Charleston’s Untamed Beauty: Highlights of the Lowcountry

By R.C. Staab

Charleston is more than cobblestone streets and historic charm; it’s a gateway to the Low Country, a vibrant ecosystem teeming with wildlife. From playful dolphins dancing in its expansive harbor to raptors, ibises and herons soaring overhead, the Low Country promises an adventure for nature enthusiasts.

The writer was hosted by Explore Charleston

What’s Special about the Low Country

• Three rivers (Ashley, Cooper and Wando rivers) flow into a robust harbor.
• A half dozen major islands, both inland and oceanside.
• Abundant marshes and swamps where wildlife flourishes.

Here’s a guide to blending historical exploration with immersive wildlife encounters during the day before heading out to dinner for shrimp and grits at a restaurant on historic King Street in downtown Charleston.

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Hike the Serene Bulls Island National Wildlife Refuge

• Embark on a scenic 30-minute eco-tour ferry ride to this pristine paradise of Bulls Island, part of the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge. With only two ferry departures and two ferry return trips, there are never more than 100 people on the island at any one time. Reserve ahead.
• Explore 16 miles of lush trails among marshy land and ponds and wander along seven miles of unspoiled, sun-kissed beaches.
• Marvel at the diverse wildlife, including prehistoric-looking alligators, ancient horseshoe crabs and a dazzling array of 293 bird species including egrets, heron and bald eagles.
• The boat ride alone to the island through the marshes is worth the trip.
• Wander the hauntingly beautiful Boneyard Beach, where sun-bleached trees create a surreal coastal landscape.
• Nick Johnson from Coastal Expeditions which operates the Bulls Island ferry says, “If you’re looking for solitude in Charleston, this is the spot.” He recommends the north end of the island for wildlife and hiking.

SheBuysTravel Tip: While there are basic restrooms on the island, there are no food stands, no stores, no shelters and no transportation on the island unless you ride your bike onto the ferry. Bring food and all the gear you’ll need. Plan carefully for either a three-hour or six-hour stay.

Paddle Through a Swamp at Cypress Gardens

• Glide through a mesmerizing 80-acre blackwater swamp on self-guided or expert-led boat tours at Cypress Gardens. Encounter graceful turtles, sunbathing alligators and the otherworldly beauty of cypress “knees.”
• Walk three and half miles of trails along the edge of the swamp. Keep an eye out for alligators on the paths.
• Immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of colors at the enchanting Butterfly House, discover aquatic wonders in the indoor Swamparium and see Boss, the 13-foot alligator in an outdoor pen, but don’t get too close.
• Guide Avery Tray says the most unusual thing they’ve seen on the water is “a gator carrying a turtle in his mouth.” 

SheBuysTravel Tip: Be sure to arrive an hour or more before closing to ensure you can take a boat ride through the swamp.

Watch the Sunset Sailing on Schooner Pride Cruises

• Set sail on a romantic 2-hour sunset cruise, marveling at Charleston’s expansive harbor as you pass by the USS Yorktown, Castle Pickney and Ft. Sumter.
• Experience the majesty of seafaring aboard an impressive 84-foot, three-masted wooden schooner, the Schooner Pride.
• Enjoy the tranquil ambiance of non-narrated tours with a knowledgeable crew at your disposal. Drinks are for sale.
• Daytime dolphin sighting trips and full moon sails are also available.
• Captain Andrew says, “The thing that everybody loves is when we put the sails up and the boat falls off under sail.”

SheBuysTravel Tip: Be sure to bring windbreakers and hair clips.

Kayak Shem Creek

• Launch from the bustling Shem Creek Waterfront.
• Paddle out into picturesque waterways with Coastal Adventures.
• Spot graceful herons and other captivating wildlife in their natural habitat

 SheBuysTravel Tip: After kayaking, toast your adventure at one of the popular bars or restaurants near the launch site.

See Birds of Prey

• Witness awe-inspiring flight demonstrations featuring owls, hawks, falcons and eagles at the Center for Birds of Prey.
• Learn fascinating facts about these magnificent creatures from passionate experts on guided tours.
• Immerse yourself in the world of raptors in this Aviation Conservation Center with an amazing array of Northern American and exotic birds that have been rescued or are rehabilitated.

 SheBuysTravel Tip: If your schedule permits, definitely be there for the flight demonstration in the morning or the Owls in Flight program in the afternoon.

Explore Boone Hall Plantation’s History and Present-Day Farming

• At Boone Hall Plantation, climb aboard a wagon and let a tractor take you on an enlightening tour of this historic 738-acre plantation that is still farmed today. At the end of the trip, look up the see the bald eagle’s nest along the driveway to the plantation.
• Walk through engaging exhibits in former slave quarters and delve into the rich African-American Gullah culture of the coastal region.
• Savor the sweetness of freshly picked tomatoes, blueberries, pumpkins and strawberries in the bountiful U-Pick fields.
• Guide Pat Lyons describes that one of his favorite experiences is picking and eating collard greens for their annual holiday event.

 SheBuysTravel Tip: The current house dates to 1936 and is still used today. Tours are offered on the first floor only. Stop at the Visitors Center to reserve.

Watch Fish Swim Above and Below the Water

• The South Carolina Aquarium is a 90,000-square-foot, three-story building situated on the waterfront of Charleston Harbor with a 300-foot-long Great Hall and a stunning Great Ocean Tank that extends three stories.
• There are breathtaking views of the harbor and surrounding cityscape.
• Discover an array of fascinating marine life in meticulously recreated habitats.
• Get up close and personal with graceful sea turtles and colorful reef fish.
• Marvel at the beauty of the Great Ocean Tank, teeming with sharks, rays and other majestic creatures.

 SheBuysTravel Tip: The aquarium may close its gates to admissions early. Be sure to get there at least an hour before closing.

Explore the Ruins of Fort Sumter

• Take a ferry to this historic island fort, the site of the first shots of the Civil War. Tickets for Fort Sumter include round-trip ferry transportation and can be purchased online or at the Fort Sumter Visitor Education Center in downtown Charleston or Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant. Tickets start at $40.
• The entire experience, including travel and exploration, typically lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours.
• At the Fort, the National Park Service ranger will greet you and explain the fort’s pivotal role in American history. There will be time to explore on your own.
• Enjoy breathtaking views of Charleston Harbor from this iconic landmark

SheBuysTravel Tip: Including travel and exploration, plan on spending two to three hours on the trip.

Zip Through the Forest at Charleston Adventure Forest

• Soar through the treetops on exhilarating zipline adventures at Charleston Adventure Forest.
• Test your limits with challenging rock-climbing experiences.
• Encounter fascinating animals, and try your hand at the ancient art of blacksmithing.

 SheBuysTravel Tip: The park is mostly geared to first-timers on a zipline and children.

Salute at Patriots Point and Naval Museum

• The Patriots Point and Naval Museum features the USS Yorktown, a World War II-era aircraft carrier and the USS Laffey, a destroyer. Visitors can explore these vessels and learn about their roles in history.
• The museum includes the Medal of Honor Museum, a Vietnam War Experience with a replica naval base and a collection of military aircraft. It offers guided and self-guided tours, providing a comprehensive look at maritime and military life.

Paddle Out to the Marshes at Folly Creek

• Folly Creek is renowned for its rich wildlife, including Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, ospreys, wading birds and sea turtles. Kayak or paddle board out into the marshes.
• At the launch area, Charleston Outdoor Adventures offers knowledgeable and passionate guides who lead tours and provide educational insights into the local ecosystem

  

Stroll Battery Park

• Stroll along the historic seawall of Battery Park and the charming six-acre White Point Gardens at the tip of the Charleston peninsula.
• Admire stately monuments and the picturesque historic bandstand
• Stroll along oyster shell paths and enjoy breathtaking views of Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter 

SheBuysTravel Tip: Other than being out on the water, this is one of the best places to enjoy the sunset in the Low Country.

Grab a Selfie at Pineapple Fountain

• Capture Instagram-worthy selfies at the famous fountain that is an iconic symbol of Charleston’s renowned hospitality.
• Relax in the refreshing mist of the fountain on warm Charleston days.
• Explore the surrounding eight-acre linear park with its beautiful gardens and inviting wooden swings along with the impressive mansions that line the park.

Getting There

For those arriving by car, 1-26 is the main route to the city from the west or north. If you are traveling from Georgia, take I-95 to U.S. Route 17 and then into the city. For a relatively small city, Charleston has some of the most convenient air transportation from more than 50 airports across 29 states and Canada.

Where to Stay

For those seeking to explore nature, your best bet is to stay outside of the historic area. Just across from downtown Charleston is Mt. Pleasant, a revitalized neighborhood now geared for tourists with Patriots Point and Naval Museum, waterfront parks and the Patriots Point Athletics Complex, home to the College of Charleston Cougars sport programs and the Charleston Battery professional soccer team.

• Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston Harbor Mount Pleasant – One of the best Embassy Suites you’ll find anywhere right on the waterfront. Features atrium pool, hot tub and complimentary made-to-order breakfast.
• Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina — Features Charleston’s only waterfront Tiki Bar, a private beach and a 30,000-square-foot tropical pool deck with harbor views.

Nearby hotels on islands with lots of nearby natural attractions:

• Andell Inn, Kiawah — A upscale, stylish boutique hotel with a wrap-around porch, outdoor saltwater pool, complimentary breakfast with mimosa and proximity to Kiawah Island’s beaches and golf. Features villa-style guest rooms with one to two bedroom floor plans including kitchens and spacious living areas.
• Kiawah Island Golf Resort — Renowned for its five championship golf courses, 10 miles of pristine beach, luxurious accommodations and extensive recreation programs.
• The Dunlin, Johns Island — The newest property in the Auberge Resorts Collection, the resort includes  72 cottage-style guest rooms and suites, 19 villas, a main lodge, pool, spa, farmstead dining and nature excursions.
• Wild Dunes Resort, Isle of Palms —  Oceanfront paradise offering world-class golf, top ranked tennis and recreation programs, restaurants and miles of pristine beach.
• Tides Folly Beach —  Offers oceanfront dining in Charleston, every room with ocean views and an oceanfront pool overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in funky Folly Beach.

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