Chiropractic Care in Charleston, SC

Specialty outdoor retailer REI Co-op has announced plans to open its third South Carolina location.

The new store is expected to open in Mount Pleasant this fall, according to an REI news release. It will employ about 50 full- and part-time employees, a company representative told SC Biz News.

The company declined to reveal the cost of the project.

The 21,500-square-foot store, to be located 1720 Shoremeade Road in Indigo Square, will offer an assortment of apparel, gear and expertise for camping, cycling, running, fitness, hiking, paddling, climbing and more, the release stated.

The location will also feature a full-service bike shop that will be staffed by certified mechanics.

“We look forward to opening a third store in South Carolina and being a resource to REI members and the broader outdoor community in and around Mount Pleasant,” Jacki Harp, REI regional director, said in the release. “Our local team will also seek partnerships with outdoor nonprofits to support their efforts in protecting natural places and welcoming more people outside.”

REI, which is headquartered in Seattle, also has locations in Columbia (2300 Bull St.), which opened in 2020, and Greenville (1140 Woodruff Road, Suite 400), which opened in 2011.

REI was the first national retailer lured to the 181-acre, mixed-use BullStreet District development in 2019. Since its August 2020 opening, it has been joined by a Starbucks at the intersection of Bull and Freed streets, and several other commercial and residential real estate projects have sprung up around it.

Employment information is available online at rei.jobs.

REI, the nation’s largest consumer co-op, has more than 167,000 members in South Carolina, and more than 28,000 members in the region, according to the release.

Last year, the co-op invested $7.1 million in 45-plus nonprofits across the country, the release stated. Over the last five years, the co-op has invested nearly $184,000 in South Carolina-based land agencies and nonprofit partners. Recent recipients include Anne Springs Close Greenway, Conestee Foundation Inc., Friends of Harbison State Forest, Friends of Paris Mountain, Friends of Sesqui and Palmetto Conservation Foundation.

Also last year, the co-op launched the REI Cooperative Action Fund, a community-supported public charity. Black Girls RUN! Foundation chapters in Charleston, Columbia, Florence/Myrtle Beach and Greenville/Spartanburg received grants in the first round of funding.

There are plenty of good reasons to make the trip to Charleston, South Carolina: Historic homes make for colorful photo ops, the restaurant scene is fresh and inventive, and locally owned stores and boutiques make for unparalleled shopping. Some of the Holy City's greatest assets, though, aren't actually within the city limits. Pack the sunscreen and load the car because the scenic beaches near Charleston are a gem. You won't find ultra-crowded beaches, just a quiet spot to relax and soak up the sunshine. The smooth sand, cool water, and near-perfect weather will make you think you've found pure bliss. Here, find our guide to the sun-drenched beaches that are just a quick drive from the Charleston Peninsula. They're worth the detour.

1. Kiawah Island

While the 23-mile drive from the peninsula out to Kiawah Island takes about 40 minutes on a good day, the pristine stretch of sand at Kiawah's public Beachwalker Park is well worth it. It's quiet, especially for a public park, fronts the ocean, and also offers views of the Kiawah River. Beach chair and umbrella rentals are available seasonally, and dogs are welcome, as long as they're on a leash. Explore Kiawah Island's private beaches by renting a house or villa on the island or booking a stay at the Sanctuary, the island's luxurious oceanfront hotel.

2. Folly Beach

Just 12 miles from downtown, the "Edge of America" is the grooviest of Charleston's nearby beaches. It's a popular hangout for surfers, who frequent "The Washout," a stretch of coast known for having the area's best waves. Center Street, the bohemian beach town's colorful main thoroughfare, is lined with surf and souvenir shops and good eats, like Taco Boy and Rita's Seaside Grille, and is just steps away from Folly's 1,045-foot fishing pier.

3. Isle of Palms

The oceanfront county park on this barrier island has picnic tables, a sand volleyball court, and a playground for the littlest beach bums, making it a great place to take the whole family. Venture a little farther down the beach, beyond the park, to discover a number of fun beachfront bars and eateries, like family-friendly Coconut Joe's Beach Grill and The Windjammer, a classic dive bar and music venue that's as salty as they come. Paddle the intercoastal waterway from Isle of Palms where you may encounter dolphins and get up close to coves and marshes.

4. Seabrook Island

Though the island's nearly 4 miles of unspoiled beaches are private to residents and rental guests only (book your stay here), Seabrook is still worth a stop if you're already making the trip out to Kiawah's Beachwalker Park, which is just a few miles away. An Audubon International Cooperative Sanctuary, Seabrook is home to a variety of wildlife, including foxes, bobcats, deer, sea turtles, and bottlenose dolphins. Head to Bohicket Marina for a sunset stroll by the river, then plop down at an outdoor table at the Salty Dog Cafe for water views, East Coast peel-and-eat shrimp, and a cold beer or two.

5. Sullivan's Island

When it comes to old-school cottages, small town charm, and a spotless beach to boot, you won't find a dreamier destination than Sullivan's Island. While neighboring Isle of Palms has a lively resort feel, 3.3-square-mile Sullivan's tends to fly under the radar–and the locals like it that way. Be sure to stop by Poe's Tavern on Middle Street for a killer burger before you head back toward town. Flip-flops and salty hair are always welcome on the front porch.

6. Bulls Island

Accessible only by ferry, this barrier island is 45 minutes away from downtown Charleston and feels far away from the comforts of civilization. A good way to see the birds of this untouched island, and perhaps a playful dolphin if you're lucky, is on a guided paddling tour. Comb the beach for shells, walk Boneyard Beach where a forest is being recalled by the sea, or track foxes, bobcat, and deer.

7. Edisto Island

About 60 miles from Charleston, Edisto Beach's unspoiled coastline makes it worth the drive. Stay beachside for a dreamy vacation, or take a day trip from Charleston. One of four oceanfront state parks in South Carolina, palmetto-lined Edisto Beach State Park provides the picture-perfect backdrop for swimming, hunting for shells and sharks' teeth, fishing, or strolling. After a day on the island's trails, savor some seafood at the Waterfront Restaurant or the tacos at McConkey's Jungle Shack.

8. Morris Island

Hunt for shells and fossils near the candy cane–striped lighthouse on this uninhabited island just minutes from Charleston. Accessible only by boat, visitors can opt for several tour options, including riding out on a 55-foot power catamaran that's for the more adventurous traveler. For photography buffs, view the lighthouse from the shores of Folly Beach.

9. Pawleys Island

It takes a bit longer to reach from Charleston than some of the other beaches, but the slower pace on Pawleys Island is instantly soothing. This barrier island packs a lot into its four-mile stretch. Set off in a canoe or kayak to explore the salt marsh that separates this island from the mainland, or settle in for a day at the beach. There's shelling, fishing, and crabbing to be done. Sign up for surfing lessons—some of the best waves are near Pawleys Island Pier.

10. Capers Island

Similar to Bulls Island, Capers Island has its own forest of forgotten sea-bleached trees covering the shoreline. At low tide, you may see feeding dolphins and water birds like egrets and herons searching for a meal. Discover tide pools as you walk the beach, hike the island to see gators and deer in their natural habitat, or paddle along the shores and see jellyfish and crabs. Reach this undeveloped island by chartered boat, or take a kayak tour to learn about the area's ecosystem.

We landed the state's freshest catch from Hilton Head Island up to Myrtle Beach.

| Credit: Squire Fox

Imagine overlooking a marina filled with fishing boats as you taste some of the freshest seafood in South Carolina. This dream is possible in the Palmetto State. Shrimp, oysters, and crabs are only a few of the Southern staples you'll find when visiting these establishments.

Standing the test of time and weathering a few storms, these eateries know best how to serve fresh foods and unique specials so tourists and locals will keep coming back. She-Crab soup, Frogmore stew, and brandy-infused gator sauce may sound wild, but they are just local favorites here. More catches-of-the-day from the ocean and local beers from South Carolina breweries help top this Lowcountry experience. From restaurants that serve seafood directly out of buckets to waterside decks with unobstructed sunset views, there is always a nautical experience awaiting you when visiting these 10 best seafood restaurants.

The line for the Shack's grilled, fried, or blackened seafood begins long before the 40-seat eatery opens for lunch or dinner. It's worth the wait for the daily "Blackboard" special that features a choice of perfectly cooked fresh fish, including grouper, flounder, and snapper. Fish is served with two sides: collards, macaroni and cheese, cheese grits, and green beans.

Order: Hearty appetites should try the Shack Attack Combo ($17.95 for lunch, $19.95 for dinner), which combines a crab cake, fish, shrimp, scallops, and oysters on a giant paper platter. Homemade tartar sauce is the traditional accompaniment, but we think the brandy-infused gator sauce makes an even better platter slather.

Larry and Tina Toomer figured they wouldn't have to go far to get fresh fish and oysters—the couple also runs the Bluffton Oyster Company—so they opened this full-service restaurant in 2010. The dishes are unpretentious, but because the crabs, mussels, clams, and shrimp come mainly from the nearby May River. They need little in the way of endorsement.

Order: Share a bucket of steamed oysters ($20), then dive into a basket of fried shrimp ($16.50) with a side of stewed tomatoes and rice ($4).

Housed in a former gas station that was once the only place to get fresh water or make a phone call for 45 miles, Whaley's is still a popular gathering spot. Locals and visitors come for their platters, known as the "home of the ugly fish." Entrees include fried mahi-mahi bites with honey mustard tartar sauce, stuffed shrimp with a lemon dipping sauce, and beers pulled from the original soda cooler.

Order: The Flounder (18.95), a fried fresh catch, is a popular, down-to-earth dish with a heavenly twist.

You know you've finally reached the beach when you find steamed shrimp, crab legs, oysters, and corn on the cob served in tin buckets on a dog-friendly porch. The marquee bucket, The Charleston Steamed Seafood Bucket, includes two snow crab clusters, large domestic shrimp, and steamed oysters. Top the meal with a signature drink like the Crab-Berry Kiss, a vodka-based fruity cocktail.

Order: The creamy She Crab Soup ($7.99) is thick with sweet crabmeat, and the Grilled Seafood Platter will give you a taste of your favorites with shrimp, scallops, and a fresh catch ($24.99).

This eatery has stood the test of time for over 60 years. First, the restaurant sources (very) locally by serving oysters caught just yards from where they're steamed or fried. Enjoy your fresh fare with hush puppies, Frogmore stew, and South Carolina-brewed beers. Second, this seafood establishment has a waterside deck, so if you come early, you can watch the sunset over the wetlands as the oysters arrive.

Order: You can't beat fresh Carolina Oysters, and this Fried Oyster Platter is terrific (price unavailable).

When Hurricane Hugo blew the Richard & Charlene (a North Atlantic-style trawler) into their dock, Fred and Pat Scott had the wreck removed and then named their restaurant in Mount Pleasant's Old Village area after it. Although the couple initially served eggs and grits (at the time, breakfast was all they knew how to make), they soon found their sea legs. They serve combo platters overflowing with fried, grilled, or broiled shrimp, scallops, oysters, and fresh catch-of-the-day fish.

Order: The Deviled Crab ($20.95), a crab cake that tastes best sitting on the restaurant's screened porch and watching the fishing boats pass by on Shem Creek.

It's like Sunday dinner at grandma's every day in this general store-turned-cozy restaurant. Rice and gravy, fried green tomatoes, and butter beans compete for your attention with just-caught flounder, fish stew, and local shrimp. The setting is rustic wooden beams lining the ceiling and silhouettes of Southern scenes rendered in iron by Lowcountry artist Thomas Smoak decorating the walls.

Order: "The Catch" ($25) a serving of Mahi, tuna, grouper, or whole flounder with two sides.

After graduating from Johnson & Wales University and working as a chef in Florida and California, Pete Kornack moved to the tiny fishing village of McClellanville in 1994. Pete and his wife, Claudia, opened T.W. Graham in 2003. Their shrimp dishes are standouts but save room for a slice of homemade pie.

Order: A bowl of Claudia's blue crab, shrimp, and corn chowder ($4.99). The State House in Columbia requested delivery of this soup because of its popularity.

MurrellsIt's tempting to load up on the hush puppies that arrive hot from the fryer when you sit down, but try to hold back. Wait for the seafood platters that will soon arrive with huge portions of fried, broiled, or grilled fish, oysters, and fantail shrimp. They come accompanied by sides of veggies and potatoes and homemade desserts such as Key lime pie and Cobbler of the Day.

Order: The Shrimp Salad ($12.95) is a house specialty.

Grand Strand seafood lovers cheered three years ago when Ted Hammerman and his daughter, Sheina, saved this landmark restaurant and seafood market. Now fish fans flock to the inviting, art-filled building in a strip mall for Blue Crab Cluster Boil and crab rangoons (deep-fried wontons filled with cream cheese and crab). The eatery also offers favorites like fish tacos and crab mac and cheese. There's also a variety of steamed items like oysters, crabs, and shrimp.

Order: The fish tacos made with your choice of fish, chicken, or vegetarian ($15) topped with onions and sweet peppers.

South Carolina’s number of COVID-19 cases is rising again according to the latest weekly data released by the state Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) on Tuesday. The agency reported 5,566 total new cases of COVID-19 — an increase over last week’s 4,458 cases – and 10 total new deaths, compared to last week’s four. More: Charleston City Paper, The Post and Courier, The New York Times

Meanwhile, gas prices continue to rise with the per-gallon cost going above $4 per gallon in each state for the first time, according to reports. More: The Washington Post, WCBD TV

In other headlines:

New York pastor looks to Emanuel 9 tragedy for inspiration in wake of Buffalo shooting. Rev. Kevin Coakley, the pastor of Durham Memorial AME Zion Church in Buffalo, New York, grew up in Mount Pleasant. He said the response to the Emanuel AME shooting in 2015 has been his guiding light on bringing the Buffalo community together in the wake of tragedy. More: WCSC TV, The New York Times, National Public Radio, The Washington Post

S.C. latest conservative state with transgender sports ban after McMaster signature. S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster quietly signed into law a bill that would ban transgender students from playing girls’ or women’s sports in public schools and colleges. More: Associated Press, The State

Lowcountry communities battle developers to protect historic family land. People in historic African-American communities in Mount Pleasant say their properties are under constant threat from outside developers who want land that has been in their families for hundreds of years. More: WCBD TV

Charleston City Council hears objections to King Street business improvement district. Some King Street business owners aren’t ready to get behind a plan to add an extra tax to commercial properties on one of the city’s most iconic thoroughfares. More: The Post and Courier, WCSC TV

To get dozens of South Carolina news stories every business day, contact the folks at SC Clips.

With so many beautiful outdoor spaces to explore in the Lowcountry, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we rounded up 10 unique parks to explore in the Charleston area. Bonus: All have under $10 admission.

Now, park yourself in a comfy chair + scroll through this list to fuel your local wanderlust.

1.Edisto Beach State Park, 8377 State Cabin Rd., Edisto Island | 7 a.m.-6 p.m. daily | $8 | This 1,255-acre park has an Environmental Learning Center with interactive displays + live-animal exhibits and a 1.5-mile palmetto-lined beach.

2. Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve, 1750 E Ashley Ave., Folly Beach | Open sunrise to sunset daily | $1 | Explore marshland and maritime forests, view the Morris Island Lighthouse, and go on a bird walk (pssst: the next one is on June 10).

3. Stono River County Park, 3580 McLeod Mill Rd., Johns Island | 7 a.m.-8 p.m. daily May-August | $1 | Stroll along the marsh boardwalk leading to an island in the Stono River and soak up views of the Limehouse Bridge at this 85.5-acre site.

4. White Point Garden, 2 Murray Blvd. | 9 a.m.-sunset daily | Free | This waterfront park in the historic district features views of Fort Sumter and a large gazebo — take a look at the display of Civil War cannons.

5. Folly Beach County Park, 1100 W. Ashley Ave., Folly Beach | 8 a.m.-sunset daily | Free | Discover this spot on the west end of Folly Beach. Skimmer Flats, an Eastern Brown Pelican rookery, is visible at the west end of the park.

6. Charles Towne Landing, 1500 Old Towne Rd. | 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily April-October | $12 | This state historic site is the birthplace of South Carolina — check out the Adventure, Charleston’s only 17th century replica ship docked in Old Towne Creek.

7. Laurel Hill County Park, 1251 Park West Blvd., Mt. Pleasant | Sunrise-sunset daily | $1 | Wander through 745 acres featuring several miles of unpaved trails, an oak allée with large open meadows, and a small lake with a viewing overlook.

8. North Charleston Riverfront Park, 1061 Everglades Ave., North Charleston | 6 a.m.-10 p.m. daily | Free | This waterfront site on the banks of the Cooper River is home to the Charleston Naval Base Memorial and The Admiral’s House, a neo-classical mansion.

9. Huntington Beach State Park, 16148 Ocean Hwy., Murrell’s Inlet | 6 a.m.-6 p.m. daily | $8 | Discover three miles of beaches, over 300 species of birds, and a National Historic Landmark at this park.

10. Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site, 300 State Park Rd., Summerville | 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily | $3 | Tour the site of a former village, walk through the historic cemetery, and see the fort built in 1757 made of oyster shell concrete — the nation’s best-preserved tabby fortification.

Grab your binoculars, bug spray + walking shoes and reconnect with nature this summer.