Mt. Pleasant

Shem Creek and Charleston Harbor

Our flagship location located on the water at historic Shem Creek in Mt. Pleasant is just a short drive from downtown Charleston. Our facility has an office, small retail store (hats, shirts, sunscreen, maps), parking, creekside deck, private restroom facilities, and floating dock for easy on water access.

Paddling Shem Creek offers a unique blend of local culture, history, and spectacular wildlife viewing options within both the tidal creek and Charleston harbor. Head up the creek from our dock and you will wind through the estuary for a couple of miles on an easy to follow route unlikely to encounter many other boaters. Take a right from our shop, and you will head through the commercial district of Shem, with its waterfront restauarants and towering shrimp boats. Near the fishing docks keep a keen eye out for the frequent visits by the Bottlenose Dolphin. Shem Creek will then meet the Charleston Harbor, home to Crab Bank Heritage Preserve. A short paddle across open water allows a look at one of the Southeasts most import shorebird nesting areas. From March 15- October 15 the island is closed to visitors because the island becomes the rookery for thousands of birds, such as Eastern Brown Pelicans, Oyster Catchers, Black Skimmers, and a variety of Terns to name a few. Although you cant get out on the island during these times, from April to September you will find the island packed with life and kayaking around or near the island is the best way to see it. Outside of the nesting season, there is a sandy beach to get out on and explore below the high tide line looking for shells and fairly common fossilized sharks teeth. Heading back in towards Shem Creek offers a look at the historic homes of the Old Village Mt. Pleasant many dating back to the 1800s.

Paddling Options:

1/2 day guided tours and kayak rentals are available from our Shem Creek location 7 days a week everyday of the year except Thanksgivivng and Christmas weather permitting. Reservations are required for kayak tours and recommended for rentals. Walk up rentals are typically available, but on a first-come first serve basis, and know that we must service our reservations first.