Originlly Written by Angie Schnell on 8/23/2019
Edited and Posted by Jessie Jacob on 8/31/2022
With Labor Day on the horizon, we want to highlight some of the awesome things to do that weekend in Charleston! From relaxing at the beach to booking a sunset cruise on the Charleston Harbor, you are in for an exciting and fun retreat during your vacation.
For the ultimate vacation experience, contact our Concierge and Guest Experience Coordinator. With our personal recommendations and local expertise we will make sure your vacation to the Lowcountry will be a memorable one!
Whether you are looking to hang out on Isle of Palms or Sullivan's Island, a day on the beach might be just what you need to relax and unwind. Soak up the sun and spend the day with your friends and family before the fall season begins.
Check out our full list of recommended vendors that can help provide equipment and services for an even more exciting experience on the island. A few beach-based vendors to note are:
- IOP Beach Chair Rentals - Free delivery and set up of beach chair, umbrella and bike rentals. Accessories, beach carts, boogie boards and more are available for rent and delivered free of charge to your rental property. Remove the stress of your beach day – simply arrive and have fun!
- Tidal Wave Water Sports - One-stop shop for wave runner tours, parasailing, wakeboarding, charters and boat rentals. If you're looking for some excitement and a break from sitting on the beach, Tidal Wave is perfect for you!
- Charleston Baby's Away - Delivers your beach games, water sports and beach gear rental needs to your vacation destination prior to arrival. The overall goal is to make sure your beach vacation is as relaxing and fun as possible!
There are so many fun activities, things to do, and places to see in the Lowcountry! Whether you are in the mood to shop from local artisans, listen to incredible live music, explore the city's history, or watch the action of a soccer match: Charleston has it all.
Farmer's Market — Every Saturday, from 8 am - 2 pm in Marion Square, you will find the Charleston Farmers Market full of fresh local produce, colorful artisan creations, and talented local musicians. This is one of the best outdoor events in Charleston and is loved by both locals and visitors.
Lowcountry Jazz Festival — This Labor Day Weekend, come swing and dance at Gaillard Center as South Carolina's premiere smooth Jazz event returns to the Lowcountry. This festival will feature a stellar lineup of musicians, including GRAMMY award winning artists, all weekend long!
DEPARTURE at The Windjammer — Enjoy some music at Isle of Palms' favorite music venue – The Windjammer. DEPARTURE is the most respected Journey tribute band in the nation and will be taking the stage Sunday, September 4th. DEPARTURE plays all the hit songs that everyone knows and loves. They perform for 2 hours straight without taking a break to give their audience the true concert experience, making this a show you won't want to miss!
Charleston Battery vs New York Red Bulls II — On Saturday, Sept. 3, head on over to Patriot's Point in Mount Pleasant to watch as Charleston's soccer team, the Charleston Battery, take on the New York Red Bulls II! This will be an intense match to watch so go ahead and buy your tickets online.
Walking Tours — The stunning antebellum architecture of Downtown Charleston is full of nearly three and a half centuries worth of stories. What better way to learn about those important stories than to walk the same streets those people walked? One of the best things to do during your visit is to take advantage of the incredible variety of walking tours offered everyday Downtown. Below are some of the top recommended tours by recent visitors.
Bulldog Tours, Voted Charleston's "Best Tour Company" for 8 consecutive years
Charleston Footprints, #1 Attraction in Charleston on Trip Advisor
For more information on upcoming events in the Lowcountry, browse through our calendar of events.
Charleston and its surrounding islands are known for their renowned culinary talent. Make sure you gear up your taste buds and try a new restaurant during your vacation. Who knows, it may just become one of your new local favorites. Whether you are in the mood for BBQ, seafood, or Italian - the Lowcountry has an unlimited amount of restaurant options that will hit the spot!
Try some of our favorite places to dine:
Isle of Palms
Cuisine: Southern Seafood
Description: Upscale traditional coastal cuisine made from fresh locally sourced ingredients and served in a relaxing beach atmosphere.
Local Tip: ACME Cantina works hard to follow sustainable seafood practices.
Cuisine: Seafood Bistro
Description: This quaint bistro is a staple of the local Isle of Palms community. The friendly staff has been serving IOP since 1986.
Local Tip: Ask your server about their specials that are not on the menu.
Cuisine: American
A relaxing escape from the hustle of Charleston. This family restaurant services fresh local food all day long.
Local Tip: Check out the live music!
Sullivan's Island
Cuisine: Southern BBQ
Description: Award-winning BBQ restaurant with a family friendly atmosphere, live music, and delicious food.
Local Tip: Tuesday is Trivia Night.
Cuisine: American
Description: Relaxed local pub with an Edgar Allan Poe décor theme.
Local Tip: Edgar Allan Poe was stationed at Ft. Moultrie from 1827-1828.
Cuisine: Mexican
Description: Coastal Mexican restaurant with a diverse menu and signature margaritas with 100% agave tequila and fresh squeezed juices.
Local Tip: They have Mt. Pleasant and West Ashley locations as well.
Mount Pleasant
Cuisine: Seafood
Description: A creative take on the classic Southern dishes and coastal surf n turf made with fresh locally sourced seafood.
Local Tip: The Owner is the former Executive Chef of Acme Lowcountry Kitchen on Isle of Palms.
Cuisine: Bar and Restaurant
Description: A local favorite that allows you enjoy great food, cocktails, and live music with your furry friend.
Local Tip: Dog and family-friendly restaurant.
Cuisine: Coffee Shop
Description: Charming local café that serves espresso, breakfast foods, sandwiches, and pizza.
Local Tip: They have a large backyard and playground for children to play.
Charleston
Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar
Cuisine: Seafood
Description: Waterfront Southern seafood restaurant with beautiful outdoor patio.
Local Tip: Make a reservation ahead of time.
Cuisine: American
Description: Exceptional and innovative technique driven cuisine sourced from locally grown ingredients.
Local Tip: The menu changes weekly depending on what they are able to acquire from local farms.
Cuisine: Southern
Description: Experience the historic charm of enjoying traditional Southern food in a Victorian Style townhouse located in the middle of downtown.
Local Tip: Poogan's Porch is named after a neighborhood dog who watched after the restaurant as it was being renovated in 1976.
800.707.6421