Charleston: Historic Charm and Southern Flavor
Travel Time: ~1.5 hours south
Charleston is a must-see for anyone visiting the South Carolina coast. Known for its cobblestone streets, pastel homes, and rich history, the city is full of cultural treasures. Walk through the Historic District, shop along King Street, or take a carriage ride to hear stories of the city’s past. Food lovers will also want to sample local favorites like shrimp and grits or fresh oysters. Grab a seat at the Fleet Landing Restaurant and Bar for great seafood and an even better view.
Tips for your visit: Start early to maximize your day, and consider booking a guided walking tour to get the most out of Charleston’s history and architecture.
Myrtle Beach: Entertainment and Excitement
Travel Time: ~30 minutes north
If you’re looking for a faster-paced day filled with entertainment, Myrtle Beach is just up the coast. From the Broadway at the Beach shopping and dining complex to family attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium and SkyWheel, there’s something for all ages. Myrtle Beach is also a hub for live entertainment, with theaters offering evening shows that range from music to comedy. From Pirates to Knights, they have it all.
Tips for your visit: Visit earlier in the day to avoid evening traffic, and leave room for a sweet treat like classic boardwalk ice cream.
Plantation Tours: History and Gardens
Travel Time: 30–60 minutes
The Lowcountry is steeped in history, and touring a plantation is a meaningful way to experience it. Just outside Georgetown and Charleston, sites like Brookgreen Gardens (with its sculpture garden and wildlife preserve) and Hopsewee Plantation (a National Historic Landmark) offer a blend of history, art, and natural beauty.
Tips for your visit: Wear comfortable shoes for walking tours, and check ahead for guided tour times to enrich your experience.
Georgetown: Coastal History and Riverfront Charm
Travel Time: ~40 minutes south
Georgetown, South Carolina’s third-oldest city, combines history with small-town charm. Stroll the Harborwalk overlooking the Sampit River, browse shops and galleries, and visit the Rice Museum to learn about the area’s unique agricultural heritage. With fewer crowds than larger cities, Georgetown offers a relaxed but enriching outing.
Tips for your visit: Pair your trip with lunch at one of the riverfront seafood restaurants, such as the River Room Restaurant, for fresh local flavor.
Nature Escapes: Marshes, Wildlife, and Scenic Drives
Travel Time: 20–60 minutes depending on location
If your group prefers fresh air and nature over city streets, the Lowcountry delivers. As we mentioned earlier, Huntington Beach State Park and the Waccamaw National Wildlife Refugeare within easy reach. Both offer trails, marsh boardwalks, and abundant birdlife. A drive along Ocean Highway (US 17) or biking the Waccamaw Neck Scenic Bikeway also rewards travelers with glimpses of salt marshes, historic churches, and towering oak trees.
Tips for your visit: Bring binoculars and cameras for wildlife sightings, and pack a picnic to enjoy at a park or along the scenic route.
Pawleys Island: The Perfect Home Base
The beauty of choosing Pawleys Island for your vacation is that you don’t have to sacrifice peace and quiet to enjoy nearby adventures. Whether you spend the day exploring Charleston’s history, browsing shops in Myrtle Beach, or birdwatching in a coastal preserve, you’ll always return to the comfort and charm of your Tidelife Vacation Rental. Think of Pawleys Island as your launching pad for Lowcountry discovery, close to everything yet tucked away enough to let you unwind when the day is done.
