From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
When you are searching for beautiful waterfalls and local wineries, South Carolina is the ultimate place to go. However, it can feel a little overwhelming when you want to see some of the best that the Palmetto State has to offer. That’s where we come in. We have created an epic multi-day road trip in South Carolina to some of the best waterfalls and local wineries in the state. Get ready for an adventure because this is a trip you are going to remember!
The itinerary takes us approximately 480 miles around the state. You will want to plan for at least 10 hours of drive time and many more hours to explore and enjoy all of the stops along the way. Fortunately, you won’t need to rush through this trip because we have located several Best Western hotels in South Carolina along the way. This allows you to get an early start or simply relax and recuperate before you continue on your way.
The first stop on our road trip is the beautiful and unforgettable Duplin Winery. The minute you arrive, you’ll be impressed by the gorgeous property and during a wine tasting, you can sample up to 10 pre-selected Duplin wines. You can also choose a deluxe wine tasting option that includes gourmet cheese dip, homemade crackers, and an additional glass of wine after the tasting is complete.
Before venturing to the next stop on this road trip, explore the North Myrtle Beach area and book a stay at the Best Western Ocean Sands Beach Resort.
You can relax and unwind at Coastal Carolina Winery in Myrtle Beach. During your visit, you can taste award-winning wines, relax in custom-made chairs, and devour a selection of delicious snacks. If you visit on a hot day, consider trying one of the fresh frozen wine slushies. Make sure you give yourself a little extra time at this stop to walk around the large store — you will find treasures of all shapes and sizes!
Deep Water Vineyard is a beautiful 48-acre vineyard that is tucked away in oak trees. You can spend all day at this winery walking along the trails, sitting next to a large pond, and exploring the garden area. During your wine tasting experience, you can choose six samples to try and will receive your own complimentary wine glass before you leave.
You won’t want to pass by Winery Mercer House in Lexington on this multi-day road trip. This unique winery is the only one of its kind and one of only 10 all-natural organic wineries in the entire country. No reservations are required to visit and there are more than 18 unique wines that you can sample. Don’t forget to purchase some of the other unique and delicious products made at this winery such as wine jellies and vinegar.
The first waterfall on our road trip in South Carolina is Cedar Falls, located at Cedar Falls Park. Here, the Reedy River widens to approximately 200 feet and falls over rocks and boulders, creating the majestic waterfall that we love today. Just make sure you don’t hop in the water as there is a long-term swimming advisory due to the bacteria and pollution levels in the water.
Located in upstate South Carolina, Victoria Valley Vineyards is 47 acres of pure beauty. This winery features a French "chateau" style with many features like a beautiful tasting room, deli, and more. Take a group tour of the winery, browse the gift shop, and sample the wines during your visit. During the week, you can enjoy a light lunch and cheese board, and if you plan a visit on a Sunday, a full lunch menu is available until 2:30 p.m.
7. Ramsey Creek Falls, Chau Ram County Park near Westminster
Chau Ram County Park, 1220 Chau Ram Park Rd, Westminster, SC 29693, USA
Located within Chau Ram County Park in Westminster, you will find the gorgeous Ramsey Creek Falls. This beautiful 40-foot waterfall falls is where Ramsey Creek and the Chauga River meet. While you can always view the falls from a lower parking lot, you can also take a short, easy trail right to the water if you desire.
We couldn’t have a waterfall road trip without stopping at Issaqueena Falls. The 100-foot cascade is gorgeous any time of year and is a bucket-list-worthy destination in South Carolina. You will want to have your hiking shoes ready because to reach these falls, you will have a short and easy 0.4-mile round-trip hike to tackle. Then, once you’ve completed viewing the falls, enjoy a picnic and check out the well-known Stumphouse Tunnel.
9. Bee Cove Falls, Mountain Rest Area
Bee Cove Falls Trailhead, SC-107, Tamassee, SC 29686, USA
The last stop on our road trip is going to test you physically, but the waterfall finish is going to be worth it. Bee Cove Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall that is absolutely stunning. This waterfall is surrounded by some of South Carolina’s greatest natural beauty and it is one area that will make you fall in love with the Palmetto State. You will have a 4.2-mile, out-and-back trail that is considered challenging, so make sure you are prepared before embarking on this final adventure.
The last three waterfalls are each fairly close to one another, making the Best Western Seneca-Clemson a great home base for when you want to explore or to receive one last good night's sleep before heading home.
What do you think about this waterfall and wineries road trip in South Carolina? Are there any additional stops you’d make to the route? If so, let us know in the comments! And, don’t forget to book a stay at the closest Best Western property during all of your upcoming adventures in South Carolina!