Top Tips for Exploring South Carolina from a Local’s Perspective

These are 14 of the best things to do in South Carolina, from the Lowcountry to the Upstate.

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the sunny Lowcountry shores, South Carolina truly has something for every type of traveler. Growing up in the Palmetto State, I spent summers building sandcastles on Hilton Head Island, boating around Lake Murray and Lake Hartwell, and hiking through national and state parks. With mountains, midlands, and picturesque beaches, the state abounds with natural beauty. However, there’s much more to South Carolina than beautiful sights, as there are countless activities, vibrant communities, and mouthwatering food to savor.

Here are some of the best things to do in South Carolina, according to a local.

Find Your Perfect Beach

From Hilton Head Island at the state’s southern tip to Myrtle Beach near the North Carolina border, South Carolina’s coastline offers some of the East Coast’s best beaches. Consequently, any list of the state’s top activities would be incomplete without a mention of our perfectly sandy shores. South Carolina’s family-friendly beaches feature powdery-soft sand, making them perfect for sandcastle building or barefoot strolling. Moreover, the gentle surf is ideal for swimming and engaging in various watersports.

Get Up and Go on a Deep History Tour of Charleston

Uncover the Deep History of Charleston, SC | Virtual Walking Tour

There’s a good reason this friendly South Carolina town has been named the favorite city in America by iBestTravel readers nine years in a row. From gorgeous architecture and boutique hotels to its expansive history, Charleston has plenty to showcase to both tourists and locals. Head out on one of the city’s many informative tours to explore historical landmarks, haunted sites, and more.

Visit the State’s Only National Park

Located in central South Carolina, Congaree National Park offers incredible opportunities for hiking, canoeing, and kayaking in a peaceful forest setting. The park is also home to a fascinating natural phenomenon — synchronous fireflies, which can be best spotted during the Fireflies Festival.

Hit the Links on a World-class Course

Golfing is a beloved pastime among South Carolina residents and visitors alike. Therefore, with dozens of fantastic courses available, including 24 world-class options in Hilton Head Island alone, the state is a prime destination for avid players. Moreover, temperate winter weather means you can enjoy golfing all year round.

Eat Incredible Southern Food

Grits, hushpuppies, and pimento cheese might sound totally foreign if you’re not from the south. However, the food alone is worth the trip to South Carolina. Sample mouthwatering pulled pork (and take a side on the mustard vs. vinegar barbecue sauce debate), indulge in perfectly fried seafood, and sip sweet tea at breakfast, lunch, and dinner — whether at casual eateries or upscale restaurants, you’re sure to have memorable meals here.

Get Out on the Lake

Murray, Hartwell, Jocassee — these are just a few of the lakes you’ll find dotting South Carolina. Wherever you are in the state, you’re likely not too far from a lake, so rent a boat and enjoy a day out on the water.

Stroll Through Downtown Greenville

Downtown Greenville is packed with local restaurants and shops, but its prize attraction is the beautiful Falls Park, located just steps from Main Street. Walk the pedestrian bridge stretching across the park’s namesake waterfalls, enjoy a picnic on the lawn, or simply go for a stroll — this is the ideal spot to spend a couple of hours in one of South Carolina’s best (and often underrated) destinations.

Learn About Gullah Geechee History and Culture

The Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor runs along the coastlines of North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida, featuring several notable locations in the SC Lowcountry. Learn about the Gullah Geechee community — the descendants of African people who were enslaved and brought to the United States — and their art, language, food, and culture through museum visits and tours.

Hike Table Rock State Park

South Carolina isn’t just beach and lake country — the Upstate has plenty of scenic spots to visit in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Therefore, go for a hike in Table Rock State Park (especially stunning in the fall) to see the state from a fresh perspective.

Relax at a Five-star Resort

There are a wide range of accommodation options throughout the state, but visitors seeking luxury have a number of standout properties to choose from. The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Montage Palmetto Bluff in Bluffton, and The Inn & Club at Harbour Town are among the best luxury choices.

Pedal or Paddle Around

Experience South Carolina’s scenic beauty by land or water with a bike ride or kayak excursion. Consequently, pedal or paddle your way around coastal destinations like Hilton Head Island, known for its picturesque bike trails.

Check Out Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

One of the main attractions in Columbia — South Carolina’s capital city — is Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. See animals, learn about conservation, and stroll through the beautiful gardens for an enjoyable day out in the Midlands.

Explore Huntington Beach State Park

If you’re visiting South Carolina’s Grand Strand and want to explore beyond Myrtle Beach, take a short drive to this state park. Three miles of beachy shoreline isn’t the only reason to visit — it’s also home to Atalaya, a National Historic Landmark that served as the winter home of Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington, built in the 1930s.

Spot Dolphins in the Wild

Wildlife abounds in South Carolina, and the Lowcountry is a must-visit area for birdwatchers, fishing enthusiasts, and those hoping to see dolphins frolicking in the waves.

Learn About History Where It Happened

Visit Fort Moultrie and Fort Sumter to delve into South Carolina’s significant role in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. (Fort Sumter is located in Charleston Harbor, making it only accessible by ferry, offering stunning views of Charleston and Mount Pleasant from the water.)