Sunrise at Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park
Charleston Views, Bridge Walks, and a Peaceful Start to the Day
Eli and I arrived at Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park just as the sun began to rise. The golden light stretched across the Cooper River, casting long shadows beneath the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. It was peaceful, quiet, and a perfect way to start the morning.
Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park is located beneath the Charleston end of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge in the town of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. It sits just across the Cooper River from downtown Charleston and is easily accessible by car from the city or surrounding metro area.
The bridge itself is a landmark. This cable-stayed structure spans over 13,000 feet and connects Charleston to Mount Pleasant with twin diamond-shaped towers that rise prominently above the water. At sunrise, the view from below is dramatic, especially from the park’s main feature—the pier.
Wide view of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge stretching across the Cooper River under clear skies.
Charleston’s skyline seen across the Cooper River from Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park.
The park’s 1,250-foot-long pier (just under a quarter mile) stretches over the Cooper River. Walking out along it gave us uninterrupted views of the Charleston skyline and the bridge’s sweeping lines and massive scale.
As we strolled, we saw joggers, cyclists, parents with strollers, fishermen casting lines, and people simply sitting on benches enjoying the calm. It is clearly a space that attracts all kinds of visitors, from locals starting their routines to families and sightseers.
Eli standing along the Mount Pleasant pier during early morning light with the bridge in the background.
Beyond the pier, a short riverside trail runs parallel to the Cooper River and offers a quieter path with one of my favorite perspectives of the bridge. That side view, framed by water and marsh grasses, was well worth the walk.
Closer to the entrance, there is a small gift shop where you can grab snacks, water, and souvenirs or pick up a fishing pass if you plan to cast a line from the pier. Nearby, a well-kept playground adds another layer of appeal for families with young kids.
From the pier, you can spot the towering USS Yorktown across the river at Patriots Point, a retired World War II aircraft carrier that is now part of a naval museum.
The USS Yorktown aircraft carrier in morning light across the water from Mount Pleasant.
By the way, if you are looking for breakfast in the area, we ate at Biscuit Bros of Charleston afterward. The biscuits were great.
Things To Do at Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park:
Walk the Pier: Nearly a quarter mile long with panoramic views of the Ravenel Bridge and Charleston skyline
Cast a Line: Fishing is allowed on the pier. Stop by the gift shop to pick up a pass
Visit the Gift Shop: Grab refreshments, souvenirs, and your fishing pass all in one spot
Relax on a Bench: Shaded seating areas line the pier and walking paths
Bring the Kids: The playground is clean, inviting, and family-friendly
Explore the Trail: A quiet riverside path with one of the best side angles of the bridge
Tour Patriots Point: Just across the river, the USS Yorktown offers a glimpse into naval history aboard a legendary aircraft carrier
The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge viewed from beneath the Mount Pleasant pier just after sunrise.
Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park blends scenic beauty, local charm, and thoughtful design into a space that welcomes everyone. Whether you are fishing, exercising, photographing the bridge, or planning your next museum visit across the water, it is a place that invites you to slow down and take in the view.
