Despite what you know about South Carolina there are some things that you don't know. I have to tell you the locals around these places are keeping quite the secret and are pretty good at it too. Now, they may be sore about me sharing these places, but they are absolutely wonderful places and I think you are going to agree with me! Here are eight of the best kept secrets in South Carolina that the locals are keeping to themselves.

1. Bluffton, SC

It's a beautiful historic town that blends in some hip artsy vibe. So, don't just pass through on your way to Hilton Head. Stop and find a whole new place to visit.

2. James Island, SC

James Island is home to amazing restaurants and wonderful places to explore. Bring the whole family and take a day trip!

3. Pawleys Island, SC

Wrapped snug between Myrtle Beach and Charleston, you will find Pawleys Island. The beach here is the secret. It's rarely crowded and gorgeous. I also have to say that it has wonderful restaurants and shopping.

4. Fat Hen, Johns Island, SC

This is a cozy little eatery that is serving lowcountry food with French flare. The locals rave over it and you will too! Visit the Fat Hen website to learn more.

5. Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, Awendaw, SC

Definitely a place for the whole family to explore. They feature over 60,000 acres of South Carolina wilderness. Learn more at the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge website.

6. Snow Lake/Snow Island, Florence County

It's a popular fishing spot for the those who know about it. This place has quite the history besides the fish. Francis Marion and his men used Snow Island during the Revolutionary War for a base camp for four months earning him his name, "Swamp Fox". Snow Lake/Snow Island is on the National Historic Register.

7. Best hiking spots to see the beautiful fall foliage in the Upstate.

Fall Creek Falls is part of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness area. There is 11,000 acres of land with sights like these (WOW) for you to see, plus the colors of autumn.

Paris Mountain-Brissy Ridge, SC is known as one of Greenville's wonderful assets. There are over 15 miles of hiking trails here and in the Fall you can see gorgeous views of the mountains as well as the spectacular changing of the leaves.

Nine Times Preserve in Pickens County is a very new place. It has only been opened since 2012, but is a wonderful place for hikers who are just beginning. Over 110 different birds have been seen in this area. It is great for the entire family.

Chau Ram County Park In Oconee County is a secret to not only outsiders, but surprisingly some of the locals as well! The waterfalls alone are worth the hiking, but in the Fall everything just becomes much more vibrant!

8. Greenwood, SC

It's a small town, but it boasts huge culture! It is also known to have the largest main street! There are quaint shops to visit and after you work up an appetite you can get the best food at the Dixie Drive. This is sure to fill you up so you can stick around for a drive-in movie later at the Auto Drive In.

Secrets like these are meant to be told! South Carolina has the most spectacular places to visit. The best thing about each and every one of these is that they are family-friendly. I always try to find places like this because it's so much more fun when you can share it with your children. If you know of any other best kept secrets in South Carolina you think more people should know about, nominate them here.