40 Essential South Carolina Travel Guides

South Carolina, a state rich in history, natural beauty, and Southern charm, offers visitors diverse experiences. From pristine beaches to rolling mountains and vibrant cities to quaint towns, the Palmetto State has something for every traveler. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve compiled 40 essential South Carolina travel guides.

These guides cover various regions, attractions, and activities, ensuring you’ll have all the information you need for an unforgettable trip. These 40 essential South Carolina travel guides offer a comprehensive look at the diverse experiences awaiting visitors to the Palmetto State.

From the coast’s sandy beaches to the rolling hills of the Upstate, from bustling cities to quiet rural communities, South Carolina offers a rich tapestry of experiences for travelers to explore. Guides focusing on the Revolutionary War, Civil War, and African American heritage bring the state’s history to life.

Guides to state parks, national parks, and outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking will provide plenty to explore for nature lovers. Food enthusiasts can savor the state’s culinary delights through guides to local specialties like BBQ and Lowcountry cuisine.

Coastal Guides

 

1. Charleston City Guide Charleston, the crown jewel of South Carolina’s coast, deserves a comprehensive guide. Explore the city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and world-class cuisine. Don’t miss the charming Rainbow Row or a stroll through the historic Charleston City Market.
2. Myrtle Beach Visitor’s Guide Myrtle Beach, a popular family destination, offers miles of sandy beaches and endless entertainment. This guide covers everything from beach activities to amusement parks and shopping.
3. Hilton Head Island Vacation Planner: Discover the laid-back luxury of Hilton Head Island. Learn about its pristine beaches, world-class golf courses, and abundant nature preserves.
4. Beaufort and the Sea Islands Guide: Explore Beaufort’s historic charm and the unique culture of the surrounding Sea Islands. This guide introduces you to Gullah’s heritage and stunning coastal landscapes.
5. Georgetown Historic District Walk Take a step back in time with this walking tour guide of Georgetown’s historic district, featuring well-preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture.

Lowcountry Guides

6. Lowcountry Culinary Tour: Savor the flavors of the Lowcountry with this culinary guide. Discover the region’s unique cuisine, from shrimp and grits to Frogmore stew.
7. ACE Basin Naturalist Guide: Explore the diverse ecosystems of the ACE Basin, one of the largest undeveloped estuaries on the East Coast. This guide helps you identify local flora and fauna.
8. South Carolina Rice Culture Heritage Guide Learn about the historical significance of rice cultivation in South Carolina’s Lowcountry and visit former rice plantations.
9. Lowcountry Ghosts and Legends: Delve into the spooky side of the Lowcountry with this guide to haunted locations and local legends.
10. Coastal Birding Trail Guide Follow the South Carolina Coastal Birding Trail with this comprehensive guide to the best birdwatching spots along the coast.

Midlands Guides

11. Columbia City Guide: Explore South Carolina’s capital city with this guide, which covers attractions like the State House, Riverbanks Zoo, and the vibrant Vista district.
12. Congaree National Park Visitor’s Guide Discover the unique ecosystem of Congaree National Park, home to champion trees and diverse wildlife. This guide covers hiking trails and canoe routes.
13. Lake Murray Recreation Guide Make the most of Lake Murray with this guide to water activities, fishing spots, and lakeside attractions.
14. South Carolina State Museum Highlights Navigate the state’s largest museum with this guide to its most exciting exhibits on history, art, science, and technology.
15. Newberry Opera House Events Guide Plan your visit to the historic Newberry Opera House with this guide to upcoming performances and events.

Upstate Guides

16. Greenville City Guide: Explore the revitalized city of Greenville, known for its beautiful downtown, thriving food scene, and outdoor attractions like Falls Park on the Reedy.
17. Blue Ridge Mountains Scenic Drive Take in the beauty of South Carolina’s mountains with this guide to the most scenic drives in the Upstate region.
18. Clemson University Campus To: ur Discover the beauty and history of Clemson University’s campus with this self-guided tour.
19. Upstate Waterfall Guide: Explore the numerous waterfalls of Upstate South Carolina with this comprehensive guide, including hiking difficulty and best viewing times.
20. Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway Guide Follow the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway with this guide to historic sites, state parks, and scenic overlooks along the route.

Statewide Themed Guides

21. South Carolina Civil War Trail Trace the history of the Civil War in South Carolina with this guide to battlefields, museums, and historic sites across the state.
22. South Carolina BBQ Trail Savor the state’s four distinct BBQ sauces as you follow this guide to the best BBQ joints across South Carolina.
23. South Carolina Wine Trail Discover the state’s growing wine industry with this guide to vineyards and wineries throughout South Carolina.
24. South Carolina Golf Guide Plan the perfect golf getaway with this guide to the state’s top courses, from coastal links to mountain fairways.
25. South Carolina State Parks Guide: Explore the diverse landscapes of South Carolina’s state parks with this comprehensive guide, which covers amenities, activities, and natural features.
26. African American Heritage Guide Discover the rich African American history and culture of South Carolina with this guide to significant sites, museums, and cultural events.
27. South Carolina Revolutionary War Trail Follow in the footsteps of Revolutionary War heroes with this guide to battlefields and historic sites from the War of Independence.
28. South Carolina Literary Tour: This literary guide will help you explore the homes and haunts of famous South Carolina authors like Pat Conroy and Mary Alice Monroe.
29. South Carolina Antique Trail Hunt for treasures along South Carolina’s Antique Trail with this guide to the best antique shops and markets across the state.
30. South Carolina Music Heritage Guide Discover the state’s rich musical heritage, from beach music to bluegrass, with this guide to significant sites and venues.

Seasonal Guides

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31. South Carolina Spring Gardens Guide Witness the beauty of South Carolina in bloom with this guide to the best gardens and flower festivals across the state.
32. Summer Beach Guide: Make the most of South Carolina’s coast with this comprehensive guide to beach activities, accommodations, and attractions.
33. Fall Foliage Guide Experience the vibrant colors of autumn in South Carolina with this guide to the best spots for leaf-peeping and fall festivals.
34. Winter in the South Carolina Mountains Discover the charm of the South Carolina mountains in winter with this guide to cold-weather activities and cozy mountain retreats.

Special Interest Guides

35. South Carolina Craft Beer Guide: Explore the state’s thriving craft beer scene with this guide to breweries, taprooms, and beer festivals.
36. South Carolina Kayaking and Canoeing Guide: Paddle South Carolina’s rivers and coastal waters with this guide to the best kayaking and canoeing routes for all skill levels.
37. South Carolina Motorcycle Routes Hit the open road with this guide to the most scenic motorcycle routes across the state.
38. South Carolina Agritourism Guide Experience farm life and local produce with this guide to farms, orchards, and farmers’ markets open to visitors.
39. South Carolina Film Locations Guide: This cinema lover’s guide will take you to the real-life locations of famous movies and TV shows filmed in South Carolina.
40. South Carolina Accessible Travel Guide Plan a trip without barriers using this guide to accessible attractions, accommodations, and transportation options across the state.

Conclusion

These 40 essential South Carolina travel guides offer a comprehensive look at the diverse experiences awaiting visitors to the Palmetto State. From the coast’s sandy beaches to the rolling hills of the Upstate, from bustling cities to quiet rural communities, South Carolina offers a rich tapestry of experiences for travelers to explore.

Guides focusing on the Revolutionary War, Civil War, and African American heritage bring the state’s history to life. Nature lovers will find plenty to explore with guides to state parks, national parks, and outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking. Food enthusiasts can savor the state’s culinary delights through guides to local specialties like BBQ and Lowcountry cuisine.

South Carolina’s cities each offer their unique charm—Charleston’s historic streets and antebellum architecture contrast with the modern vibrancy of Greenville’s revitalized downtown. Columbia, the state capital, blends political history with contemporary attractions, while coastal cities like Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head Island offer sun, sand, and endless entertainment. The state’s diverse geography provides a variety of landscapes to explore.

The coast offers beautiful beaches and unique ecosystems like the ACE Basin and the Sea Islands. The Midlands features rivers, lakes, and the otherworldly landscape of Congaree National Park. In the Upstate, the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains provide scenic drives, waterfalls, and outdoor adventure opportunities.

Throughout the year, South Carolina offers seasonal attractions. Spring brings blooming gardens and festivals, summer is perfect for beach vacations and outdoor activities, fall offers colorful foliage and harvest celebrations, and winter provides a quiet retreat in the mountains or a mild escape on the coast.

These guides also cater to special interests, from craft beer enthusiasts to antique hunters, ensuring travelers can find activities that align with their passions. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, an outdoor adventure, or a cultural exploration, these guides provide the information you need to make the most of your visit to South Carolina. As you plan your trip, remember these guides are just for beginning your South Carolina adventure.

The true spirit of the state lies in its warm hospitality, rich traditions, and the unexpected discoveries you’ll make along the way. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to experience the beauty, history, and charm of South Carolina.

From the moment you arrive until long after you’ve returned home, the memories of your South Carolina journey will stay with you, inviting you to return and explore even more of what this remarkable state offers.