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Parrot Surf & Skate in Charleston: Where to Rent and Buy Boards

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

What Parrot Surf & Skate offers in Charleston

Parrot Surf & Skate is a board sports shop on King Street in downtown Charleston that rents and sells surfboards, skateboards, and related gear. The shop caters to both visitors trying out a sport for the first time and locals who need equipment for regular sessions. You can walk in to rent a board for a few hours or a full day, or browse their inventory of new and used boards if you're ready to buy.

The shop stocks boards suited to different skill levels and water conditions. For surfing, they carry shortboards, fish boards, and soft-tops—the last being the most forgiving for beginners. Skateboard inventory includes complete setups and individual components. Staff can help you choose based on your experience and what you plan to do that day.

Key Takeaways

  • Parrot Surf & Skate rents surfboards and skateboards by the day, making it a low-commitment way to try either sport without owning gear.
  • The shop is located on King Street in downtown Charleston, within walking distance of beaches and skate spots.
  • Rental boards include soft-tops for beginners and performance boards for experienced surfers, plus complete skateboard setups.
  • You can also purchase new and used boards, wetsuits, and accessories if you decide to invest in your own equipment.

Surfboard rentals and what to expect

Surfboard rentals at Parrot Surf & Skate run on a daily rate, with discounts available for multi-day rentals. Soft-top boards—made of foam and designed to be durable and forgiving—are the standard rental choice for beginners. These boards are stable in the water and less likely to hurt you if they hit you during a wipeout. If you have some experience, the shop has performance boards available as well.

When you rent, staff will ask about your skill level and the conditions you expect that day. Charleston's beaches vary: Folly Beach tends to have smaller, more consistent waves suitable for learning, while other breaks work better for intermediate surfers. The shop can point you toward the right beach and the right board. Rental boards come waxed and ready to go. You'll need to return the board by closing time or arrange an extension.

Skateboard rentals and sales

Skateboard rentals are available for cruising around downtown Charleston or hitting local skate spots. A complete rental setup includes the deck, wheels, bearings, and grip tape. The shop stocks boards in different sizes and styles—cruiser boards for smooth, easy riding and trick boards for more technical skating.

If you decide skateboarding is for you, Parrot Surf & Skate sells complete setups at various price points, as well as individual components if you want to build or upgrade your own board. They carry grip tape, wheels, bearings, and hardware. Staff can help you assemble a board or make repairs to one you already own.

Location and hours

Parrot Surf & Skate is located on King Street in downtown Charleston, a central spot that puts you close to Folly Beach Pier and other nearby breaks. The shop is walkable from many downtown hotels and restaurants, so you can rent a board and head to the water without a long drive. Parking is available on the street or in nearby lots.

Hours vary by season, with longer hours during summer and shorter ones in winter. It's worth calling ahead or checking their social media before you go, especially if you're planning an early morning session or visiting on a holiday. The shop is closed on some major holidays.

Pricing and rental terms

Daily rental rates for surfboards and skateboards are set by board type and rental length. Soft-top surfboards cost less to rent than performance boards. Multi-day rentals usually offer a per-day discount compared to single-day rates. Skateboard rentals are priced separately and may be cheaper than surfboard rentals since the equipment is less specialized.

You'll need to provide a credit card for the rental deposit, which covers potential damage. The shop's rental agreement will outline what counts as normal wear and what damage you're responsible for. Most shops consider dings and minor cracks normal, but major breaks or lost boards may result in a charge. Ask about their damage policy before you rent.

What to bring and how to prepare

For surfing, bring a change of clothes, a towel, and a plastic bag for your wet gear. Sunscreen is essential—even on cloudy days, the sun reflects off the water. If you don't have a wetsuit and the water is cold, ask the shop whether they rent wetsuits; many board shops do. In summer, the Atlantic off Charleston is warm enough for most people to surf in just board shorts or a swimsuit.

For skateboarding, wear closed-toe shoes with good grip and consider protective gear—wrist guards, knee pads, and a helmet reduce injury risk, especially if you're learning tricks. The shop may have pads available or can recommend where to buy them locally.

Nearby spots to use your rental

Folly Beach Pier is the most famous break near downtown Charleston and a natural destination if you rent a surfboard. The pier creates a wave break, and the beach is wide and accessible. Beginners often start here because the waves are smaller and more forgiving than at other nearby breaks. The pier itself is a landmark—you can't miss it.

For skateboarding, downtown Charleston has several skate spots: the Skate Park at Halyards Green near the waterfront, and various parking lots and plazas with ledges, stairs, and smooth pavement. Ask the shop staff for current recommendations—they know which spots are best for your skill level and what the local scene is doing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need experience to rent a surfboard?

No. Soft-top rental boards are designed for beginners, and the shop staff will help you choose a board and point you toward beginner-friendly breaks. If you've never surfed, mention that when you rent—they'll set you up with a stable board and may suggest Folly Beach as a good starting spot.

Can I rent a skateboard if I've never skated before?

Yes. Rental boards are complete setups ready to ride. Start on flat ground to get comfortable with balance and pushing, then explore downtown spots as you gain confidence. The shop can recommend beginner-friendly areas and may have advice on protective gear.

What happens if I damage a rental board?

Minor damage like small dings is usually considered normal wear and won't cost you. Major breaks or damage that affects the board's function may result in a repair or replacement charge. Ask about the specific damage policy when you rent so you know what's covered.

Can I rent a board for multiple days?

Yes. Multi-day rentals are available at a discounted per-day rate. You'll arrange the return date when you rent. Some shops offer weekly rates as well, so ask if you're planning a longer stay in Charleston.

Does the shop rent wetsuits?

Many board shops rent wetsuits, but it varies by location and season. Call Parrot Surf & Skate to confirm whether they have wetsuits available. In summer, the water is usually warm enough that you won't need one, but in winter a wetsuit makes a big difference in comfort.