Since 2013, we’ve been lucky to call Charleston home. Surrounded by water, this lively little city offers world-class fishing, “pinch-me” views, and incredible cuisine. In fact, our headquarters sits within walking distance of far too many restaurants likely to induce a food coma, caused by fried chicken, oysters, and of course, barbecue. From the music scene and old-world architecture, to the beach-town vibes at Sullivan’s Island—there’s something for everyone. Below, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite local haunts to (hopefully) charm your socks off next time you’re in town.
1. Tailing Redfish
Get to know Charleston the Free Fly way—cruise out to an empty flat in search of tailing redfish on the fly.
Local Tip: Need a guide? Try our buddy, Captain Johnny Crislip, with Tighten Up Fishing.
2. Load Up on Seafood
If you're not cooking your own local catch, try one of these tasty seafood spots:
Chubby Fish
Local Tip: They don’t take reservations, so show up and put your name in extra early (like, two hours before you want to eat). Walk around, go to happy hour… it’s worth it.
Leon’s
Local Tip: Load up on raw and fried oysters. We know it’s not seafood, but the fried chicken is also *chef’s kiss*
167 Raw
Local Tip: Splurge on the Lobster Roll, it's worth every bite.
Sullivan's Fish Camp
Local Tip: Order the truffle parmesan fried shrimp app as a meal, and get some brussels on the side.
Tarvin's Seafood
Local Tip: If you’re looking to try your hand at a Lowcountry boil, hit up Tarvin's Seafood for fresh off-the-boat goodies. Follow @misspaulashrimp to get the latest on what they’ve got in stock that day.
3. Hangout on Sullivan's Island
Life seems to move a little slower here. Enjoy a beach walk, grab a bite on Middle Street, and learn about the area’s rich folklore heritage.
Local Tip: Stop by Home Team BBQ for a frosty “Game Changer” before you head down to the beach. A Free Fly staff favorite. If you’re here to really indulge, Obstinate Daughter is a must. Start upstairs then for dessert, head down to Beard Cats Sweet Shop.
4. Run Around Town
Charleston is super flat. Which makes it easy to lace up for an exploratory run. Run along the water and hit the Battery and Rainbow Row. Or run a few loops at Hampton Park for impressive floral action.
Local Tip: If you’re craving views, you can park at the old Cigar Factory (and grab a bite afterwards) to run across the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. This is not flat.
5. Stock Up at Sewee Outpost
A true Lowcountry experience, located down Highway 17, just north of Mount Pleasant, Sewee Outpost is a must visit. Offering homemade southern foods, a full retail store stocked full of hunting and fishing supplies, and outdoor apparel—Sewee Outpost has something for everyone.
Local Tip: Stock up on Arthur's cheddar biscuits and key lime pie and check out what other local goods they're selling.
6. Jam Out at Riverfront Park or Awendaw Green
Riverfront Park is an awesome outdoor venue on the water, where you can post up on the grass, kick off your flip flops, and get funky to live music. Bonus points for an epic kids playground. Awendaw Green is another solid venue, with a Live Under the Oaks concert series on Thursdays.
Local Tip: Check out this concert schedule to find favorite artists, like Beck and Wilco.
7. Happy Hour on Shem Creek
Kick back, enjoy the view of the harbor, watch the shrimp boats come in, and have a sunset cocktail on Shem Creek. One of our favorite bars is Saltwater Cowboys, which never disappoints in the drink or food department.
Local Tip: Keep an eye out for bottlenose dolphins cruising through the creek, as their playful personality makes them one of our favorite members of the Lowcountry animal kingdom.
8. Visit Folly Beach
From beautiful sunrises to sunsets, to local beach bars, and arguably the best waves in town, Folly is a true local Charleston experience. It's super laid back, packed full with authentic beach shacks, and the vibes are as chill as the ice cold mixed drinks.
Local Tip(s):
- If you like beer and dogs (wait...who doesn't?) then you have to hit up The Barrel.
- Hit up Jack of Cups Saloon—chef-led Indian fusion spot that's absolutely dynamite.
- On the way to the island on Folly Rd. stop by Gillie’s Seafood, an awesome Southern seafood joint with amazing purloo and fried porkchops.
9. Sunday Brunch Farmer's Market
Check out Sunday Brunch Farmer's Market at The Pour House. This market is full of great vendors, food trucks, is 100% local, and of course has awesome live music.
Exploring our own Lowcountry backyard in Charleston? We'd love to see! Tag @freeflyapparel or hashtag #livefreefly on Instagram.
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