James Island

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with James Island's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
James Island Adventure
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing paddle at the James Island County Park. Enjoy the views as you kayak among the serene waters and spot local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Head to Folly Beach for lunch and spend the afternoon soaking up the sun. Relax on the sandy shores or take a stroll along the picturesque pier.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a sunset walk on the beach. Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant with fresh catches of the day.

day 2
Explore Nature
morning
:

Visit the James Island County Park and take a scenic bike ride through the extensive trails. You can enjoy the lush greenery and spot various birds along the way.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic and find a quiet spot to enjoy lunch in the park. Afterward, engage in a game of frisbee or simply relax under a shady tree.

evening
:

Visit a nearby brewery to sample local craft beers. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere while munching on some snacks.

day 3
Wildlife Wonders
morning
:

Visit the nearby Angel Oak Tree and take a few photos of this majestic live oak. Spend time learning about its history and significance.

afternoon
:

Drive to the South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston to explore marine life. Engage in interactive exhibits and learn about conservation efforts.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant in Charleston for a lovely view of the harbor. Relish a delightful meal as the sun sets over the city skyline.

day 4
Biking and Brews
morning
:

Start your morning with a bike ride around the scenic areas of James Island. Enjoy the cool breeze as you explore local parks.

afternoon
:

Stop for lunch at a cozy café before continuing your bike adventure. Discover hidden gems along the way, including art installations and local shops.

evening
:

Join a local bike tour for an evening ride to sample various breweries. Cap off your night with a unique craft beer tasting experience.

day 5
Beach Bliss
morning
:

Spend your morning at Folly Beach, perfecting your surfing skills. Morning waves are ideal for both beginners and seasoned surfers.

afternoon
:

After surf lessons, enjoy a casual lunch at a beachside café. Spend the rest of the afternoon lounging on the beach or going for a swim.

evening
:

Join locals for a bonfire on the beach. Share stories, make s'mores, and soak in the sound of waves under the stars.

day 6
Culinary Delight
morning
:

Take a cooking class in Charleston to learn about Southern cuisine. Enjoy hands-on instruction and prepare classic Lowcountry dishes.

afternoon
:

Savor the delicious lunch you’ve prepared during the cooking class. Explore the local farmer’s market to gather fresh ingredients for dinner.

evening
:

Attend a food tour in the city to sample various culinary delights. Experience the rich flavors of Southern food and learn about the local culture.

day 7
Historical Day
morning
:

Visit Fort Sumter National Monument to learn about its historic significance. Take a ferry ride to the island and enjoy a guided tour.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic district of Charleston, walking through beautiful antebellum homes. Stop for lunch at a quintessential Lowcountry restaurant.

evening
:

Experience a ghost tour to uncover the spooky history of Charleston's past. Discover haunted sites and hear chilling tales from knowledgeable guides.

day 8
Arts and Culture
morning
:

Visit local art galleries showcasing Charleston's vibrant art scene. Take your time to appreciate the diverse range of artistic expressions.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a café before participating in a watercolor painting class. Tap into your creative side and produce your own masterpiece.

evening
:

Attend a live music performance at a local venue. Enjoy great tunes while mingling with fellow art enthusiasts.

day 9
Scenic Wonders
morning
:

Take an early morning hike at the James Island County Park. Breathe in the fresh air and take in the beautiful natural surroundings.

afternoon
:

After your hike, have a hearty lunch at a nearby restaurant. Spend time exploring the local shops and boutiques in the area.

evening
:

Find a local park for a relaxing evening picnic. Enjoy the sunset while feasting on your favorite picnic snacks.

day 10
Family Fun
morning
:

Start the day with a family trip to the water park at James Island County Park. Enjoy a variety of slides and splash zones.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the nearby beach for more family-friendly activities. Build sandcastles or try paddleboarding together.

evening
:

End your day with a family dinner at a kid-friendly restaurant. Share laughs and memories over a delicious meal.

Discover James Island

Read more in our James Island 2024 Travel Guide.

James Island Travel Guide