Best Cruise Destinations in Charleston, South Carolina, United States
1. Fort Sumter National Monument
A sea fortress at the mouth of Charleston Harbor. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the American Civil War.
- Historical Significance: Offers insights about the American Civil War and its impact on Charleston
- Boat Tour Availability: Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the fort
- Scenic Views: Provides beautiful views of Charleston Harbor and city skyline
2. Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
Home to the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier. It showcases a collection of historic ships and artifacts.
- Military History: Provides an immersive experience of American military history
- Ship Tours: Visitors can explore multiple historic ships including the USS Yorktown
- Memorials and Monuments: Includes the National Medal of Honor Museum and the Flight Deck Restaurant
3. Charleston Harbor Cruise
Enjoy a scenic cruise through Charleston's historic harbor, taking in sights like Fort Sumter and the Battery.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of Charleston's stunning waterfront
- Sightseeing Opportunities: Provides opportunities to view historic landmarks from the water
- Relaxation: Ideal for relaxation and taking in Charleston's unique atmosphere
4. Angel Oak Tree
A massive live oak tree located on Johns Island. It's over 600 years old and has a sprawling canopy.
- Natural Beauty: Offers a unique, serene experience among nature
- Historical Significance: Serves as an important cultural landmark for the Gullah community
- Photography Opportunities: Provides excellent opportunities for scenic photography
5. Charleston City Marina
A full-service marina offering slips, fuel, and amenities. It's a convenient base for cruising the area.
- Convenience: Offers easy access to downtown Charleston
- Amenities: Provides shower facilities, Wi-Fi, and a shuttle service
- Boat Services: Offers fuel, maintenance, and boat storage services
6. Shem Creek Park & Boardwalk
A picturesque park with a boardwalk offering views of fishing boats and dolphins. It's also home to several restaurants.
- Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of the creek, boats, and wildlife
- Local Cuisine: Features a variety of seafood restaurants along the boardwalk
- Recreational Activities: Offers fishing, crabbing, and kayaking opportunities
7. Morris Island Lighthouse
A historic lighthouse located on Morris Island. It's a symbol of Charleston's maritime heritage.
- Historical Significance: Represents the importance of maritime navigation in Charleston's history
- Photography Opportunities: Provides excellent opportunities for scenic photography
- Nature and Wildlife: Offers a chance to observe local bird and wildlife populations
8. Charleston Museum
The oldest museum in the Southern United States. It showcases artifacts from Charleston's history.
- Historical Artifacts: Offers a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits
- Cultural Insights: Provides insights into Charleston's diverse cultural history
- Research Opportunities: Serves as a valuable resource for researchers and scholars
9. Sullivan's Island
A charming coastal community known for its beautiful beaches and historic Fort Moultrie.
- Beautiful Beaches: Offers pristine, sandy beaches for relaxation
- Historical Sites: Home to Fort Moultrie, a significant military fortification
- Food and Drink: Features excellent restaurants and bars offering fresh seafood
10. Charleston Tea Plantation
The only working tea plantation in the United States. It offers tours and a tea shop.
- Cultural Experience: Provides a unique look into the American tea industry
- Tours: Offers educational tours and tastings
- Gift Shop: Features a shop selling various tea products
11. Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens
A historic plantation featuring beautiful gardens and an avenue of oak trees.
- Historical Significance: Provides a glimpse into the history of Southern plantations
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning views of the gardens and oak-lined avenue
- Educational Opportunities: Provides insights into the lives of enslaved people and their contributions
12. Coastal Expeditions Dolphin Cruise
A dolphin-watching cruise offering close encounters with these friendly marine mammals.
- Wildlife Encounters: Provides opportunities to observe wild bottlenose dolphins
- Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning views of the coastal landscape and wildlife
- Photography Opportunities: Permits excellent opportunities for capturing photos of dolphins
13. Kiawah Island
A luxury resort island offering beautiful beaches, golf courses, and nature reserves.
- Luxury Accommodations: Offers high-end resorts for a comfortable stay
- Golf Courses: Features multiple championship golf courses
- Nature and Wildlife: Offers opportunities to observe diverse wildlife in nature reserves
14. Folly Beach
A laid-back coastal community known for its beautiful beaches and surfing.
- Beautiful Beaches: Offers pristine, sandy beaches for relaxation
- Surfing Opportunities: Provides excellent surfing conditions and lessons
- Local Cuisine: Features a variety of casual seafood restaurants
15. Charleston Aquarium
A small but engaging aquarium featuring local marine life and interactive exhibits.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers insights into the diverse marine ecosystems of Charleston
- Interactive Exhibits: Features hands-on exhibits for visitors of all ages
- Conservation Efforts: Supports local marine conservation efforts