Charleston Sports & Outdoors

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There are lots of marinas in the Charleston area, but not many actually in Charleston that are suitable for us.

We've stayed at Charleston Harbor Marina, but that is across the Cooper River at Mt. Pleasant. We've stayed at Buzzard's Point and Ross Marine - which are both on Johns Island. And we've usually stayed at Isle of Palms, which is off the ICW on the north side of the harbor. We can't use the Ashley Marina or any of those up past the bridge because the bridge is too short for us to get under. And until recently, the Cooper River Marina didn't take transients.

We can only get into the Charleston Maritime Center because we have a shoal draft boat - not all of their slips have enough water for a deep draft (6'6") boat. There is also a LOT of current and wake waves in this marina.

Equipment: Rate is $6.25/ft a week for BoatUS members, plus electric. They are right next to the NPS dock for Ft. Sumpter and also the IMAX and the aquarium. We are currently parking on a vacant lot next to the docks. They have a 3 times a day tour boat going out of there, and also the aquarium boats. They have only unisex one shower, but they have 7 toilets. There's a little souvenier store, and the CARTA buses stop right out front. No laundry facilities or email access.

There is also a place to rent kayaks aon Shem Creek in Mt. Pleasant. It is called Nature Adventures and they also do tours from that location as well as other places around the Low- country.

Equipment: They provide the important stuff like kayak, paddle and life vest. You bring water and bug and sun gunk. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that can get wet.

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Something a little different...Charleston's minor league baseball team, the Riverdogs. They're a low-minor Yankees affiliate, with younger players trying to prove themselves to the big league team. The stadium is small, tickets very affordable (top price $10), and you're guaranteed a good seat. The kids do put on a show.

Speaking of putting on a show, the Riverdogs are known for their creative promotions during and after their games. The night I went, they gave away pillowcases. Because, well, check my travelogue for more details.

Equipment: Yourself, and your appetite for fun. Hey, Bill Murray's the "DIRECTOR of fun"...how could you go wrong?

He's also a part-owner of the team.

"Cinderella story, out of nowhere..."

The Riverdogs are our minor league baseball team. They're owned or co-owned by Bill Murray so you might be lucky enought to see him. They have alot of theme nights and usually get a big turn out. Great place to take the kids. They have concession food and beer, all the usual basebal stadium stuff. A plus is the parking is close and usually easy to find. Also, the main police station is across the street so it's very safe.

Equipment: Anything to be comfortable and stay cool.

There are many amazing beaches here, but if you want to rent a surfboard, waverunner, kayak or any other water sport you can rent any of these at Folly beach. Also THE spot for surfing is Folly Beach it has the best waves.

Equipment: You don't need to bring anything you can buy it all at the beach.

Spring/Summer/Fall with Charleston Beach Volleyball and Social Club. Pickup games start around 6PM and last until dark. $5/person, anyone over 18 is welcome. All skill levels.

Equipment: Best idea is to play in swim trunks... the ocean is only yards away and the water is 70+ for 6 months of the year.