SOUTH CAROLINA

Sweet Escape

South Carolina is a historic Southern state with a rich history spanning more than 300 years, beginning with its founding in Charles Towne in 1670. In addition to its pronounced Southern charm, the state’s natural beauty, romantic atmosphere, family-friendly vibe and fine dining make it a popular vacation destination. Known for its seaside resorts and idyllic beaches that border the Atlantic Ocean, South Carolina also enjoys great geographical diversity. Wetlands, forests, rolling hills and mountains are all easily accessible from the coast. And as a top destination for golf in the United States, South Carolina boasts 350 courses from the ocean to the mountains.

MUST-SEES:

THE ATLANTIC COAST: BETWEEN WILD ISLANDS AND GOLDEN BEACHES

Nicknamed “the Palmetto State,” South Carolina is famous for its seaside resorts, Atlantic coastline and idyllic beaches that stretch over 301 km of white sand. The coastal region offers multiple and varied features whether you head north or south.

To the north is the Grand Strand, a vast expanse of golden sand lined with resorts concentrated around Myrtle Beach. Just south of Myrtle Beach is the South Strand, which is quieter and less crowded. Murells Inlet, with its marshes and fishing village; Pawleys Island, with its golf course and beautiful homes; and Georgetown, established in 1729, are all located in this area. Tip: Myrtle Beach is the ideal destination for a family beach vacation. There are many attractions including the SkyWheel, a 57m-high Ferris wheel, and the Wild Water & Wheels amusement park. Shopping, shows, theater, nightclubs and concerts make Myrtle Beach a mecca for entertainment and leisure as well.

Continuing south, a beach vacation in the Charleston area allows you to enjoy the charm and elegance of the Old South. This is the gateway into the Lowcountry, a unique region along the southern coast of the state. Here, the culture skews rural and deeply authentic. The landscape is lagoon-like and dotted with islands with names like Kiawah and Hilton Head, offering whitesand beaches and plenty of recreation in a protected wilderness environment. Hilton Head, South Carolina’s largest island, is a popular, chic vacation destination ideal for romantic getaways. It features world-class golf courses, restaurants and hotels, all set within 109 square kilometers of natural marshes, maritime forests and seemingly endless beaches. A multitude of sporting activities are offered on these islands: water scooters, wakeboarding and parasailing, among others. You can also learn more about the Gullah community, descendants of African slaves who honor their heritage and traditions in South Carolina’s Lowcountry.

THE MOUNTAINS, A SPLENDID PLAYGROUND

The Upstate region of South Carolina is known for its mountains. State parks offer hiking trails for all skill

Getting There

GATEWAYS:

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)

Dallas/ Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS:

Charleston International Airport (CHS)

Columbia (CAE)

Greenville-Spartanburg (GSP)

Hilton Head Island (SAV)

Myrtle Beach (MYR) levels that lead to scenic waterfalls, lakes, breathtaking vistas and numerous activities, from whitewater rafting to mountain biking. Greenville, a center of arts and culture, as well as Spartanburg and Anderson, are welcoming towns at the base of the mountains.

The Blue Ridge Mountains begin in northern South Carolina and extend into North Carolina and Georgia. The impressive range encompasses Jones Gap State Park, Rainbow Falls (a 42-meter waterfall in the heart of Mountain Bridge Nature Preserve) and Sassafras Mountain – don’t miss the view from the top. Other scenic state parks include Table Rock, Caesar Head, Oconee and Devils Fork. Located in Hopkins, less than 40 kilometers from Columbia, Congaree National Park is the largest submerged forest in the U.S. (8,900 hectares) and an outstanding birding area that can be visited on foot or by canoe. Not far away, Lake Murray offers a refreshing break and multiple options for water recreation.

Historic Towns With Southern Charm

From the American Revolution to the Civil War, South Carolina has been at the center of conflict and reconciliation throughout American history. The state features many colonial-era homes as well as plantations and gardens that are centuries old.

Take time to explore Charleston, the first English settlement in South Carolina. Founded in 1670, the state’s oldest city was once among the most important in the United States. Today, it is the historic heart of South Carolina, charming visitors with colonial heritage along the ocean. Meandering through the well-preserved historic district, you will discover cobblestone streets, bell towers, fragrant gardens, fine restaurants and beautiful antebellum homes. Arrange a ride in a horse-drawn carriage through the city’s French Quarter and explore its boutiques, galleries and cafes. Museums and historical sites are numerous as well; note the Fort Sumter National Monument, where the U.S. Civil War began in 1861.

Along the Ashley River, former plantations unfold their history. Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens (circa 1681) is one of the oldest plantations still in operation in the USA. Take in the site’s majestic avenue of oaks and gardens, and ponder life inside its main house and slave quarters on themed tours. The site also offers engaging presentations on Gullah culture. For splendid gardens and a further look into South Carolina plantation life, visit Magnolia Plantations & Gardens and/or Middleton Place, where the terraced gardens are a must-see.

Beaufort, a small town south of Charleston, was founded in 1711. Stroll the town to admire elegant Victorian and antebellum-style homes.

In Columbia, the capital of the state, the bronze stars of the State House reveal damage sustained during the Civil War. The capital offers many museums and historical or cultural sites mixed with local-favorite restaurants and shops.

Practical Information

POPULATION: 4.012 million

CAPITAL & MAIN CITIES: Columbia (capital), Greenville, Myrtle Beach, Charleston

TIME DIFFERENCE: -6h

CLIMATE: Mild and pleasant nearly year-round with a hot and humid spell in late summer

WHEN TO GO? The weather is dry and mild in spring and fall. Spring is very flowery, and autumn is colorful.

LOCAL TIP: Don’t miss enjoying seafood by the water in Murrells Inlet. Restaurants in this small fishing village near Myrtle Beach offer the catch of the day.