A Local’s Guide to Boat Ramps in Charleston, SC
There’s nothing better than a day on the water in Charleston, and based on the crowds at the boat ramps these days it’s clear that the word is out about that. There are several public boat landings in Charleston and all of them offer access to different parts of the waterways, all of which are worth exploring if you have the chance.
In this article we’ve broken down some of the most popular public boat ramps in Charleston, SC so you can decide where you want to put in for the day. We’ve also included anything to watch out for at each one, so you’ll have less of a chance of ending up on The Qualified Captain.
As always, happy and safe boating, and remember to be respectful toward others on the water!
Remleys Point Public Boat Landing
112 2nd St, Mt Pleasant
Located in Mt. Pleasant, Remleys Point is one of the most popular landings in town as it has the easiest access of all the boat landings to the Charleston Harbor. Open 24 hours, this is the place to go if you need to get into the harbor quick. Be careful of strong currents in this area and for the love of all things holy, watch out for commercial traffic! The Wando shipping terminal is only about a mile North of there.
Shem Creek Boat Landing
109 Simmons St, Mt Pleasant
The Shem Creek Boat Landing is located in one of the busiest parts of Charleston, which is of course Shem Creek. This is an extremely popular place to launch kayaks and paddleboards as well as other small craft, although parking does fill up rather quickly on weekends. There are lots of things to do in Shem Creek making this one of the most desirable places to be on a boat in Charleston.
Wappoo Cut Public Boat Ramp
Tranquil Dr, Charleston, SC
The Wappoo Cut Boat Ramp provides access to the Ashley River, entering into the Intercoastal Waterway just South of city marina. This is another popular boat landing that is open 24 hours.
As is the case with most of Charleston’s boat ramps, strong currents are definitely something to watch out for here. The landing is right near the Elliot Cut and the narrow waterways cause the current to rip through this area.
John P. Limehouse Landing
495 Main Rd, Johns Island
Located on Johns Island, the John P. Limehouse Boat Landing provides access to the Stono River, which boasts some of the most beautiful waterways in the entire Charleston area. It is open 24 hours and there is plenty of parking in the spacious lot. This is also right near the popular Wolf Island camping spot, a fun place to hang out and explore. As always, currents are a potential issue here so be careful which lane of the ramp you choose depending on the tidal conditions.
Folly River Boat Ramp
Center Street, Folly Beach
You can’t miss the Folly River Boat Ramp while driving down Center Street on your way into Folly Beach, as it’s just over the Folly River bridge on the right. This is the only boat ramp providing easy access to the Folly River, which is a really gorgeous place to spend an afternoon. Parking can be tight here on weekends so plan accordingly.
W. O. Thomas, Jr. Boat Landing
4354 Bridge View Dr, North Charleston
Located on the North Charleston bank of the Ashley River, just off 526, the W.O. Thomas, Jr. Boat Landing is one of the most spacious ramps in the Charleston area. It is a great ramp if you’re looking to do some sightseeing in the area, though it is a good ways from the beaches and the harbor.
Sol Legare Public Boat Landing
End of Sol Legare Road, James Island
While the Sol Legare Boat landing does not have an address, it can be found at the end of Sol Legare Road on James Island. Providing access to the Stono River, Sol Legare is one of the prime landings in Charleston and it has the added benefit of being somewhat harder to find due to its lack of an address, though when it does get crowded that happens quick.
Riverland Terrace Public Boat Landing
19-35 Plymouth Ave, James Island
Another James Island boat ramp is located at Riverland Terrace. This is another great spot for Stono River access although it does require a bit more skill because the currents are exceptionally strong here. And added bonus is that this is one of the best spots to get a view of the sunset on all of James Island.
Pierpont Public Boat Landing
Cedar Ln, West Ashley
This tiny boat ramp located in West Ashley’s Pierpoint neighborhood provides access to the creeks of the Ashley River, most notably Church Creek. There is not enough water here for most boats with engines, although you can get away with kayaks and paddle boards and maybe even a small Jon boat.