This Epic One-Day Road Trip Across South Carolina Is Full Of Adventures From Sunrise To Sunset
By Jackie Ann|Updated on February 09, 2023(Originally published February 03, 2023)
×
Jackie Ann
Author
Louisiana native and LSU Alum (Geaux Tigers!), Jackie has lived in Louisiana for over three decades and currently lives in New Orleans. She's been writing for OnlyInYourState since 2016 and can often be found with a coffee at her side, dreaming of her next adventure.
Road trips are always a memorable experience, but we don’t always have enough time in our schedules to allow for a full, multi-day road trip. This adventurous road trip in South Carolina through the coast is full of amazing experiences, perfect for a day trip with your loved ones. Ready to hit the road? Let’s go!
From point to point, the entire road trip would take less than an hour, but of course, you'll want to give yourself at least two hours at each stop to see the sights. Feel free to use this interactive map to guide your way.
First up on the road trip is Huntington Beach State Park, a 2,500-acre park right on the coast. The beach is a great spot to watch the sunrise, but there’s more to this coastal park than the beach. Take some time to check out the hiking trails as well as Atalaya Castle. This unique building was once the winter home of Anna Hyatt Huntington and Archer Huntington, who also owned the nearby Brookgreen Gardens, which is coincidentally our next stop!
Another one of the best scenic spots in South Carolina is the place to go if you ever want to really get away from it all - Brookgreen Gardens is that perfect place. The 9,100-acre space features several tranquil gardens and sculptures to walk through, leading you on quite the enchanting journey.
Continuing on with our Murrells Inlet expedition, this beautiful marsh walk has a little bit of everything. Peep Restaurant Row for dining options (we’ve already planned one out for you!) and enjoy the breathtaking views of the salt marsh along the boardwalk.
All of that walking is bound to work up an appetite, so stop off and refuel at The Claw House. This waterfront eatery has both indoor and outdoor dining options with wonderful views of the water and a menu full of delicious seafood specials. A leisurely afternoon enjoy the food and views is among the most popular things to do in South Carolina.
Our final destination on this coastline cruise brings us to The Pier at Garden City. If you've been waiting for a spot to drop a line and do a little fishing, here you go. There’s a tackle shop to pick up everything you need, plus an arcade the kids can enjoy. It’s not uncommon to hear live music from one of the two stages, plus a bar serving cold drinks to enjoy while you watch the waves crash onto the shores. Who knows, you might even catch yourself a record-breaking fish!
Would you agree that this is one of the best South Carolina road trips? Have you ever been to any of these places? If so, which were your favorites? We’d love to read about your experiences in the comments section below!
If you’ve got more time on your hands, consider taking one of these epic South Carolina road trips. From waterfalls to haunted history, there’s a lot to see here in the Palmetto State!
If you’re still in the mood for more adventures in South Carolina, take a look at this video:
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
More to Explore
Adventures in South Carolina
Lysa Allman-Baldwin|February 08, 2023
Where can we find beaches in South Carolina?
Coligny Beach in Hilton Head is one of the most uncrowded beaches yet it still has everything one would need for a day in the sun.
Kiawah Beachwalker County Park on Kiawah Island is a true South Carolina gem and one of the best kept secrets in the state.
Sullivans Island in Charleston County not only has a beautiful beach but also a lighthouse and where you’ll find Fort Sumter.