Although the Charleston winter is mild (or virtually nonexistent as I, a northern transplant, see it), the first signs of spring are always a breath of fresh air. The marsh grass is greener, the days are longer, and those pesky noseeums (aka southern gnats) have arrived. Yes, spring has sprung here in Charleston. And, it’s beautiful! So straight from the {e} house crew, here are a few reasons to leave those “to do” lists behind and get out and enjoy the new season.

AARON’S TAKE:

Spring means saying, “so long” to my wetsuit as the water temperature is rising! Even better, the surf is better at the Washout! It’s obvious that for me Folly Beach is my spot when spring arrives… weekends relaxing on the beach with Owen and Chris, eating at Taco Boy, and surfing (Did I mention that before?!).

BOB’S TAKE:

The spring is a great time and the perfect temperature for a camping trip. There are several different trips I like to take.

It is always fun to Kayak out to Capers Island and camp out on the beach. It is a perfect spot to have a fire and sleep under the stars.

Another great trip is to Brevard County in North Carolina. The mountains are gorgeous and there are some really amazing hiking trails with beautiful waterfalls. It is great to go with the family (dogs included) or rough it and make it a mountain bike trip.

Aside from camping, it’s cool to experience downtown Charleston. With downtown’s intoxicating energy, you don’t have to travel far to catch spring fever. The College of Charleston students excitedly fill the streets as they finish up the semester, everything is green and blooming, the air is warm and the sun is shining. Ahh… nothing like a Saturday morning trip to Kudu coffee garden with Kris, Neve, Tug, Piper and Wally. Then walking down King to the Battery. But don’t forget to take the side streets to enjoy the cobblestone alleys and South of Broad gardens.

CHRIS’S TAKE:

I have to agree with Bob and downtown Charleston, although I like evening walks (since it is light out later). There is such a romantic feeling on the streets south of Broad. In the evening, sometimes you can even get a glimpse into the fascinating interiors of the historic homes (Yes I guess this borders on snooping, but it’s fun!).

I also love that as the weather warms up, weekends are spent at the beach instead of doing the never ending “to-do” list of house repairs that the winter seems to support. Although, that also means bathing suit season is right around the corner. I’m off to the treadmill….

MEDEA’S TAKE:

Charleston rocks in the spring. I love all of it: surfing (or at least watching my husband surf), hanging on Folly, exploring downtown, and evening strolls. So overnight camping isn’t really my thing, but one of the best places to camp out for a few hours before sunset is the tip of Morris Island (close to the lighthouse). As you’ve probably gathered, we’re all big fans of dogs and kids here at {e} house. Ella and Joule in tow, we pack up some snacks, beverages, and a blanket and beach our boat on the island for the sunset show. Morris Island is usually pretty vacant at this time of night, so it’s all ours. If you haven’t done so, try it out sometime…Just not on the night that we’re there….

How ever you decide to spend your spring, we hope you enjoy it. Happy Spring!

-The {e} house crew