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With dozens of lakes, rivers, and miles of beautiful seaside coastline, it’s no surprise that South Carolina has established itself as a prime destination for jet skiers. A lake is never more than an hour or two away, and it only takes six hours to go from the state’s westernmost point to a spot on the Atlantic shoreline. No matter your skill level or experience with jet skis, the Palmetto State offers plenty of opportunities for thrill seekers and first timers alike. Rent a jet ski (or bring your own) and take it for a spin at one of these five awesome jet skiing destinations.
Lake Hartwell is a vast lake spanning two states, making it an attractive spot for jet skiers. The lake offers plenty of public boat ramps to launch your own jet ski, along with several marinas and companies that offer jet ski rentals, such as Pontoon & Jet Ski Rental in Fair Play, South Carolina. You’ll find a multitude of smaller coves to practice your skills or take a swim. In addition, the lake offers several points of interest that intrigue locals and tourists alike. Make your way to Cemetery Island, where you’ll find the remnants of nearly 60 Revolutionary-era graves.
All along the coast of the Grand Strand you’ll find a dozen or more places to rent a jet ski and create your own epic adventure at sea. No guides, no tour groups, just a free play session that lets you take it as fast or slow as you can handle. If you want to avoid the crashing waves of the ocean, visitors can head to the Intercoastal Waterway where additional jet ski rentals can be found. Here you can shred on your own or book a guided tour through the backwaters of Myrtle Beach, and maybe even see an alligator or other wildlife!
The Lowcountry’s abundance of bodies of water make it an ideal spot for jet skiers of all skill levels. The area is littered with lots of barrier islands that are begging to be explored, such as Capers Island, the largest uninhabited island on the eastern coast. You can book a guided tour at places like Tidal Wave Watersports which can take you straight to the best sights in the Charleston area. TWW also offers WaveRunner rentals by the hour for those who want to create their own experience.
Situated in the middle of the Palmetto State, visitors love Lake Murray because it caters to both thrill seekers and casual riders. There are several spots along the lake where you can rent a jet ski, such as 50-50 Water Sports in Leesville, that lets you start in calm water before pushing the throttle to its limits. You can stick to the small coves for a swim or head out to big water in search of grander adventure.
This clean, family-friendly lake is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. It offers plenty of wide-open spaces for you to put your watercraft to the test, along with small, calm areas if you want to take a quick dip. You can contact companies like Lake Keowee Boat Rentals or Pontoon & Jet Ski Rental to have your watercraft delivered to the lake to help save you the time and hassle of bringing your own.
Alli Hill is a freelance content writer and mom of two. She spends most of her free time exploring the great outdoors by trail or by kayak. She is also the founder and director of FreelanceSpeak, a blog to support other freelance creatives.
