Boating on James Island, SC: Neighborhoods with the Best Water Access

Posted by Lee and Katherine Keadle on Friday, June 7th, 2013 at 2:56pm.


james island boating community

James Island is one of the best areas of Charleston for boaters to live because of the many creeks and rivers that surround the island – not to mention the Charleston Harbor which borders the northeast section of the island. So which James Island neighborhoods offer a boat ramp and dock? Riverland Terrace and Seaside Plantation are two of the most popular communities on James Island for boaters. Having a boat ramp in your neighborhood makes taking your boat out on the water much less of a hassle. You generally don’t have to wait in line for others to put their boat in, and more importantly, you don’t have to wait to take your boat out of the water after a long, glorious day in the sun. A boat ramp in your neighborhood may make the difference as to whether you actually use your boat or not.

Riverland Terrace is an older, established neighborhood with gorgeous oak trees lining most of the streets. It is set up as a lot and block community, as opposed to a subdivision with one way in and out. Riverland Terrace’s home pricing runs from about $200K to $1 million, and these have various floor plans from 2 to 5 bedrooms. Homes in Riverland Terrace date back to the early 1930’s, and there are still a few lots left to build on. Some of the homes back up to Charleston’s municipal golf course. There are no HOA dues for this neighborhood. Homeowners enjoy riding their bikes or walking to dinner at local restaurants, such as the Mustard Seed, Zia, and Athens. The Terrace Theatre and boutique shops are also within a convenient walk to Riverland Terrace. On Sundays, this community is the site for the James Island Farmer’s Market featuring local produce and arts and crafts. More on Riverland Terrace on James Island

Seaside Plantation is a popular James Island community with a boat ramp and dock. Builders in Seaside began in the mid 1990’s and are still building today. However, there are few individual lots left. Most Seaside Plantation homes for sale range in price from the mid $200’s to about $600K depending on which subsection you choose: Egret’s Point, Planter’s Trace, Majestic Oaks, Pemberton, and Seaside Estates. The HOA dues range from $400 to $575 depending on which subsection you live in. Dues include the maintenance of common grounds and the boat ramp and dock usage. Seaside Plantation is only 5 minutes to Folly Beach by car (or you can bike, which takes about 20 minutes).

If you are looking for a home in a community with easy boating access in Charleston, James Island will be a great area to start your search. Riverland Terrace is a wonderful charming community if you are looking for an older home within a walking distance to restaurants and shops. If you’re looking for a newer home that’s close to the beach, Seaside Plantation is certainly worth a drive through.

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