Day trips from Charleston, SC
From Charleston, South Carolina
12 Amazing Destinations
Perfect for day trips
Charleston, South Carolina, is a vibrant city with a rich history and beautiful landscapes. While the city itself offers plenty to explore, the surrounding areas are equally captivating. Whether you're interested in nature, history, culture, or adventure, there are numerous day trip opportunities within driving distance. From the scenic beaches of Hilton Head Island to the historic charm of Beaufort, and the natural beauty of Congaree National Park, these destinations offer a diverse range of experiences that will make your day trip unforgettable.
1. Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island is a popular destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. Known for its pristine beaches, lush golf courses, and abundant wildlife, the island offers a variety of activities. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, explore the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, or enjoy a dolphin cruise with Vagabond Cruise. Don't miss the opportunity to try some fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Beachcombing and sunbathing
- ✓Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge
- ✓Dolphin cruise with Vagabond Cruise
- ✓Fresh seafood dining
2. Beaufort
Beaufort is a charming historic town with a rich cultural heritage. Known for its antebellum architecture, beautiful waterfront, and friendly atmosphere, Beaufort is a great place to explore on foot. Visit the Beaufort National Cemetery, stroll along the Waterfront Park, and explore the historic district. Don't miss the opportunity to try some local cuisine at one of the many restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Beaufort National Cemetery
- ✓Waterfront Park
- ✓Historic district
- ✓Local dining
3. Congaree National Park
Congaree National Park is a nature lover's paradise, offering a unique blend of old-growth forests and diverse wildlife. Explore the park's hiking trails, including the popular Boardwalk Trail, which takes you through the heart of the park's floodplain forest. Keep an eye out for the park's resident wildlife, including alligators, deer, and a variety of bird species.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Boardwalk Trail
- ✓Old-growth forest
- ✓Wildlife viewing
- ✓Hiking trails
Available Tours:
4. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant arts scene. Known for its beautiful squares, antebellum architecture, and lively riverfront, Savannah offers a variety of activities for visitors. Explore the historic district, visit the Telfair Museums, and take a stroll along the Savannah River. Don't miss the opportunity to try some of the city's famous Southern cuisine.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Historic district
- ✓Telfair Museums
- ✓Savannah River
- ✓Southern dining
Available Tours:
5. Edisto Island
Edisto Island is a hidden gem on the South Carolina coast, offering a peaceful and relaxing getaway. Known for its pristine beaches, lush forests, and abundant wildlife, the island is a great place to explore on foot or by bike. Visit the Edisto Beach State Park, explore the island's historic sites, and enjoy some fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Edisto Beach State Park
- ✓Historic sites
- ✓Beachcombing
- ✓Fresh seafood dining
6. Aiken, South Carolina
Aiken is a charming town with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Known for its beautiful architecture, lush gardens, and friendly atmosphere, Aiken is a great place to explore on foot. Visit the Aiken-Rhett House, stroll through the Aiken County Historical Museum, and explore the town's many parks and gardens. Don't miss the opportunity to try some local cuisine at one of the many restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Aiken-Rhett House
- ✓Aiken County Historical Museum
- ✓Parks and gardens
- ✓Local dining
7. Hunting Island State Park
Hunting Island State Park is a nature lover's paradise, offering a unique blend of beautiful beaches, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. Explore the park's hiking trails, including the popular Marshland Trail, which takes you through the heart of the park's salt marsh. Keep an eye out for the park's resident wildlife, including alligators, deer, and a variety of bird species.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Marshland Trail
- ✓Salt marsh
- ✓Wildlife viewing
- ✓Hiking trails
8. Bluffton, South Carolina
Bluffton is a charming town with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Known for its beautiful architecture, lush gardens, and friendly atmosphere, Bluffton is a great place to explore on foot. Visit the Heyward House Museum, stroll through the Old Village, and explore the town's many parks and gardens. Don't miss the opportunity to try some local cuisine at one of the many restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Heyward House Museum
- ✓Old Village
- ✓Parks and gardens
- ✓Local dining
9. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is a popular destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers. Known for its pristine beaches, lush golf courses, and abundant wildlife, the island offers a variety of activities. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, explore the Myrtle Beach State Park, or enjoy a dolphin cruise with Sea Racer Tours. Don't miss the opportunity to try some fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Beachcombing and sunbathing
- ✓Myrtle Beach State Park
- ✓Dolphin cruise with Sea Racer Tours
- ✓Fresh seafood dining
10. Santee State Park
Santee State Park is a nature lover's paradise, offering a unique blend of beautiful lakes, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. Explore the park's hiking trails, including the popular Lake Marion Trail, which takes you through the heart of the park's lake. Keep an eye out for the park's resident wildlife, including alligators, deer, and a variety of bird species.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Lake Marion Trail
- ✓Lake
- ✓Wildlife viewing
- ✓Hiking trails
11. Columbia, South Carolina
Columbia is a vibrant city with a rich history and a diverse cultural scene. Known for its beautiful architecture, lush gardens, and friendly atmosphere, Columbia is a great place to explore on foot. Visit the South Carolina State House, stroll through the Columbia Museum of Art, and explore the city's many parks and gardens. Don't miss the opportunity to try some local cuisine at one of the many restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓South Carolina State House
- ✓Columbia Museum of Art
- ✓Parks and gardens
- ✓Local dining
12. Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
Mount Pleasant is a charming town with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Known for its beautiful architecture, lush gardens, and friendly atmosphere, Mount Pleasant is a great place to explore on foot. Visit the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, stroll through the Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park, and explore the town's many parks and gardens. Don't miss the opportunity to try some local cuisine at one of the many restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
- ✓Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park
- ✓Parks and gardens
- ✓Local dining
Ready to Explore?
Start planning your perfect day trip from Charleston
Looking for more travel inspiration? Explore all Charleston attractions or plan a custom itinerary