Amid inland South Carolina’s year-round bliss—in Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville—the state’s shoreline particularly pops come summertime. South of Myrtle Beach and stretching to the Georgia state line where Savannah awaits, you’ll find South Carolina’s Sea Islands, a stretch of islands each with their unique ambiance and summer flair.
Your options include the family-friendly haven of Hilton Head, the historic downtown of Beaufort, and more secluded spots ideal for bird-watching and fishing. As you finalize your Palmetto State summer itinerary, there are some key logistical must-knows to truly soak it all in. Here’s the scoop on South Carolina’s Sea Islands.
Step 1: Pick a Home Base
Hilton Head Island
Vibes: Hilton Head is renowned for its white-sand beaches, small-town core, and large resorts. This destination is ideal for a family vacation, featuring quirky activities from zip-lining across marshes to an extensive go-kart track.
Do: With nearly 30 golf courses island-wide, including the famous Sea Pines Resort which hosts the PGA Tour’s RBC Heritage tournament, there’s something for every golf enthusiast. Additionally, Coligny Beach offers a fully equipped beach experience complete with restrooms and benches.
Stay: For wellness enthusiasts, consider a stay at The Sweetgrass Inn at Hilton Head Health, which focuses on health retreats and workshops. Alternatively, the Beach House provides a laid-back atmosphere with an on-site tiki hut and pool.
Eat: Make sure to enjoy a sunset at Skull Creek Boathouse featuring fresh sushi options, or savor southern coastal fare at Nectar Farm Kitchen, known for sweet potato pancakes and hearty chicken and waffles.
Folly Beach
Vibes: A brief drive from Charleston, Folly Beach is a popular getaway where locals unwind during the summer. This beach town is filled with surf shops and is known for its friendly atmosphere.
Do: Surfing lessons are available for newbies at local surf schools. Furthermore, the unique saltwater creek and coastal marsh landscape are perfect for exploration, where eco tours can educate visitors while hunting for shark teeth.
Stay: For ocean views, the Tides Folly Beach offers rooms with ocean scenery and an on-site beach bar. Alternatively, Regatta Inn provides a luxurious bed-and-breakfast experience with golf cart shuttles to the beach.
Eat: Folly Beach offers a variety of dining options—from beach bars to fine dining. Lowlife Bar features a memorable Maryland-style crab cake, while Jack of Cup Saloons is known for craft brews and Asian-inspired dishes.
Edisto Island
Vibes: This island is characterized by relaxed beach rentals and plantation-style homes. It offers quirky entertainment, such as the Edisto Island Serpentarium, which houses various snakes and turtles.
Do: Edisto Beach State Park is the prime location for shell collecting, while Botany Bay serves as a bird-watching spot with plenty of wildlife, making it perfect for a serene sunset cruise.
Stay: The island presents a variety of vacation rentals. Additionally, golfers can enjoy a course right in the middle of the island.
Eat: The culinary scene is homegrown and charming, with local favorites like McConkey’s Jungle Shack offering a variety of delightful dishes.
Step 2: Plan Your Accommodations
Vacation rentals are plentiful along South Carolina’s coast. Generally, owners provide availability anywhere from a year to six months in advance. Popular platforms include VRBO, AirBnB, and HomeToGo. Also, checking the state’s tourism website could yield more options.
Across the Sea Islands, choices range from resorts to vacation homes, ideal for families seeking activities. Hilton Head offers the most engaging attractions, and Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort is perfect for a casual family getaway complemented by nearby shopping.
Step 3: Plan Your Days
Hilton Head is also known for excellent fishing opportunities; charter a boat to catch various fish, including sharks. Furthermore, Savannah, Georgia, is within a 45-minute drive, perfect for experiencing rich culture and vibrant public squares. Charleston, the closest city to Folly Beach, showcases picturesque cobblestone streets and historic sites like Fort Sumter.
Step 4: Savor Local Cuisine
In Hilton Head, blue crab is a must-try dish, particularly at local seafood restaurants offering scenic views and live music. Explore regional specialties such as shrimp and grits, handcrafted at various eateries along the coast.
Don’t miss visiting unique grocery stores that offer South Carolina-made products, adding to your culinary experience while in the Sea Islands.
Step 5: Getting There
Two major airports typically serve travelers heading to these islands: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport and Charleston International Airport, both within convenient distances. For train travel, Amtrak has services connecting to Charleston and Yemassee, making it easy to reach the islands.
Step 6: What to Pack
Check what your accommodations provide in terms of beach necessities. It’s wise to pack essential items such as sunscreen, sunglasses, water sports gear, and insect repellant during the warmer months. Local souvenir shops also offer various beach supplies, albeit at a premium price.
