Interested in visiting South Carolina but not sure where to go? In this post, I’m rounding up some of my favorite South Carolina coastal towns, including Hilton Head, Mount Pleasant, Georgetown, and Myrtle Beach. Plus, I’ve got you covered with all the best things to do in South Carolina, restaurants to check out, beaches you won’t want to miss, where to stay, and more!
Table of Contents
Best South Carolina coastal towns to visit
The next stop on our East Coast road trip was South Carolina (aka the Palmetto state), and let’s just say it truly is just as beautiful as what I’ve seen in the movies. (Click here to see where our first stop was.) If you’re into pristine white sandy beaches, stunning marshlands straight out of the notebook (literally), lots of delicious Southern cooking, beautiful historic cobblestone streets, and a dash of Southern Charm, South Carolina needs to be your next vacation destination! (Trust me)
In this post, I’m sharing ALL the details from the four South Carolina coastal towns we visited, including the best things to do, places to stay, and some of our favorite restaurants. Plus, I’ve got you covered with some South Carolina resorts to check out, beaches in South Carolina you won’t want to miss, and so much more!
Wondering what our other East Coast road trip stops were? Check out these related reads!
- The ultimate travel guide for Historic St Augustine Florida
- Best restaurants & things to do in Annapolis Maryland
- The best places to visit in New England (especially in Fall)
- 5+ best towns in Massachusetts to visit (especially in Fall)
- Discovering Maine: Best things to do in Kennebunkport Maine
- P-Town Unplugged: Best things to do in Provincetown MA
- 12+ unique things to do in Lake Placid in winter
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Things to know before you go
Map of South Carolina
How to get to South Carolina
Getting to South Carolina can be done through various means of transportation, depending on your starting point and preferences. If you’re planning on flying, there are many different South Carolina airports to choose from, including Charleston International Airport (CHS), Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP), and Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR).
If you’re traveling from nearby states like North Carolina, Georgia, or Tennessee, it’s probably easiest to drive. South Carolina is only 207 miles long (about a three-and-a-half-hour drive) and is conveniently accessible by I-95, I-85, and I-20.
If you don’t feel like driving or flying, Amtrak offers four rail lines that pass through South Carolina. The train comes equipped with a dining car, lounge car, and bedrooms if you are traveling overnight. (Click here for more info.)
TIP: Need some help finding flights to South Carolina? You can search & compare millions of flights and save on Skyscanner!
How to get around South Carolina coastal towns
If you plan on hopping around to different coastal towns in South Carolina, or if this is one of the stops on your East Coast road trip itinerary, I HIGHLY recommend renting a car. This gives you the freedom to journey where your heart desires and conveniently travel at your own pace. You can compare the best rental car options through Discover Cars, my personal favorite when traveling!
As far as public transportation, some South Carolina cities do have a local bus system, like the CARTA, and you can also take the Charleston Water Taxi if you’re traveling to popular destinations around the harbor.
Depending on where you’re visiting, it’s also always fun to explore via bike. I’ll make sure to link some options below! Additionally, some of the cities in South Carolina I’ve listed below are fairly walkable if you’re staying in the city center.
Best time to visit South Carolina:
The best time to visit South Carolina really depends on what you are going there for and the activities you’re interested in. Spring brings mild South Carolina weather, blooming flowers, and lush greenery, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities. This is also a great time to visit if you’re looking for a peaceful escape with less crowds.
Summer is peak tourist season, especially along the coast, as visitors flock to the South Carolina beaches to enjoy water activities. This is a great time to visit for festivals, outdoor concerts, and other events throughout the state. However, the weather in South Carolina is very hot and humid this time of year, with temperatures in the 90s.
Fall brings cooler temperatures and less humidity, making it a pleasant time to visit South Carolina, especially if you enjoy the changing of the leaves. We went in early September, and the weather was perfect! It definitely got pretty toasty during the day, but it was cooler in the morning and at night.
TIP: Need some help packing for your trip? Check out my packing lists for every season, including travel essentials to keep you organized throughout your vacation!
First stop >> Hilton Head
Imagine miles of sandy shores begging for your footprints, windy tree-lined streets just waiting to be explored, and a whole lineup of activities guaranteed to bring out your inner adventurer. Well, that’s Hilton Head in a nutshell, and it’s no surprise why it’s one of the best South Carolina beach towns.
Whether you’re a golf aficionado looking to swing some clubs, a foodie craving the freshest catch, or a nature lover itching to spot some playful dolphins, Hilton Head has something special in store for everyone in the family.
This was our first time visiting Hilton Head and also the first stop of the South Carolina portion of our road trip, and let’s just say I’m counting down the days until we go back. Two days is simply not enough! Keep scrolling for all the best things to do in Hilton Head, Hilton Head hotels to check out, must-visit Hilton Head restaurants, and more!
Where to stay in Hilton Head
- Situated on a pristine stretch of beach, The Westin Hilton Head Resort & Spa offers upscale rooms with ocean views, multiple pools, a spa, a fitness center, and various dining options. It’s the perfect blend of luxury and recreation and a great choice if you’re seeking a serene oasis for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Located in the exclusive Palmetto Dunes community, Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort features stylish rooms, a large pool, oceanfront dining, a spa, and various recreational activities, including three championship golf courses. It’s one of the best Hilton Head hotels on beach, in my opinion!
- With a prime beachfront location, Sonesta Resort Hilton head Island offers spacious rooms, multiple pools, a full-service spa, and several dining options. This is a great family-friendly resort with easy access to many activities, including tennis, golf, the beach, bicycle rentals, and more.
- Located in Bluffton, just a short drive from Hilton Head, Hilton Head National RV Resort offers upscale amenities, including spacious RV sites with full hookups. Additionally, there’s a clubhouse, a pool with a lazy river, an arcade room, a dog park, and an on-site restaurant. Plus, you get beautiful panoramic views of the golf course!
Looking for more options? Browse all of the best hotels in Hilton Head for every budget here!
Best Hilton head things to do
- Soak up the sun at Coligny Beach Park, one of the most popular Hilton Head beaches. With miles of soft, sandy shores, Coligny Beach Park is the perfect place to bring the whole family for a day of relaxation and recreation. It also offers a range of amenities, from outdoor showers and restrooms to picnic areas and shady pavilions, and it’s adjacent to Coligny Plaza, a bustling shopping and dining hub.
- Explore Harbour Town Hilton Head, a charming waterfront village renowned for its iconic lighthouse, upscale shopping, and picturesque marina. Make sure to climb the 144 steps to the top of the lighthouse for breathtaking views of the Lowcountry. Then, you obviously have to reward yourself with a drink (or a meal) with a view at Harbourside.
- Go on a kayak nature tour. This is a great way to discover Hilton Head’s natural beauty while learning about the local ecosystem from a naturalist guide. On this tour, you’ll explore salt marshes, tidal rivers, and creeks and see a variety of wildlife along the way, including birds and dolphins. Click here for more details about this tour.
- Spot dolphins on a Hilton Head Island dolphin boat cruise. Sail among one of the world’s largest populations of dolphins while learning about the local ecosystem and wildlife along the way. This is a fully narrated 90-minute tour with guaranteed dolphin sightings, as well as other marine animals. If you’re wondering what to do in Hilton Head that’s fun for the whole family, this is it! Click here for more details about this tour.
- Embark on a pirate ship adventure in search of treasure on the waters of Hilton Head. This 90-minute tour transforms your kids into little pirates and provides pirate costumes & lessons, as well as face paint & tattoos. If you’re looking for kid-friendly things to do in Hilton Head, this tour is for you! Click here for more details about this tour.
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Best restaurants in Hilton Head
- For breakfast. If you’re looking for some of the best breakfast Hilton Head has to offer, Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe is your place! Open for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, this casual cafe has a variety of classic American dishes, from omelets and eggs benedict to pancakes and french toast. They also have both indoor & outdoor seating and a dog-friendly patio.
- For lunch, there’s no better place to go than A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant, a laid-back restaurant in the heart of Hilton Head serving up all the best Southern dishes in town. On their menu, you’ll find everything from crab cakes and BLT’s to shrimp and grits and meatloaf. They’re open for both lunch and dinner (closed on Sundays) and have a large outdoor patio with live music playing regularly.
- For dinner. If you’re looking for the perfect place to grab a meal with a view, Skull Creek Boathouse and Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks are the best restaurants Hilton head to go! Not only do both places offer an exceptional menu filled with the best fresh, local seafood in the area, but they also have such a fun vibe and, if you time it right, some of the best sunsets in town!
Interested in a day trip from Hilton Head to Savannah? Click here to book a round-trip ferry ticket so you can skip the hassles of traffic and parking!
Second stop >> Mount Pleasant
When we were planning our road trip, we were actually supposed to stay in Charleston for a week. Unfortunately, our Airbnb was canceled at the last minute due to water damage, and we ended up having to stay in Mount Pleasant instead. We were a little bummed (because we love Charleston), but this gave us the opportunity to explore someplace new, and we ended up loving Mount Pleasant!
With its laid-back vibes, charming streets, and unbeatable seafood joints, Mount Pleasant, just a stone’s throw away from Charleston, is the epitome of Southern hospitality meets beach town bliss. Keep scrolling for the best hotels in Mount Pleasant SC, Mount Pleasant restaurants you have to check out, things to do, and much more!
Hotel Indigo Mount Pleasant
As soon as we found out that our Airbnb got canceled, I frantically started searching for hotels (since there weren’t any good Airbnbs available on such short notice) and happened to stumble upon Hotel Indigo. Not only is it close to Downtown Charleston (only a bridge away), but it’s an Instagram lover’s dream, with its playful pink and blue aesthetic.
Hotel Indigo is also pet friendly (which Melvin obviously loved), has a beautiful resort-style pool, has a daily Happy Hour (need I say more?), and has a delicious on-site restaurant! It’s also a very affordable alternative to a downtown Charleston hotel and is still so close to all the action! Click here to book your stay today!
Other Mount Pleasant SC hotels
- Situated along the waterfront with stunning views of Charleston Harbor, The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina offers luxury accommodations and modern amenities. With spacious rooms, a full-service spa, waterfront dining, and a private beach club, this hotel provides the ultimate coastal getaway experience, making it one of the best Mount Pleasant hotels.
- Nestled within the picturesque I’On community, The Inn at I’On combines historic charm with modern elegance. Guests can relax in beautifully appointed rooms, stroll through lush gardens, and enjoy easy access to nearby shops, restaurants, and attractions. The Inn also offers complimentary breakfast, adding an extra touch of Southern hospitality to your stay.
- Conveniently situated just minutes from downtown Charleston and the area’s beautiful beaches, Cambria Hotel Mount Pleasant provides the perfect home base for exploring all that the Lowcountry has to offer. At this hotel, you’ll find sleep and sophisticated accommodations, where every room is thoughtfully designed with modern amenities and comfort in mind.
Looking for more options? Browse all of the best hotels Mount Pleasant SC for every budget here!
Best things to do in Mount Pleasant SC
- Step aboard the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier and immerse yourself in naval history at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum. From touring historic warships to experiencing interactive exhibits, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and honors the bravery of those who served. They also offer a nighttime ghost tour here that gives you exclusive access to areas of the ship that are closed to the public.
- Take a stroll through the iconic Avenue of Oaks and discover the beauty and history of Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens. Tour the stately mansion (also the filming location for Allie’s family summer house in the movie The Notebook), explore the lush gardens, and learn about the rich Gullah culture that shaped the Lowcountry region. Click here to book your all-access admission ticket for only $28.
- Hop around Shem Creek Boardwalk, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Mount Pleasant, offering picturesque views, vibrant wildlife (including dolphins), and a lively waterfront scene. You’ll also find quite a variety of Shem Creek restaurants and waterfront bars to choose from, from fresh-off-the-boat seafood to mouthwatering Lowcountry classics. Plus, you’ll see some of the best sunsets in town! Check out this two-hour Shem Creek kayak tour.
- Explore the quaint streets of Old Village, a charming neighborhood in the heart of Mount Pleasant filled with historic homes, boutique shops, restaurants, art galleries, and some of the best waterfront views in town. This is a great place to browse unique gifts, souvenirs, and locally crafted goods while soaking in the area’s small-town allure.
- Explore Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park, a scenic destination offering visitors stunning panoramic vistas of the Charleston Harbor and Ravenel Bridge. This is a great place to go for a relaxing afternoon or a leisurely stroll along the pier. There are also shaded picnic areas and a playground, making it an ideal spot to bring the whole family. Plus, it’s dog-friendly!
Check out this tour >> Go behind the scenes of the Netflix series Outer Banks for a film locations tour in Charleston while you learn about the history, culture, and architecture in the area. Click here to check it out.
Favorite restaurants in Mount Pleasant
- For breakfast. If you’re looking for a fast-casual Mount Pleasant restaurant, Vicious Biscuit is the place to go! Their biscuit sandwiches are out of this world and might even rival Chick-fil-A. The Flying Biscuit Cafe is also a great spot if you prefer a sit-down breakfast. They have all the traditional breakfast fixings you can dream of served all day, AND they have mimosa flights. Need I say more?
- For lunch. When we saw that Melvin’s BBQ was within walking distance of our hotel, we knew we had to go, especially considering Melvin is our dog’s name. It was meant to be, right? BBQ is not typically my thing (it’s too messy and sticky, lol), but it was absolutely DELICIOUS! They have an extensive menu with many options, from BBQ sandwiches and wings to burgers and meat plates. You can also order a plate of just sides, and let me tell you, they are all amazing!
- For dinner and drinks, there’s no better place to go than Shem Creek. If you’re there around happy hour, I recommend popping into Tavern & Table for $4 glasses of wine or beer and some small bites. For dinner, we thoroughly enjoyed Water’s Edge (the perfect place to grab a meal with a view), and you have to stop by Saltwater Cowboy’s afterward for a drink and some live entertainment.
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Third stop >> Georgetown
Georgetown was the third coastal town in South Carolina we visited, and it’s no surprise why it’s said to be the best-kept secret in the state! Nestled along the scenic shores of the coast, Georgetown is a hidden gem waiting to be explored that exudes Southern charm, rich history, and stunning views. Unfortunately, we were only here for a day, but we had a great time strolling through the historic district, popping around the boardwalk, and indulging in some Lowcountry classics.
If you’re ready to embark on a journey to a place where Southern charm meets coastal allure, keep reading! Below are some details on the Airbnb we stayed at, hotels in the area, things to do in Georgetown SC, our favorite restaurants, and more.
Where we stayed
We stayed in a two-bedroom/two-bathroom Airbnb in South Carolina, about 10 minutes outside of Downtown Georgetown. Although it was very nice and comfortable, I didn’t particularly love the location. The Airbnb was on a busy road, so it was pretty loud (mostly during the day), unfortunately.
Otherwise, it was very clean and nicely decorated, and the owner added many personal touches to ensure we had a comfortable stay. She even had a fruit platter waiting for us when we arrived! I would still recommend this Airbnb if you are looking for an affordable place to stay that is relatively close to downtown. It’s also pet-friendly!
Prefer to stay in a hotel? Browse all of the best hotels in Georgetown for every budget here!
Best things to do in Georgetown South Carolina
- Stroll along the picturesque Harborwalk, where centuries-old oak trees and historic buildings line the waterfront. Take in breathtaking views of the Sampit River, browse charming boutiques and art galleries, and grab some fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants like The River Room or Buzz’s Roost.
- Immerse yourself in the history of the Georgetown Rice Museum, one of South Carolina’s most important crops. Housed in the town’s historic waterfront district, this museum offers fascinating exhibits on rice cultivation, African American heritage, and the impact of rice on Georgetown’s economy and culture. Click here for tickets.
- Explore Hobcaw Barony, a 16,000-acre wildlife preserve offering guided tours that showcase the area’s salt marshes, historic plantations, and diverse ecosystems. Learn about the region’s Gullah Geechee heritage, spot wildlife such as alligators and migratory birds, and take in stunning views of the Waccamaw Neck. Click here to plan your visit.
Best restaurants in Georgetown SC
- For breakfast, we thoroughly enjoyed Coffee Break Cafe. Unfortunately, it is permanently closed, but there are still so many great other coffee shops in Georgetown, including Grit & Grind, Beanz, and Urban Brew. There’s also a cafe called Purr & Pour Cat Cafe, where you can grab a coffee and pet some cats!
- For lunch, Harborwalk is the place to go! Along the boardwalk, you’ll find several waterfront restaurants and bars, perfect for grabbing lunch with a view. We hopped around to a couple of different spots, but Big Tuna Raw Bar (temporarily closed) was by far our favorite! They serve locally sourced seafood and cocktails and are located right on the water, so you can watch the alligators swim by as you eat lunch.
- For dinner, you can’t go wrong with The River Room, a relaxed waterfront restaurant renowned for its fresh seafood and Southern classics, like shrimp & grits, crab cakes, and fried green tomatoes. Aunny’s Country Kitchen is another good spot if you’re craving Southern Comfort Food, and Root is the place to go if you’re seeking a farm-to-table dining experience with seasonal ingredients.
- For snacks, I would definitely recommend stopping by Indigo Mercantile if you need to grab a few things for your Airbnb or hotel room. It is a local gourmet grocery store that has lots of fun gadgets and an excellent selection of wine, cheese, sandwiches, toiletries, and more!
Last stop >> Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach was probably my least favorite of all the South Carolina coastal towns we visited, and that’s probably because we spent most of our time at Broadway at the Beach, a popular tourist destination with lots of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. I grew up going to Disney and Universal so I was personally a little underwhelmed, but it’s definitely a great spot for family-friendly fun.
If you’re interested in visiting Broadway at the Beach, make sure to read through some of my recommendations below, including where to stay, attractions to visit, restaurants to check out, stores to pop into, and more.
Best hotels in Myrtle Beach
- If you’re planning on spending most of your time at Broadway at the Beach, the Holiday Inn Express is a great place to stay, as it’s literally within walking distance to tons of great restaurants, bars, and attractions. We didn’t even have to move the car the whole time we were there! Additionally, it is pet-friendly and a great budget-friendly option if you’re visiting with the whole family.
- Located oceanfront along the Grand Strand, The Breakers Resort offers unparalleled views and luxurious accommodations. With a variety of room options, including suites and condos, this family-friendly resort has something for everyone. Guests can enjoy multiple pools, lazy rivers, and onsite dining options, making it the perfect destination for a relaxing beach vacation.
- Known for its extensive indoor water park, Dunes Village Resort is perfect for guests looking for fun and excitement year-round. The resort features spacious suites with private balconies, multiple indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, and a lazy river. With onsite dining options and a convenient location near Myrtle Beach’s top attractions, Dunes Village Resort is a popular choice for families and groups.
- For those seeking upscale accommodations and impeccable service, the Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes is the ultimate choice. Set amidst the exclusive Grande Dunes community, this resort features elegant rooms and suites with luxurious amenities. Guests can relax by the pool, indulge in gourmet dining experiences, or rejuvenate at the onsite spa.
Looking for more options? Browse all of the best hotels in Myrtle Beach for every budget here!
Broadway at the beach
Best Broadway at the Beach restaurants
- For snacks. If you need to take a break from all the fun and refuel, Broadway at the Beach offers many options to grab a quick snack. Auntie Anne’s is a fan favorite and has the most delicious pretzels, but there are also quite a few ice cream and sweet shops to help cool you down. The social coffee shop is also a great spot to take a break and re-energize.
- For lunch. If you’re looking for a casual restaurant for lunch or dinner, we thoroughly enjoyed Melt, which has many great handcrafted grilled sandwiches and wood-fired pizza options. Wahlburgers, owned by the Wahlberg Family, is another fun place for a fast, casual dining experience, serving delicious burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more.
- For a casual dinner. If you’re looking for a fun restaurant with a party vibe, Señor Frogs, Margaritaville, and Wet Willie’s are for you! The first time I went to Señor Frogs was in the Bahamas, and it’s still just as fun in the States! If you’re visiting on the weekend and looking for a fun place to watch sports, Dave & Buster’s and Bar Louie are great options, and their food is pretty good, too!
- For a fancier dinner. If you want to eat somewhere a little nicer, Landry’s Seafood is a great spot, AND they have a bomb happy hour. They offer a variety of seafood and steak options, and they have a beautiful waterfront view. Some of my other favorite restaurants at Broadway at the Beach are Joe’s Crab Shack (gimme all the crab!) and Yamato Japanese Steakhouse. I mean, who doesn’t love a little entertainment while they eat?!
Favorite Broadway at the Beach stores
- Cute boutiques. I was pretty surprised by how many cute Broadway at the Beach boutiques there are, and they were actually pretty affordable, too! Bijuju was one of my favorites and has tons of cute jewelry and fashion accessories. Gemini Boutique is another good one with Toms Shoes, Vera Bradley, Alex & Ani, and more!
- Surf shops. Broadway at the Beach also has quite a few surf shops and resort wear boutiques, which are the perfect place to grab all your beach gear! If you visit, you MUST stop at the legendary Ron Jon Surf Shop and grab a t-shirt! Quiet Storm and Coastal Outfitters Pro Shop are some other great options that offer unique beach, fishing, and surf apparel and accessories.
- Other favorite stores. If you want to grab a souvenir to take home with you, Broadway T-shirt Co has a great selection of pre-printed T-shirts and sweatshirts available. Christmas at the Beach is also a cute place to grab an ornament (I always buy an ornament everywhere we go), and no trip to Broadway at the Beach is complete without a stop at the Southern Living Store.
Broadway at the Beach rides & attractions
We didn’t really get into too many of the attractions that Broadway at the Beach had to offer (besides eating, drinking, and shopping haha), but let me just tell you that there are so many fun things to do for everyone in your family!
For the younger kids, the water park, action park, and dino park are all great places to check out. If you’re looking for a thrill, the beach rider boat jet and soar & explore look really fun! If you want something to do that includes everyone in the family, Broadway Grand Prix, Ripley’s Aquarium, and Topgolf are all great options. Check out the full list of all attractions here.
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