Throughout the year, traveling through South Carolina leads to the most incredible adventures. From coastal fun to hikes to restaurants and culture, there’s always something fun to do here. I love it here any time of year, but when the weather gets warmer it’s time to cool off! And, I know I’m certainly not alone. Despite the high temps and humidity, warmer weather means the ability to take advantage of the ample attractions that help cool us down. So, gas up the car and get ready for some of the best day trips in South Carolina that’ll fill your summer with fun.
1. Visit South Carolina's unique aqua park.
Shark Wake Park 843, 150 Citizens Cir, Little River, SC 29566, USA
Hours of fun await you at Shark Wake Park 843, a fun inflatable floating park. Test your skills on the obstacle course or just have fun on the slides. Will you make it across the monkey bars without falling in the water? Oh well, at least the water is cool and refreshing!
2. Head to an iconic mountainside cafe for lunch and then some waterfall chasing.
Mountain Rest Cafe is only a few miles from some fun upstate attractions. After lunch, explore Stumphouse Mountain Tunnel, or one of the many waterfalls located within 10 miles of this upstate eatery.
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3. Visit an underwater ghost town in South Carolina's largest lake.
The eerie remains of the lumber town of Ferguson can be seen jutting out of Lake Marion not more than 150 yards from the shore. But you'll need a kayak, canoe, or boat to see them.
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4. Head to the most laid-back beach in South Carolina.
Pack the sunscreen and a cooler and head to the most laid-back beach in the state. If a cooler isn't in the cards, then no worries. There are plenty of restaurants just steps off the beach. Folly Beach is casual, welcoming, and fun. Get there early in the day to avoid the highest traffic times.
5. Take a ride down a natural waterslide.
Long Shoals Roadside Park, Scenic Hwy 11, Pickens, SC, USA
Long Shoals Roadside Park, Scenic Hwy 11, Pickens, SC 29671, USA
The Long Shoals Roadside Park waterfall swimming hole boasts a natural waterslide guaranteed to keep the entire family occupied for the day. Bring an inflatable to get the fastest thrill or, just take a ride on your backside. It's a suitable way to cool off on a hot summer day.
The Edisto River is a popular spot to while away the day with a group of friends and a cooler of cold beverages. It takes about three hours to float approximately one mile - and you'll be amazed at how it fast it goes by.
Explore Boneyard Beach and this amazing island that's only accessible by boat. Pack the camera, the bug spray, lunch, and comfortable walking shoes - then get ready for an unforgettable day.
8. Explore our state's volcanic and revolutionary war history.
Kings Mountain National Military Park, 2625 Park Rd, Blacksburg, SC 29702, USA
King's Mountain National Military Park is open to the public and also free. Wander along the many trails, check out the military monument, and marvel at the igneous rock formations indicative of ancient volcano activity right here in South Carolina.
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9. Gas up the car and head to South Carolina's most naturally beautiful town.
Beaufort is the second oldest town in the Palmetto State. A trip here is a step back in time. To get a feel for the whole area take a carriage ride, or just set out on foot and explore all that beautiful Beaufort has to offer.
10. Take the ferry to an island town that's unlike any other in the state.
From the Haig Point Light to the charming and eclectic small village with restaurants and art shops, there's much to see and do in the charming tiny town of Daufuskie Island that you can only get to by ferry.
Pay homage to the oldest live Oak tree east of the Mississippi in Johns Island. Most believe she's around 400 years old, but some people contend she's more in the range of 1,500 years old. Whatever her age, you'll be awestruck by her beauty!
12. Cool off in the clearest, most pristine lake in South Carolina.
Lake Jocassee Road, Lake Jocassee Rd, South Carolina 29676, USA
Spend the day swimming, boating, and relaxing at this canyon lake in the Upstate. Lake Jocassee is filled with waters from four mountain rivers - making this lake clear and always cool and refreshing.
There’s so much to see and do in South Carolina you’ll never run out of options. Have you enjoyed any of the options included here? If you have any tips or tricks for making a visit great, we’d love to read them. And, if you have your own favorite ways to enjoy the state share those, too!
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More to Explore
Day Trips in South Carolina
Michelle S.|June 21, 2022
What are the best fall day trips in South Carolina?
The best fall day trips in South Carolina lead to some truly fantastic places. Here are a few to add to your bucket list:
The Spookiest Places Road Trip: This trip includes visits to a few spooky spots and abandoned places. They're perfect to get you in the mood for the most haunting season of the year.
The South Carolina State Museum, Columbia: This is a great stop for those days when the weather isn't quite right for being outside. It's big enough to take up an entire, fun-filled day.
Walhalla, Oconee County: This entire town is a beautiful stop on an autumn day. Plan on spending a full day to take it all in.
What are the best spring day trips in South Carolina?
The best spring day trips in South Carolina offer a great way to enjoy the warmer weather. We particularly love the following:
Blackville, Barnwell County: Located just 45 minutes south of Augusta, Georgia, this little town is a truly unique place to see. It's home to the Calvary Fellowship Mennonite Church and the town offers a lovely, slower pace of life.
Cottle Strawberry Farm, Hopkins: For over 50 years, this little farm has offered a fun way for friends and family to get outside and leave with something sweet.
Beaufort, Beaufort County: Teeming with old charm, this is a must-visit destination if you'd like to truly get a feel for quintessential South Carolina.
There are tons of other great places to visit when spring arrives in South Carolina. Do some exploring on your own to find the best or take our recommendations. You truly can't go wrong.
