4 South Carolina Marinas You Need to Check Out

A barrier island along the Atlantic Ocean, Kiawah Island is an elite destination for water activities. From sport fishing the various reefs offshore to enjoying a day on the water with family, boating is a popular activity for Island residents and visitors alike. 

Continue reading to discover the best South Carolina marinas near Kiawah Island to dock your boat.

1. Bohicket Marina and Market

Located on Seabrook Island — just a stone’s throw from Kiawah — Bohicket Marina & Market is a haven for boaters and fishermen. With 200 wet slips ranging from 30′ – 50′ in length, Bohicket Marina is an ideal place to dock your boat long-term or in transit. 

Bohicket Marina is also home to the Barrier Islands Boat Club, which offers single and shared memberships with the lowest member to boat ratio in all of Charleston. Plus, each of the brand-new Sportsman rentals is fully stocked for all your boating needs. This is a great option for those who aren’t ready to commit to boat ownership but still want to engage in water activities at their leisure. 

In terms of fishing, many captains charter trips out of the marina. Bohicket also hosts tournaments throughout the year for competitive anglers. In fact, the Billfish Invitational and the Dolphin Slam are two of the most anticipated tournaments in South Carolina. 

In addition to the marina, Bohicket has a market the whole family will enjoy as it includes restaurants, an ice cream shop, a salon and day spa, and a tackle shop. After a day out on the water, you will often find boaters enjoying a delicious meal and ice-cold drinks at The Salty Dog Cafe while watching the sunset dip below the deep blue water.

Image Credit: Bohicket Marina

2. Safe Harbor Charleston City

Located minutes away from downtown Charleston, Safe Harbor Charleston City is a premier marina and boating destination. Named ‘Marina of the Year’ by Marina Dockage Magazine, Safe Harbor Charleston City has wet slips ranging from 30’ all the way to 455’ in length. In fact, this marina is known for its Mega Dock, which accommodates some of the largest and most luxurious yachts in the world. 

Here, amenities include cable TV, wifi, gated parking, laundry, showers, and more to keep you comfortable during your stay. Plus, there is an onsite convenience store offering all of the necessities for a fishing trip, such as ice, snacks, cold drinks, to-go meals, and so on. After you return from a long day out on the water, unwind with beer and cocktails at the Marina Variety Store Restaurant, which is conveniently located right next door to the marina. 

3. St. Johns Yacht Harbor

Situated on the Stono River in Charleston, St. Johns Yacht Harbor boasts a prime location coupled with unparalleled amenities. With both wet slips and over-water lift slips, St. Johns offers both long-term and transient rentals — accommodating yachts up to 130’ in length. Each slip provides fresh water, electric power, dock boxes, and cable TV for your convenience. The marina also has plans to expand to accommodate another 200 slips in the future. 

In addition to dockage, St. Johns Yacht Harbor offers everything you need for a relaxing trip. A fully-stocked harbor store, luxurious showers, and laundry facilities make it the perfect place to layover during a long journey. Members also enjoy relaxing and taking in the scenic views under a cabana by the luxurious saltwater swimming pool. 

Image Credit: Charleston Harbor Marina

4. Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina

Charleston Harbor Marina is conveniently located on the banks of the Cooper River — nestled between Shem Creek and the USS Yorktown. With 459 slips and additional boat lifts, it is one of the largest South Carolina marinas. Each slip ranges in size from 33 to 66 feet, and with over 17,000 linear feet of floating dock, it’s able to accommodate a large range of vessels up to 120 feet in length.

Onsite amenities include complimentary wifi, a luxury pool, and a Water Taxi to historic downtown Charleston. Following a day out on the water or exploring the city, enjoy a meal at their newly built restaurant, Charleston Harbor Fish House. 

Since this marina doubles as a resort, they even have amenities geared toward kids. In fact, the resort offers a Mini Mariners camp where children engage in team sports, create crafts, play games, and more! Additionally, sailing camps led by the College of Charleston Sailing Association are offered to teach your children the fundamentals of the sport. 

Spending Your Days on the Water of Kiawah Island

Is the ocean calling your name? Here on Kiawah Island, residents spend their days surrounded by the sea and exploring its depths. From watching dolphins play in the wake of the boat to feeling the salty breeze in the air, residents feel at home on the water. Whether you prefer sport fishing or relaxing on the beach, there is something for you on Kiawah Island. 

If you dream of waking up to ocean views, browse our waterfront homes by clicking the button below.