The Most Beautiful Places in South Carolina
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
6. Falls Park on the Reedy
Falls Park is a small, yet attractive natural space in beautiful downtown Greenville. Greenville is the newest trendy destination of the Southeast, with thousands visiting the quaint downtown each weekend. Falls Park on the Reedy, the oasis of this bustling city, is home to a powerful waterfall, lovely gardens and streams, and nature trails. During my time living in Greenville, you could find me at this park at least 2-3 times per week. Truly a beautiful place and easily walkable to so many local restaurants and shops.
No matter the season, this is the place to escape it all and soak in some nature. While it can get quite busy during the nicer seasons, the picture-perfect waterfall scenery, gorgeous flowers, and impeccable landscaping still make it the city’s prime natural escape.
- Address: 601 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601
- My guide to exploring downtown Greenville
7. Charleston historic district
Charleston is home to one of the largest and most beautiful historic districts in the country. Take a step back in time and enjoy the unique architecture, Southern charm, and historical sights of South Carolina’s most influential city. Not surprisingly, Charleston has ranked one of the world’s best cities by Travel and Leisure for many years.
The district, which was designated a National Historic landmark in 1960, is filled to the brim with historical attractions, museums, and amazing architectural wonders. The best way to immerse yourself in the sights and history is by taking a narrated horse drawn carriage ride.
You will also want to make your way over to Rainbow Row, a street lined with brightly colored pastel row homes. As the largest collection of Georgian row houses in the country, Rainbow Row is, not surprisingly, the top photographed site in the city. Fans of the Nicholas Spark classic The Notebook will want to stop for a photo opp in front of the American theater.
Check out my weekend guide to exploring Charleston
8. Isle of Palms
There are a number of beautiful beaches within close proximity to Charleston. During the city’s hot and humid summer season, you’ll likely want to escape to the beach for a few hours of fun-in-the-sun. Give your feet a rest and take a dip in the comfortable warm waters of the southern Atlantic coast. Isle of Palms is one of the least visited of Charleston area beaches. Thus, it remains a bit more peaceful than more popular tourist options like Folly Beach.
The beach is wide and quaint with plenty of room to lay out and sunbathe. If beachcombing is more your style, you are in luck as there are no shortage of exotic shells. This is a wide stretch of sand which is just perfect for morning walks along the beach. Ater your beach day, treat yourself to lunch in beautiful Mt. Pleasant. This charming suburb is known for its’ friendly Southern hospitality and low country cuisine.
Address: 14th Ave Isle of Palms, SC 29451
9. The Grand Strand
The Grand Strand is the nickname given to a long stretch of pristine beaches which line the South Carolina coast. The top tourist destination along this 60 mile stretch is Myrtle Beach, a longtime spring break favorite and summer family beach vacation destination.
One of the best ways of taking in the incredible beach scenery is via the Myrtle Beach Skywheel. A ride on the 187 foot tall enclosed gondola ferris wheel is a great way to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the coast.
Explore my Myrtle Beach vacation guide
10. Huntington Beach State Park
Huntington Beach State Park is one of the best places for all around recreation in South Carolina. Birdwatching, hiking, biking, swimming, and strolling along one of the most beautiful of the Grand Strand beaches, are just a few of the things you can look forward to during your visit at this hidden gem.
In addition to being one of the best bird watching sites on the East Coast, the park is also a hotspot for gator sightings. Take a walk along the Sandpiper Pond nature trail and be on the lookout for spoonbills and sandhill cranes. If biking is more your style, you will want to hop on the Waccamaw Neck Bikeway, which conveniently connects to the park.
Address: 16148 Ocean Hwy, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
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