There’s something about the ocean and its creatures that is truly enchanting. Maybe it’s the allure of the unknown, or perhaps it’s the vast variety of shapes, sizes, and colors that navigate their way through channels around the world. One thing is for sure — the South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston is home to exhibits that wow both kids and adults of all ages. Located in downtown Charleston, just 30-minutes away from your East Islands Vacation Rental on Isle of Palms, the South Carolina Aquarium is an easy walk from some of the Holy City’s top attractions. If you want to explore the area, request access to our Free Vacation Guide! It’s full of local tips and trip ideas for the perfect beach experience!
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What to Do at the Charleston, South Carolina Aquarium
Exhibits
The South Carolina Aquarium hosts over 5,000 animals in 12 astoundingly beautiful and educational displays. The 15,000-gallon Carolina Seas tank greets you inside the front entrance, featuring a selection of fish found off the Carolina coast. You can check out a Bald Eagle in the Mountain Forest exhibit, where you can also watch some cute and cuddly river otters frolic in a stream and creek themed area. Learn about the critters inhabiting the woods and rivers of central South Carolina in the Piedmont exhibit. The Touch Tank and the Shallows give kids the chance to touch and learn about horseshoe crabs, starfish, stingrays, and much more.
As you venture deeper into the aquarium, you’ll find alligators, snakes, and the 385,000-gallon Great Ocean Tank. This two-story tank houses sharks, rays, and the aquarium’s 220-pound loggerhead sea turtle. The Zucker Family Sea Turtle Recovery experience is the real highlight, making in-house sea turtle rehabilitation and rescue programs viewable to the public. You can learn more about the Sea Turtle Care Center on their website.
Daily Programs
The South Carolina Aquarium holds fun and interactive daily events that teach guests about various creatures and their habitats. Attend a turtle talk to hear about everything that goes into the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of a turtle. You can also watch a scuba diver show how they take care of the Great Ocean Tank. Check their seasonal calendar for up-to-date information on daily programs.
Parking Tips: There is a parking garage located at 24 Calhoun Street as well as metered parking on Washington Street and Conrad Street.
Stay with East Islands Rentals
After learning about the ocean and all of its inhabitants, step out of your East Islands Rentals vacation home and explore the real thing! Our accommodations include oceanfront rentals, private pools, and homes with elevators. We want your stay at Isle of Palms to be as comfortable as possible, and that’s why we offer unparalleled guest services. Whether you want your kitchen stocked when you arrive at your vacation rental or need babysitting services for a romantic date night, we provide an extensive list of list of guest services for an unforgettable beach experience.
Check our availability and don’t forget to download your free Isle of Palms Vacation Guide to start planning your dream beach trip today!