Join Captain Bryan for a fascinating 1.5-hour walk through Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant. Spot wildlife, learn about local shrimp processing, and enjoy a unique slice of Charleston’s coastal heritage.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves steady walking on flat terrain at a relaxed pace.
Wildlife
History
Shem Creek has been a center of shrimping and oyster harvesting since the 19th century, vital to the Lowcountry’s economy and culture.
Conservation
Efforts in the area focus on protecting water quality and habitat for marine life, ensuring the shrimping industry remains sustainable.
Charleston Historic Tours
Join Captain Bryan for a fascinating 1.5-hour walk through Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant. Spot wildlife, learn about local shrimp processing, and enjoy a unique slice of Charleston’s coastal heritage.
Charleston Historic Tours is a locally operated tour company based in Charleston, South Carolina. The company offers a variety of guided and self-guided experiences that explore the city's maritime, colonial, and cultural history. Tours include a private Two Hour Harbor Boat Tour aboard a 22-foot bay boat with Captain Bryan; walking experiences such as the Shem Creek Shrimp Historic Walking Tour, the Women and Wine Tour, and the History and Hops: Bar and History Walk led by Captain Bryan or Guide Adam Moore; themed scavenger hunts including the Pirate Escape Scavenger Hunt and the self-guided Patriot Escape Scavenger Hunt; and the Walled City Spirits Ghost Tour led by lifelong local Gia.
Guides draw on local knowledge to highlight landmarks like Fort Sumter, The Battery, and historic waterways, and point out native wildlife including dolphins and manatees when visible. Tours blend storytelling, historical context, and small-group engagement. The Harbor Boat Tour is private and focuses on naval and Civil War history as well as harbor ecology. Walking tours combine neighborhood history with visits to bars, shrimp processing insights, and recommendations for local food. Scavenger hunts provide immersive, puzzle-driven exploration appropriate for families and history enthusiasts.
Charleston Historic Tours emphasizes authenticity and local perspective. Tours feature named guides and clear itineraries, and some include small snacks or complimentary appetizers as stated. Visitors can choose guided or self-guided formats depending on the experience. The company’s offerings are suited for visitors seeking history, wildlife viewing, or unique experiential outings in Charleston and local culture.
Location
Charleston, SC
Historic downtown and harbor
Tours Offered
7 tours
Boat, walking, scavenger hunts, ghost
Private Boat
22-foot bay boat
Two-hour private harbor tour
Local Guides
Captain Bryan, Gia, Adam
Lifelong locals and storytellers
Reserve private harbor tours, walking tours, scavenger hunts, or ghost walks led by experienced local guides.
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
The tour involves about 1.5 hours on foot along paved and boardwalk paths, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are recommended.
Bring Sun Protection
The route is exposed in areas with limited shade, so sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses will help keep you comfortable.
Keep a Respectful Distance from Wildlife
While dolphins, manatees, and crabs are common sights, maintaining a respectful distance ensures a safe and enjoyable encounter for all.
Arrive Early for Parking
Shem Creek can get busy on weekends; arriving early helps secure convenient parking and a smooth start to your tour.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Provides support for walking paved and wooden surfaces comfortably throughout the tour.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from UV rays, especially during exposed parts of the tour.
spring
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important in the warm, humid climate typical of South Carolina summers.
summer
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Helps keep you warm against breezes along the creek during cooler fall and winter months.
fall