Charleston not too long ago had a substantial 12 months in tourism. The town acquired practically 7.8 million guests and $14 billion in income in 2024. The tourism trade’s progress is rising, however sadly, most vacationers get to see just some of the town’s property.
Many individuals are clueless in regards to the secret spots that may be discovered by the waterways. Previous forts, historic mansions, and lighthouses inform tales to these keen to cruise by boat. These websites are hidden from the standard crowds, but are unbelievable when considered from the harbour.
This information exposes the hidden gems in Charleston, SC, which you could solely entry by boat rides.
Why Discover Charleston by Water?
The origin of Charleston’s historical past is waterborne. Ships introduced commerce, folks, and tales, so the large landmarks face the harbour, not the roads.
On land, views are blocked. On the water, the whole lot 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 a neighborhood information who can present you hidden elements which you’ll 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:
Fort Pinckney
Most individuals miss Fort Pinckney as a result of it sits on Shutes Folly Island and is simply 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 Now, outdated partitions are surrounded by seabirds, and waves lap at their base.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 possibly can see the shattered bricks and overgrown attraction of the fort.
Fort Sumter
Fort Sumter is situated on the centre of the harbour, which could be reached solely by boat. It’s the place the Civil Warfare started. Upon arriving on the fort, one is greeted by the huge partitions with cannons that kind a part of its construction. It additionally has elements of a uncared for landmark in Charleston, together with fort stays and a warfare 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 notice its low form and a tall flag waving within the wind. It comprises a lot of historical past from the Revolution to World Warfare 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 houses and historical cannons. From the water and the opposite aspect of the harbour, one can see the softly pastel coloured framed houses which have been inbuilt distinction to the prevailing oak timber shading the White Level Backyard. The mild breeze makes the gardens peaceable, however catching the view throughout sundown is wonderful.
Morris Island Lighthouse
It seems 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 apart from 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 attractive view.
USS Yorktown at Patriots Level
Yorktown is gigantic. It’s an plane provider from World Warfare II, now situated at Patriots Level. From the water, you get the complete view of jets on the deck, metal rising above the waves. It’s a piece of historical past that also feels alive as you cross by.
Rainbow Row and Historic Waterfront Mansions
Rainbow Row is legendary for its shiny coloured patterns. From the water, the colors shine much more. You possibly can view the curve of the tall shutters and the road with the outdated mansions peeking by timber. 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 mild oaks and a gentle 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 surprising 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 straight into the center of the harbour. Take a trip alongside and outdated rice fields, quiet creeks, and busy docks could be noticed. Birds fly low, and boats come and go. That marks the beginning of Charleston, and the mark remains to be felt strongly.
For these on the lookout for the hidden treasures of Charleston, SC, compiling their journey with a Charleston harbour cruise would serve completely. This is able to show to be a tremendous expertise full of lovely views.
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Ideas for Exploring These Hidden Gems
- Go to early morning or night as it’s cooler and fewer busy.
- Deliver a digital camera so that you don’t miss the cool stuff you will notice.
- Go together with a information who is aware of the hidden spots and enjoyable tales.
- Pack mild, like sunscreen, shades, water, and a jacket.
- Go searching fastidiously, as some gems disguise behind timber or off to the aspect.
Wrapping Up
Charleston’s exceptional 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 really wonderful to find.
These secret beauties usually are not ready to be found with a textbook information, however relatively with a ship, some free time, and a want to comply with particular trails.Wish to do it the straightforward manner? E book a personal or group journey by Charleston Yacht Excursions, the place the whole lot is enjoyable, relaxed and one of the simplest ways to seek out the hidden gems too.
Final Up to date on July 14, 2025