Discover the historic charm and natural beauty of South Carolina’s coastlines.
Charleston offers remarkable spots to embark on a paddleboarding adventure.
Uncover the best places to paddle board in Charleston as you glide through tranquil waters and breathtaking scenery.
Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey in the Lowcountry. Are you ready?
Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in Charleston
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Shem Creek
- ????️ ️Location Type: Bay
- ???? Access Point: Shem Creek Park and Boat Landing (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm, tide influence, gentle breeze
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, shorebirds, crabs
- ️????️ Landmarks & Views: Marshes, picturesque shrimp boats
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, respect marsh ecosystem
Shem Creek is a popular paddling destination in the heart of Mount Pleasant, just minutes from downtown Charleston. Glide through the serene marshes and watch for dolphins playing alongside your paddleboard.
With its beautiful views and rich wildlife, Shem Creek offers an authentic Lowcountry experience.
#2 Folly Beach
- ????️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- ???? Access Point: Folly Beach County Park (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Ocean waves, currents, and wind vary
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, pelicans, sea turtles
- ️????️ Landmarks & Views: Folly Beach Fishing Pier, Morris Island Lighthouse
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of swimmers and surfers, be aware of changing conditions
Folly Beach is a vibrant destination just south of Charleston, offering a mix of oceanfront excitement and paddleboarding adventure. Explore the waters around the iconic Folly Beach Fishing Pier or venture to the tranquil Morris Island Lighthouse for a different perspective.
Folly Beach caters to various skill levels and allows paddlers to experience the lively Charleston beach atmosphere.
#3 Sullivan’s Island
- ????️ ️Location Type: Oceanfront
- ???? Access Point: Station 28.5 Street Beach Access (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Mild ocean currents, protected waters
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, shorebirds
- ️????️ Landmarks & Views: Fort Moultrie, historic lighthouse
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be aware of currents, respect no-wake zones
Sullivan’s Island offers paddlers a pristine coastal experience just north of downtown Charleston. The calm waters around Fort Moultrie make it an ideal spot for beginner to intermediate paddleboarders.
Enjoy breathtaking views of Charleston Harbor while exploring the island’s rich history and natural beauty.
#4 Isle of Palms
- ????️ Location Type: Oceanfront
- ???? Access Point: Isle of Palms County Park (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calmer ocean currents, wind varies
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, shorebirds
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Beach homes, sand dunes
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of swimmers, respect private properties
Located just north of Charleston, Isle of Palms boasts a serene and relaxing paddling experience. With its wide shoreline, expansive sand dunes, and picturesque beach homes, Isle of Palms offers a unique coastal appeal.
Paddle alongside dolphins or just soak in the warm sunshine, Isle of Palms delivers a peaceful island experience.
#5 Charleston Harbor
- ????️ ️Location Type: Bay
- ???? Access Point: Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm harbor waters, tidal influence
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, coastal birds
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Fort Sumter, historic downtown skyline, Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be aware of boat traffic, adhere to harbor regulations
Charleston Harbor provides a scenic and historic backdrop for any paddleboarding excursion. With its calm waters and captivating views of downtown Charleston, Fort Sumter, and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Experience Charleston’s beauty and history while navigating the harbor’s tranquil waters.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Charleston?
Prime paddle boarding spots in Charleston include Folly Beach, Shem Creek, and Charleston Harbor.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Charleston?
No, paddle boards do not need to be registered in Charleston.
When is the best time to paddle board in Charleston?
The ideal time to paddle board in Charleston is from late spring to early fall due to optimal weather conditions.
