Things to do nearShem Creek
Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, is a vibrant tidal waterway known for its working shrimp boats, waterfront dining, and stunning marsh views.
Shem Creek has long been the working heart of Mount Pleasant's fishing community. For generations, local shrimpers have launched their trawlers from these docks, and the creek remains one of the few places in South Carolina where you can still watch a genuine commercial shrimping operation up close.
Today the creek balances its maritime heritage with a lively waterfront scene. The boardwalk stretches along both banks, offering unobstructed views of the marsh grass and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge rising in the distance. Dolphins regularly patrol the channel, and the birdlife is exceptional year-round.
Dining along Shem Creek means fresh local seafood pulled straight from nearby waters. Restaurants serve shrimp and grits, fried flounder, and oysters roasted in the Lowcountry tradition, often with open-air decks overlooking the water.
Whether you arrive by paddleboard, on foot, or by car, Shem Creek rewards visitors with an authentic slice of coastal South Carolina life that few spots along the East Coast can match.
7-day forecast
Tips for visiting Shem Creek
Visit during the golden hour before sunset for the most vivid reflections of the shrimp boats on the water.
Try a bowl of she-crab soup at one of the waterfront restaurants lining the creek for an authentic Lowcountry flavor.
Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the tidal marsh channels branching off the main waterway at your own pace.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as great blue herons, egrets, and brown pelicans are common sights along the banks.
Walk the public boardwalk early on a weekday morning to see the shrimping fleet heading out and avoid weekend crowds.
Top tours & experiences near Shem Creek
Shem Creek Shrimping Walking Tour
Explore Shem Creek's maritime history, ecology, and shrimping heritage
Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals In Shem Creek
Reserve a kayak or paddleboard rental on Shem Creek
Cruise Charleston Harbor on a 90-Minute Tour
See 75+ Charleston landmarks on a narrated harbor cruise
College Football Sailgate Cruise on Charleston Harbor
Take your Saturday tailgate onto the water aboard a spacious 55-foot catamaran
Private Charleston Harbor Sunset Cruise
A flexible harbor cruise with a beach stop and sunset return
Private Sunset Boat Cruise in Mount Pleasant near Charleston
Cruise the Lowcountry at sunset aboard a restored 1972 Sea Craft
Lowcountry Shrimp Boil Cooking Class in Mount Pleasant
Cook a private Lowcountry feast at a shrimp industry facility
Guided 2-Hour Shem Creek Kayak Tour
Paddle Shem Creek to Crab Bank Island on a guided 2-hour kayak tour
Private Charleston Harbor Cruise & Shark Tooth Beach Stop
Cruise Charleston Harbor, see historic landmarks, and stop at a local beach
Narrated Charleston Harbor Lunch Cruise
Cruise Charleston Harbor with live narration and a gourmet box lunch
Private Tiki Boat Charter in Charleston
Customize your private tiki boat charter in Charleston, up to 6 guests
NFL Sunday Pregame Sail on Charleston Harbor
Start game day with fellow football fans aboard a spacious catamaran
2-Hour Shem Creek Paddleboard Tour
Paddle Shem Creek’s marshes with distant views of Fort Sumter
Charleston Swimming Charter
Cruise Charleston Harbor, swim and lounge on water hammocks
Charleston Village 2-Hour History Tour
Ride through harbor vistas, historic village streets, and film locations on a Segway tour
Charleston Bachelor & Bachelorette Cruise
Celebrate on the water with island swimming, Shem Creek drinks, and room to relax
Charleston Bachelor & Bachelorette Cruise
Celebrate on the water with island swimming and a Shem Creek cruise
Charleston Date Night Boat Charter
Sail to dinner on Shem Creek with your captain standing by