriage Tours
$5 off Daytime or Haunted tours when online or in person with ad.
Code: TRAVMAG
See page 2
Schooner Pride Sailing Tour
$5 off ticket when booked online. Code: TRAVMAG25
See page 25
SpiritLine Dinner Cruises
$10 off per person when you book online.
Code: TC10 enter near bottom checkout page
See page 13
A Day at the Beach
Your Guide to Charleston’s
Islands
WANT TO UNWIND? OUR LOCAL BEACHES OFFER THE PERFECT RESPITE. WHETHER YOU’RE SEEKING THE BREEZY VIBE OF FOLLY BEACH, FAMILYFRIENDLY FEEL OF ISLE OF PALMS, OR UNSPOILED OCEAN VIEWS ON SULLIVAN’S ISLAND, THIS GUIDE WILL HELP DECIDE WHERE TO BURY YOUR TOES.
FOLLY BEACH
Often frequented by locals and surfers, this laidback barrier island offers plenty of restaurants, shops, hotels, and rentals just a short drive from downtown Charleston. A dedicated swimming zone (ie, no surfing) can be found from 2nd Street East to 3rd Street West starting May 15. cityoffollybeach.com
Fun fact: One of Folly’s famous visitors was composer and pianist George Gershwin, who composed the classic opera Porgy and Bess while here.
SULLIVAN’S ISLAND
This barrier island north of Charleston harbor has less than 2,000 residents. With its unspoiled views and terrific dining options, Sullivan’s is a favorite among locals. The island has few short-term rentals and no hotels, so plan a day trip. sullivansisland.sc.gov
Fun fact: This island has a long military history of protecting Charleston harbor from invaders. Visit the restored Fort Moultrie—first built with palmetto logs in 1776—to learn about American seacoast defense up through World War II.
ISLE OF PALMS
Minutes from Mount Pleasant, family-friendly Isle of Palms has buckets of amenities, including shops, restaurants, rentals, and public restrooms. “Front Beach,” which stretches along Ocean Boulevard from 10th to 14th Avenue, is set aside for beachgoers. Beginning Memorial Day Weekend, visitors can ride the weekend shuttle from Mount Pleasant Towne Centre to the beach. iop.net
Fun fact: Loggerhead sea turtles lay eggs here throughout summer. From July until October, the hatchlings emerge at night to make their way to the ocean. To keep them safe, don’t disturb the nests or babies, fill in any holes you dig, and turn off outside lights at night.
KIAWAH ISLAND
Much of this island and its white sand beaches are private, but you can access a public beachfront at Kiawah Beachwalker Park. kiawahisland.org
Fun fact: Centuries before Kiawah Island became a world-class resort destination, wealthy planter John Stanyarne purchased the island from a Cusabo tribe in order to grow subsistence crops and raise cattle.
GOOD TO KNOW
Park It: Beach traffic backs up quickly and parking on the islands can be tough after 10 a.m. Arrive early to secure a spot and heed all posted parking signs. County parks on Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, and Kiawah Island offer limited parking for a fee ($5 to $15), as well as various amenities, including lifeguards, public restrooms, outdoor showers, and seasonal snack bars. Get the scoop at ccprc.com
Hot & Dry: Alcohol is illegal on all Lowcountry beaches except Kiawah, which permits drinking in designated areas.
Salty Dogs: Pups are allowed on all beaches, but leash times and rules vary. Four-legged visitors to Sullivan’s Island must also fetch a town-issued permit. For specifics, dig into your destination’s online beach info.
CURRENT CAUTION
Riptides (AKA rip currents or undertows) form at surf beaches like those along the Lowcountry coast. These dangerously swift channels move up to 8 feet per second and can sweep even the strongest swimmer out to sea. Minimize your riptide risk with these helpful tips:
RECOGNIZE
A riptide may appear as a calm gap between wave breaks or a narrow stream of dark/discolored or foamy water moving away from shore, especially between sandbars.
AVOID
Steer clear of inlets, jetties, and piers. Heed posted warning flags.
ESCAPE
If you do get caught, don’t panic; a riptide won’t pull you under. Swim parallel to shore or toward breaking waves, then angle back to the beach. If you can’t break free, tread or float until help arrives.
charleston area events
Lowcountry Strawberry Festival April 4-6 and 11-13
FEBRUARY
2 Lowcountry Oyster Festival boonehallplantation.com
Dates & times vary (April-September) milb.com/charleston
WELCOME HOME
HAS A VISIT TO OUR FAIR CITY MOVED YOU TO MOVE? HERE’S
AREA GUIDE
Downtown Charleston boasts rich history, refined beauty, and walkability, but living on the Peninsula can cost a pretty penny.
Mount Pleasant offers suburban living close to the beaches with top-notch restaurants and shopping, plenty of greenspaces, and A+ schools.
4.3 miles from downtown Charleston
West Ashley charms with its family-friendly feel, small-town sensibility, and older homes tucked just over the bridge from downtown.
4.5 miles from downtown Charleston
North Charleston has developed from an industrial hub into a cultural hot spot marked by affordable homes, highly ranked high schools, and plenty of local pride. 8 miles from downtown Charleston
James Island harbors a coastal, relaxed vibe thanks to its proximity to Folly Beach, peaceful waterfront environs, and community-centric attitude. 4.5 miles from downtown Charleston
Summerville, AKA “Flowertown,” has blossomed into an affordable inland suburb situated around a quaint but lively downtown. 25 miles from downtown Charleston
BY THE NUMBERS
Charleston Metro Population: 849,417
Cost of Living: 11% above the national average
Average Household Income: $113,584
School Ratings: The Lowcountry is home to four of South Carolina’s top 10 high schools, including North Charleston’s Academic Magnet High School, which is ranked 7th in the U.S.
