A water taxi travels across the harbor with a large cruise ship behind it.

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Charleston Waterfront

Walk along the city's eastern edge to see passing ships, historic forts, and local marine life.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

The Charleston Waterfront connects several shoreside parks and public paths directly to the harbor. You can see Fort Sumter in the distance and often spot resident bottlenose dolphins swimming close to the seawall.

Walking along the harbor is free. Accessing the South Carolina Aquarium requires a paid ticket. Parking in downtown Charleston is limited, so plan to walk between these locations.

Water taxis docked near a large cargo ship in Charleston Harbor.

The Battery

1 hourFree public access

This defensive seawall and promenade borders the harbor. You will walk past historic antebellum homes and large oak trees. Look out over the water to see Fort Sumter.

Children look at the waterfront buildings from the back of a boat.

South Carolina Aquarium

2 hoursPaid entry required

This large marine facility sits directly on the harbor. It houses a Sea Turtle Care Center and a 385,000-gallon Great Ocean Tank. You can learn about the animals that inhabit the nearby estuary.

A water taxi is docked next to a marina building and a sailboat.

Joe Riley Waterfront Park

1 hourDowntown Charleston

This eight-acre linear park follows the water's edge. It contains the famous Pineapple Fountain and walking paths. Head to the end of the pier and sit on the shaded swinging benches.