South Carolina Travel Guide

Known for its rich history, unique culture, mouth-watering food, and Southern hospitality, South Carolina is an incredible vacation destination. Nothing represents the state better than Charleston, South Carolina’s oldest city. It’s the perfect spot for history buffs, foodies, and lovers of charming architecture alike. Golfers will want to swing by the famed Hilton Head or pay a visit to Myrtle Beach, dubbed the Golf Capital of the World. The lively shores of Myrtle Beach are also a popular Spring Break destination.

There’s more to South Carolina than its famous coastal cities.

Head to the northwest part of the state to discover lush forests and the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains. South Carolina is also home to Congaree National Park. It boasts the oldest bottomland hardwood forest on the continent and is home to a wide array of wildlife. Plus, the park is located near the capital city of Columbia, so you won’t even have to go too far off the grid to get there.

Destinations

Charleston

South Carolina Basics

Nickname: The Palmetto State

Capital City: Columbia

Timezone: Eastern Standard & Eastern Daylight

Climate: Humid Subtropical (hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters).

Major Airport: Charleston International (CHS)

Local Cuisine: Boiled peanuts, South Carolina barbecue, chicken bog, shrimp & grits, oysters, Frogmore stew, and sweet tea.

Best Time to Visit

SUMMER
Summers are hot and especially humid in South Carolina. Hurricane season also runs from June through November. However, tourism takes a dip in summer, so prices will typically drop during this time.

AUTUMN
The northern part of the state experiences beautiful autumn colors that peak between mid-October and early November. Southern regions, like Charleston, don’t get much color, but the weather is pretty much perfect.

WINTER
Winters can be unpredictable but are typically considered mild. Coastal locations experience mostly comfortable temps and little to no snow, but rain is likely. The northwest region of the state is colder, and snow is more likely.

SPRING
Spring is a great time to visit. Temperatures are mild, and the summer humidity hasn’t yet set in. March through May is the most popular time to visit, so expect more crowds and higher prices. Rain showers occur occasionally, but the weather is generally comfortable.

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