Attractions Nearby Charleston, Day Trips and Excursions

(Charleston, South Carolina - SC, USA)

Just a short drive from Charleston you will find many attractions and an endless coastline waiting to be explored. Popular attractions within easy reach of Charleston include secluded beaches, untouched barrier islands and numerous old plantations.

Charleston's surrounding areas make for a great day's outing, whether you are keen to experience some rustic colonial attractions or be transported back to when this stretch of coastline played an important role in the defense of a fledging nation.

Beachwalker Park

Address: Beachwalker Drive, Kiawah Island, South Carolina SC, 29455, USA
Tel: +1 843 768 2395
Beachwalker Park is a picturesque spot featuring a quiet beach and a number of facilities and food outlets, along with a scenic boardwalk making it easy to explore this beautiful area. A great way to escape Charleston's bustling city center, it is easy to spend the whole day here, just lazing on the beach and living the good life.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 19:00
Admission: free

Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens

Address: 1235 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina SC, USA
Tel: +1 843 884 4371
This is a particularly tranquil location, featuring the famous Avenue of Oaks, planted back in 1743; a beautifully furnished replica plantation house; and a number of original outbuildings in remarkably good condition. Boone Hall plays host to numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year, while the gardens are exquisite, especially when in full bloom, which is a sight to behold.
Open hours: Monday to Saturday - 08:30 to 18:00, Sunday - 13:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge, discounts available for seniors and children, children under six free

Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge

Address: 5821 US 17N, Awendaw, South Carolina SC, USA
Tel: +1 843 928 3368
This barely touched group of barrier islands and salt marshes stands out as some of the best examples in the country, with the refuge established back in 1932. The visitor center at the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge offers a variety of attractions and displays. These provide details about the various wildlife that call the islands home, including 337 species of birds, as well as displays teaching people about the delicate ecosystem found here.
Open hours: Tuesday to Sunday - 09:00 to 17:00
Admission: free

Drayton Hall

Address: Old Ashley River Road, Charleston, South Carolina SC, USA
Tel: +1 843 766 0188
Situated a few miles northwest of central Charleston is Drayton Hall, the oldest preserved plantation house in the country. Drayton Hall is open to the public and listed on the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Established in 1738, the house is a fine example of Georgian architecture, featuring fine hand-carved woodwork and enveloped by beautiful old oak trees.
Open hours: daily - 10:00 to 16:00, seasonal variations apply
Admission: charge, discounts available for children

Heron Park Nature Center

Address: Sea Forest Drive, Kiawah Island, South Carolina SC, 29455, USA
Tel: +1 843 768 6001
Established to maintain the delicate ecological balance of the island, the Heron Park Nature Center features numerous exhibits and attractions, showcasing local wildlife along with regular lectures and children's programs. The center is popular with school trips and offers a good educational day out.
Open hours: daily - 08:30 to 15:00
Admission: charge