Harborwalk Marina, A CRUISERS NET SPONSORS, is only a boardwalk stroll away from Georgetown’s Historic District for history, entertainment, great food, and shopping. Harborwalk Marina is the third marina on your starboard side as you enter the protected waters of Georgetown. Our thanks to Chris Carroll for this “good news” article!
Nonprofit group working with the county and state to remove abandoned boats from waterway
Scott Harper/GAB News•
Georgetown’s waterway looks a lot nicer today thanks to a major cleanup project conducted by The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and Wounded Nature – Working Veterans. They have been working the past couple of weeks removing abandoned and sunken boats. So far, 11 abandoned boats have been removed from river in the vicinity of the Harborwalk boardwalk and Goat Island.
Once out of the water, Georgetown County works crush them and they will be taken to the landfill.
The work is not cheap. Rudy Socha – Chief Executive Officer of Wounded Nature – said it costs about $10,000 to get an abandoned sailboat with a mast out of the water and into a landfill and could be upwards of $20,000 if it’s sunken.
He said the state provides manpower and equipment but does not provide funds. He said removing the boats not only beautifies the area, it also makes the water safer because many of the boats contain contaminants that pollute the water and makes it dangerous for fish and wildlife. Adrian Dolcus, a Wounded Nature volunteer, said the organization has been removing derelict boats from waterways in Charleston County for about seven years. He said they have now expanded to Georgetown and Beaufort.
“We really care about coastal waterways and the environment. We also plant oyster beds in the spring,” he said. “The boating thing is kind of an epidemic. We deal a lot with homeless people and elderly people who had a boat. Sometimes people don’t want to pay for a marina so they will drop an anchor behind the steel mill,” he said.
What’s Happening In Your Parks – Charleston County Parks
Take Your Pick
What’ll it be: get gussied up for a night of dancing? Or chill out at the pool? On August 9, people with disabilities and their families and caregivers can choose between two awesome evenings: the Out of This World Inclusive Prom or Inclusive Swim Night. There’s no wrong choice, just fun vibes all around!
Ease Your Body & Mind
Discover the power of gentle, mindful movement to support your body and soothe your nervous system. Our Gentle Yoga Flow series is designed to introduce older adults to new experiences and improve flexibility, balance, and range of motion—while cultivating a deep sense of calm and overall wellbeing. Perfect for beginners and those with physical limitations, this class welcomes all bodies and all abilities in a supportive, inclusive space. Ready to move with more ease? Join us and experience how small, intentional movements can make a big impact. Register now to reserve your spot!
Mark Your Calendar
Gear up to ace the new school year at our annual Back to School Kickoff! On August 23, join us at the Lincoln Regional Center for a fun, entertaining afternoon complete with a school supplies giveaway, face painting, jump castles, and a DJ spinning awesome tunes.
Seashells By the Seashore
Catch more than waves at the beach this month on a Seashore Exploration walk. Our naturalist will teach you how to look for the intriguing non-human critters who hang out at the beach this summer, like molluscs, corals, and more. Reserve your spot today.
School’s in Session
Get your students out of the classroom and into the parks with our cool school programs! Our park educators offer hands-on learning you can integrate into your curriculum to keep kids active and engaged. Can’t get out to the parks? Our virtual education programs may be just right for you!
UPDATE/SC – CASINO CREEK TO BEAUFORT RIVER – WADMALAW RIVER/ATON/SEC CHS BNM 0165-25 UPDATE-1
1. WADMALAW RIVER DAYBEACON 101 (LLNR 34935) PREVIOUSLY REPORTED DESTROYED HAS BEEN REPLACED WITH A TRUB ON APPROXIMATE POSITION. CANCEL AT//211334Z AUG 25//
BT
This email was sent to curtis.hoff@CruisersNet.net using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: U.S. Coast Guard · U.S. Department of Homeland Security · Washington, DC 20528 · 800-439-1420
*** THIS DIV IS AUTOMATICALLY HIDDEN WHEN DISPLAYED – INFO FOR DEBUGGING PURPOSES *** ***MANUALLY DO: FIX TITLE, EXPIRE DATE, CATEGORIES, ENABLE SOCIAL POST *** 0: llnr: 34935 District: 07 lat/lon: 32.652338,-80.250129 Desc: Wadmalaw River Daybeacon 101
SAFETY/SC – CASINO CREEK TO BEAUFORT RIVER – WADMALAW RIVER/ATON/SEC CHS BNM 0165-25
1.WADMALAW RIVER DAYBEACON 101 (LLNR 34935) REPORTED DESTROYED. ALL MARINERS ARE REQUESTED TO TRANSIT THE AREA WITH CAUTION. CANCEL AT//190404Z AUG 25//
BT
This email was sent to curtis.hoff@CruisersNet.net using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: U.S. Coast Guard · U.S. Department of Homeland Security · Washington, DC 20528 · 800-439-1420
*** THIS DIV IS AUTOMATICALLY HIDDEN WHEN DISPLAYED – INFO FOR DEBUGGING PURPOSES *** ***MANUALLY DO: FIX TITLE, EXPIRE DATE, CATEGORIES, ENABLE SOCIAL POST *** 0: llnr: 34935 District: 07 lat/lon: 32.652338,-80.250129 Desc: Wadmalaw River Daybeacon 101
Harbour Town Yacht Basin, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, is ready for your reservation with newly renovated docks, upgraded electrical service and onSpot WiFi. And, as always, numerous activities at the Sea Pines Resort are offered for your enjoyment. Hilton Head Island is absolutely marvelous any time of year.
August/ September 2025 Dockage Discount
Purchase 2 nights of dockage and get the 3rd night of dockage free
August 1, 2025 – September 30, 2025. Restrictions apply. Limit 4.
For more than 50 years, the red and white striped Harbour Town Lighthouse has welcomed visitors to one of the most unique and beautiful places on earth. Located in the heart of The Sea Pines Resort, and ideally situated on Hilton Head Island’s captivating Calibogue Sound, the Harbour Town Yacht Basin is recognized as a premier yachting destination on the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. The full-service marina welcomes boaters year-round and offers slip rentals and sales, fuel, professional yacht sales and brokerage dealer, as well as a friendly, experienced staff.
Developer Charles Fraser, considered the pioneer of Hilton Head Island, led the team that constructed the Harbour Town Yacht Basin in 1969. Inspired by a harbour in Portofino, Italy, Fraser’s vision for the basin was to attract mariners to Hilton Head Island, while preserving the island’s natural landscape. His unique vision resulted in a design that preserved centuries-old hardwoods, in lieu of additional slips, and included the construction of the island’s iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse.
Today, the Harbour Town Yacht Basin offers 100 slips in a world-class resort setting. Visitors have the option to dock for a day, a week, a month, or even a lifetime, and enjoy the marina’s facilities and services, as well as convenient access to The Sea Pines Resort’s amenities and accommodations.
Unwind from the work week with some classic summer fun: dancing under the stars on the Folly Beach Pier! Show off your dance moves at July 25’s Moonlight Mixer, featuring live tunes by the Dave Landeo Band.
SK8 Break
Send those kids back to class early – and they won’t be mad about it! That’s because our Beginner Skateboarding classes at SK8 Charleston are straight-up FUN for high-energy youngsters who may or may not be getting on their grown-ups’ last nerves right about now.
That’s Pawsome
Too hot to wait for Dog Day Afternoon? Cool off with your BFF (Best Fur Friend) at Splash Paw! This dog-friendly water play area in Wannamaker County Park is the perfect chill-out spot during the dog days of summer.
Reggae Nights Finale
Say it ain’t so! The final Reggae Nights concert of the 2025 summer season is just around the corner, and you don’t want to miss it. Tell all your friends to save the date and get your tickets today!
Houston, We Have a Prom!
Blast off into the galaxy at our Out of This World Inclusive Prom! Join us on August 9 for a space-tacular evening where people of all abilities, alongside their families and friends, are warmly welcomed to dance the night away. We can’t wait to see you there. It’s going to be intergalactic!
What’s Happening In Your Parks – Charleston County Parks
Hot Summer Nights
Find your chill – plus a frosty beverage – at our next Reggae Nights concert! On July 11, bring your blanket and chairs to James Island County Park for a kick-back-and-relax evening of good vibes and great music.
Save the Date
Get ready for the social event of the season: Dog Day Afternoon! The Charleston County waterparks are going to the dogs for three bark-tastic days this year, so Lowcountry canines (and their humans) can choose from a trio of dates and locations. Tickets are on sale now, but don’t wait: these pool parties sell out fast!
Mystical Moths
Stop swatting and start oohing and ahhing! On July 25, join our insect whisperer at Caw Caw to learn all about the ethereal winged wonders flitting through the summer darkness. Reserve your space today for this nocturnal stroll through the park.
Breathe Deep…
On July 10, salute the setting sun and show off your star pose during Starlight Yoga. The soft sands and warm breezes of Folly Beach will be your studio for the evening as a certified instructor guides you through this all-levels, flowing yoga class. Register online
Birds-eye View
Beat the heat when you hang with the early birds! This month’s bird walks dawn bright and early in the Charleston County parks, home to some of the Lowcountry’s most diverse bird habitats. Take your pick of strolls through Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve, Stono River County Park, Caw Caw Interpretive Center…or join our birding experts for all three!
I found this article to be fascinating since I have entered many of these inlets while cruising up and down the East Coast. It is interesting to read about the rich history of many of them.
Cruisers Net publishes Loose Cannon articles with Captain Swanson’s permission in hopes that mariners with salt water in their veins will subscribe. $7 a month or $56 for the year, and you may cancel at any time.
Ocracoke Island villagers salvage lumber from the shattered hull of the schooner Nomis in the summer of 1935. Nomis was carrying 338,000 feet of lumber from Georgetown, South Carolina, to New York City.
Okay, its Fourth of July weekend, so the theme of this Loose Cannon installment is light and playful: Trivia related to various inlets along the Atlantic Coast from Virginia to the Florida border. I was digging for something in my archives, and I found historical summaries written over a decade ago but never published.
Not all inlets are mentioned, and Charleston is omitted altogether because of its historic significance defies pithy summarization. And please do not assume that just because an inlet is included it is recommended for navigation.
Enjoy.
Virginia
Rudee
What is now Rudee Inlet began as a manmade drainage culvert. In 1968, the state created the current inlet, part of a $1 million plan to attract boaters. Now regular dredging is part of a cycle of a system to replenishment sand on the beaches of Virginia Beach. You can often see East Coast Navy SEAL teams launching boats for training exercises here.
Navy SEAL stealth boat goes for a spin at Rudee Inlet, Virginia Beach.
North Carolina
Oregon
In 1873 Congress approved and appropriated funds for the building of 29 lifesaving stations, one of which was the Bodie Island Station, located on the south side of Oregon Inlet. In 1883, the station on the north side of Oregon Inlet (also known as Tommy’s Hummock) was officially named the Bodie Island Station and the “old” Bodie Island Station (south of the inlet) was renamed as the Oregon Inlet Station. These are the antecedents to the current Coast Guard Station on Bodie.
Hatteras
The first Hatteras Inlet was formed south of the current inlet, but closed around 1764. The modern Hatteras Inlet was formed on September 7, 1846 by a violent gale. This was the same storm that opened present-day Oregon Inlet to the north. This became a profitable inlet, because it gave the Inner Banks, a quicker and easier way to travel to and from the Gulf Stream. It was easier to come into this inlet from the north.
Because of the increase of commerce, Hatteras Village Post Office was established in 1858. The initial invasion of the North Carolina coast, on Hatteras Island, during the Civil War called Battle of Hatteras Inlet Batteries came from Hatteras Inlet. The two Confederate forts guarding the inlet quickly fell. The Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum is also located here. Need we say more?
Ocracoke
The residents of this area have stoutly resisted modernization and change and a visit here is very much a trip back to the way it used to be. Ocracoke is part of the area known as the Graveyard of the Atlantic, due to the many shipwrecks over the centuries—more than 600, according to some sources.
Home to whalers and Spanish privateers in the 18th century, Cape Lookout Bight is the location of the distinctively diamond patterned Cape Lookout Lighthouse. The wreck of the schooner Chrissie Wright occurred here on Lookout Shoals, where the entire crew but the cook perished in view of shore, rescuers unable to reach them until the next day due to the large breakers.
Beaufort
Pirate Edward Teach, popularly known as Blackbeard, lost his ship Queen Ann’s Revenge in 1718 after running aground at Beaufort Inlet. There is a fascinating multimedia display at the Beaufort Maritime Museum on his story, and the continuing excavation of his vessel. Blackbeard was later killed by naval forces off Ocracoke, but his head came home through Beaufort inlet, hanging on the bowsprit of the ship which captured him.
Mason
In March 2002, Mason inlet was cut through at a location about 3,500 feet northeast of what was then Mason Inlet. A week after the successful opening of the new inlet, the old Mason Inlet was closed. This engineering work, sponsored by local interests, was in response to the southward migration of Mason Inlet over the years to the point were it was threatening to undermine the Shell Island Resort and community to the south.
Masonboro
In November 1862, Union warships forced blockade running British schooner F.W. Pindar aground at the inlet, and sent a boat crew to destroy the vessel. The boat swamped and the crew was captured after successfully firing the schooner. In the same month, the Union Navy ran the British bark Sophia aground and destroyed her near the inlet as well.
Carolina Beach
Shoaling closed the original inlet in the early 1900s. It was blasted open again with explosives in 1952. In 2007, $1.2 million in federal funds were allocated for dredging Carolina Beach Inlet.
Cape Fear River
Cape Fear’s moniker comes from the fearsome Frying Pan Shoals offshore. This area marks the southern border of the Graveyard of the Atlantic. Bald Head Lighthouse, long known as “Old Baldy,” was North Carolina’s first lighthouse, dating back to 1796. Legendary 19th century singlehander Joshua Slocum came ashore in this region while returning from South America in a small vessel he built and wrote about in his book “Voyage of the Liberdade.”
Lockwood’s Folly
Lockwoods Folly Inlet was the scene of several Civil War confrontations. In an area noted as the Cape Fear Civil War Shipwreck District (shown here from a U.S. Army Corps survey chart), which crosses the inlet itself, are found the wrecks of Lisa Marie, Elizabeth, Iron Age and Bendigo. The name ‘Lockwood’s Folly’ came about when a certain Mr. Lockwood built himself a boat, which happened to have draft too great to transit the inlet. Some things haven’t changed.
Shallotte
The entire coastal area was a hotspot of activity during the Civil War. The Union gunship Penobscot, at 158 feet and 10-foot 6-inch draft, destroyed her first Confederate vessel, the schooner Sereta, which went aground and was abandoned off Shallotte Inlet in June 1862. In November, the Penobscot forced the British ship Pathfinder aground at Shallotte Inlet, then destroyed her. Penobscot was known as the “90-day gunship” for the length of time it took to build her.
A “90-day-gunship,” sister ship to the USS Penobscot.
South Carolina
Little River Inlet
Because of the marshes surrounding Little River, the area received little land traffic until roads were built in the 1920s. Along with the safety afforded by the harbor, it thus became somewhat of a haven for pirates and smugglers. Following the arrival of some ‘northerners’ after the War of 1812, the town was known as “Yankee Town,” certainly not a name fondly accepted by those born there.
Murrells Inlet
Close by Murrells Inlet lies Drunken Jack Island—and Drunken Jack. Legend has it that a pirate was accidentally marooned with nothing but a supply of rum. When the ship finally returned, all they found were empty bottles of rum, and the bones of poor Jack. The island is also another of those reputed to contain Blackbeard’s treasure.
Winyah Bay
The first Europeans to settle the banks of Winyah Bay were actually the Spanish, but after failing as farmers, they built a ship from the towering cypress and oak trees lining the swamps, and sailed off to the Spice Islands of the Caribbean, where there was a ready market for their slaves.
Stono River
Union naval forces controlled the Stono River during the Civil War, but got their comeuppance when a Confedate artillery unit set up on the banks by cover of darkness, bombarded a Union warship and forced her officers to row ashore to surrender.
North Edisto River
The North Edisto River inlet was often used as a back door for Union vessels to attack Charleston, as any vessel proceeding through the Charleston inlet was a sitting duck, unable to return fire with while inbound with Fort Moultrie forward of the alignment of her guns.
St. Helena Sound
St. Helena Island is considered the center of African American Gullah culture and is also the site of several forts which have been extensively excavated. During the Civil War, Fort Walker fell early, leading to the capture of Port Royal. The slaves were freed and measures, including land grants, were undertaken to assist them. Black history is such a powerful force in this area that those supporting the Gullah culture have been able to prevent the building of condos and gated communities on St. Helena Island.
Portrait of a Gullah community after the Civil War.
New River Entrance
Camp Lejeune is located nearby and one will often see Marines on exercises. Kids will be thrilled as they roar by in their inflatable vessels, complete with weaponry, or operating tanks on the east side of the ICW or artillery towed behind trucks. Skippers knowing that this gear constitutes targets for shooting exercises may be a little less sanguine about them.
Port Royal Sound
Most mariners are aware that the Parris Island Marine Corps base is here. What most won’t know is that Cat Island, at the anchorage at Mile 544, was at one time a nudist colony. Hilton Head Island was at one time a prominent outpost of the Gullah community. (The nudist colony closed prior to World War II in case you were wondering!)
Calibogue Sound
This entire area was fought over by the Spanish, French and British for years, and the coast was a favorite hunting ground for pirates, including Blackbeard. The area is noted for its Gullah heritage. Today, most of the coast is a major resort region, with golf on Hilton Head Island. being one of the biggest draws. The red-striped replica lighthouse at Harbortown Yacht Basin is one of the most photographed sights on the Waterway.
Georgia
Savannah River
This entire area was fought over by the Spanish, French and British for years, and the coast was a favorite hunting ground for pirates, including Blackbeard. The area is noted for its Gullah heritage. Colonial Savannah, an early “planned city” (by Gen. James Oglethorpe), is regarded as one of the most beautiful in the United States.
Wassaw Sound
Thunderbolt was supposedly named after a lighting bolt struck there, creating a spring and giving native Americans a reason to settle there.
Ossaba Sound
Archeological evidence indicates Ossabaw Island has been inhabited for 4,000 years. During the last century it was a hunting retreat and then, a privately held scholarly and artistic retreat. When the owners could no longer subsidize the cost, they sold the island to the state of Georgia, thus preserving its natural beauty for the enjoyment of future generations.
St. Catherines Sound
A Spanish fort dating from 1566 was built on St. Catherines Island, which General Sherman awarded to freed slaves after the Civil war along with Ossabaw and Sapelo islands. This state of affairs lasted for two years, after which the island was returned to its former owner, and the new residents relocated to the Georgia mainland. An 1893 hurricane covered the entire island in water. Only one person survived.
Sapelo Sound
Sapelo Island’s ownership makes for a fascinating story. Fleeing revolution at home, a syndicate of French nobles purchased it in 1790, followed by a Danish sea captain, then a planter who was the only one who ever managed to make a profit from the island’s soil. In the 20th century, an excutive of the Hudson Motorcar Company, took possession, but the Crash of ’29 forced him to sell to R.J. Reynolds of tobacco fame. In 1969, Reynold’s widow donated part of it to the state of Georgia for a wildlife refuge. Now the entire island has protected status under government ownership.
An old Coast Guard photo of the Sapelo Island lighthouse.
Doboy Sound
Cruisers using this inlet may well notice mounds of large rocks not native to the area, particularly on Commodore Island. These are ballast stones from tallships which used these waters in past centuries, tossed overboard to lighten them so they could navigate the shallower waters upstream with their cargoes.
St. Simons Sound
Originally built in 1808, St. Simons lighthouse was torn down by Confederate forces in 1862 and replaced in 1872. In 1953, the oil lamps were replaced by a Fresnel lens and the 106 foot structure can be climbed. The view is worth the effort.
St. Andrews Sound
The lighthouse on Little Cumberland Island operated from 1838 until its deactivation in 1915. The keeper’s house was destroyed by fire in 1968.
St. Mary’s Inlet
Fernandina Beach on the Florida side was founded by Union soldiers, who returned there after having occupied Amelia Island during the war; they were drawn to the area’s climate and natural beauty. That may explain why the city’s downtown resembles a 19th Century New England town.
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What’s Happening In Your Parks – Charleston County Parks
Ready, Set…Tri!
The Youth Triathlon returns to James Island County Park on July 26! Young athletes will swim, bike, and run their way to the finish line in this fun, confidence-building event. Cheer them on or register your future triathlete today!
Let’s Dance, Y’all!
Get ready to twirl under the stars at Dancing on the Cooper on July 18! Head to the Mount Pleasant Pier for live music, waterfront breezes, and plenty of room to groove. It’s the ultimate summertime dance party you won’t want to miss.
Rise to the Challenge
Join us for Adaptive Climbing Day on July 20 at the Climbing Wall! With specialized equipment and trained staff, this empowering event gives individuals with disabilities the chance to reach new heights in a supportive environment.
Everyone’s Invited!
Make a splash at Inclusive Swim Night on July 19 at Whirlin’ Waters! This after-hours event is designed for guests with disabilities and their families and caregivers to enjoy the waterpark with smaller crowds, quieter music, and lots of fun. We can’t wait to see you there!
35 Years of ADA!
The 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act is here, and we’re celebrating with a community event on July 23 in Park Circle, alongside City of Charleston and City of North Charleston.
Free admission
Free refreshments
Vendor booths
Have fun on largest inclusive playground
Keynote address by renowned speaker Alycia Anderson
It is always important to ensure you are up to date on the legally required safety equipment and your boat and motor registrations. Consider taking advantage of SCDNR’s courtesy boat inspections during the July 4th weekend to ensure you are in compliance. Also, see the embedded link below to South Carolina’s boating regulations.
SCDNR to conduct courtesy boat inspections during July Fourth weekend Friday, Saturday and Sunday
SCDNR officers want to do everything possible to make sure boaters have a fun yet safe July Fourth holiday. Courtesy boating inspections will be offered at public boat landings around the state on Friday, Saturday and Sunday mornings.
In an effort to keep people and waterways safe during the Fourth of July weekend, the S.C. Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) Law Enforcement Division will be conducting courtesy boat inspections at public boat landings around the state.
The July Fourth weekend is one of the busiest boating times of the year for South Carolina lakes and waterways and officers want to do everything possible to keep everyone’s weekend fun and safe.
SCDNR boating safety and enforcement officers will perform quick but thorough inspections for required safety equipment and proper boat and motor registrations. Those who are not in compliance with safety regulations or registration requirements will not be ticketed during the complimentary inspections. Instead, they will be given an opportunity to correct the problem before they launch their boat. SCDNR officers will also be available to answer questions and give boaters tips on how to stay safe on the water. The boating inspections will be conducted Friday, Saturday and Sunday, July 4-6.
To report boating violations such as reckless operation or an intoxicated boat operator, call the SCDNR toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 1-800-922-5431 or dial #DNR on your cell phone.
For a copy of South Carolina’s boating regulations, to find out about local boating safety courses, or to obtain a free float plan form, contact the SCDNR boating safety office at 1-800-277-4301 or visit http://www.dnr.sc.gov/education/boated.html.
July Fourth weekend boat inspection locations (all inspections are from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.):
Friday, July 4:
Spartanburg County: Lake Bowen
Pickens County: Twin Lakes
Fairfield County: Molly Creek
Lexington County: Lake Murray Dam
Horry County: Bass Pro Shop
Charleston County: Wapoo Cut Landing, ICW
Beaufort County: Battery Creek Boat Landing
Saturday, July 5:
Anderson County: River Fork Landing, Lake Hartwell
Oconee County: South Cove, Lake Keowee
Kershaw County: Clearwater Cove, Lake Wateree
Clarendon County: Alex Harvin Landing, Lake Marion
Berkeley County: Hatchery Landing
Charleston County: Remley’s Point
Charleston County: Buck Hall
Sunday, July 6:
McCormick County: Scott’s Ferry, Lake Thurmond
Greenwood County: Hwy. 72 Landing
Oconee County: Seneca Creek, Lake Hartwell
York County: Ebenezer Park
Lexington County: Lake Murray Dam
Beaufort County: Lemon Island Boat Ramp
Charleston County: Limehouse Landing
Georgetown County: Carroll Campbell Boat Ramp
South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, 260 D Epting Ln, West Columbia, SC 29172
What’s Happening In Your Parks – Charleston County Parks
Yoga Fest
Calling all yogis! On June 18, bring your yoga mat to James Island County Park for an evening celebrating the summer solstice. Yoga Fest promises something for everyone including live music as well as yoga classes for adults and kids! Register today to save $5 on admission.
Schedule your next date night, girls’ night, or family night at Dancing on the Cooper on June 13. Enjoy warm river breezes, beautiful twilight skies, and the sounds of your favorite oldies and beach tunes, played live for you as evening falls over the Mount Pleasant Pier. Get your tickets today!
Walk Through History
Curious how something as small as a grain of rice could be so important to Lowcountry history? On June 14, learn more about who grew rice, where it came from, and how the cultivation changed the landscape we know today as Caw Caw Interpretive Center.
Gone Fishin’
On June 14, scrap that Saturday morning to-do list and hit the pier for our Cast Off Fishing Tournament. Anglers of (almost) all ages are welcome to drop a line and compete for prizes and bragging rights!
Holiday Staycation
Your holiday getaway could be right around the corner! We’re raffling off a stay in one of our cottages at James Island County Park during the Holiday Festival of Lights. The best part? All proceeds are going to the Charleston County Parks Foundation. Donate for your chance to be the lucky winner.
Make Way at Isle of Palms County Park!
Thanks to the generosity of Waymaker Offroad Wheelchairs, Isle of Palms County Park now has an off-road wheelchair available for reservation! Together, we are dedicated to helping people with mobility impairments enjoy our parks with independence. Reserve today!
What’s Happening In Your Parks – Charleston County Parks
Pass It On
This summer, save on every splash and stroke with a Splash Pass or Aquatic Center Pass! If you’re planning regular visits to our waterparks or the West Ashley Aquatic Center, these value passes let you play more while paying less. Get yours today!
Boogie on the Pier
Moonlight Mixers continue at the hottest dance spot in town: the Folly Beach Pier! Lace up those dancing shoes and join us on June 6 for cold drinks, unbeatable ocean views, and the beach music you know and love. Get your tickets to the dance floor today!
Just for Kids
Calling all curious kids! Our annual Summer Entertainment Series kicks off this week with pirate lessons from Drama Kids Charleston South. And you and your grown-ups can join us every Thursday this summer at Wannamaker County Park for more awesomely fun programs.
Everyone In!
On June 8, Inclusive Swim Night returns to Splash Island Waterpark. People with disabilities and their families and caregivers will have the waterpark to themselves for a fun-filled, sensory-friendly evening. Get your tickets today!
Swim, Bike, Run
Ready to try a tri? There’s still time to sign up for the first race in this summer’s Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series on June 15. If you’re not up for racing but want to support the athletes, check out our volunteer opportunities!
Holiday Staycation
Your holiday getaway could be right around the corner! We’re raffling off a stay in one of our cottages at James Island County Park during the Holiday Festival of Lights. The best part? All proceeds are going to the Charleston County Parks Foundation. Donate for your chance to be the lucky winner.
Call for Applications: Public Accessibility Advisory Committee
Do you want to help shape a more accessible future for Charleston County Parks? We are seeking passionate individuals to join our Public Accessibility Advisory Committee. We’re looking for advocates to bridge the gap between CCPRC and the local disability community so that we can provide programs and services that can better serve individuals with disabilities. We invite you to apply today!
What’s Happening In Your Parks – Charleston County Parks
Reggae Nights Summer Concerts
Book your ticket to summer chill: Reggae Nights are back! On May 30, the summer’s best party kicks off at James Island County Park. Join us for live reggae music, delicious food truck fare, and plenty of good vibes.
Peak Summer
On June 18, salute the summer solstice and reconnect with nature at our annual Yoga Fest. Together we’ll celebrate summer and community at this family-friendly yoga event, complete with live music and a kids’ yoga class. Register before June 4 to ensure you snag one of our awesome event t-shirts!
Something to Tweet About
Did you hear? Folly Island is going to the birds! On June 13, take a bird walk with us through Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve, home to one of the largest bird lists in South Carolina. Register today for your chance to see painted buntings, Wilson’s plovers, and more!
Sounds of Summer
On June 6, join us for another Moonlight Mixer at the Folly Beach Pier! Dance the night away with your favorite partner or just kick back with a cool drink and enjoy the ocean breeze. Save on admission when you purchase your tickets in advance!
High Vibes
Take your family on an Odyssey Adventure at James Island County Park this summer. We have a multitude of challenges and high-flying obstacles, complete with a zipline exit! Book your session today.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Connect your company with our vibrant and growing community while supporting your Charleston County Parks! From family-friendly fun to cultural celebrations, sponsorship opportunities with our festivals and events offer excellent exposure and strengthen your brand. Learn more about sponsorship packages and how you can get involved.
Waterparks? Open. Inclusive Swim Nights? ON! People with disabilities and their families and caregivers can enjoy accessible, sensory-friendly evenings in the waterparks all season long. Check out the schedule of events and book your tickets!
Try a Tri
Ready to test your mettle? Dive into a Charleston Sprint Triathlon! Challenge yourself to a 600-yard swim, a 12-mile bike ride, and a 5K run through beautiful James Island County Park. The 2025 season starts June 15 with the first of four scheduled races. Register today!
Calling All Explorers!
On May 23, beat the crowds to Beachwalker Park to enjoy nature stroll. You’ll accompany our naturalist to search for critters living along the shore, learning about each one and how they’ve adapted to life on the line between land and sea. Reserve your spot!
Beach Parking Tips
Our beach park lots fill up quickly this time of year! Save yourself (some of) the hassle when you:
Plan your beach trip for earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon
Be patient and remember the relaxation that awaits you!
Sponsorship Opportunities
Connect your company with our vibrant and growing community while supporting your Charleston County Parks! From family-friendly fun to cultural celebrations, sponsorship opportunities with our festivals and events offer excellent exposure and strengthen your brand. Learn more about sponsorship packages and how you can get involved.
Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, sits on the Mount Pleasant side of Charleston Harbor, hard by Patriots Point between Horse Reach’s flashing buoys #34 and #36.
Join us this summer for Mini Mariner’s Summer Camp from May 26th – August 15th. Email asmith@charlestonharborresort.com for registration and more information.
Salty Southeast Cruisers Net Sponsor Charleston County Cooper River Marina has provided this helpful information for your visit to Charleston this Spring and Summer.
Reggae Nights Concert Series kicks off May 30! James Island County Park hosts four reggae concerts this summer
[JAMES ISLAND] –Charleston County Parks kicks off the 2025 Reggae Nights Concert Summer Series at James Island County Park on Friday, May 30! The first concert this year will feature the Atlanta-based Black Lion Reggae Band.
The Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series at James Island County Park features traditional old-school roots reggae with a new-school attitude in a beautiful outdoor setting. Gates open for the event at 7:30 p.m. and music begins at 8 p.m. Event gates will close to incoming traffic at 10:30 p.m. and music will end at 11 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs for seating in the park meadow.
The 2025 Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series lineup is:
The Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series is open to all ages. A variety of food options from local food trucks and vendors, as well as beverages (beer, wine and Pepsi products) are available for purchase on site. Crafters and vendors will also be on site with souvenirs and gifts available for purchase.
Advance tickets are $20 per vehicle (up to 15 people) and available at CharlestonCountyParks.com (direct link). Tickets purchased at the event will be $30 per vehicle (up to 15 people). Gold Pass holders will be admitted free when presenting their pass at the gate, if space is available.
The Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series takes place in the park meadow, and guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs, blankets, etc. Concerts will take place rain or shine. No outside alcohol or coolers are permitted into the event. Dogs are welcome, but must remain leashed at all times.
James Island County Park is located at 871 Riverland Drive. For more information on the Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com (direct link) or call (843) 795-4386. The Reggae Nights Summer Concert Series is brought to you by your Charleston County Parks.
The mission of the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) is to improve the quality of life in Charleston County by offering a diverse system of park facilities, programs and services. The large park system features over 11,000 acres of property and includes six regional parks, a skate park, three beach parks, four seasonally-lifeguarded beach areas, three dog parks, two landmark fishing piers, three waterparks, 19 boat landings, a climbing wall, a challenge course, an interpretive center, a historic plantation site, an equestrian center, cottages, a campground, a marina, as well as wedding, meeting and event facilities.The park system also offers a wide variety of recreational services – festivals, camps, classes, programs, and more. For more information on CCPRC, call 843-795-4386 or visit CharlestonCountyParks.com.
High Resolution photos available upon request
Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission / 861 Riverland Drive / Charleston, SC 29412 / (843) 795-4386
Salty Southeast Cruisers Net Sponsor Charleston County Cooper River Marina has provided this helpful information for your visit to Charleston County’s Beach Parks this Spring and Summer.
Charleston County Waterparks to open for weekends starting May 17
(CHARLESTON COUNTY) – The Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) will open its three waterparks – Splash Island in Mount Pleasant, Splash Zone on James Island, and Whirlin’ Waters in North Charleston – as well as the pool at the West County Aquatic Center in Hollywood, for weekends only starting May 17. Daily operations will begin on May 30. The parks’ hours will vary this year; see schedule below for details.
A schedule for each park’s operations is as follows*:
– Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark:
Open weekends only starting May 17; Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Open daily from May 30 – Aug. 10; weekends from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and weekdays from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Monday – Friday)
Open weekends only starting Aug. 11 and closing after Labor Day, Sept. 1
– Splash Island Waterpark and Splash Zone Waterpark:
Open weekends only starting May 17; Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sundays from 1 – 6 p.m.
Open daily from May 30 – Aug. 3; Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sundays from 1 – 6 p.m.; weekdays 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Close for the season after Aug. 3
– West County Aquatic Center:
Open weekends only starting May 17; Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sundays from 1 – 6 p.m.
Open daily from May 30 – Aug. 10; Saturdays and weekdays from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; and Sundays 1 – 6 p.m.
Open weekends only starting Aug. 11 and closing after Labor Day, Sept. 1
*Parks are open on Memorial Day and some holidays have different hours; please visit CharlestonCountyParks.com (direct link) for a full daily schedule and hours of operation for each park before planning your visit.Schedules are subject to change.
Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark at North Charleston Wannamaker County Park is the largest of CCPRC’s three waterparks. Whirlin’ Waters features unique activities for all ages with attractions including a 60-foot-tall multi-person slide The Washout, plus the Big Splash Tree House, Rollin’ River lazy river, Big Kahuna wave pool, Tubular Twister slides, Rip Tide Run mat racer slide and Otter Bay kiddie area.
Splash Zone Waterpark is located within James Island County Park. It offers two 200-foot-long slides, a large leisure pool, a 500-foot-long lazy river with sprays and waterfalls, and a family play complex called The Rainforest that features slides, buckets and sprays.
Splash Island Waterpark, located within Mount Pleasant Palmetto Islands County Park, provides hours of fun for toddlers to pre-teenage children. Attractions include a 200-foot-long body flume, activity pool, a 16-foot-long otter slide, sprays, geysers, raindrop waterfalls and more.
The waterparks also offer a full range of amenities including concessions, lockers, lounge chairs, showers and restrooms. Each waterpark is staffed with certified lifeguards. Birthday party packages are also available. Admission fees vary, and Splash Passes for all-season waterpark access are available for sale now at CharlestonCountyParks.com.
The West County Aquatic Center offers a 6,000-square-foot seasonal outdoor pool for beginner and seasoned swimmers. It also offers programming including swimming lessons, fitness programs and a competitive swim team.
For more information on the waterparks or West County Aquatic Center, and a full daily schedule of operations for each park, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com or call 843-795-4386.
Some openings are still available for seasonal lifeguard and other park positions. Charleston County Parks’ jobs offer competitive pay and great benefits. For a list of open positions and to apply, visit ccprc.com/jobs.
Splash Zone Waterpark, Splash Island Waterpark, Whirlin’ Waters Adventure Waterpark and the West County Aquatic Center are all owned and operated by CCPRC.The mission of CCPRC is to improve the quality of life in Charleston County by offering a diverse system of park facilities, programs and services. The large park system features over 11,000 acres of property and includes six regional parks, three beach parks, three dog parks, a skate park, two landmark fishing piers, three waterparks, 19 boat landings, a climbing wall, a challenge course, an interpretive center, a historic plantation site, an equestrian center, cottages, a campground, a marina, as well as wedding, meeting and event facilities. CCPRC also offers a wide variety of recreational services – festivals, camps, classes, programs, volunteer opportunities, and more. For more information, call 843-795-4386 or visit www.charlestoncountyparks.com.
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