Winter in South Carolina offers a variety of destinations to explore, from coastal getaways to mountain retreats.
Here are 50 places to visit in South Carolina during the winter:
Coastal Destinations:
- Charleston: Explore historic sites, dine on seafood, and enjoy the charming streets.
- Myrtle Beach: Visit the Boardwalk, enjoy the beach, and explore entertainment options.
- Hilton Head Island: Relax on pristine beaches and golf on world-class courses.
- Beaufort: Discover historic architecture and enjoy the waterfront.
- Folly Beach: Experience a laid-back beach town atmosphere.
- Kiawah Island: Enjoy upscale resorts and nature preserves.
- Edisto Island: Explore the Botany Bay Plantation Wildlife Management Area.
- Sullivan’s Island: Visit Fort Moultrie and relax on the beaches.
- Pawleys Island: Experience a quiet coastal community with picturesque beaches.
- Georgetown: Explore a charming waterfront town with a historic district.
Mountain Escapes:
- Greenville: Explore the vibrant downtown and nearby hiking trails.
- Hiking Trails: Visit the Blue Ridge Mountains for winter hiking adventures.
- Caesars Head State Park: Enjoy stunning vistas and hiking opportunities.
- Table Rock State Park: Hike to Table Rock and explore the park’s beauty.
- Lake Jocassee: Experience serene lakeside scenery.
- Chimney Rock State Park: Explore hiking trails and scenic vistas.
- Brevard, NC: Just across the border, visit this charming town and explore waterfalls.
- Oconee State Park: Enjoy hiking and the tranquility of mountain lakes.
- Jones Gap State Park: Experience beautiful waterfalls and pristine wilderness.
- Pickens: Visit the small town and its historical sites.
Historical and Cultural Sites:
- Fort Sumter: Take a ferry to this historic Civil War site in Charleston Harbor.
- Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: Explore beautiful gardens even in winter.
- Middleton Place: Discover historic gardens and a plantation house.
- Charleston Tea Garden: Learn about tea production and enjoy tastings.
- Brookgreen Gardens: Visit the sculpture gardens and nature preserve.
- Historic Camden: Explore Revolutionary War history in this city.
- Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site: Discover the birthplace of South Carolina.
- Nathaniel Russell House: Tour this historic mansion in Charleston.
- Aiken: Visit this charming equestrian city with historic charm.
- South Carolina State House: Explore the state’s political history in Columbia.
Outdoor and Nature Experiences:
- Congaree National Park: Explore the unique floodplain forest.
- Santee State Park: Enjoy camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
- Hunting Island State Park: Climb the historic lighthouse and relax on the beach.
- Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge: Birdwatching and nature trails.
- Francis Marion National Forest: Explore the forest’s hiking and biking trails.
- Cypress Gardens: Discover beautiful gardens and swamps.
- Devils Fork State Park: Explore Lake Jocassee and its clear waters.
- Caesars Head State Park: Enjoy the view from the Caesar’s Head Overlook.
- Myrtle Beach State Park: Experience a quieter side of Myrtle Beach.
- Savannah National Wildlife Refuge: Explore the wildlife refuge across the border.
Culinary and Wine Experiences:
- Charleston Food Tours: Savor Lowcountry cuisine on guided tours.
- Greenville Food Scene: Experience the culinary delights of Greenville.
- Wine Tasting: Visit local wineries and vineyards across the state.
- Farm-to-Table Dining: Enjoy fresh, local ingredients in various restaurants.
- Craft Beer: Explore the craft beer scene in cities like Charleston and Greenville.
Festivals and Events:
- Charleston Wine + Food Festival: Savor culinary delights and wine tastings.
- Myrtle Beach Marathon: Join the annual marathon event.
- North Charleston Arts Festival: Celebrate arts and culture in the city.
- Beaufort International Film Festival: Enjoy independent films.
- Holiday Events: Attend holiday festivals, parades, and light displays.
South Carolina offers a diverse range of experiences during the winter months, whether you’re looking for coastal relaxation, mountain adventures, historical exploration, or cultural activities.