South Carolina is full of family fun, especially in the summer when warm weather and beautiful outdoor adventures await. From the city to the shore, there’s so much to see and do throughout the Palmetto State.
Let’s dive into seven must-see spots for an amazing weekend getaway in South Carolina this summer.
Myrtle Beach
If you want a nice place to relax for a few days with stunning shoreline and lively entertainment, it’s hard to look past Myrtle Beach. This go-to destination put South Carolina on the map as an Atlantic Coast vacation resort and makes up the heart of Grand Strand, a 60-mile chain of beautiful beaches.
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk is famous for the SkyWheel, one of the tallest ferris wheels in the U.S., and the Family Kingdom amusement park for old-fashioned fun. Luxury golf courses, gift shops, and a wide variety of bars and restaurants make this beach getaway popular with locals and visitors from all around the country and beyond.
Charleston
Another waterfront destination is the historic city of Charleston, which has been repeatedly voted America’s #1 Small City over the past decade. It’s easy to see why, with charming cobblestone streets and numerous green spaces for people of all ages to explore.
The port city features French Quarter and antebellum architecture, which can be explored via horse-drawn carriage. Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter are popular tourist sites, while paddle boats, waterparks, and nature trails ensure plenty of outdoor recreation.
Hilton Head
Hilton Head is another family-friendly weekend getaway, offering great swimming, relaxing coastal walks, and local attractions like Shelter Cove Land and Coastal Discovery Museum. This Lowcountry island is known for a more laidback vibe compared to Myrtle Beach, and natural beauty is the main focus point here.
Not only can you embrace the sea breeze, but it’s a great spot to see native animals, with Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge home to over 250 species of birds, fish, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Keep your eyes peeled for white-tailed deer, bald eagles, and even alligators!
Cherokee Foothills
Fancy a weekend road trip? Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway offers amazing views of the northern part of the state, heading to North Carolina on Highway 11.
This 120-mile stretch follows the southern peaks of the Blue Ridge range, with quaint mountain towns providing a warm welcome as you stop for the night. Walhalla, Salem, and Sunset are a few worthwhile stops after exploring Sassafras Mountain and Lower Whitewater Falls.
Caesars Head State Park
Somewhere else to see in the state’s north is Caesars Head State Park, known for incredible hiking, fishing, and camping. Located off the Geer Highway just a few miles from the North Carolina border, this state park provides awesome views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and connects to the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area.
If you visit Caesars Head, make sure to bring your walking shoes as there are over 60 miles of hiking trails, with Raven Cliff Falls worth the workout. Not only can you catch the 420-foot waterfall from the scenic overlook, but there’s also a longer hike to the suspension bridge that captures a unique perspective of the falls plunging deep into the mountain cove.
Folly Beach
Back to the beach, and Folly Island south of Charleston delivers with a 1,000-foot pier and a famous lighthouse built in the 1800s. Folly is smaller and quieter than other beach towns, so it’s great for a romantic getaway or a family trip.
Boardwalk strolls and sea dips keep visitors entertained alongside civil war landmarks and the expansive county park. Families with young kids also appreciate the array of water activities, including paddleboard and kayak rentals, surf lessons, and even sunset cruises.
Lakewood Camping Resort
Nestled along the oceanfront, this remarkable camping resort presents awe-inspiring vistas of the sea, lakes, and the surrounding natural landscapes. Boasting approximately 1,300 sites, Lakewood Camping Resort stands as one of the largest campgrounds in the region.
Embracing a warm and inviting family atmosphere, this campground serves as an ideal destination for families seeking unforgettable experiences. The resort offers an array of enriching amenities, including a heated swimming pool and spa, a fitness room, convenient golf cart and bike rentals, and a host of other delightful features.
Lakewood Camping Resort effortlessly caters to a range of preferences, accommodating everything from basic tents to luxurious modern RVs. Guests have the option to choose from Oceanfront sites, Lakefront sites, sunny open sites, or tranquil shaded sites. Each site provides full hook-ups and is complemented by its own picnic table. For those desiring additional comfort, the campground also offers charming vacation rentals with a variety of bedrooms, ranging from 1 to 5.
Indulge in the splendors of Lakewood Camping Resort, where nature’s beauty meets unparalleled amenities, ensuring a truly memorable camping experience for all.
Lake Greenwood
Beautiful lake shore and fabulous boating make Lake Greenwood a top choice for weekend getaways in South Carolina. Located in Greenwood County in the state’s west, this 11,400-acre lake was created in 1940 and continues to serve local towns like Clinton, Laurens, Newberry, and Ninety Six.
Known for year-round bass fishing and boating, Lake Greenwood has a great selection of nature trails and shoreline campsites for nature lovers. The recreational area has a fishing pier for easy lake access and picnic shelters to rest and refuel, ensuring a fun and enjoyable weekend getaway in South Carolina.