Staying Active During Retirement in Charleston, SC
There are plenty of fun ways for older adults to remain active in their retirement in and around Charleston, SC. With coastal Carolina becoming a favorite retirement destination, more opportunities for older adults to maintain an active lifestyle continue to expand. Below are the top 7 activities for older adults to stay fit, active, and social in the Greater Charleston area.
Charleston, SC, is an active and thriving retirement destination for older adults. Retirees enjoy the Lowcountry because of the charming, southern feel, and quiet small towns just outside of the city. Seniors keen on less hustle and bustle prefer to retire in the surrounding small towns such as Mt. Pleasant and Daniel Island. If you’re considering retiring in Charleston, check out the ultimate retirement guide to get more information on taxes, climate, and senior living communities.
Walking Trails
Running and walking are proven to increase your heart health and keep your body happy. For runners, walkers, or bikers, Mt. Pleasant offers various trails and parks that are suitable for all fitness levels. Here are some of the best trails around the Charleston area:
Daniel Island Trail System
Daniel Island was developed with fitness in mind. The island’s trail system offers a unique experience for walkers, runners, and cyclists. You’ll find 25 miles of trails on 13 different loops. You’ll end up walking past some incredible wildlife and impressive views of the Wando River. Daniel Island Trails are great for all activity levels. Read more about the Daniel Island Trail System.
Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
Opened in 2005, the Arthur J. Ravenel Jr. Bridge is a renowned landmark in coastal South Carolina. Connecting Mt. Pleasant to Charleston over the Cooper River, this 2.5-mile bridge offers an excellent workout with a fantastic view of the harbor. You can even participate in the annual Bridge Run.
Shem Creek Park
Shem Creek Park features a boardwalk, fishing dock, and even a few top-rated restaurants. Enjoy a relaxing view of the marsh and get some exercise in. Many residents of Mt. Pleasant like to run or walk in this area and watch the sunset here.
Golfing in Charleston
Golf is an excellent way for seniors to stay active physically and mentally because it gets your body moving and stimulates your critical thinking skills. Charleston is home to some of the top golf courses in the Southeast. There are various courses for all skill levels, so whether you’re an expert or want to try something new, you are guaranteed to find a place to play.
Daniel Island Club
The Daniel Island Club is a private, membership-only golf course and social club. However, you can enjoy peaceful golf days, invite friends, and even participate in golf lessons when you become a member of the Daniel Island Club.
Charleston National Golf Club
The Charleston National Golf Club is located in the heart of Mt. Pleasant. It is a Rees Jones designed championship golf course, open to the public, year round. If you’re looking for a great place to hit the links, this place is for you. Click the link to learn more about the Charleston National Golf Club.
Rivertowne Country Club
Situated among the scenic marshland along the Wando River, this course is excellent for all skill levels beginners and experts. Rivertowne Country Club features an 18-hole Arnold Palmer Signature course with exceptional year-round playing conditions and has hosted many LPGA tournaments.
Tennis and Pickleball in Charleston
Seniors are embracing pickleball for its simple rules, low impact on the knees and joints, and carefree fun. Some older adults choose to play tennis as a more competitive form of exercise. Luckily, Mt. Pleasant has various courts and teams to play both pickleball and tennis.
Daniel Island Club
Another perk of becoming a member of the Daniel Island Club is access to the pickleball and tennis courts. Daniel Island Club offers private lessons for beginners and leagues for competitive play.
Mt. Pleasant Senior Center
You can play pickleball with other seniors at the Mt. Pleasant Senior Center for a low price. Not only are you getting exercise in, but you’re making friends along the way. The Mt. Pleasant senior centers offer tennis clinics and private lessons for new pickleball players, you can even join a team and have a little friendly competition.
Mt. Pleasant Tennis Complex
If you’re looking for a place to play with friends for a carefree game of tennis or pickleball, you’ll have to try out the Mt. Pleasant Tennis Complex. This complex is free and open to the public from 9am to 9pm.
Water Activities in Charleston
The best part about retiring in a coastal town is the endless water activities available in your backyard. From fishing to kayaking, there are water activities for all activity levels and interests.
Fishing
Before you start fishing in South Carolina, all residents and non-residents must acquire a fishing license. Luckily, purchasing a fishing license is an easy process. For more information, check out the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website.
Memorial Waterfront Park Fishing Pier
This 1,250-foot long pier in Mt. Pleasant is also a popular public fishing spot. Many fishers favor this spot as it’s easy to snag a spotted sea trout, flounder, and red drum. If you’re not committed to purchasing a fishing license, you can buy a daily pass on the pier. Rod rentals and tackle sales are also available.
Fishing Charters
The Mt. Pleasant area has over ten fishing charters to choose from. This gives retirees the option to participate in inshore fishing or deep-sea fishing. Fishing charters are an excellent option for new anglers or tourists because they typically provide fishing gear and licensing.
Kayaking/Paddleboarding
Shem Creek Park
Kayaking in Shem Creek is a relaxing and fun activity for many older adults. Shem Creek Park has a public boat launch where you can drift your kayak into calm waters and enjoy a day on the water. Rental kayaks are available around the area as well.
Coastal Expeditions
Consider trying out a rental or guided trip company if you’re new to paddling. Coastal Expeditions offers a variety of kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding trips for all ages and skill levels.
Senior Fitness in Charleston
Mt. Pleasant Senior Center
Specialized senior fitness classes are one the best ways to keep active and make new friends. You’ll find a multitude of fitness classes made for retirees in the Charleston area. Residents can find Zumba, Barre, and other low-impact workout classes at the Mt. Pleasant Senior Center and local gyms.
Wellmore of Daniel Island
Wellmore focuses on helping their residents live a longer, healthier, happier life. The community offers a bustling calendar of wellness classes overseen by a professional Wellness Director including Balance at the Barre, Functional Pilates, Golf Conditioning, Rhythm and Movement, Strength and Conditioning, Swimming, Wellness Lectures, and much more.
Senior Social Groups
Not only is it important for seniors to stay physically active, it’s equally important to remain active in their social life. Luckily, Charleston has a thriving population of friendly seniors looking for new friends and adventures. Get connected with other seniors and pick up a new hobby while you are at it.
Lowcountry Senior Center
Located on James Island is one of Charleston’s top senior centers. You’ll find a variety of events for you and your friends to attend. From golf meet-ups to book clubs, there is a social event for all interests. Enjoy the nearby walking trails and outdoor fitness stations during your time at the Lowcountry Senior Center.
Mt. Pleasant Senior Center
In the heart of Mt. Pleasant is the Mt. Pleasant Senior Center. As mentioned above, the Mt. Pleasant Senior Center has many offerings when it comes to physical health but don’t forget to take advantage of their social programs! Participate in coffee talks and health and wellness sessions all in one place. Members can even take affordable local and out-of-town trips with friends!
Wellmore of Daniel Island
Right in the middle of Charleston and Mt. Pleasant is Wellmore of Daniel Island. Wellmore has an endless amount of social activities specialized for seniors. Members have organized outings to the beach, in-house movie nights, and live performances and entertainment in the comfort of their community.
Wellmore is an upscale senior living community in close proximity to both Charleston and Mt. Pleasant. Offering Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing, and Senior Rehabilitation. In addition to an array of wellness classes, the community gives Members the opportunity to enjoy unique dining experiences, and social activities each day. Staying active is one of the most important parts of aging, Wellmore of Daniel Island makes it easy.
