Top 10 Amazing Places in South Carolina (with Map & Photos)

The state of South Carolina is one of the most beautiful in the United States. It is bordered by North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia and the Atlantic Ocean. Throughout the state, you can visit unique parks, beautiful beaches, lovely villages and thriving cities.

The beaches on the coasts still lure tourists to South Carolina, but there is plenty to see for wildlife lovers too. If you want to travel to this sunny state, then be sure to check out our selection.

Columbia


Many tourists are immediately eager to explore Columbia, the capital of South Carolina and its largest city. The two biggest attractions in the area include the Fort Jackson Military Base and the University of South Carolina campus. If you love architecture and Civil War history, visit the Hampton-Preston Mansion and its Gardens.

Built in 1818, the pre-war structure has retained its original furnishings. Don't forget to shop for souvenirs at Five Point, a wonderful shopping destination with authentic shops and boutiques.

10 Amazing Places in South Carolina
Columbia

Caesars Head Park


One of the most interesting and scenic spots in South Carolina is the Sears Head National Park. The park is located in the northernmost part of the state, right on the border with North Carolina. Caesars Head (Caesar's Head) is a huge mountain that rises above the surrounding landscapes. Hiking along special tourist routes is especially popular in these places.

Of greatest interest to travelers is the Raven Cliff Waterfall Trail - an easy alternative for those who want to appreciate the beauty of the local landscape. Fishing, night camping and hawk-watching at the falls are also popular activities in Cesars Head Park.

10 Amazing Places in South Carolina
Caesars Head Park

Pawleys Island


In the Grand Strand, right off the coast of South Carolina, is Pawleys Island. This is a kind of paradise where you can relax and unwind on the beautiful beaches. A favorite vacation spot for the rich and famous, Pawleys is a favorite among South Carolina resorts. Litchfield Beach is one of the top attractions with gorgeous dunes and a long white sand coastline. Many golf courses are concentrated here, some of which offer unparalleled sea views.

10 Amazing Places in South Carolina
Pawleys Island

Congaree National Park


Not far from the capital of Columbia is the Congaree National Park. Named for the Indians who once lived here, Congaree National Park is an interesting combination of woodland and swamp floodplains. The largest cypress trees in the world can be found here, but this is just one reason to visit the park.

Bird watching is another popular pastime in Congaree due to the wide variety of rare bird species. Most of the trails are for hiking, but the Cedar Creek canoe trail is the most unique way to explore the landscape from the water.

10 Amazing Places in South Carolina
Congaree National Park

Mount Pleasant Bridge


One of the most famous suburbs of Charleston is Mount Pleasant. Its main attraction is the Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge, an iconic structure that connects the city with the suburbs. Mount Pleasant is predominantly a residential area, but it remains interesting for tourists. In particular, many visit the Patriot Point Maritime Museum, which displays decommissioned naval vessels, including the World War II US warship, the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown.

Mount Pleasant is a quiet, wonderful location with many walking paths and the large Memorial Waterfront with its picturesque Shem Creek.

10 Amazing Places in South Carolina
Mount Pleasant Bridge

Greenville


While much of South Carolina has a historic traditional charm, Greenville provides a modern, progressive alternative. The city is often described as a melting pot of the Old and New South with an ever-evolving cultural landscape. While traveling, you can explore the Greenville County Museum of Art, or watch the Broadway show at the Peace Center Theater.

Don't leave the city without visiting the Falls Park right in the center of Greenville, whose main attraction is the huge waterfall. This park is really the heart of Greenville, as it was thanks to the waterfall that the city appeared.

10 Amazing Places in South Carolina
Greenville

Beaufort


The coastal city of Beaufort is located along the Coastal Canal and has a long history dating back to Spanish exploration in the early 16th century. Today Beaufort is known for its historic architecture and southern charm. A great place to explore the city is the Beaufort History Museum, or the pre-war mansion of John Marc Verdeer, which has preserved all the details of the past. Be sure to stroll through the Beaufort Historic District to admire the masterpieces of historic architecture, then stop by one of the charming cafes for a glass of sweet tea.

10 Amazing Places in South Carolina
Beaufort

Hilton Head Island


North of Savannah in Georgia lies the picturesque Hilton Head Island. This 19 km long barrier island has earned a reputation as a resort for those who love warm weather, gorgeous beaches and an abundance of golf courses. The wealthy and famous Americans own mansions in the prestigious Harbor Town, but about 10 kilometers of the coastal strip is still open to the public.

There are also several bike paths, countless golf courses and the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center, considered one of the best training centers in the world. Don't forget to add dolphin watching to your touring program, which often frolic along the coast all year round.

10 Amazing Places in South Carolina
Hilton Head Island

Myrtle Beach


More than 14 million people travel to Myrtle Beach a year, and it's not hard to see why. The coastal resort is renowned for its incredible beaches, open sea and bright white sand. Especially beautiful views open up here at sunrise and sunset. What really makes Myrtle Beach unique is the many attractions close to the beach. Mini golf courses, Ripley's Aquarium and countless theater shows keep guests entertained after sunset. After dark, the best spot is Broadway on the Beach, a huge series of bars and restaurants to have fun with.

Beaches in South Carolina
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Charleston


One of the most popular tourist destinations in the South, Charleston is a historic port city with pre-war architecture. Its historical center lies on a peninsula formed by two rivers, which is protected from the open ocean by the surrounding islands. Fort Sumter is accessible by ferry from Charleston and is an important Civil War landmark. Be sure to visit the French Quarter with the Huguenot Church and some of the wonderful art galleries in the area.

If you want to see all the most important sights of the city - book a city tour on a traditional carriage. Charleston Market is another must-see spot with many shops, restaurants and nightlife.

10 Amazing Places in South Carolina
Charleston

South Carolina Map