Inside: A local mom shares her family’s favorite things to do at Daniel Island in Charleston, SC. With lots of visits under their belt, she has lots of information about this free and super fun system of trails, parks, and water views.
Looking for a perfect day outdoors with your crew? Daniel Island is your go-to destination for sun-soaked fun, scenic bike trails, and an abundance of parks that promise hours of entertainment for all ages. At Kidding Around, we’re all about finding those special spots where family memories are made—and this Lowcountry gem checks every box. So grab your helmets, pack some snacks, and let’s hit the trails on one of our favorite Charleston adventures!
Quick Summary: Daniel Island
Here’s why you’ll love it too:
✅ 17+ miles of scenic trails
✅ Kid-approved playgrounds (including a zip line!)
✅ Wildlife spotting + water views
✅ Splash pads & picnic spots
✅ Coffee, ice cream & pizza nearby 🍕🍦
Start your day at the Daniel Island Community Center—bathrooms, maps, and even a zip line playground right outside. Then hit the trails to Waterfront Park or explore parks like The Treehouse, Center Park & Codners Ferry.
🎒 Don’t forget: bikes, snacks, water bottles, and sunscreen!
Biking Daniel Island
If you are looking for a fun outdoor activity, check out Daniel Island. The Island is loaded with over 17 miles of trails and so many parks, your whole family can find tons to do! One of our favorite activities is to load up our bikes and head to the trails at Daniel Island. We start at the community center, park, and hit the trails.
Start at the Recreation Center — Your Trailhead Hub
160 Fairbanks Drive, Daniel Island Trail, Charleston
At the Daniel Island Recreation Center you’ll find everything you need to kick off a great day. This is a convenient place to park, plus the community center has bathrooms and employees at the front desk
that can help with questions about everything from local events to class schedules and toddler times.
Right next door to the community center is the zip line playground, and it’s a must for younger kids. This well-loved spot features:
- A kid-sized zip line
- Baby swings and a saucer swing
- A charming boat structure perfect for imaginative play
It’s a great place to get the wiggles out before hopping on bikes.
🚴 On the Trails: Wildlife, Tennis & Scenic Views
Once done, hit the trails! We love biking towards Waterfront Park. On the trails you will pass the backside of Credit One tennis stadium where you can see some games and practices taking place at LTP.
Keep your eyes peeled (and cameras ready) for local wildlife! These trails are known for:
- Majestic Ospreys and elegant Herons
- Gator sightings
- Shaded paths and water views that are truly serene
Almost every time we have been on these trails we have seen alligators, so be alert!
Bonus: The trails are dog-friendly with watering stations, so your furry family members can join the fun too!
🌊 Waterfront Park: Play, Splash, & Snack
Biking towards the Waterfront park has a major benefit, with yet another playground and scenic views. It also has The Dime Cafe. We love grabbing a salad, pizza, and a beer for picnic here, while we let the kids play in the splash pad and playground.
The Dime also offers coffees, frose and ice cream, if you want a lighter fare. There are also public bathrooms near The Dime so it’s a great spot while exploring the trails. If we are making it a short day, we hit the same trail and head back to the car from here, however there’s so much more to check out!
🌳 More Parks Along the Loop: Treehouse, Center, Etiwan & Codners Ferry
If your crew is still up for more exploring, keep pedaling! Each park on the trail has something special .
- The Treehouse: exactly that, a beautiful treehouse-style hut right on the water. Here, your kids can watch the boats go by on the top “observation roof deck”.
- Center Park: Next on the trail, this park has two playgrounds. One area is toddler age appropriate train park and the second is a climbing dome for older kids.
- Etiwan Park: Located across from Bishop England school, the plaground is great for a variety of ages and it has public bathrooms, which is necessary when riding these long trails.
- Codner’s Ferry: The last park on the trail looping back to the community center is Codner’s Ferry. You can play on the playground and swing by Baskin-Robbins for a treat before heading back to the car after a full day!
Know Before You Go: Daniel Island
- Best for: Biking families, toddlers through tweens, dog owners
- Trail length: 17+ miles total—choose your own adventure!
- Restroom availability: Community Center, Etiwan Park, Waterfront Park
- Food & Drink: The Dime Café, Baskin Robbins
- Safety tip: Be alert on the trails—wildlife, especially alligators, are often visible in the marshes
Why We Love Daniel Island
Daniel Island isn’t just a place to ride—it’s a full-on family experience. Between the well-maintained trails, water views, wildlife, and an impressive lineup of parks, you’ll find something for everyone in your crew. Whether you’re planning a half-day adventure or a full-day excursion, this island delivers on fun, flexibility, and fresh air.
Happy exploring—and don’t forget your sunscreen and water bottles! 🌞
