Island Attractions In Charleston, SC

Island Attractions In Charleston, SC
Charleston, South Carolina is a peninsula surrounded by rivulets, saltwater marshes, and barrier islands. The surrounding islands helped create the Charleston culture that is much-treasured today. Whether you are hoping to learn about the history of the Barrier Islands, purchase a Gullah basket, or spend the day boating, there are multitudes of island attractions in and around Charleston at your disposal.

James Island County Park

Approximately 5 miles from downtown Charleston, James Island County Park offers a taste of coastal South Carolina. The park has a wide variety of island activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Spend the day saltwater fishing and crabbing along tidal creeks or go swimming at the Splash Zone Water Park. Paved trails make biking and walking easy and fun, allowing you to wind your way through the park's grassy meadows and marshland. Kayaks, canoes, and pedal boats are available for rent at the park office. Camping is another way to enjoy the area; 124 camp sites and 10 cottages are situated along the Stono River marsh. Gate admission is $1, as of December 2009.

James Island County Park
871 Riverland Drive
Charleston, SC 29412
(843) 795-7275
ccprc.com/index.aspx?nid=68

Charleston City Market

Visit the Charleston City Market to buy low-country and island souvenirs and cuisine. Also referred to as the Old City Market and the Straw Market, the Charleston City Market is situated in the heart of downtown Charleston and has operated since 1841. This open-air market, which now houses antique and specialty shops, market stalls and restaurants, is best known for the Gullah women who line its aisles weaving and selling their coiled sweet-grass baskets.

Charleston City Market
188 Market St.
Charleston, SC 29401
discoversouthcarolina.com/products/338.aspx

South Carolina Aquarium

Learn about the barrier islands of South Carolina and the aquatic creatures that live there on a visit to the South Carolina Aquarium. Sea Turtle rescue, conservation efforts, and sustainable seafood initiatives are just a few of the topics you'll explore. The Turtle Cafe and Aquarium Gift Shop are both on-site and offer additional ways to enjoy your visit. As of December 2009, tickets are $17 for adults, $10 for children.

South Carolina Aquarium
100 Aquarium Wharf
Charleston, SC 29401
scaquarium.org/
(843) 720-1990

Barrier Island Eco Tours

Experience all that South Carolina's barrier islands have to offer by participating in a Barrier Island Eco Tour. Crabbing, kayaking, swimming, fishing and more are available through the regularly scheduled naturalist-guided trips, which occur daily and focus on and around Capers Island. Customized trips for groups and individuals are also available for anyone interested in tailoring an excursion. Prices vary based on the selected tour.

Barrier Island Eco Tours
50 41st Avenue
Isle of Palms, SC 29451
(843) 886-5000
nature-tours.com/

Article Written By Heather Barrett

Heather Barrett has been writing since 2006. Her articles have appeared in "Variety" magazine and "Satellite" Magazine. She has also written for various university websites and newsletters. Barrett holds a Master of Arts in Museum Studies from the University of Florida.

Write for Trails.com
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