Living in Charleston means constantly discovering something new, and awesome, about the city—even on James Island. Although James Island isn’t large, there are still nooks and crannies that I’ve yet to discover…even after seven years of living in the area! Take, for example, this weekend’s adventure to Sunrise Park.
I’d always heard about Sunrise Park but I had never had the chance to visit. Fortunately that’s what Sunday afternoons are for—a long, leisurely brunch at the Brickhouse Kitchen (more on that later!) followed by a nice drive to the park.
There’s more than one method to get to Sunrise Park, as our carload of friends discovered. On the way there, we turned by the Little Cricket convenience store, winded our way down a bunch of questionable dirt roads, and finally made it to our destination.
“There’s got to be an easier way,” we said to each other.
On the way back, we discovered that there is an all-paved route to the park. Still, the dirt roads were fun—it kind of made us feel adventurous!
The actual park was a quiet (and hot, since it was the middle of the day in the summer) paradise. It had everything you’d expect from a park—sturdy picnic tables, benches, piers that led visitors out over the harbor, plus fantastic views of the city and the bridges. But what made this park extra special was the miniature beach, where the Charleston harbor met with the island.
I immediately got excited, realizing that this little beach is perfect for tons of things—catching rays, taking pictures, dining al fresco, and of course, wading! I was wearing pants, but I rolled them up and walked right into the water. Around me, the few people who were also enjoying the park did the same. There weren’t many folks there, and the ones I saw were quietly sunbathing or fishing. It wasn’t nearly as obnoxious or crowded as the beach! Plus you can bring your pets too—just remember a leash.
Venture to Sunrise Park for yourself and enjoy the view. Just head down Fort Johnson Road in James Island, turn left onto Wildwood Road, and then left again onto Wampler Drive. (This is the paved route!)
Yes you are correct its a locals places to enjoy without tourist.
Don’t forget to watch out for sharks! Sunrise park has a ton of little baby sharks swimming around. Probably too little to hurt you but still scary!