LOCAL RESOURCES - THINGS TO DO
Lake Murray Visitor Resources
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to Lake Murray, your one-stop resource for exploring everything this stunning destination has to offer. Whether you’re planning your next vacation or simply curious about the area, this page has the essential information, expert tips, and local insights you need.
Below, you’ll find sections dedicated to the best attractions, recreational activities, dining options, and accommodations in Lake Murray and its surrounding areas. Dive in and uncover the hidden gems that make this destination a favorite for visitors and locals alike.
Rusty Anchor Restaurant
Cuisine: American, Seafood
(803) 749-1555
rustyanchorrestaurant.com/
1925 Johnson Marina Rd, Chapin, SC
This lakeside restaurant serves fresh seafood, steaks, and Southern classics. Boaters can dock at the nearby marina and walk up to enjoy delicious meals with scenic lake views.
Liberty on the Lake
Cuisine: American, Southern
(803) 667-9715
libertytaproom.com
1602 Marina Rd, Irmo, SC
A popular restaurant offering burgers, seafood, and Southern-inspired dishes. Liberty on the Lake is known for its beautiful deck overlooking Lake Murray and a relaxed vibe.
Catfish Johnny's
Cuisine: Southern, Seafood
(803) 957-6544
Website
13707 Old Lexington Rd, Leesville, SC
A beloved seafood shack known for its fried catfish, hush puppies, and other Southern favorites. Located close to the water, it’s a must-visit for seafood lovers.
Hite's BBQ
Cuisine: BBQ
(803) 749-1555
https://www.hitesbbq.com
240 Dreher Rd, West Columbia, SC
Known for its pit-cooked BBQ, Hite’s serves up classic Southern BBQ favorites, including ribs, pulled pork, and hash. Perfect for takeout and picnics by the lake.
Libby’s of Lexington
Cuisine: Southern, American
(803) 356-6294
libbysoflexington.com
116 W Main St, Lexington, SC 29072
, SC
A popular restaurant offering Southern comfort food with a twist, including fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and homemade desserts.
Old Mill Brewpub
Cuisine: American, Pub Food
(803) 785-2337
oldmillbrewpub.net
711 E Main St, Lexington, SC 29072
A local brewpub offering cra beers and pub fare in a historic building. The laid-back atmosphere and tasty brews make it a great stop for a casual meal.
Rusty Anchor Restaurant
Specialty: Lake Water Lemonade
(803) 749-1555
therustyanchorrestaurant.com
1925 Johnson Marina Rd, Chapin, SC
This lakeside restaurant serves fresh seafood, steaks, and Southern classics. Boaters can dock at the nearby marina and walk up to enjoy delicious meals with scenic lake views.
Liberty on the Lake
Specialty: Murray Margarita
(803) 667-9715
libertytaproom.com
1602 Marina Rd, Irmo, SC
A popular restaurant offering burgers, seafood, and Southern-inspired dishes. Liberty on the Lake is known for its beautiful deck overlooking Lake Murray and a relaxed vibe.
The British Bulldog Pub
Specialty: Pimm’s Cup
(803) 227-8918
thebritishbulldogpub.com
1220 Bower Pkwy, Columbia, SC
A British-style pub offering a variety of beers, cocktails, and hearty pub food. Known for its friendly atmosphere and traditional pub feel.
O'Hara’s Public House
Specialty: Irish Mule
(803) 785-4025
oharasph.com
131 E Main St, Lexington, SC
A cozy Irish pub offering a great selection of beers, whiskeys, and traditional Irish fare. A perfect spot for a relaxed evening.
The Hideout in WeCo
Specialty: Southern Belle
(803) 881-1044
hideoutinweco.com
118 State St, West Columbia, SC
A trendy cocktail bar with craft cocktails, beers, and small plates. Known for its modern vibe and creative drink menu.
Old Mill Brewpub
Specialy: Old Mill Ale
(803) 785-2337
oldmillbrewpub.net
711 E Main St, Lexington, SC
A local brewpub offering craft beers brewed on-site and a menu of pub favorites. The historic setting and casual atmosphere make it a great spot for a drink.
Boating on Lake Murray
lakemurraycountry.com
Various marinas around Lake Murray
Lake Murray is a boater's paradise. Visitors can rent boats from local marinas or bring their own to enjoy a day out on the lake. Popular activities include tubing, wakeboarding, and simply cruising the lake.
Dreher Island State Park
southcarolinaparks.com
3677 State Park Rd, Prosperity, SC
A 348-acre state park on Lake Murray offering camping, fishing, boating, and hiking. Visitors can rent boats, fish for bass and catfish, or enjoy the park's picnic areas and hiking trails.
Paddleboarding & Kayaking
lakemurraycountry.com
Various access points on Lake Murray
Lake Murray's calm waters are perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking. Rentals are available at several marinas around the lake, and it's a great way to explore the shoreline.
Fishing on Lake Murray
lakemurraycountry.com
Various access points on Lake Murray
Lake Murray is a top fishing destination, known for its largemouth bass, catfish, and striped bass. Whether fishing from a boat or from the shore, anglers can enjoy excellent fishing opportunities year-round.
Lake Murray Sailing
lakemurraycountry.com
Various marinas around Lake Murray
The lake is ideal for sailing enthusiasts, offering steady winds and plenty of open water. Sailing clubs and marinas around the lake provide lessons, rentals, and sailing events for all levels of experience.
Tubing and Water Skiing
lakemurraycountry.com
Various access points on Lake Murray
For those seeking a thrill, tubing and water skiing are popular activities on Lake Murray. Local marinas offer boat rentals and gear, making it easy for visitors to enjoy an action-packed day on the water.
Saluda Shoals Canoeing & Kayaking
icrc.net
5605 Bush River Rd, Columbia, SC
Paddle along the Saluda River at this nearby park offering canoe and kayak rentals. It's a peaceful and scenic way to explore the river and enjoy a break from the lake's larger crowds.
Lake Murray Sunset Cruises
lakemurrayfun.com
1624 Marina Rd, Irmo, SC 29063
Take a relaxing evening cruise on Lake Murray and watch the stunning sunset over the water. Sunset cruises are a peaceful way to unwind after a day of activities and enjoy the natural beauty of the lake.
Historic Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
riverbanks.org
500 Wildlife Pkwy, Columbia, SC
One of South Carolina's top attractions, Riverbanks Zoo offers animal exhibits, a botanical garden, and interactive experiences. It’s a must-visit for families looking to explore both nature and wildlife.
Timberlake Country Club Golf
timberlakecountryclub.com
222 Timberlake Dr, Chapin, SC
The only golf course on Lake Murray, Timberlake Country Club offers a beautiful and challenging 18-hole course with views of the lake. A great spot for golf lovers looking to relax with a round of golf.
The Shoppes at Flight Deck
109 Old Chapin Rd, Lexington, SC
This shopping center features a collection of boutique stores, antique shops, and local eateries. Perfect for browsing unique home décor, and handmade crafts.
Chapin Furniture
chapinfurniture.com
660 Columbia Ave, Chapin, SC
A locally-owned furniture store offering high-quality home furnishings, including sofas, tables, and bedroom sets. It’s a great place to find elegant décor for your home or vacation rental.
Columbiana Centre Mall
columbianacentre.com
100 Columbiana Cir, Columbia, SC
The largest shopping mall in the area, featuring popular retailers like Macy’s, Dillard’s, and H&M. It also has a variety of restaurants and a movie theater, making it a convenient stop for both shopping and entertainment.
BeBeep A Toy Shop
bebeeptoys.com
4525 Forest Dr, Columbia, SC
A family-owned toy shop offering a variety of educational and creative toys for children of all ages. Perfect for picking up gifts or a fun souvenir for the kids.
Lake Murray Polar Plunge
Dreher Island State Park
Brave the cold and take the plunge into Lake Murray’s icy waters to raise money for Special Olympics South Carolina. This annual charity event draws a large crowd each year.
Lexington County Chili Cook-Off
A fun-filled event where local chefs and chili enthusiasts compete to make the best chili in Lexington County. Guests can try a variety of chili styles and enjoy live music and activities.
Bassmaster Elite Series Tournament
Lake Murray
One of the biggest fishing tournaments in the country, the Bassmaster Elite Series comes to Lake Murray each year, attracting top anglers from around the world.
Big Bass Tournament
Lake Murray
A competitive fishing event on Lake Murray where anglers compete for the largest bass. It’s an exciting event for both participants and spectators.
Lake Murray 4th of July Boat Parade
Lake Murray
Celebrate Independence Day with a patriotic boat parade on Lake Murray. Boaters decorate their vessels as they cruise the lake, followed by a great fireworks display over the water.
Chapin Labor Day Festival
Downtown Chapin
The largest annual event in Chapin, features a parade, food vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities. It’s a community tradition that draws locals and visitors alike.
Okra Strut Festival
Irmo, SC
A quirky and fun festival dedicated to okra, featuring a parade, food vendors, live music, and craft vendors. It’s a beloved community event with a charming Southern twist.
South Carolina Oyster Festival
1200 Hampton St, Columbia, SC
A short drive from Lake Murray, this festival celebrates fresh oysters with live music, food vendors, and family activities. It’s a fun event for seafood lovers looking to enjoy the coast.
Better Boating Rentals
betterboatrentals.com
1600 Marina Rd, Irmo, SC
Offering pontoon boats, jet skis, and paddleboards for rent. Better Boating Rentals provides delivery services to various docks around Lake Murray, making it easy to get out on the water for a day of fun and relaxation.
Instacart Grocery Delivery
Providing grocery delivery from local stores like Publix, Food Lion, and Kroger, Instacart is an easy way to stock up your vacation rental without leaving the comfort of the lake. Perfect for families or groups looking for convenient meal prep options.
DoorDash Food Delivery
Offering delivery from a variety of local restaurants around Lake Murray, DoorDash is a convenient way to enjoy your favorite meals without leaving your vacation rental. Perfect for busy families or groups looking for quick, tasty meals.
Lake Murray Sunset Cruises
lakemurrayfun.com
1624 Marina Rd, Irmo, SC
Take in the breathtaking sunset views over Lake Murray with a guided sunset cruise. A peaceful and scenic experience, perfect for couples, families, or small groups.
Fishing Charters on Lake Murray
lakemurraycountry.com
Various marinas around Lake Murray
Book a guided fishing charter to explore the best fishing spots on Lake Murray. Whether you’re after largemouth bass, catfish, or striped bass, experienced guides will ensure you have a great fishing adventure.
Spirit of Lake Murray Dinner Cruise
spiritoflakemurray.com
216 Shadowood Drive Irmo, SC
A unique dining experience on a luxury yacht, The Spirit of Lake Murray offers dinner cruises where guests can enjoy a gourmet meal while taking in the beautiful lake views. Ideal for special occasions or a romantic night out.
Paddleboarding Yoga
lakemurraycountry.com
Various access points, Lake Murray
Combine yoga with paddleboarding for a unique fitness experience on the water. Paddleboard yoga classes are held on the calm waters of Lake Murray and offer a peaceful way to connect with nature & practicing yoga.
Guided Bird Watching Tours
southcarolinaparks.com
Dreher Island State Park
Lake Murray is home to a variety of bird species, including bald eagles. Guided bird-watching tours provide an opportunity to learn more about the local wildlife while enjoying the scenic lake surroundings.
Timberlake Country Club Golfing
timberlakecountryclub.com
222 Timberlake Dr, Chapin, SC
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy an 18-hole round at Timberlake Country Club, the only golf course located on Lake Murray. The course offers stunning views of the lake and is perfect for golfers of all skill levels.
Water Sports Lessons
lakemurraywake.com
Leesville, SC
Whether you’re new to wakeboarding or watersurfing, Lake Murray offers water sports lessons for all ages. Learn the ropes from experienced instructors and enjoy an active day on the lake.
Spirit of Lake Murray Yacht Cruise
spiritoflakemurray.com
216 Shadowood Drive Irmo, SC
Offering dinner cruises, live entertainment, and themed parties, this yacht cruise is a fantastic way to enjoy Lake Murray in style. Whether it's a relaxing evening or a special event, this tour delivers.
Rusty Anchor Live Music
rustyanchorrestaurant.com
1925 Johnson Marina Rd, Chapin, SC
Enjoy live music at this lakeside restaurant and bar, where local bands perform on weekends. It’s a laid-back way to enjoy good food, cold drinks, and entertainment by the water.
Lake Murray Symphony Orchestra
https://www.lmso.org/
Various locations around Lake Murray
Experience beautiful classical music performed by the Lake Murray Symphony Orchestra. Concerts are held throughout the year, often in outdoor venues around the lake, offering a great cultural experience.
The Tipsy Toad Tavern Live Music
thetipsytoad.com
103 Beaufort St, Chapin, SC
This local tavern in Chapin offers live music and entertainment in a fun, casual setting. It’s a great spot to enjoy a night out with friends, cold drinks, and great tunes.
Big Mo Drive-In Theater
thebigmo.com
5822 Columbia Hwy N, Monetta, SC
Experience a classic drive-in movie theater at The Big Mo. Watch a double feature under the stars while enjoying popcorn, snacks, and drinks with family and friends.
Liberty Taproom Trivia Nights
libertytaproom.com
1602 Marina Rd, Irmo, SC
Head to Liberty on the Lake for a fun trivia night with friends. Enjoy craft beers, burgers, and a scenic lakefront setting while competing in a lively trivia game.
The Icehouse Amphitheater
icehouseamphitheater.com
107 W Main St, Lexington, SC
This outdoor venue in nearby Lexington hosts concerts, festivals, and community events. With a full lineup of shows throughout the year, it’s a favorite entertainment spot for locals and visitors alike.
Frankie’s Fun Park
frankies.com
140 Parkridge Dr, Columbia, SC
Enjoy go-karts, mini-golf, arcade games, and more at Frankie’s Fun Park. A fun-filled destination for kids and families, with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.
Dreher Island State Park
southcarolinaparks.com
3677 State Park Rd, Prosperity, SC
One of the most popular parks on Lake Murray, Dreher Island State Park offers camping, fishing, hiking, and boating. With over 12 miles of shoreline, it’s a great place for visitors to enjoy water activities or simply relax in nature.
Lake Murray Public Park
lakemurraycountry.com
1832 N Lake Dr, Lexington, SC
A popular spot for families and visitors to enjoy a day by the lake. The park offers boat ramps, swimming areas, and picnic tables, making it a perfect place for a summer day at the lake.
Melvin Park
icrc.net
370 A Eptings Camp Rd, Chapin, SC
A large community park with sports fields, walking trails, and playgrounds. Located close to Lake Murray, it’s a great place for outdoor recreation and family-friendly activities.
Saluda Shoals Park
icrc.net
5605 Bush River Rd, Columbia, SC
A beautiful park along the Saluda River offering canoeing, kayaking, hiking trails, and a splash pad for kids. The park also offers educational programs and an environmental center for visitors to learn about the river ecosystem.
Crooked Creek Park
icrc.net
1098 Old Lexington Hwy, Chapin, SC
This park is known for its sports fields, fitness center, and walking trails. It’s a great spot for families and those looking to stay active, offering outdoor activities near Lake Murray.
Hilton Recreation Area
150 Cove Launch Ct, Chapin, SC
A small recreation area on Lake Murray offering boat ramps, picnic tables, and fishing opportunities. It’s a quiet and peaceful spot, perfect for a relaxing day by the water.
Virginia Hylton Park
lexsc.com
111 Maiden Ln, Lexington, SC
A peaceful park in the heart of Lexington offering walking trails, a butterfly garden, and picnic areas. Ideal for families, the park is a beautiful spot to enjoy nature and have a relaxing day outdoors.
Spence Island
This small island in Lake Murray is a popular spot for boaters to anchor and enjoy a quiet day on the water. It’s an ideal location for swimming, picnicking, and soaking up the sun in the middle of the lake.
Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve
sctrails.net
883 Peachtree Rock Rd, Lexington, SC
This nature preserve is home to unique sandstone formations and a small waterfall. It offers scenic hiking trails and is perfect for those looking to explore the area's natural beauty.
Timberlake Country Club
timberlakecountryclub.com
222 Timberlake Dr, Chapin, SC
The only golf course on Lake Murray, Timberlake offers a scenic 18-hole course with beautiful lake views. It’s a great destination for golfers staying near the lake.
Publix Super Market-Murray Landing
publix.com
2732 N Lake Dr, Columbia, SC
Offering fresh produce, bakery items, and a deli, Publix is a go-to grocery store for vacationers looking to stock up for their Lake Murray stay.
Food Lion
foodlion.com
140 Amicks Ferry Rd, Chapin, SC
A convenient grocery store offering fresh produce, meats, and everyday essentials. Known for its affordable prices and variety of products.
Lowes Foods of Chapin
lowesfoods.com
1419 Chapin Rd, Chapin, SC
A regional supermarket offering fresh bakery goods, deli items, and a large selection of craft beer. Known for its high-quality products and friendly customer service.
Walmart Supercenter
walmart.com
1180 Dutch Fork Rd, Irmo, SC
A large supermarket offering groceries, household items, and more. Ideal for one-stop shopping for vacation supplies and essentials.
Aldi
aldi.us
7621 Garners Ferry Rd, Columbia, SC
Known for low prices and a wide selection of grocery staples, Aldi is perfect for budget-conscious vacationers looking to stock up on essentials.
Trader Joe’s
traderjoes.com
4516 Forest Dr, Columbia, SC
A popular grocery store offering a variety of organic and specialty foods. Known for its unique products and affordable prices, Trader Joe’s is a great stop for gourmet groceries.
Lowes Foods of Irmo
lowesfoods.com
4711 Forest Dr, Columbia, SC
Offering fresh bakery items, deli meats, and a selection of craft beer. Lowes Foods is a convenient option for quality grocery shopping.
Whole Foods Market
wholefoodsmarket.com
702 Cross Hill Rd, Columbia, SC
A health-focused store offering organic produce, natural foods, and a wide selection of specialty items. Ideal for those looking for fresh, healthy options during their stay.
Piggly Wiggly
thepig.net
6325 N Main Street Columbia, SC
A local grocery store offering fresh produce, meats, and regional products. Known for its hometown feel and commitment to local products, Piggly Wiggly is a great place to shop while staying at Lake Murray.
Kroger
kroger.com
7467 St Andrews Rd, Irmo, SC
A well-stocked grocery store offering everything from fresh produce to household items. Known for its customer service and wide variety of products.
Lake Murray Dam Walk
lakemurraycountry.com
2101 N Lake Dr, Lexington, SC
A scenic walkway along the top of the Lake Murray Dam offering stunning views of the lake. It’s a popular spot for walking, jogging, and taking photos, especially at sunset.
Dreher Island State Park
southcarolinaparks.com
3677 State Park Rd, Prosperity, SC
A must-see destination for outdoor lovers, offering camping, fishing, and hiking. The park’s three islands provide stunning views of Lake Murray and are perfect for a day of exploring.
>Spence Island
Lake Murray that is popular with boaters looking for a quiet place to swim, picnic, or relax. The island is accessible only by boat and is a peaceful getaway.
Timberlake Golf Course
timberlakecountryclub.com
222 Timberlake Dr, Chapin, SC
The only golf course on Lake Murray, Timberlake offers beautiful views and a challenging round of golf. The scenic beauty and well-maintained greens make it a must-visit for golf lovers.
Bomb Island
lakemurraycountry.com
Middle of Lake Murray
Known as the largest Purple Martin roosting site in North America, Bomb Island is a fascinating place to visit during the summer months when thousands of birds return to roost.
Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve
sctrails.net
883 Peachtree Rock Rd, Lexington, SC
Famous for its upside-down sandstone formation and small waterfall, Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve is a must-see for nature lovers and hikers. The unique rock formations & peaceful trails make for a memorable visit.
Historic Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
riverbanks.org
500 Wildlife Pkwy, Columbia, SC
One of South Carolina’s top attractions, Riverbanks Zoo offers animal exhibits, a botanical garden, and interactive experiences. Perfect for a family day trip, it's located just a short drive from Lake Murray.
Newberry Opera House
newberryoperahouse.com
1201 McKibben St, Newberry, SC
A beautifully restored historic venue offering live performances, including concerts, plays, and musicals. Located near Lake Murray, the Opera House is a cultural gem that shouldn’t be missed.
Saluda Riverwalk
dnr.sc.gov
650 Candi Lane, Columbia, SC
A scenic riverside walkway offering beautiful views of the Saluda River. The path is ideal for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the river.