Best Outdoor Activities in Charleston

Beaches: Charleston's palm-studded coastline and the beaches of its barrier islands rival those of the Caribbean—and are often cleaner, safer, and less congested. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are good for beachcombing, and summer is the time for swimming and water sports.

Biking: Charleston's historic downtown is particularly bike-friendly, and setting off on two wheels is a wonderful way to avoid traffic and parking hassles. You can ride through the various in-town parks, like Marion Square, Waterfront Park, and Hampton Park, or take the bike path on the colossal Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. On the island resorts, a bike is the ideal way to get around, especially for families with older kids.

Boating: Charleston's waters offer something for both the blue-water sailor and those who just want to take a waterborne tour. Fishing is a popular pastime, and a charter is an excellent way to spend the day in search of a trophy-size catch.

Golf: The weather is ideal for golf in the spring and fall, or even during the region's relatively mild winter. Summer's strong rays make morning and late afternoon the most popular tee times. Though some inland courses are not quite up to par with the courses of Hilton Head, golf on the nearby island resorts, especially at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, is exceptional.

Kayaking: This relatively inexpensive activity is one of the best ways to explore the Lowcountry's many waterways. Try paddling to keep up with the schools of dolphins you'll encounter while gliding silently along the intracoastal waterway. You can rent kayaks at Middleton Place, offering you the opportunity to push your paddle through former rice fields with views of the famous Butterfly Gardens. In Mount Pleasant, you can kayak in Shem Creek, the center of its shrimping industry, and if you are fit, you can paddle all the way to Sullivan's Island.