The Best Beaches in South Carolina
South Carolina's beaches offer more than just sun, surf, and sand. Scratch beneath the surface and you'll enter a world of forest preserves, ancient maritime forests, and even historic lighthouses.
South Carolina Beach Vacations: Recommended vacation rentals
South Carolina Beach Vacations: find your perfect rental from just $69 per night!
Planning a Beach Vacation in South Carolina
South Carolina's beaches encompass it all, from rustic, wind-swept areas to boardwalks along the big coastal cities bursting with creature comforts. Come for Charleston, "The Grand Dame of South Carolina," or for romantic getaways in quiet locations like Kiawah Island. You won't be disappointed, either way!
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1. Myrtle Beach
This classic holiday beach town is a family favorite thanks to its inviting warm water and popular attractions, such as the Kingdom Amusement Park and Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum. Once dusk falls, soak in the ocean views and enjoy dinner at the restaurants along the 1.4mi. Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. The vintage seafront arcade is lovely for a post-dinner stroll.
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2. Kiawah Island
Get away from the bustle of South Carolina's main towns with a retreat to Kiawah Island, refuge of maritime forests, miles of golden sand dunes, and marshes. Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted spotting bob cats, bottle nose dolphins, sea turtles, and whitetail deer, among other creatures. Last, swing by the world-famous Ocean Course golf course that boasts spectacular Atlantic views from its greens.
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3. Hunting Island State Park
South Carolina's most popular state park, where scenes from "Forrest Gump" were once filmed, is home to five miles of pristine beaches, saltwater lagoons, and inlets filled with marine wildlife. Scale the 130ft high Hunting Island Lighthouse, built in 1889, for superb views of the surrounding ocean and maritime forests.
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4. Edisto Beach
Less than four hours by road from Charlotte, Edisto is South Carolina's best kept secret, with beaches edged by Low County oaks. Sink your teeth into delicious crab and oyster dishes, and kayak through the meandering marshes and creeks. You can also try your hand at river fishing, deep sea fishing, and surf fishing. The beach is a hit with anglers.
Best Places to Stay for Beach Vacation in South Carolina
Things to Do During Your Beach Vacation in South Carolina
The beaches here cater to all kinds of travelers: wildlife lovers, photographers, anglers, water sports fans, and those who prefer to just lounge and reconnect with nature. Find your fit, and let South Carolina's beaches surprise you.
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1. Embrace the outdoors at Hilton Head Island
Classy and laid-back, the island boasts 12mi. of clean beaches, and 24 world class golf courses where you can practice your swing in style. Outdoorsy types can go horseback riding through forest areas or bike along the beach trails. Another good idea is to kayak through the calm tidal waters or go out on a dolphin-spotting excursion. Bird-watching awaits at the Audubon-Newhall Preserve and Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge.
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2. Surf fishing
So you've fished from a boat in the middle of the deep sea? Now, how about fishing from a pier, the rocks, the shoreline, or just wading through the surf. This is exactly what the 1,045ft long Folly Beach Fishing Pier is famous for. Rent a rod, buy the bait, and wait for Spanish mackerel, pompano, and blue fish to come along.
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3. Charleston's nightlife
This eclectic city founded in 1670 has it all, from rooftop loungers to biergartens and dive bars. Experience a range of musical genres (choral music, jazz, opera, theater, cabaret) at some of America's biggest performing arts festivals. Also recommended is the romantic Evening Carriage Tour, which takes you past historic churches, the old walled city, and the river front. The German-inspired Bay Street Biergarten demands that you sample their crafts and brews. Close the night with a Macabre Ghost Tour, during which you'll prowl the streets, listening to stories of tragedy and the afterlife.
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4. Foodie trails
A top favorite is South Carolina barbecue served with delicious sauces: vinegar, mustard, tomato, cheese, etc. Fresh-off-the-boat seafood, however, is the name of the game when on South Carolina's beaches! So dig into shrimp and grits drenched in white cheese and fiery cajun gravy. Delicious crab cakes made from blue crab meat and shellfish preparations await at The Crab Cake Lady, a Murrells Inlet fixture since 1973. Finally, nothing beats the regional oyster dishes (sometimes paired with smoked bacon and shrimp) at Hilton Head Island, home to several oyster canneries. South Carolina beach vacations are a culinary delight!
Recommended Accommodations for Beach Vacation in South Carolina
Information about South Carolina Beach Vacations
| 💳 Highest rates | in June |
|---|---|
| 🥳 Busiest month | December |
| 🛏️ Popular home types | Condo and House rental |
| 🌡️ Hottest months | 90 °F in July and June |
| ❄️ Coldest months | 41 °F in February and January |
| 🌧️ Rainiest months | 20 rainy days in October and January |
South Carolina Beach Vacations: frequently asked questions
South Carolina Beach Vacations: What is the nightly price for a stay?
On average, you can get a great vacation home from $244 and get discounts up to 72%!
South Carolina Beach Vacations: can I find a vacation home suitable for a large group?
House rental in South Carolina usually fits 10 guests.
South Carolina Beach Vacations: what types of vacation homes can I book?
We would advise browsing our incredible selection of House rentals and Condos in South Carolina.
Average Nightly Rental Prices in South Carolina
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Vacation Rental Price Information in South Carolina
Vacation Rental Availability in South Carolina
Rental availability information in South Carolina
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