19 Best Weekend Trips From Charleston, SC

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Charleston, a city in South Carolina, is known for its history, culture, and Southern charm. With its cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, and vibrant culinary scene, it has become a popular destination for visitors. The surrounding area offers weekend getaways, each with its own unique charm and attractions. These getaways cater to different interests, such as history, nature, and food, and are sure to leave lasting memories. Join us as we explore some of the most fantastic weekend trips from Charleston, SC.

#1. Folly Beach

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Folly Beach, located just a short drive from Charleston, SC, is a serene oasis for weekend trips. With its pristine shores and laid-back atmosphere, it's a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike. The tranquility of the ocean and the rhythmic sound of crashing waves make it an ideal backdrop for unwinding and rejuvenating. Folly Beach's vibrant surf culture attracts both seasoned surfers and beginners. For leisurely activities, visitors can explore tidal pools, fish off the pier, or rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the Folly River.

Folly Beach County Park offers pristine dunes, lush vegetation, and scenic trails. The vibrant culinary scene offers fresh seafood and cozy cafes, while the sunset transforms Folly Beach into a picturesque coastal paradise. With its stunning shores, welcoming community, and endless opportunities for enjoyment, Folly Beach is sure to leave you longing to return time and time again.

#2. Kiawah Island

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Kiawah Island, located just a short drive from Charleston, is a luxurious and serene weekend getaway destination. With world-class resorts like Sanctuary Hotel and Kiawah Island Golf Resort, guests can indulge in luxurious dining, spa treatments, and opulent lodgings. The island is also a nature lover's paradise, offering scenic trails, championship golf courses, and a beachfront with stunning Atlantic Ocean views.

Nature enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and dolphin-watching excursions. Kiawah Island's charming shopping village offers boutique shops, art galleries, and dining options. Whether seeking relaxation, outdoor adventures, or a blend of both, Kiawah Island offers a memorable experience.

#3. Beaufort

Credit: Beaufort, SC

Beaufort, a hidden gem along the South Carolina coast, offers a blend of history, natural beauty, and Southern hospitality. With its well-preserved antebellum architecture, charming cottages, and vibrant art scene, visitors can immerse themselves in local culture and enjoy the local art scene. Nature enthusiasts can explore the pristine beaches, kayaking, paddleboarding, and dolphin-watching tours. Beaufort's rich ecosystem and Hunting Island State Park are also must-sees.

Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of southern cuisine, including classic dishes like shrimp and seafood platters. Whether you're seeking a romantic weekend escape or a family-friendly adventure, Beaufort is a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of old-world elegance.

#4. Savannah, Georgia

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Savannah, Georgia, is a charming city with a rich history and southern charm. Its historic district features colonial and antebellum architecture, including stunning Forsyth Park and elegant mansions. Savannah's vibrant art scene showcases local artists' works, and visitors can enjoy its famous cuisine. The historic Wormsloe Plantation offers a glimpse into Georgia's early history and serene surroundings.

For those interested in history, a ghost tour offers a glimpse into Savannah's haunted past, with its rich history of battles, epidemics, and tragic events. Savannah is a perfect weekend getaway from Charleston, offering diverse attractions and a welcoming atmosphere.

#5. Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island, located along the South Carolina coast, is a serene and rejuvenating weekend getaway destination known for its pristine beaches and world-class golf courses. With over 20 championship courses designed by golf legends like Jack Nicklaus and Robert Trent Jones, Jr., Hilton Head is a premier golf destination.

The island offers a wealth of recreational activities, including biking trails, shopping at Coligny Plaza, and the Coastal Discovery Museum. Dining options on Hilton Head Island include elegant waterfront restaurants and casual beachside cafes, offering a diverse culinary experience. Whether you're seeking a romantic retreat, family-friendly adventure, or golfing getaway, Hilton Head Island is sure to leave special memories.

#6. Asheville, North Carolina

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Asheville, North Carolina, is an exceptional weekend getaway destination with a blend of natural beauty and vibrant city life. Drive through the picturesque mountains and enjoy breathtaking views of rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. The city is known for its thriving arts scene, eclectic shops, and farm-to-table dining options.

Nature lovers can enjoy hiking trails, the iconic Biltmore Estate, and the Pisgah National Forest. After exploring, enjoy a delicious meal at acclaimed restaurants with farm-fresh ingredients and innovative flavors.

Asheville's nightlife offers live music venues and cozy speakeasies, while lodgings cater to different tastes and budgets. Pack your bags, hit the road, and create unique memories in Asheville.

#7. Myrtle Beach

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Myrtle Beach, a coastal city north of Charleston, is a popular weekend getaway destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers. With its pristine sandy beaches, it's a haven for sunbathers, swimmers, and water sports enthusiasts. The city is also known for its lively entertainment scene, offering amusement parks, water parks, live shows, and shopping.

The famous Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade are highlighted, while thrill-seekers can enjoy the SkyWheel and water parks. With over 100 golf courses, Myrtle Beach caters to all skill levels and offers lodgings to cater to budgets. With its beautiful beaches, entertainment options, and vibrant atmosphere, Myrtle Beach is one of the perfect destinations for memorable weekend trips in Charleston, SC.

#8. Edisto Island

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Edisto Island, located off the coast of Charleston, South Carolina, is a serene and tranquil escape from city life. With its untouched natural beauty, the island offers a peaceful atmosphere with pristine beaches, palm trees, and marshlands. The absence of commercial development allows for a connection with nature and solitude.

Edisto Island's rich history and cultural heritage, including the Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve and Wildlife Management Area, provide opportunities for outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, and nature trails. Lodgings on Edisto Island range from cozy beachfront cottages to luxurious rentals with panoramic ocean views.

Local cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Lowcountry dishes, is a delight for food enthusiasts. This idyllic getaway is perfect for those seeking a slow pace of life and simple pleasures.

#9. Bluffton

Bluffton, a charming town just a short drive from Charleston, offers a peaceful and picturesque weekend getaway surrounded by natural beauty and rich history. The town's historic district is filled with cultural landmarks and local art galleries, while the May River provides a tranquil backdrop.

Nature enthusiasts can enjoy outdoor activities like the Oyster Factory Park and Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge. The town also boasts a thriving arts scene, with galleries and studios showcasing local artists' works. Dining options include delectable Lowcountry cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and Southern flavors. Bluffton is a perfect retreat for those seeking a peaceful escape from the city.

#10. Columbia

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Columbia, the capital city of South Carolina, is a charming weekend getaway destination with its rich history, diverse attractions, and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore the South Carolina State House, Robert Mills House and Gardens, the South Carolina State Museum, Vista, Congaree National Park, and Five Points. The South Carolina State House is an iconic symbol of the state's history and political significance, while the Robert Mills House and Gardens showcase exquisite Federal-style architecture.

The South Carolina State Museum offers a diverse range of exhibits, including natural history, art, science, and cultural artifacts. The Vista district offers a thriving arts scene, eclectic restaurants, and trendy shops, while Congaree National Park offers a stunning expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forests. After exploring, enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene in Five Points, where bars, clubs, and live music venues provide an energetic atmosphere.

#11. Greenville

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Greenville, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a hidden gem offering a blend of arts, culture, and outdoor adventures. With galleries, museums, and theaters, it showcases local and international artists. The Greenville County Museum of Art is a must-visit, while the Peace Center hosts performances. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy Falls Park on the Reedy and Swamp Rabbit Trails.

Greenville's culinary scene offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and breweries catering to Southern and international cuisine. A weekend getaway to Greenville from Charleston is sure to leave special memories and a desire to return again and again.

#12. Pawleys Island

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Pawleys Island, a charming coastal town near Charleston, offers a tranquil escape from city life. With untouched natural beauty and a laid-back atmosphere, it's the perfect destination for a relaxing weekend getaway. The island's historic homes reflect its rich history and provide a glimpse into the past.

Outdoor adventures include kayaking, fishing, and exploring nearby Huntington Beach State Park. The island also boasts a vibrant arts scene, with galleries and boutiques featuring local artists and artisans. Enjoy the delicious seafood at waterfront restaurants. Pawleys Island is a beloved destination for weekend getaways from Charleston.

#13. Charleston Tea Plantation

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The Charleston Tea Plantation, located in the picturesque countryside outside of Charleston, is a hidden gem offering a unique and immersive experience for tea lovers and nature enthusiasts. As the only tea plantation in North America, the plantation spans over 127 acres and boasts rows of vibrant tea bushes. Visitors can learn about the tea production process, including the cultivation and harvesting techniques used.

Knowledgeable guides guide visitors through the lush gardens, showcasing the artistry and dedication involved in each blend. After the tour, guests can enjoy a tea-tasting experience, sampling a variety of flavorful and aromatic teas. The serene ambiance and picturesque beauty make it an ideal spot to relax and unwind, enjoying nature's tranquility. Overall, it is one of the most fantastic weekend trips from Charleston, SC.

#14. Hunting Island State Park

Hunting Island State Park, located along the South Carolina coast, is an ideal weekend getaway for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Just a short drive from Charleston, the park offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a variety of recreational activities. The campground offers tent and RV camping sites, with well-maintained facilities and amenities.

The park's extensive network of hiking trails, including over five miles, allows hikers to immerse themselves in the park's natural beauty. The park's stunning beach, stretching for miles, offers visitors a relaxing retreat, shell collecting, and refreshing dips in the Atlantic Ocean. Hunting Island State Park also houses the only publicly accessible lighthouse in South Carolina, providing panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.

#15. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

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Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, located just outside Charleston, is a serene escape from city life. The 60-acre botanical wonderland features vibrant flowers, oak trees, and peaceful ponds, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. The historic plantation house offers insight into the lives of the families who once called the place home.

For a deeper connection with nature, the Audubon Swamp Garden is a must-visit, offering boardwalks through dense cypress and tupelo forests and tranquil marshes teeming with wildlife. The enchanting spot celebrates the beauty of the Lowcountry and offers exceptional experiences for both history and nature enthusiasts. It is indeed one of the best weekend trips from Charleston, SC.

#16. Middleton Place

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Middleton Place, a historic landmark and gardens in Charleston, South Carolina, offers a captivating weekend getaway that combines history, natural beauty, and a tranquil atmosphere. Dating back to the 18th century, the Middleton Place House showcases the elegance and opulence of the past. The gardens span over 65 acres and feature various historical structures, including the iconic Middleton Place House.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like boat rides along the Ashley River, hiking and biking trails, and a farm-to-table dining experience at Middleton Place Restaurant. This hidden gem offers a unique blend of history, nature, and serenity, making it an ideal destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful escape from the city.

#17. Drayton Hall

Drayton Hall, a preserved plantation home and grounds near Charleston, SC, offers a glimpse into the region's rich history. Built in 1738, the plantation home showcases its original features and grandeur, showcasing the lives of the Drayton family and their enslaved African Americans. The serene grounds, adorned with period furniture and artwork, offer a picturesque setting with ancient oak trees and the serene Ashley River.

Visitors can learn about the plantation's role in the transatlantic slave trade, its survival through the American Revolution and Civil War, and connect with the stories and legacies that have shaped the Charleston area.

#18. Charleston Waterfront Park

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Charleston Waterfront Park is a serene and relaxing escape from the city's hustle and bustle, offering breathtaking waterfront views. The park's design blends nature with urban architecture, creating a harmonious space for visitors to unwind and appreciate the surrounding beauty. The park's stunning views of the Cooper River, Ravenel Bridge, and Port of Charleston make it a must-see destination.

Visitors can enjoy various events and festivals, including live music performances and art exhibitions, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Whether a visitor or local, Charleston Waterfront Park is a must-visit destination for a pure tranquility escape.

#19. The Angel Oak Tree

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The Angel Oak Tree, located on John's Island, is a 400-year-old natural wonder with branches stretching out in every direction. Its massive trunk, measuring over 25 feet in circumference, tells a story of survival and strength. The sprawling canopy provides shade and shelter, creating a serene atmosphere for visitors to appreciate nature's beauty.

The intricate network of branches and leaves creates a dappled pattern of light and shadow, while the tree's gnarled and twisted limbs embrace visitors. The tree's intricate web of roots anchors it to the ground, with some roots rising above the earth, creating natural benches for visitors to sit and reflect.

Conclusion on Weekend Trips From Charleston, SC

We've explored the best weekend trips from Charleston, SC, and provided you with a comprehensive list of options to choose from. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or want to explore some new activities, we've got you covered. We hope you found this post helpful and that you'll take advantage of some of the fantastic opportunities our city has to offer this upcoming weekend!

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