9 Top Summer Activities in Charleston

Charleston is a coastal city known for its rich history, preserved architecture, and long-standing local traditions. Summer highlights this with events, open-air markets, waterfront outings, and more. If you're in town during the warmer months, there are many ways to enjoy the season while experiencing Charleston's unique setting. Summer here brings humid afternoons, long daylight hours, and steady access to inland and coastal landscapes.

This list covers some of Charleston's most popular and well-loved summer activities, many of which are ideal for locals and visitors. Beaches, harbor tours, concerts, and markets play a significant role during this time of year. If you want to explore, relax, or see something new, these ideas offer simple ways to make the most of the season.

Sullivan’s Island offers an expansive shoreline, gentle waves, and close access to shops and casual restaurants. It’s one of the go-to beaches in the Charleston area and tends to be quieter than others. There’s plenty of space for beach chairs, swimming, and walking. You can also find shaded areas nearby when you need a break from the heat.

Many people visit Sullivan’s Island for its laid-back atmosphere and clean water. Parking is limited near the beach access points, which helps keep the crowds manageable. If you're looking for an easy summer outing by the water, this beach is one of the most consistent choices in the area.

Charleston Harbor tours run frequently during summer, giving you a scenic way to see landmarks like Fort Sumter, the USS Yorktown, and the Ravenel Bridge. You can choose between narrated history tours, sunset cruises, or daytime sailing charters, depending on your pace and preference.

These tours usually last one to two hours and depart from downtown or Mount Pleasant. The breeze on the water provides a comfortable escape from the city heat. Some tours offer drinks and light snacks, while others focus strictly on sightseeing. It's an easygoing way to explore the city’s coastal geography.

The Charleston City Market is one of the oldest public markets in the country and remains a central part of the local shopping scene. During summer, the open-air design makes it an inviting place to browse. You’ll find handcrafted goods, art, textiles, and locally produced snacks.

The market covers several blocks and is open daily. It’s located in the heart of the historic district and easily combined with a walk through King Street or a visit to a nearby café. Many of the vendors are longtime local artisans who share information about their work, giving you more context for each purchase.

The Charleston RiverDogs, a minor league team, play at Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park during the summer. The stadium offers a relaxed, scenic environment with views of the Ashley River and a friendly, local crowd. Weeknight games usually have theme nights, while weekend games often feature fireworks.

It’s a casual setting that combines sports with summer traditions like ballpark food and open-air seating. Tickets are generally easy to get, and the stadium’s layout makes it accessible. If you want to spend a few hours doing something social and local during baseball season, this is an easy option.

Magnolia Plantation is one of the most well-preserved historic sites in the region. It has expansive gardens, walking paths, and wildlife areas. During summer, the grounds are fully green, and the wide paths make it ideal for a day outside. Visitors can walk through formal gardens, boardwalks over marshland, and shaded oak trails.

Tickets include garden access, and you can add a guided house tour or nature tram ride if you're interested in more detail. It’s a short drive from downtown and lets you see Charleston’s rural side. This outing pairs historic interest with the outdoors, making it a good option for a summer day trip.

The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge connects downtown Charleston with Mount Pleasant and has a dedicated pedestrian and bike lane. This path gives open views of the harbor, the city skyline, and the marshes. Summer evenings are popular for walking or running the bridge, especially as the sun sets.

Access is available on both sides, with designated parking near each entry. The path is wide and well-marked, and the elevation provides a noticeable breeze. Whether you walk part of it or the entire span, the bridge gives a good way to stretch your legs while getting unmatched views of the area.

Waterfront Park in downtown Charleston features shaded pathways, benches, fountains, and harbor views. The pineapple fountain is well-known, and the nearby swing benches overlook the water. During summer, the wide open areas give you space to relax or read in a quiet, scenic setting.

Many locals stop by in the morning or early evening when temperatures are lower. The park is close to restaurants and shops in the historic district, making it easy to add to any day downtown. It’s a peaceful location that stays popular without being too busy.

Shem Creek is a narrow waterway in Mount Pleasant known for its calm surface and consistent wildlife sightings. Kayaking or paddleboarding here during summer allows you to move through a scenic part of the Lowcountry at your own pace. Dolphins are frequently spotted, along with coastal birds and other marine life.

Rentals are available directly on the creek, or you can book a guided tour. The water is easy to navigate for beginners, and the channel is protected from wind. After your paddle, it’s easy to grab a meal at one of the restaurants lining the creek boardwalk.

Middleton Place is a National Historic Landmark and home to some of the oldest landscaped gardens in the country. The estate is open to visitors daily, and summer highlights the full range of flowers, trees, and open lawns. You can take self-guided walks or join guided history tours throughout the day.

In addition to the gardens, the property includes walking trails along the Ashley River and working stable yards with heritage breeds. It's a good fit for those interested in Charleston’s plantation history and early American architecture. The grounds are large and spread out, which allows for a quiet and low-key summer visit.

If you're looking to buy or sell in Charleston, working with Katherine Cox gives you the advantage of true local expertise. Born and raised in the area, Katherine understands the nuances of every neighborhood and has spent over 30 years watching the city grow and evolve. Her deep roots in the Lowcountry allow her to offer clear, informed guidance through every step of the process. Katherine is committed to making each transaction as seamless as possible and takes pride in educating her clients on what to expect. Whether you're exploring your options or ready to make a move, Katherine brings knowledge, dedication, and a passion for Charleston real estate.

Contact Katherine here.