Overview

South Carolina is a state where Southern charm meets coastal beauty and deep-rooted history. From antebellum mansions and cobblestone streets to white-sand beaches and mountain trails, the Palmetto State offers diverse experiences for every traveler. Whether you’re sipping sweet tea in Charleston or exploring the Blue Ridge foothills, South Carolina is rich in culture, nature, and hospitality.

  • Capital: Columbia
  • Largest Cities: Charleston, Columbia, North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Greenville
  • Population: ~5.4 million (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (UTC−5) / EDT (Daylight Saving)
  • Climate: Humid subtropical — hot summers, mild winters, and long springs and falls

Top Destinations in South Carolina

Charleston

A historic port city known for its pastel homes, plantations, churches, and Lowcountry cuisine.

Myrtle Beach

A popular vacation destination with sandy beaches, boardwalk attractions, golf courses, and live entertainment.

Greenville

A revitalized upstate city with a scenic riverwalk, art galleries, local food, and access to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Hilton Head Island

A relaxing beach escape with upscale resorts, golf, bike paths, and coastal nature preserves.

Columbia

The state capital and home to the University of South Carolina, offering museums, gardens, and riverfront trails.

Must-See Attractions

  • Historic Downtown Charleston – Cobblestone streets, Rainbow Row, and historic homes
  • Brookgreen Gardens – Sculpture garden and wildlife preserve in Murrells Inlet
  • Falls Park on the Reedy (Greenville) – Urban oasis with waterfalls and a pedestrian bridge
  • Congaree National Park – A unique floodplain forest with hiking, canoeing, and towering trees
  • Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum (Mount Pleasant) – Tour the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier

Things to Do

  • Relax on the beach or play a round of golf on the coast
  • Take a carriage ride or walking tour through Charleston’s historic district
  • Visit plantations and gardens like Magnolia Plantation or Middleton Place
  • Sample Lowcountry cuisine and local seafood
  • Hike or bike in the Blue Ridge foothills or along rail trails

Getting There & Around

Major Airports

  • Charleston International (CHS), Myrtle Beach International (MYR), Greenville-Spartanburg International (GSP), Columbia Metropolitan (CAE)

Transport

  • Rental cars recommended for getting around coastal and rural areas
  • Buses and trolleys available in major cities like Charleston and Columbia
  • Ferries and harbor tours operate in Charleston

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (Mar–May): Flowers bloom, temperatures are pleasant, and festivals abound
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Great for beach trips but hot and humid inland
  • Fall (Sep–Nov): Mild weather and fewer crowds
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Quiet, especially on the coast, with occasional cool snaps

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: Strong African, Gullah, and Southern influences define Lowcountry cooking
  • Specialties: Shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, Frogmore stew, boiled peanuts, pimento cheese
  • Drinks: Sweet tea, Firefly sweet tea vodka, craft beer, and local moonshine
  • Events & Festivals:
  • Spoleto Festival USA (Charleston) – International performing arts
  • South Carolina State Fair (Columbia)
  • Myrtle Beach Bike Week
  • Gullah Festival (Beaufort)
  • Fall for Greenville (Food & music festival)

Souvenirs from South Carolina

  • Local hot sauces or barbecue rubs
  • Gullah sweetgrass baskets or handmade crafts
  • Palmetto-themed décor or state flag items
  • South Carolina peaches, pecans, or preserves
  • Charleston tea or Lowcountry cookbooks

Fun Facts

  • South Carolina was the first state to secede from the Union in 1860
  • Charleston has been voted “Best City in the U.S.” multiple times
  • The Angel Oak Tree near Charleston is estimated to be over 400 years old
  • The state produces more turbines for Boeing planes than any other U.S. location
  • Sweet tea is believed to have originated in South Carolina

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Coastal Escape

  • Day 1: Charleston – Historic tours, waterfront, and seafood dinner
  • Day 2: Myrtle Beach – Relax on the beach and visit the boardwalk
  • Day 3: Brookgreen Gardens and nearby beaches

5-Day Lowcountry & Upstate Journey

  • Day 1: Charleston – Explore downtown and nearby plantations
  • Day 2: Hilton Head – Biking and beaches
  • Day 3: Drive to Columbia – Visit gardens and museums
  • Day 4: Greenville – Falls Park and local food
  • Day 5: Blue Ridge foothills – hike or explore a winery

Cities

  • Charleston