Find the best boat rentals in Charleston, SC

Go Fishing

With the Atlantic’s deep water just outside the harbor, the many rivers feeding into Charleston Harbor, and a wide variety of reefs, flats, and salt marshes, there is no shortage of fishing opportunities in this historic city. Near the coast, buoys, shipwrecks, and reefs hold fish like grouper, cobia, and redfish, while offshore trips can yield tasty mahi-mahi or spectacular sailfish. When the weather doesn’t align with your plans, stay in the rivers and harbor and catch redfish, speckled trout, and black drum. 

Something is biting year-round so check with the local pros and fish reports for the best time to chase your favorite species. Although July through September are considered the best months to fish, there is no “off-season” in Charleston.

Inshore

• Target species: Cobia, Redfish, Snapper, Kingfish, Amberjack, Grouper, and King Mackerel

• Seasonality: May through September are usually the best months

• Boat selection: Flats skiffs, center consoles, aluminum fishing boats, pontoon boats

Near Shore

• Target species: Cobia, Redfish, Snapper, Kingfish, Amberjack, Grouper, and King Mackerel

• Seasonality: May through September are usually the best months

• Boat selection: Center consoles, runabouts, cruisers, pontoon boats

Offshore

• Target species: mahi-mahi, cobia, sailfish, sheepshead, king mackerel, amberjack, wahoo, tuna, grouper, and snapper

• Seasonality: May through September are usually the best months

• Boat selection: Sportfish, convertibles, big center consoles, cruisers

Visit Morris Island

Accessible only by boat, historic Morris Island sits just south of the entrance to Charleston Harbor. The 840-acre island was home to several strategic events during the American Civil War, along with nearby Fort Sumter.

Today, Morris Island features beautiful natural beaches with lots of shells, wildlife, and little else. There are no developments, facilities, or shops on the island, making it a remote getaway with few people around. 

At the southeastern end of the island, 1600 feet from the shoreline, the beautiful and historic Morris Island lighthouse has been watching over the waters around Charleston since 1876. However, the light is off-limits to the public. The water eroding the lighthouse’s perch has made it impossible to get close on foot and dangerous to try. There are plenty of great viewing and photo spots on the main body of Morris Island. 

With no conveniences, it’s important to remember to bring plenty of water, food, and sunscreen and stay hydrated in the summer sun. 

• Location: Google Maps Link

• Closest boat ramp: Benke-Lowe Private Boat Landing, Folly River Boat Ramp

• Lat/Long: 32.71791° N, -79.88429° W  

Cruise Shem Creek and the Mount Pleasant Waterfront

Located on the northwestern edge of Charleston Harbor inland, Shem Creek winds three miles from the Charleston Harbor and along the Mount Pleasant waterfront until civilization falls away and leaves nothing but wetlands and wildlife. 

The creek winds behind beautiful private homes, the local shrimp fleet, and provides access to dine and dock at several restaurants. Stop for dinner or cruise further up the creek in smaller vessels. 

Pull up to the dock at Shem Creek Park, walk the boardwalk, and be treated to beautiful views of Charleston Harbor and the natural wetlands. The town of Mount Pleasant is a short walk from the water, putting shops, eateries, and other attractions within easy reach of the docks.

• Location: Google Maps Link

• Closest boat ramp: Shem Creek Boat Landing, Remleys Point 

• Lat/Long: 32.81973° N, -79.90558° W