Blog updated by: Tracy S.
Tracy writes for East Islands Rentals, sharing vacation planning tips, travel insights, local things to do, and property highlights to help guests make the most of their time in the Lowcountry.
With panoramic views of the Charleston Harbor and Arthur Ravenel, Jr. Bridge, the Memorial Waterfront Park in Mount Pleasant, SC, is more than just your average park. Featuring one of the area’s best fishing piers, scenic walking paths, a nautical-themed playground, a splash pad, year-long events, and more, this scenic spot has something for everyone! Discover all the ways you can experience the Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park below. After all, it is just a short drive from your vacation rental on the Isle of Palms!
There are so many fabulous attractions in the area. Be sure to take a look at our free Destination Guide for recommendations on the top restaurants, outdoor activities, sites to see, shopping, and more! We can help you build the perfect vacation itinerary!
What to Do at the Memorial Waterfront Park in Mount Pleasant
Go Fishing on the Mount Pleasant Pier
Stretching 1,250 feet into the Charleston Harbor, the Mount Pleasant Pier offers one of the best fishing and crabbing spots in the area. There is also an 8,100-square-foot covered pavilion that hosts special events throughout the year. Feel free to bring your own rods and gear, or you can rent rods and purchase bait at the pier. A valid daily fishing pass must be purchased from the Riverwatch Café and should be visible at all times while fishing. Daily fishing fees are $7 for adults and $4 for active military, seniors (60+), children (12 & under), and per person for groups of 10 or more.
Pier Hours:
January-March: 7:00 am-10:00 pm
April-September: 6:00 am-10:00 pm
October-December: 7:00 am-10:00 pm
The pier is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Note: There is also a public dock on the Isle of Palms for you to enjoy!
Enjoy a Date
With sweeping views of the water and that distinctive and delightful breeze, the Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park provides the perfect setting for a romantic date. Stroll along the scenic paths surrounded by swaying palm trees or relax on one of the pier’s bench swings as you watch boats pass by in the Harbor. If you visit the park during dusk, you’ll likely catch one of the most magnificent Charleston sunsets!
Attend a Fun Event
The pier offers a variety of fun events throughout the year, ranging from fishing tournaments to live music concerts. You can also enjoy happenings such as Sunrise Yoga, Starlight Yoga, and Dancing on the Cooper. Visit the pier website to learn about all upcoming events! You’ll find plenty of parking in the lot across from the park, but during big events, the lot can get busy. We recommend arriving early!
Basketball & Pickleball
The park now features two brand-new basketball courts, four pickleball courts, and an exercise area. This is a fantastic way to practice your skills or try something new! Challenge your family to an epic pickleball or basketball tournament.
Grab a Bite at River Watch Café
The River Watch Café offers a tasty selection of sandwiches, ice cream, smoothies, drinks, and several breakfast items. Whether you are grabbing a coffee and a bagel to fuel your morning fishing adventure or picking up a selection of sandwiches for a picnic, you are sure to find something for everyone to enjoy.
Splash Pad & Park
Shaded by the Ravenel Bridge, the park playground is the perfect spot to bring the kids. They will love the brand-new Mount Pleasant Splash Pad, perfect for cooling off on a hot day or making new friends. You’ll also find plenty of grassy space to relax or run around. Restrooms are located nearby for your convenience. For a special treat, stop by the River Watch Café for some soft-serve ice cream with sprinkles!
This is just one of the many amazing things to do with children in the Charleston area.
Browse the Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Pavilion
This cultural arts exhibit offers guests a glimpse into the history of Lowcountry sweetgrass basket-making and its rich local heritage. Here, basket makers display and demonstrate their craft. You will find informational kiosks, a documentary screening area, and more. Baskets are also for sale at the Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Pavilion. Add some history and culture to your visit to the waterfront park in Mount Pleasant.
Note: This is a stop along the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor.
Book Your Stay with East Islands Rentals
Offering the best luxury vacation rentals on the Isle of Palms, East Islands Rentals is the perfect place to stay during your vacation. With convenient access to the top area attractions, including Mount Pleasant’s Memorial Waterfront Park, restaurants, and shopping, your East Islands stay will surely be fun and relaxing!
Although you can’t go wrong with any of our vacation rentals, The Surf Shack is one of our favorites. This fabulous property features a private pool, a hot tub, a pool house, easy access to the beach, and 4 spacious bedrooms. Comfortably sleeping 10 guests, this home is perfect for a family beach vacation!
Browse all of our beach house rentals and book your stay today! We can’t wait to hear all about your Lowcountry adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q) Where is Memorial Waterfront Park located?
A) 99 Harry M. Hallman Jr Blvd, Mt Pleasant, SC
Q) How far is it from the Isle of Palms to Mount Pleasant?
A) It is approximately 10 miles and a 22-minute drive from IOP to the park.
Q) Is the park pet-friendly?
A) Yes. However, pets are not permitted on the pier.