Best Places to Visit in South Carolina
Searching for the best places to visit in South Carolina? Well, you are in the right place! The Palmetto State has no shortage of incredible destinations as I discovered during my recent four week road trip. Here are the places I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Pawleys Island
Stretching between the Atlantic Ocean and a calm tidal creek, this is one of the most unspoiled barrier islands I’ve seen on the East Coast, and I think it’s one of the absolute best beach escapes in South Carolina.
I also learned that Pawleys Island (population ~100 year-round) is one of the oldest resort areas on the East Coast!
We drove about 1.5 hours north from Charleston to Pawleys Island and checked into Sea View Inn for a fantastic four-night stay that gave me such a cool sense of stepping back in time.
We started the day with a slow walk along the beach, where the soft sand, rolling waves, and salty breeze immediately put us at ease and made everything else feel far away.
My favorite part was wandering near the dunes and marshes, hand in hand, with sea oats swaying and the water stretching endlessly around us—it felt calm, timeless, and deeply grounding.
The island itself had a laid-back charm, with weathered cottages, shady oak trees, and hammock-lined paths that invited us to slow down and savor every moment.
We stopped for lunch at a local spot and shared fresh seafood that tasted like summer—simple, flavorful, and made even better by the unhurried pace.
I loved browsing the small local shops nearby, full of coastal art, beachy finds, and thoughtful souvenirs that captured the spirit of the island.
Later, we wandered out onto the pier, watching fishermen cast their lines while pelicans skimmed the water, the sun slowly sinking toward the horizon.
As the day wound down, we found a quiet place by the marsh, where the sky turned soft shades of pink and gold and the air grew still.
What I loved best:
One thing we enjoyed most was the variety of food here, from burgers at Rustic Table to great seafood at Chive Blossom Cafe.
2. Charleston, SC
We absolutely love Charleston, and have been many times. This quickly became one of my favorite places to visit in South Carolina when I moved to the South. Why? First off, this beautiful city offers a bit of everything - incredible food, great views, and a diverse selection of accommodations. In addition, it’s remarkably easy to explore on foot which makes it extra relaxing on a weekend getaway.
We flew about 2.5 hours from Austin to Charleston where we started our road trip, a city founded in 1670 and one of the South’s best-preserved historic districts. Chris, our son and I visited Fort Sumter National Monument, where the Civil War began in 1861, and then we checked into the Francis Marion Hotel ($259/night) for four relaxing days, a 1924 landmark overlooking Marion Square.
If you’re staying downtown, getting around Charleston is incredibly easy. Most of the main sights are within walking distance of each other, especially in the Historic District south of Calhoun Street. If you’re coming from farther out—like Mount Pleasant or West Ashley—an Uber or rideshare is usually the fastest and most convenient option, and rides are typically short and affordable. I prefer walking whenever possible because Charleston’s pastel homes, hidden alleys, and waterfront views are half the experience.
One of the coolest things we did next day was join a Charleston Culinary Tour - it turned out to be the best idea ever as I got to sample local flavors, meet local chefs, and hear the city’s fascinating food history.
If you spend the day in Charleston, I think you should start by wandering the Historic District and walking along The Battery and White Point Garden. The views of Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbor are beautiful, and the historic mansions lining the waterfront are iconic. From there, head toward Rainbow Row, explore the Charleston City Market, and make time to stroll King Street, where you’ll find great shopping, coffee spots, and local boutiques.
Dinner at Circa 1886 was another highlight, an elegant restaurant tucked inside the historic Wentworth Mansion and one of the best romantic restaurants in the USA.
For a joyful and more casual stop, I grabbed coffee at Bitty & Beau’s where the atmosphere was warm, and the drinks were great.
What I loved best:
Sesame Burgers & Beer gave us the coolest affordable meal of the trip, and The Darling Oyster Bar on King Street completely won me over with fresh seafood and an atmosphere that was both romantic and lively.
One thing to keep in mind is that Charleston’s charm can slow you down—in the best way. It’s easy to wander aimlessly, pop into shops, and lose track of time without covering much ground. On our first visit, we found that taking a guided tour helped us understand the city better and make the most of our limited time.
3. Spartanburg
Ready for a foothills-and-culture getaway? Check out Spartanburg, a real standout and an Upstate Carolina gem! I loved visiting in late November, especially wandering through the walkways of the Hub City Art Trail, exploring the local museums, or taking a scenic drive toward the mountains.
Just a short 30-minute drive from Greenville, I settled in for a few days at the sleek AC Hotel by Marriott overlooking Morgan Square where the pace was relaxed yet full of surprises. I explored the charming "Hub City" downtown filled with indie coffee shops and galleries, biked along the leafy Mary Black Rail Trail, admired the outdoor sculptures at Chapman Cultural Center, and drove out into the countryside where peach orchards and rolling hills framed the horizon.
What I loved best:
Dinner at The Kennedy was my personal highlight, where my husband, our son and I loved its modern, creative spin on Southern flavors. I really appreciated the artful presentation of small plates like crispy pork belly with sorghum glaze, and the cozy, stylish vibe.
4. Aiken
Set among rolling sandhills and shaded by massive live oaks, this is one of the most elegant and peaceful Southern towns I’ve visited, and I think it’s one of the absolute best low-key getaways in South Carolina. Why? Aiken offers scenic horse country, quiet gardens, historic estates, and a laid-back vibe perfect for a day trip or a longer vacation.
I planned my visit around the Aiken Fall Steeplechase Championship, when locals don their finest hats for a weekend of thrilling races which were lots of fun to watch.
I enjoyed a coffee on the patio at New Moon Cafe in downtown Aiken, and purchased one of their specialty sandwiches to go.
Just a 25-minute drive from Augusta, I checked into the historic 3-star Hilton Garden Inn Aiken for three amazing days and I loved the way life here moved at an unhurried pace. We strolled through Hitchcock Woods, admired the horse-drawn carriages, and wandered through downtown’s Laurens Street.
What I loved best:
Exploring beautiful Hopelands Gardens was my favorite highlight.
5. Beaufort
If you have time for just one Lowcountry destination, I say go for this town! Why? It has ante-bellum (pre-Civil-War) mansions shaded by moss-draped oaks, a breezy waterfront lined, tidal rivers, and a charming historic district that felt like stepping straight into a Southern novel!
We drove about 1.5 hours southwest from Charleston to Beaufort (population ~13,500), founded in 1711 and one of the South’s best-preserved historic towns where we spent two nights at the romantic Anchorage 1770 Inn ($366/night), a waterfront tabby concrete mansion turned boutique inn.
Getting around Beaufort is easy, especially if you’re staying near downtown. The historic district is very walkable, and many of the main sights are clustered close together. If you’re coming from nearby areas like Hilton Head or Savannah, driving is the most convenient option, and parking downtown is generally straightforward. Once you’re there, walking or biking is the best way to take in Beaufort’s beautiful oak-lined streets and river views.
I think you should start by exploring the Historic Downtown and strolling along the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. The park offers peaceful views of the Beaufort River, shaded benches, and a great spot to watch boats come and go. From there, wander through the surrounding neighborhood to admire the antebellum homes and Spanish moss-draped oak trees that give Beaufort its postcard-worthy look.
Beaufort also has a strong food scene for a town its size. You’ll find plenty of local restaurants serving Lowcountry classics like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and fresh seafood. There are also cozy cafés and bakeries that are perfect for a midday break.
What I loved best:
If you enjoy history like me, stopping by the Beaufort History Museum or touring one of the historic homes adds depth to your visit and helps you better understand the area’s past.
6. Hilton Head
Stretching along the Atlantic with miles of dunes and gentle surf, this is one of the most inviting coastal landscapes I’ve explored in the Southeast, and I think it’s one of the absolute best island getaways in the USA.
This island was the epitome of a refined coastal escape! I adored its miles of wide, sandy beaches, shaded pathways, and tidal creeks alive with egrets and dolphins.
We drove about 1 hour northeast from Savannah to Hilton Head Island (population 40,000) and spent the night at the Inn & Club at Harbour Town ($353), a refined boutique hotel inside Sea Pines Resort.
What I loved best:
I enjoyed exploring the charming Harbour Town, my personal highlight, and lingered over evenings at Shelter Cove Marina where live music drifted across the water.
7. Columbia
Ready for a vibrant Southern escape? Check out Columbia, a real standout! I loved exploring the Riverwalk, visiting Five Points, and taking a quiet afternoon trip to nearby Congaree National Park.
For me, the capital of South Carolina is one of those underrated gems that always surprises me with its mix of history, culture, and energy.
Just a 20-minute drive from the airport, I checked into the boutique 3-star Hotel Trundle, a stylish art-deco gem in the heart of Main Street for four care-free days with my husband.
One of my favorite experiences was joining Columbia Food Tours, which turned out to be the absolute best way to discover the city’s culinary side. We got to experience a joyful mix of flavors and history, and I thought it was such a brilliant idea for first-time visitors.
In addition, Columbia, SC is an incredible destination for foodies where restaurants include a diverse range of options, from Southern staples like Tupelo Honey and Mr. Friendly's to iconic spots like Maurice's Piggie Park, as well as international cuisine like MOA Korean BBQ, Motor Supply Co. Bistro for its farm-to-table approach and Blue Marlin for its seafood.
What I loved best:
I had a great time exploring The Vista, wandered on the riverfront trails at the Three Rivers Greenway, and visiting the South Carolina State House and its beautiful grounds right in the heart of downtown.
8. Congaree National Park
This is one of my favorite places to visit in South Carolina. Why? First off, I thought this hidden South Carolina gem was a spellbinding, dreamlike world with a vast cathedral of towering trees mirrored in still, tea-colored waters. In addition, the way sunlight filtered through the ancient cypress and loblolly pines in Congaree National Park felt almost otherworldly, transforming the flooded forest into a tranquil, golden labyrinth that begged to be explored.
From our home base in Columbia, I drove just about 30 minutes southeast where I wandered down the famous Boardwalk Loop Trail at dawn, and spotted great blue herons, a perfect way to reset surrounded by nature.
What I loved best:
Spotting a few elusive river otters with my son was my personal highlight.
9. Myrtle Beach
Stretching along a long, sunny curve of the Grand Strand, this is one of the most iconic beach destinations on the East Coast, and I think it’s one of the absolute best seaside escapes in South Carolina.
After just a quick 15-minute drive from the airport, we checked into the stylish Marina Inn at Grande Dunes ($119/night) for two days, a AAA Four Diamond award winner and one of my favorite romantic weekend getaways in South Carolina. I thought that dining at the renowned Sea Captain’s House was a standout!
The first thing we did was walk the boardwalk, which felt vibrant, exciting, and honestly the best.
Not far from downtown and close to the Atlantic Ocean, the beach itself looked magical.
After that we grabbed breakfast nearby, an affordable spot locals loved, which felt like a hidden gem.
Later we spent hours on the sand, and it was my favorite experience just watching waves.
The ocean breeze felt cool and joyful, making this underrated beach town feel like a dream.
By midday we explored Broadway at the Beach, which is one of the most fun areas.
There were shops, music, and unusual attractions, making it a brilliant idea for families.
Next we headed to SkyWheel, and wow that view was the absolute best experience.
Seeing Myrtle Beach from above felt spectacular and kind of romantic at the same time.
In the afternoon we drove a bit south near Murrells Inlet for seafood.
That stop felt like an underrated food spot and easily one of my favorite meals.
As evening came, we went back near the shore to watch sunset together.
The colors over the water were amazing and honestly felt like pure magic.
What I loved best:
At night we walked the beach again, which felt peaceful and unique.
10. Huntington Beach State Park
Ready for a coastal nature getaway? Check out Huntington Beach State Park, a real standout! I loved visiting in late November, especially wandering the long stretch of undeveloped beach, watching herons move through the marsh, and exploring the quiet trails near the causeway.
The mix of untamed nature and quiet beauty gave this place a serene, timeless and magical feel.
What I loved best:
I loved that from Myrtle Beach it's just 30 minutes south to reach the park’s wide, empty beaches. I strolled along the boardwalk trails, watched pelicans, and explored the hauntingly beautiful Atalaya Castle.
11. Greenville
This is one of my favorite cities in South Carolina for a weekend getaway because of its lively, walkable downtown.
We drove about 3 hours 20 minutes from Charleston to Greenville (population 72,000), a city that grew from 19th-century mills into one of the South’s fastest-growing hubs. We spent two romantic days at the Westin Poinsett ($239/night), a 1925 Beaux-Arts landmark hotel in the heart of downtown.
I loved our visit to the the Museum & Gallery (M&G), a collection of remarkable depth and significance in the realm of sacred and “Old Master” European art on the campus of Bob Jones University (BJU).
I always feel a special sense of peace when I walk through Furman University’s campus in Greenville because the manicured lawns, Georgian-style buildings, and the shimmering lake
Another spectacular dining stop was Jianna, a modern Italian gem perched above Falls Park where we savored the handmade pastas, the fresh oysters, and the romantic views from the rooftop patio.
Other highlights for me personally are Paris Mountain State Park, Greenville Zoo (we first visited when our son was little), Greenville County Museum of Art, Runway Park at GMU, Pitt County Arboretum and Greenville Greenway.
What I loved best:
We had an amazing meal at Grill Marks, right near Main Street later, and it was one of the absolute best burger experiences I’ve had in the South.
12. Kiawah Island
For me, Kiawah Island is one of the most effortlessly romantic escapes on the South Carolina coast, the kind of place where time slows down the moment you arrive.
We drove about 45 minutes southwest from Charleston to Kiawah Island (population 2,000), once home to Native peoples and later rice plantations before becoming a modern resort community. We checked into The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort ($178/night) for blissful five days, a grand oceanfront hotel designed in Lowcountry mansion style.
We started our days biking along the shaded paths that wind through maritime forests and open onto quiet stretches of beach, the air salty and warm as we rode side by side.
Walking the beach together quickly became our favorite ritual—soft sand underfoot, waves rolling in gently, and long, uninterrupted views that made everything else fade away.
My favorite moments were early mornings by the water, when the island felt almost private, and we watched dolphins surface just offshore as the sun climbed higher.
We spent afternoons lingering by the ocean, reading, talking, and doing absolutely nothing, which somehow felt like the most luxurious part of the trip.
One evening, we shared a sunset dinner overlooking the marsh, where the sky turned pink and gold and the stillness made the meal feel especially intimate.
I loved how natural and untouched Kiawah felt—no crowds, no rush, just winding roads, coastal grasses, and the quiet presence of wildlife all around us.
Even the simple things felt special, like riding bikes back at dusk while fireflies flickered in the trees and the island settled into evening calm.
What I loved best:
For me, Kiawah Island is one of the best vacation spots in South Carolina. It's romantic, peaceful, and a favorite escape I can’t wait to return to!
I loved all the dining options on the island, including upscale options like Jasmine Porch and The Ocean Room, casual spots such as Cantina 76 and Cherrywood BBQ & Ale House, and diverse choices like Fuji Sushi Bar & Grill and Tomasso at Turtle Point.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
