The Top 4 Best Swimming Locations in Charleston, SC

Escape the hot, humid days of Charleston summer with a refreshing swim. From public pools to rivers and beaches, the Lowcountry has multiple ways to cool off every day of the week. Check out these top four swimming locations in Charleston.

Sullivan’s Island Beach

Though Sullivan’s Island only has a little over 2,000 permanent residents, its beach is a popular spring and summer destination. It’s one of the closest to downtown Charleston and Mount Pleasant. Even though it’s got proximity, the beach was a relaxing, classic coastal vibe with sea oats on sand dunes and few high-rises. Our top pick? Go to Station 28 to wade in the tides, take a walk along the sand, or a bike ride along the marsh. Plus, Sullivan’s Island has seafood restaurants and upscale dining options with well-known chefs. Relax the evening away in comfort and style with live music and other entertainment in the fishing village-styled downtown area.

Martin Luther King Jr. Pool

Address: Martin Luther King Jr. Pool, 155 Jackson St, Charleston, SC 29403

The Martin Luther King Jr. Pool (or MLK Park Pool) is a year-round public pool in the heart of Charleston. Visitors not only escape the heat, but escape from the sun with its permanent roof.

Though it was initially an all-outdoor facility, the MLK Pool was converted into an indoor swimming facility with locker rooms, a permanent roof, and air conditioning. These improvements allowed for year-round swimming and the addition of a water heating system for the winter. Now the pool doesn’t have to close due to summer thunderstorms. The pool has daily rates and yearly swim passes. See the website for current opening hours. You can also view the city’s three additional pools to see if one is closer to you.

James Island County Park

Address: 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412

One of Charleston’s best parks also has one of its best swimming choices. This one is seasonal and fun for the kids. Its Splash Zone Waterpark includes a 500-foot lazy river with waterwalls and spray features, two slides, and a rainforest play structure. The facilities have concessions, changing areas, and locker rentals for the day. The park soft opens on weekends starting mid-May before going daily through the summer months. See the website for the latest park fees and schedules.

Edisto Beach

Edisto Beach on Edisto Island lies 50 miles south of Charleston, but the drive is well worth it. On top of the cooling waters and lovely quiet beach, Edisto Beach is a family-friendly place to visit. Top attractions include Edisto Beach State Park, the Edisto Island Serpentarium, fishing charters, and even a jacuzzi on the beach in Wild Dunes.

If you’re feeling adventurous, go to the water with Botany Bay Ecotours to see dolphins, birds, monkeys, and other wildlife. To add to the fun, there are also many nearby water options on the Edisto River, where you can canoe, go floating, or splash around by the banks of the water if you want a fresh-water option for your Edisto vacation.

Whether you’re day-tripping or looking for a beach vacation to relax away your worries, the best swimming in Charleston has options to suit everyone’s preferences. Choose between the beach or a serene pool day.

Updated March 2024