Charleston is a true coastal destination, shaped by rivers, tidal creeks, marshes, and the Atlantic Ocean. With so much water to stay cool, it’s an ideal spot to escape the summer heat in South Carolina. Plan your trip with Charleston Coast Vacations and stay in the beach towns of Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, or Sullivan’s Island for the perfect summer retreat. From relaxing days on the sand to exciting adventures on the water, there are endless fun things to do in the Charleston area over the summer. Here are some of our favorites:
Hang Out at the Beach
Summer in Charleston is hot and humid, making it the perfect time to hit the beach. Stay at one of our beachfront rentals in the cities for easy access to the pristine shoreline and spend your days swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, beachcombing, or simply relaxing with your toes in the sand.
Many of our homes also include credit for beach gear with VayKLife, so you can reserve equipment like bikes, chairs & umbrellas, kayaks, paddle boards, corn hole, beach carts, skim boards, and boogie boards, and have it delivered to your vacation rental!
Splash Around in the Water
Charleston is a paradise for water lovers! Reserve equipment with a local outfitter and enjoy fun watersports like kayaking, surfing, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and boating. Check out a range of water activities available at Folly Beach, explore rentals and adventures at Isle of Palms Marina, and the Charleston waterways with Charleston Watersports.
For a more relaxed experience, join a guided tour instead. Choose from dolphin-watching cruises, sunset sails, eco-tours through the marsh, or fishing charters for a memorable day on the water.
Explore Downtown Charleston
No summer visit is complete without exploring Charleston’s charm and history. Since afternoons can get hot, we recommend heading over in the early morning or evening for cooler temperatures. Stroll down the cobblestone streets, admire the architecture, and check out popular attractions like Waterfront Park.
When temperatures heat up, there are plenty of places with air conditioning where you can stop and take a break. We recommend the Charleston City Market, South Carolina Aquarium, or the Charleston Museum.
Attend Summer Events/ Festivals
Summer brings many exciting events and festivals to the Charleston Area. Whether you are interested in live music, family fun, art, or culture, there is an event for everyone’s interests.
Enjoy live music at the monthly Moonlight Mixer at Folly Beach Pier, or catch outdoor concerts like the Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series in Charleston. Sports fans can spend an evening cheering on the Charleston RiverDogs, while culture lovers can experience world-class performances during the Spoleto Festival USA.
Book Your Summer Getaway in Charleston Beach Towns
Whether you’re spending your days on the beach, exploring the water, strolling historic streets, or enjoying local festivals, summer in Charleston offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Book your stay with Charleston Coast Vacations and experience all the fun things to do in the Charleston area!