One of the staples of an idyllic visit to Charleston, South Carolina, Shem Creek is located mere miles from the historic downtown. Simply scoot over the beautiful Arthur Ravenel, Jr. Bridge while taking in the view of the Cooper River, and you’ll presently find yourself face to face with Shem Creek’s myriad treasures, all sheltered within a serene bay.

Shem Creek deserves every bit of the praise it receives. People value it as the place where breathtaking views of the water and marsh, fresh seafood (often caught that very day), and vibrant nightlife come together. Picturesque sunsets over the Charleston harbor don’t hurt, either. Shem boasts not one, but two marinas and a public boat launch complete with dock. The tidal nature of the creek means that the scenery changes with the incoming and outgoing tides, yet it always offers easy access for boaters, kayakers, and paddle boarders alike. Adjoining Mt. Pleasant Seafood on Shrimp Boat Lane, Nature Adventures has the perfect location complete with private boat ramp to make the most of everything Shem has to offer.

Speaking of location, just across the parking lot lies Shem Creek Park, overseen by the town of Mt Pleasant. Opening at 5:00 am, it’s a great spot for pre-dawn fishing and crabbing or a sunrise morning walk overlooking the shrimp boats. Stroll hand-in-hand while the kids run along the boardwalks, and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins putting on a show while waiting for a snack to fall off of the fishing boats. Wander over this way to catch the magnificent setting sun and you’ll be rewarded with the iconic Ravenel bridge silhouetted against a radiant sky of blazing oranges, pinks, and deep purples. The bridge isn’t just for runners and cyclers, either: the romantic downtown views also provide the backdrop for a perfect proposal. 

Whether she said yes twenty minutes or twenty years ago, come on back to the creek to enjoy waterfront dining and drinks while watching dolphin pods, seabird flocks, and sometimes even a manatee. Great restaurants on Shem Creek include Water’s Edge and Red’s Ice House, which offer the best atmosphere and largest waterfronts for the best views of the creek. They have options for indoor, outdoor, and partially covered tables to suit any sized crowd with varying needs. Drop by Up the Creek Boutique to get your very own Shemwear and goods before cooling down with an ice cream cone on the boardwalk.

What are your favorite things about visiting Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant?

 

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