Charleston lately had a substantial yr in tourism. Town acquired almost 7.8 million guests and $14 billion in income in 2024. The tourism trade’s development is rising, however sadly, most vacationers get to see just some of town’s belongings.
Many individuals are clueless concerning the secret spots that may be discovered via the waterways. Previous forts, historic mansions, and lighthouses inform tales to these prepared to cruise by boat. These websites are hidden from the same old crowds, but are unbelievable when seen from the harbour.
This information exposes the hidden gems in Charleston, SC, you could solely entry via boat rides.
Why Discover Charleston by Water?
The origin of Charleston’s historical past is waterborne. Ships introduced commerce, individuals, and tales, so the large landmarks face the harbour, not the roads.
On land, views are blocked. On the water, all the pieces is crystal clear.
- No crowds
- No noise
- Simply peace and open views
Even higher if you’re on a yacht or guided boat. You’ve gotten a neighborhood information who can present you hidden components which you’ll be able to solely see from a ship.
Hidden Gems You Will Solely Spot from the Charleston Waterways
Charleston is a timeless historic treasure hid alongside the shore. These hidden gems in Charleston, SC, communicate of the tales of grand plantations, uncared for forts, and America’s defining moments:
Citadel Pinckney
Most individuals miss Citadel Pinckney as a result of it sits on Shutes Folly Island and is just reachable by boat. This small fort as soon as served as a jail and a fort which supported Charleston Harbour. Now, outdated partitions are surrounded by seabirds, and waves lap at their base. From a ship, you may see the shattered bricks and overgrown attraction of the fort.
Fort Sumter
Fort Sumter is situated on the centre of the harbour, which may be reached solely by boat. It’s the place the Civil Struggle started. Upon arriving on the fort, one is greeted by the large partitions with cannons that kind a part of its construction. It additionally has components of a uncared for landmark in Charleston, together with fort stays and a conflict museum that preserves and tells the tales of America’s battles.
Fort Moultrie
This fort lives on Sullivan’s Island. For greater than two centuries, it has protected the harbour. From a ship, you will note its low form and a tall flag waving within the wind. It comprises numerous historical past from the Revolution to World Struggle II. Each brick holds a long time of untold tales.
The Battery and White Level Backyard
The Battery ushers the doorway to the peninsula and options elegant ruins of lavish properties and historical cannons. From the water and the opposite aspect of the harbour, one can see the softly pastel coloured framed properties which had been inbuilt distinction to the prevailing oak bushes shading the White Level Backyard. The light breeze makes the gardens peaceable, however catching the view throughout sundown is superb.
Morris Island Lighthouse
It appears to be like just like the lighthouse from a film. It’s alone, surrounded by water, and waves crashing onto it give it a rugged look. There isn’t a pathway to achieve it except for getting shut by boat. The sight of black and white stripes and crumbling bricks offers an impression as if time stands nonetheless. Typically dolphins swim by, including to the gorgeous view.
USS Yorktown at Patriots Level
Yorktown is gigantic. It’s an plane provider from World Struggle II, now situated at Patriots Level. From the water, you get the total view of jets on the deck, metal rising above the waves. It’s a piece of historical past that also feels alive as you move by.
Rainbow Row and Historic Waterfront Mansions
Rainbow Row is known for its vibrant coloured patterns. From the water, the colors shine much more. You’ll be able to view the curve of the tall shutters and the road with the outdated mansions peeking via bushes. The gardens spill to the seawall, giving a quiet view you wouldn’t catch on foot.
Drayton Corridor
Drayton Corridor seems to be ready beside the Ashley River shore for you. This plantation dwelling is among the oldest within the US. From the boat, the home’s white columns shine as they’re mirrored within the water beneath. It’s bordered by light oaks and a delicate breeze which carries the odor of the marsh grass.
Middleton Place
Middleton Place has a well-deserved fame. The gardens are expansive and are stuffed with blossoms, and the huge manicured lawns. You get a shocking view from the river. The home overlooks the water. Ponds stuffed with drifting swans and are virtually as if you’re transported into one other time.
Cooper River and Charleston Harbour
Cooper River runs instantly into the guts of the harbour. Take a journey alongside and outdated rice fields, quiet creeks, and busy docks may be noticed. Birds fly low, and boats come and go. That marks the beginning of Charleston, and the mark continues to be felt strongly.
For these in search of the hidden treasures of Charleston, SC, compiling their journey with a Charleston harbour cruise would serve completely. This might show to be an incredible expertise full of gorgeous views.
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Ideas for Exploring These Hidden Gems
- Go to early morning or night as it’s cooler and fewer busy.
- Carry a digicam so that you don’t miss the cool stuff you will note.
- Go along with a information who is aware of the hidden spots and enjoyable tales.
- Pack mild, like sunscreen, shades, water, and a jacket.
- Go searching rigorously, as some gems disguise behind bushes or off to the aspect.
Wrapping Up
Charleston’s outstanding tales are greatest explored from the water. Forts, lighthouses, and quiet spots most individuals by no means see. These are the excellent hidden gems in Charleston, SC, which are actually superb to find.
These secret beauties aren’t ready to be found with a textbook information, however slightly with a ship, some free time, and a want to observe particular trails.Wish to do it the straightforward approach? Guide a personal or group journey via Charleston Yacht Excursions, the place all the pieces is enjoyable, relaxed and the easiest way to seek out the hidden gems too.
Final Up to date on July 14, 2025
