Written by Nick Levine. Posted in Charleston News
Sandbars
Any local with a boat will be here. Charleston’s ever-changing tides provide beautiful sandbars turned party destinations when the tide is low. Drop your boat near Johns Island or Kiawah and you are sure to find one. I won’t give you the exact location as these are somewhat secret and we all would like to keep it that way. Do some exploring on your own and you will find them. Sandbars are great places to unwind, drink your beverage of choice and enjoy some fireworks.
Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
Located in Mount Pleasant, Patriots Point is a popular destination for watching fireworks. The annual "Fourth of July Fireworks Blast" offers a unique experience with fireworks launched over the Cooper River. Visitors can enjoy live music, food vendors, and a fantastic view from the flight deck of the USS Yorktown. What is more American than watching fireworks off a decommissioned aircraft carrier? Arrive early to secure a good spot and consider purchasing tickets in advance for the best views.
Waterfront Park
For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Waterfront Park in downtown Charleston. This park provides a picturesque setting with its iconic Pineapple Fountain and expansive views of Charleston Harbor. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the fireworks lighting up the sky above the harbor. This location is great for families and those looking for a quieter spot to watch the show. You can also see the USS Yorktown and the firework displays in Mt. Pleasant from the park.
Folly Beach, Sullivans Island or Isle of Palms
If you prefer a beachside fireworks experience, Charleston is fortunate to have a few options. The Folly Beach Pier is a prime spot to watch the fireworks display over the Atlantic Ocean. Ten steps away is Pier 101, which boasts some of the best frozen co*cktails. Spend the day enjoying the beach, grab some frose and sandwiches from Co-Op then find a cozy spot on Sullivans Island. Isle of Palms offers a great viewing experience as well. Places like Coconut Joes and Windjammer offer great outdoor viewing.
Shem Creek
Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant offers another excellent waterfront location for fireworks viewing. The boardwalk provides stunning views of the creek and the Charleston skyline, making it a perfect spot to watch the fireworks reflect off the water. If you walk past the boardwalk near Vickery’s, it extends far down the marsh perfect for viewing fireworks. Grab a drink at Shem and stroll on down the boardwalk.
The Battery & White Point Garden
Historic and scenic, The Battery and White Point Garden are classic Charleston locations for 4th of July celebrations. The park's location at the southern tip of the Charleston Peninsula offers unobstructed views of the harbor and fireworks. Enjoy the charm of the historic mansions and the cool breezes from the harbor while waiting for the sky to light up. Make sure to arrive early as parking is limited and there is a good amount of construction ongoing.
Riverfront Park
North Charleston Riverfront Park hosts one of the largest fireworks displays in the Charleston area. The "Fireworks over the Cooper" event features live music, food trucks, and a kid's zone, making it perfect for families. The park’s spacious grounds ensure plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the festivities. Riverfront Park is one of my favorite places in Charleston.
Tips for Enjoying Fireworks in Charleston
- Arrive Early: Fireworks displays attract large crowds, so arrive early to secure a good spot. This also gives you time to enjoy pre-show entertainment and activities.
- Bring Essentials: Pack a blanket or chairs for seating, insect repellent, and some snacks and drinks. Many venues have food vendors, but bringing your own can save time and money.
- Plan for Parking: Parking can be challenging, especially in popular areas like the beaches. Consider using an uber when going downtown or any other potentially crowded area.
- Check the Weather: July in Charleston can be hot and humid. Check the weather forecast and bring appropriate sun protection, such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Do Not Drink and Drive: Please factor in how you will get home when planning your fourth of July. There will be checkpoints and plenty of police patrolling. We have had a rough go lately here in Charleston with intoxicated drivers. Don’t be another statistic or put others in harms way. Take an Uber or Lyft.
Where will I be on July fourth? Most likely on a boat at a sandbar near Kiawah getting sunburnt. Drinking a beer, listening to country music and whooping my friends in Spike ball. Ending the day firing off a plethora of oversized rockets purchased in that little shop down in Johns Island. What a life. Happy Independence Day!
