JULY 12, 2022 – Charleston is a charming city with deep southern roots, a rich history, and more nicknames than probably any other US city. If you’re lucky enough to be based here, you’ll find plenty to see and do when you’re on leave.
But if you’re new here, you may need some inspiration for your family vacation time. So keep reading, for our 5 best Charleston SC family vacation ideas.
Have Some Fun On The Water
When you’re in the navy, you can lose sight of the fact that there’s fun to be had on the water too. With boat rentals in Charleston you can rediscover this while relaxing with the family. Cruise along the St. Mary River. Head to Folly’s Beach for some surfing fun in the sun.
Or how about a fishing trip? This is always a good way to spend time together as a family and enjoy the fresh air. South Carolina boasts dozens of varieties of saltwater fish. Brittlebank Park, between Lockwood Boulevard and the Ashley River, is the ideal place to go for a day of fishing, crabbing, or shrimping.
Looking for something a bit more energetic? Well, how about some watersports like wakeboarding or waterskiing? The Trophy Lakes facilities on John’s Island offer private waterski and wakeboard lessons as well as other family-centered activities.
The Outdoors Is More Than Just Camouflage
Spend enough time in combat and you won’t see the forest for the trees. So it’s good to get back in touch with nature once in a while. And here’s a great idea for doing that with the whole family.
The Angel Oak Park on John’s Island is a must-see on your family vacation. This is a historic site, centered around a magnificent oak tree. the enormous Southern Live Oak tree. There’s no admission charge, and you can even enjoy a family picnic in the shade.
But what’s so special about this particular tree? It may be the oldest tree east of the Mississippi River. at least 400 years old. So if you think you’re really tough, think about this for a moment. This tree has survived centuries of floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters in its time. And it’s still standing tall and proud.
Explore What’s Under The Sea
You may know your way under the water, but there’s more to diving than salvage operations, or search and rescue. Scuba diving or snorkeling are great activities for the whole family. So dive into your family vacation time and explore the world under the water with new eyes.
The waters around John’s Island, Seabrook Island, and Kiawah Island are perfect for some family-friendly snorkeling. But if you have young kids, you don’t have to dive to see the underwater world. There’s a fantastic aquarium in Charleston.
The South Carolina Aquarium is located at the harbor and is home to thousands of sea creatures and plants. And to refuel after viewing all the exhibits, there’s a cafe that serves light snacks, sandwiches, and pizza.
Take A Hike
Hiking can be a lot of fun. (Especially when you’re not carrying a heavy pack.) Of course, the terrain in Charleston is extremely flat. But just because you cant head into any hills here, that doesn’t mean you can’t go hiking.
About 20 miles north, you’ll find Bulls Island in the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge. You’ll have 3 trails to choose from here: Bull Island Wildlife Trail, Sheephead Ridge Trail, and the Old Fort Loop.
There are several scenic hiking trails around Charleston, including easy kid-friendly routes. Experience the Lowcountry with a renewed sense of wonder. But if you prefer to walk above the water, there’s an opportunity for you to enjoy that with the family at Charleston Aqua Park, the first ropes course of it’s kind.
The Sky’s The Limit
Looking for another activity for your family vacation? Well, with some much on offer in Chuck Town, the sky’s the limit. But you don’t always have to be in the cockpit to enjoy flying.
Take the family on a helicopter flight over Charleston. One where you get to just relax and enjoy the view below for a change. There are helicopter tours over the harbor that the whole family will love.
But quite a few helicopter tours of Charleston are available, so do some digging and find the right one for you.