South Carolina
Moss-draped oaks. Stately mansions. Wide beaches. Rolling mountains. And an ornery streak as old as the state itself. Ah yes, South Carolina, where the accents are thicker and the traditions more dear. From its Revolutionary War patriots to its 1860s secessionist government to its outspoken legislators, the Palmetto State has never shied away from a fight.
As you take in Charleston’s historic charm, consider the city’s deep entanglement with the international trade in enslaved people © f11photo / Shutterstock
Latest Stories
- Berne Broudy | Jun 12, 2026The 6 best beaches in South Carolina
- Barbara Noe Kennedy | Oct 30, 202516 things you need to know before traveling to South Carolina
- Jesse Scott | Mar 22, 2025How to plan your summer vacation to South Carolina’s Sea Islands
- Jesse Scott | Feb 7, 2025A first-time guide to Kiawah Island and Charleston's barrier islands
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South Carolina travel tips from Lonely Planet experts
Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.
Best Things to Do
Enjoy beach time, outdoor excursions, family adventures, fresh seafood and much more in and around Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
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Things to Know
Before heading to South Carolina, check out these 16 tips on planning, etiquette, and health and safety.
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Best Road Trips
You could zigzag through South Carolina – and back again – taking in totally different landscapes and cultural facets with each track taken.
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Money and Costs
In South Carolina, you can easily splurge or save depending on the direction your itinerary takes. Try these top tips to enjoy South Carolina on a budget.
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Best Places to Visit
Explore South Carolina’s best places to visit, including a national park, a coastal foodie haven and the museum-clad capital.
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South Carolina and beyond
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