5 Best Places to Visit in Charleston, SC Outside of the Historic District

For those of us with time to explore, below are 5 places to visit in Charleston, if you want to see outside of the colorful historic district. Whether you’re looking for a picnic night with music by the water, a beach day, or a charming small town to stroll through, I’ve got you covered!

If you’ve been to Charleston, you know it’s charming AF. If you haven’t been, go. It’s a cute coastal town with loads to offer, so much so that you might just need an easy weekend.

If you visit any of these areas, tag @accentgolden and let me know your favorites!

1. Sullivan’s Island

If you’re looking for a beach town with beautiful homes, boutiques, restaurants, and more, Sullivan’s Island is that girl (and a spot most locals would vote among the best places to visit in Charleston). It’s the perfect spot to take a casual stroll, grab a bite, and ooohh and ahhhh over the gorgeous houses that we wish we could afford.

You’ll also find Sullivan’s Island beach…. But it’s a standard East Coast beach if we’re being perfectly honest.

2. Isle of Palms Beach

While Sullivan’s Island definitely wins on beach town vibes, Isle of Palms beach is where you want to soak up the sun. The sand of the beach is oh-so fluffy, and the water seems much more blue than its neighbor’s.

Personally, I would stay on the Isle of Palms for the easy beach access, and take the quick 10-minute drive over to Sullivan’s Island for a walkaround.

3. Shem Creek

There is Shem Creek Park, where you can walk along a quiet boardwalk and look out over the marshy, classic South Carolina landscape. This will lead you to a few paths, one of which takes you by a dock featuring many boats, plus a few bars, restaurants, and a spot to rent kayaks.

There is an overpass that connects to the other side of Shem Creek, featuring more bars and restaurants. If you’re looking for one of the best places to visit in Charleston, where you can sit, have a drink, and watch rich and/or fit people in the water. Shem Creek is a great stop for you. 

Sadly, I didn’t see a single dolphin, though I’ve seen many videos where they appear in the water nearby.

4. Daniel Island

I only recently learned that Daniel Island is cute as hell. Big swings looking out over the water. Walking trails. It’s a vibe.

Bonus, they have live music on certain nights, so enjoy a picnic with friends and family while listening to some free jams. I love a fun, easy evening outside!

5. Summerville

This strollable small town, about a 25-30 minute drive outside of historic Charleston, is a great spot to spend an easy morning or afternoon. It has an old theatre, a cute main street bookshop, and lots of little shops to peruse.

For a break from the sunshine, pop into the Public Works Art Center for a look and some a/c. There are also a number of antique shops, which I can’t resist, like the Summerville Antique Gallery.