From the mountains to the Piedmont and the Sandhills and onto the Coastal Plain, the Palmetto State’s landscape is as diverse as its people, and the best way to explore all the state has to offer is a South Carolina road trip! One of the main things that unites us is our love of the outdoors, which is not surprising when you consider all of the beautiful natural wonders of South Carolina. Take this road trip to the most scenic places in South Carolina and discover the true beauty of our coast all over again!
Come along with us on a scenic South Carolina road trip to explore what just might be the most beautiful 16.8 miles ever: the Edisto Island National Scenic Byway.
The Dawhoo River joins the Edisto River to the North Edisto River. The vista at the bridge is stunning.
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In fact, the Dawhoo Boat Landing and pier is a great place to stop on your way back. The sunset here is a photo-worthy experience. For now, we'll continue on the scenic byway to check out some of the main attractions.
Dawhoo Boat Landing, Dawho Rd, Edisto Island, SC 29438, USA
No matter the time of year, you're sure to find an assortment of vegetables and fruit, plus warm and fresh pies, gift items, and more at this unassuming little farm market. Pop in and say hello. The owners and staff don't know a stranger and you'll feel right at home, which is why King's Farm Market is one of the best places to shop in South Carolina.
Discover a wealth of information about the history of Edisto Island. From long before the Native Americans (the Odisto) welcomed Spaniards to the island to present day and everything in between, the museum tells the complete story. It also has a charming gift shop filled with historic reads and handcrafted items from local artisans. For information on admission, hours, etc., check out the Edisto Island Museum and Gift Shop website.
Just ahead, you'll find the Presbyterian Church and Cemetery. The church was established in 1685 and is currently one of the oldest Presbyterian congregations in the nation. Don't whiz by without stopping; it's truly one of the best destinations for a day trip in South Carolina.
Presbyterian Church On Edisto, 2164 SC-174, Edisto Island, SC 29438, USA
Don't leave without locating the tomb of Julia Legare. It is known as the most haunted grave in South Carolina. There's a reason there is no door on the tomb and it may make your hair stand on end. Learn more about one of the most intriguing of all South Carolina ghost stories by checking out our full article.
Botany Bay road from SC-174 all the way to the parking lot at the boneyard beach is simply the most beautiful dirt road you'll ever pass over. It begins with a long tunnel of trees. In certain seasons, this tunnel gives way to a huge field of sunflowers before coming to a near end at an old property that still bears the ruins of an old plantation.
Get out and explore on foot but pace yourself. There's a beach hike just ahead and it's one you won't want to miss.
Botany Bay Heritage Preserve/Wildlife Management Area, Botany Bay Rd, Edisto Island, SC 29438, USA
(Pictured: the old ice house from the Botany Bay property.)
After exploring the ruins, pop back in the car and head toward the ocean. You'll be able to smell the sweet salt in the air and possibly even hear the ocean from the ruins. The beach hike to Botany Bay Beach is a half mile on a path that's well-worn, resulting in one of the most beautiful and most beloved hikes in South Carolina. Prepare to meet happy faces all along the way. This is a popular hike - and for a reason!
After leaving Botany Bay, catch your breath for a few miles of driving before heading to Edisto Beach State Park. Note: there are two entrances to this park. The first one takes you to the campground on the backside of the island. The second takes you to the campground and beach along the front side of the island. Explore trails through maritime forests, hike, camp, picnic, swim, and be lazy. You've earned it.
Edisto Beach State Park, 8377 State Cabin Rd, Edisto Island, SC 29438, USA
If you made it all the way to the beachfront at Edisto Beach State Park then you've seen only the tip of the iceberg known as Edisto Beach. Stick around. Check out the restaurants and shops. Stay a while.
And don't forget to check out the Dawhoo Boat Landing and pier on your way back home!
Well, what do you think? Are you ready to embark on this South Carolina road trip? Do you think the route we’ve mapped out leads to the most scenic places in South Carolina? Did we miss any of your favorite natural wonders in South Carolina? Know of any other beautiful places in the Palmetto State worth exploring? Whatever you have to say, we want to hear it, so share your thoughts with us!
There’s not a doubt in our minds that this scenic South Carolina road trip will make you fall in love with the state’s coast all over again! Want to learn more about this route and the surrounding area? Check out the Edisto Island National Scenic Byway website.
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More to Explore
South Carolina Road Trip
Daniella DiRienzo|February 06, 2023
Are there any other natural wonders in South Carolina?
The natural wonders of South Carolina are abundant. Here are a few natural wonders in South Carolina:
Jocassee Gorges - Located in South Carolina's beautiful upstate region, Jocassee Gorges are breathtakingly beautiful mountains with vertical drops that you'd see out West in larger mountain ranges.
Forty Acre Rock – A massive geologic wonder in a less-traveled part of the state, this is easily one of the best hidden gems in South Carolina.
What other places in the state are among the most scenic places in South Carolina?
The state’s beauty doesn’t end with the route below. There are lots of beautiful places in South Carolina, including:
Cypress Gardens - Explore the many miles of walking trails, take a swamp boat tour, and check out the swamparium and butterfly house at this beautiful attraction.
Yellow Branch Falls - For most of the year, except just after a heavy rain, the water rolls over Yellow Branch Falls in ribbons, making it a stunning and majestic sight.
