Things to do in Johns Island
Discover amazing Johns Island activities and premium in-home experiences.
Embrace the enchanting allure of Johns Island, where lush landscapes and Southern charm create an inviting retreat just beyond Charleston's bustling streets. With its sprawling oak trees draped in Spanish moss, vibrant wildlife, and rich history waiting to be explored, this island offers a serene escape for adventurers and tranquility seekers alike. Whether you're savoring fresh Lowcountry cuisine or kayaking through tidal creeks teeming with natural beauty, Johns Island promises a captivating journey into the heart of coastal South Carolina.
Popular Activities in Johns Island
90-Minute Surf Lesson on Isle of Palms
Catch your first waves in a 90-minute lesson with gear provided and safety-focused instructors.
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens Tour
Discover centuries of history, lush gardens, and wildlife on a curated 4.5-hour visit.
Historic Downtown Walking Tour
Explore Charleston’s storied streets and architecture with a knowledgeable local guide
Charleston's Alleys and Hidden Passages Walking Tour
Discover Charleston's charming hidden alleys and historic passages on an intimate 2-hour guided walk.
Charleston Haunted Jail Tour
Explore Charleston’s Old City Jail on a spine-tingling 45-minute guided ghost tour
Savor the Flavors Tour of Downtown Charleston
Taste iconic Lowcountry dishes on a guided walking food tour.
Charleston Ghost and Graveyard Tour
Explore Charleston's oldest graveyard after dark on an exclusive guided walk
South of Broad Houses and Gardens Walking Tour
Explore Charleston’s oldest quarter with inside access to two historic museum homes and gardens.
USS Yorktown Captain’s Tour with Exclusive Access
Explore restricted areas of the famed aircraft carrier alongside an expert guide.
USS Yorktown Nighttime Ghost Tour
Explore eerie legends and restricted areas of the historic aircraft carrier after dark.
Private Island Adventure Boat Cruise Around Charleston
Explore Charleston's barrier islands, spot dolphins, and relax on a private boat cruise
Sullivan's Island Lighthouse Private Boat Tour
Cruise Charleston waterways to view Sullivan's Island Lighthouse on a private charter
Charleston Marine Biologist-Guided Nature Boat Tour
Observe dolphins, birds, and saltmarsh wildlife on a private boat tour led by a marine biologist.
Charleston Sunset Boat Cruise
Savor golden hour views from a private boat as dolphins and seabirds glide by
Moonlight Sail in Charleston Harbor
Experience Charleston's historic skyline under moonlit sails aboard a 50-ft luxury yacht
Drayton Hall and Charleston Strolls Combo Tour
Experience Charleston’s famed plantation and a guided downtown history walk with one convenient combo ticket.
Shem Creek 2-Hour Kayak Tour
Paddle past shrimp boats and wildlife to a bird sanctuary on this guided Charleston kayak adventure.
Shem Creek Kayak and Paddleboard Rentals
Explore scenic Shem Creek at your own pace with flexible kayak and paddleboard rentals
Morning Dolphin Boat Tour on the Sea & the Rose
Search for wild dolphins and hunt for shells at Morris Island on a relaxed two-hour boat excursion
Charleston Ghost and Graveyard and Harbor Cruise Combo
Experience Charleston’s history by boat and after-dark graveyard access on two top-rated tours.
Toast of the Town Seasonal Cocktail Tour
Sip curated cocktails at boutique inns while uncovering Charleston’s spirited history.
Charleston Sunset Cruise
Relax on a spacious pontoon and enjoy landmark views as the sun sets over Charleston Harbor
Morning Harbor Cruise
Enjoy a 1.5-hour shared cruise with shaded seating and onboard restroom while taking in harbor views
Charleston Harbor Dolphin Cruise
Spot playful bottlenose dolphins and iconic Charleston landmarks on a relaxed 1.5-hour pontoon cruise.
Charleston Afternoon Harbor Cruise
Relax on a 1.5-hour pontoon cruise with dolphin-spotting and iconic Charleston Harbor views
Semi-Private Captain Cocktail Party Boat Cruise
Join other small groups for a two-hour Charleston Harbor party with music, games, and BYOB fun.
Explore the Charm of Johns Island
Johns Island is a captivating destination where sprawling oak trees draped in Spanish moss create an enchanting backdrop for exploration. Known for its natural beauty and Southern hospitality, this island offers visitors a unique blend of rural charm and proximity to vibrant Charleston. A visit here isn't complete without seeing the Angel Oak Tree—a majestic live oak estimated to be over 400 years old, offering shade and wonder with its massive limbs.
For those who love outdoor adventures, kayaking through the serene waters of Bohicket Creek provides an intimate view of local wildlife like dolphins and herons. If you're visiting during warmer months, don't miss out on exploring one of the many farms that dot Johns Island—pick your own strawberries or enjoy fresh produce at roadside stands. The island's fertile land makes it perfect for farm-to-table dining experiences at local eateries.
A short drive will take you to nearby Kiawah Island's pristine beaches or historic downtown Charleston’s cobblestone streets. Yet there's something special about returning to Johns Island after a day trip—the peacefulness here feels like stepping back in time while still being connected to modern comforts. Whether savoring Lowcountry cuisine under starlit skies or biking along quiet roads lined with towering pines, Johns Island promises memories as enduring as its ancient oaks.