Your Ultimate Guide To Summer Fun In South Carolina

Welcome to your ultimate guide to summer fun in SC! Whether you’re a local looking for new adventures or a visitor eager to explore the Palmetto State, this guide has everything you need to make the most of your summer. From vibrant festivals celebrating Southern culture to serene beach days and outdoor adventures in the mountains, South Carolina offers a diverse range of experiences to suit every taste. Get ready to dive into the rich heritage of Charleston’s historic district, savor the sweetness of juicy peaches at festivals across the state, and groove to the blues at lively music events. With tips on popular attractions, insider insights, and must-know information, this guide is your ticket for things to do in South Carolina in summer.

Best Summer Vacation Destinations In South Carolina

Get ready for the ultimate summertime vacation! Explore amazing vacation spots like Myrtle Beach, Charleston, and Hilton Head Island. You’ll find beautiful beaches, fun boardwalks, and lots of cool things to do.

Myrtle Beach, SC, USA

Loadmaster (David R. Tribble) This image was made by Loadmaster (David R. Tribble).Email the author: David R. TribbleAlso see my personal gallery at Google Photos, CC BY-SA 3.0 creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Location: Myrtle Beach, SC

Popularity: A highly popular vacation destination, attracting visitors from all over the world, especially during the summer months.

Need To Know: Before visiting, be aware of the hot and humid weather, beach rules, potential crowds, parking challenges, need for advance reservations, safety guidelines, local wildlife, and plan your budget accordingly.

Myrtle Beach is a fantastic place to visit during the summer in South Carolina. It's famous for its 60 miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a lively boardwalk.

There are lots of fun things to do like visiting the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, Family Kingdom Amusement Park, Ripley’s Aquarium, and Broadway at the Beach. If you're into golf, there are over 100 courses to choose from as well.

Myrtle Beach also has great shopping, lots of different places to eat, and a fun nightlife. It's a great place for families too, with plenty of things for kids to do. Whether you want to relax or have an adventure, Myrtle Beach has something for everyone.

Charleston, SC, USA

Elisa.rolle, CC BY-SA 4.0 creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Location: Charleston, SC

Popularity: Very popular, especially during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and it can be most busy during major events like the Spoleto Festival USA and peak tourist seasons in summer.

Need To Know: Be prepared for warm weather, high humidity, and potential crowds, and consider making reservations for popular attractions and restaurants in advance.

Charleston is a top summer vacation spot in South Carolina because it beautifully combines its rich history with modern attractions. The historic downtown, waterfront park, and famous sites like Fort Sumter give you a peek into the city's past. You can take guided tours to learn more about its history and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

Foodies will love the wide variety of restaurants, and architecture fans will be amazed by the city's timeless buildings. Charleston's lively cultural scene really shines during events like the famous Spoleto Festival USA, adding even more excitement to your visit.

If you want a vacation that has it all - history, culture, and coastal beauty - Charleston is the place to be for an unforgettable summer getaway.

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Hilton Head Island, SC, USA

Management/Tripadvisor

Location: Hilton Head Island, SC

Popularity: Exceptionally popular, particularly during the summer months when it experiences peak tourist seasons and high levels of activity.

Need To Know: Be prepared for warm weather, potential crowds, and consider booking accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Hilton Head Island is the ultimate summer escape in South Carolina. It offers a serene ambiance, immaculate shorelines, and a wide range of outdoor adventures.

You can visit iconic landmarks like the Harbour Town Lighthouse and the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, which are perfect for nature lovers. There are plenty of activities to enjoy, including golfing, biking, kayaking, and tennis, ensuring endless entertainment for everyone.

The island also boasts upscale offerings such as lavish resorts and exquisite dining venues, catering to those with refined tastes. If you're looking for a peaceful or exciting getaway, Hilton Head Island offers a perfect summer escape with beautiful natural surroundings.

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Best Beaches & Lakes To Visit In South Carolina This Summer

Discover the best beaches and lakes to visit in SC this season, including Folly Beach, Lake Jocassee, and Sullivan’s Island Beach. With plenty of fun things to do in South Carolina in summer, these destinations offer everything you can ask for.

Folly Beach, SC, USA

Brian Stansberry, CC BY 4.0 creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Location: Folly Beach, SC

Popularity: Highly popular, particularly during the summer months when it experiences peak tourist seasons and high levels of activity.

Need To Know: Be prepared for potential crowds, especially during peak summer months, and consider booking accommodations and activities in advance.

Explore the epitome of summer bliss at enchanting Folly Beach. Situated just south of Charleston, Folly Beach offers a laid-back atmosphere and a picturesque coastline. Visit iconic attractions like the Folly Beach Pier, Morris Island Lighthouse, and Folly Beach County Park, where you can enjoy activities such as surfing, paddleboarding, and fishing.

Unwind with romantic things to do in South Carolina in the summer, savoring local seafood at waterfront restaurants and taking in breathtaking sunrise and sunset views along "The Edge of America." Folly Beach is an idyllic destination for a summer retreat.

Lake Jocassee, Boot Leg Rd, Sunset, SC 29685, USA

Joseph Robba/Tripadvisor

Location: Sunset, SC

Popularity: Lake Jocassee is popular, especially in summer, with busy weekends and holidays, but it remains relatively tranquil compared to more commercialized destinations.

Need To Know: Popular in summer, so plan for potential crowds on weekends and holidays, and consider booking any necessary permits or accommodations in advance.

Lake Jocassee, situated in the northwestern part of South Carolina, is a beautiful mountain lake known for its clear waters and stunning views. You can enjoy exploring Devils Fork State Park, finding waterfalls that are accessible by boat, and taking in the breathtaking Jocassee Gorges.

The lake offers a wide range of activities, including boating, kayaking, fishing, swimming, and hiking, offering something for everyone who loves the outdoors. Lake Jocassee is also recognized as one of the best places in the Southeast for freshwater diving, thanks to its clear water and interesting underwater features. If you're looking for a summer filled with lots of outdoor things to do - Lake Jocassee is the perfect destination.

Sullivan's Island Beach, Charleston, SC 29482, USA

Richard F/Tripadvisor

Location: Charleston, SC

Popularity: Popular but generally less crowded than some other nearby beaches, offering a more tranquil and laid-back experience, especially during weekdays and outside peak tourist seasons.

Need To Know: Before visiting Sullivan's Island Beach, be aware that parking can be limited, and familiarize yourself with local regulations, such as no alcohol on the beach.

Sullivan's Island Beach is the perfect place to visit in South Carolina this summer for a few reasons. First, its beautiful, undeveloped shoreline offers a peaceful escape from the busyness of everyday life. The beach is famous for its soft, powdery sand and gentle waves, making it great for relaxing and swimming.

Also, the beach is not as crowded as some other popular beaches in the area, so you can have a more peaceful and laid-back time. The charming town of Sullivan's Island also has lots of nice places to eat and cute shops to check out after a day at the beach.

Overall, Sullivan's Island Beach gives you the perfect mix of natural beauty, peace, and local charm, and it's a must-visit spot for anyone who wants to have a classic beach vacation in South Carolina.

Parks To Visit In South Carolina This Summer

Nothing is like a summertime adventure in SC’s parks, especially if you’re trying to go easy on your wallet. Visiting state and national parks is a great way to get more bang for your buck – there’s so much to do and see! From the ancient hardwood forests to the pristine beaches, there’s an abundance of cheap things to do in SC in summer.

Congaree National Park, South Carolina, USA

Ken Lund/Flickr

Location: Richland County, SC

Popularity: Can be popular during the summer months, especially on weekends and holidays, but its vast expanse often allows visitors to find peaceful spots away from crowds.

Need To Know: Be aware that the park can be humid and buggy in summer, so bring insect repellent, plenty of water, and sun protection. Additionally, check for any trail or weather advisories, and consider wearing waterproof shoes as some areas can be muddy or flooded.

Go and experience the beauty of Congaree National Park in central South Carolina this summer. Take a walk along the enchanting Boardwalk Loop Trail and Weston Lake Loop Trail, or explore the peaceful Congaree River.

There are lots of fun outdoor activities to do, like hiking, canoeing, fishing, and birdwatching. The park is home to some of the tallest trees in the eastern United States and a variety of wildlife including deer, otters, and many different kinds of birds.

Visit Congaree National Park for an amazing adventure and immerse yourself in the stunning nature and diverse wildlife this summer.

Hunting Island, South Carolina 29920, USA

Henry de Saussure Copeland/Flickr

Location: Beaufort County, SC

Popularity: Is very popular, especially during the summer months, and it can get quite busy on weekends and holidays. Despite the crowds, its extensive beach and forest areas usually allow visitors to find peaceful spots to enjoy.

Need To Know: Arrive early and bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and plenty of water. The lighthouse is currently closed, but you can still view it from the outside.

If you're planning a trip to South Carolina this summer, make sure to visit Hunting Island State Park. Located near Beaufort, this park is a perfect blend of beautiful beaches and lush forests, making it one of the state's top attractions.

Visitors to Hunting Island State Park can explore the iconic Hunting Island Lighthouse, relax by the lagoon, and enjoy the pristine beaches. The park offers a wide range of activities including swimming, fishing, hiking, camping, and exploring the unique maritime forest. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a beach lover, or a history buff, Hunting Island State Park has something special for everyone to enjoy this summer.

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Table Rock State Park, 158 E Ellison Ln, Pickens, SC 29671, USA

loonyhiker/Flickr

Location: Pickens, SC

Popularity: Table Rock State Park is popular and busiest during summer weekends and holidays, so plan ahead and arrive early to secure parking and enjoy your visit.

Need To Know: Be prepared for challenging hikes, bring plenty of water and insect repellent, and arrive early to secure parking, especially on busy summer weekends.

Table Rock State Park, located in the Upstate region of South Carolina, is a premier summer destination renowned for its stunning mountain vistas and excellent hiking trails. You can explore attractions such as Table Rock Mountain, Pinnacle Mountain, and the scenic lakes and take part in a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and swimming.

What sets Table Rock State Park apart are the challenging hikes that lead to awe-inspiring views from the summits of Table Rock and Pinnacle Mountains. For those seeking an outdoorsy experience, Table Rock State Park is the spot to explore this summer.

Blue Ridge Mountains, United States

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Location: Blue Ridge Mountains in South Carolina

Popularity: Hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains is popular, especially during the summer and fall when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is at its best. Popular trails and parks can get busy on weekends and holidays, so visiting during weekdays or early in the morning can help avoid crowds.

Need To Know: Bring water, wear sturdy shoes, check the weather, choose trails that match your fitness level, carry a map, and be aware of wildlife.

Hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains is one of the best summer activities for visitors seeking outdoor adventure in South Carolina. Located in the Upstate region, this area offers numerous trails for hiking enthusiasts of all levels. Popular trails include the Raven Cliff Falls Trail, the Foothills Trail, and various trails within Caesar's Head State Park and Jones Gap State Park.

As you hike, you can enjoy birdwatching and take in the breathtaking scenic vistas. The Blue Ridge Mountains are known for their stunning views of waterfalls, lush forests, and captivating mountain scenery, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers looking to explore what South Carolina's state parks have to offer.

Best Free Summer Activities

Experience the essence of sunny days in SC with free activities like exploring Charleston’s Historic District, a beach day at Edisto Beach, and enjoying Greenville’s Downtown Alive and Main Street Fridays. Discover the best of the Palmetto State without spending a dime with these free things to do in South Carolina in summer.

Charleston, SC, USA

Wally Gobetz/Flickr

Location: Charleston, SC

Popularity: Charleston's historic district is highly popular, attracting numerous visitors year-round, especially during the summer and spring seasons. The district can be quite busy, particularly on weekends and during major events or festivals.

Need To Know: Before visiting Charleston's historic district, be prepared for crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be exploring on foot. Parking can be limited, so consider using public transportation or parking garages. Charleston can be hot and humid in summer, so bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. Lastly, check for any special events or tours that might enhance your visit.

Exploring Charleston's historic district offers one of the best free summer activities, immersing visitors in the rich history and charm of this iconic Southern city. Enjoy leisurely walking tours along historic streets like King Street and the Battery, visit historic churches, and browse the bustling Charleston City Market.

Marvel at attractions such as Rainbow Row, the iconic pineapple fountain at Waterfront Park, and the many picturesque alleys and courtyards that dot the district. This unique experience allows you to soak in the architecture and history of one of the oldest cities in the United States, providing a delightful and cost-free way to spend your summer day.

Edisto Beach, SC, USA

Meredith Harris/Flickr

Location: Colleton County, SC

Popularity: Is popular but tends to be less crowded than other beaches, offering a more relaxed atmosphere for visitors seeking a peaceful seaside retreat.

Need To Know: Edisto Beach has 37 public beach accesses along Palmetto Boulevard, providing direct entry to the Atlantic Ocean. Some include parking and dune walkovers, while overnight parking is prohibited. Certain accesses are recommended for accessibility, and beach mats are available at select points for dune crossing.

Get ready for a fantastic day at Edisto Beach, located on Edisto Island. It's the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful beach experience without the big crowds. You can do all the classic beach activities like swimming, sunbathing, and having a picnic while surrounded by beautiful, untouched shores.

If you're into exploring nature, you'll love Edisto Beach State Park, which has lovely trails and easy access to the beach. One special thing about Edisto Beach is that it's calm and not as commercialized as other places, so you can really soak in the island's natural beauty.

You'll also have a blast searching for seashells and fossils while taking a walk along the shore. If you're looking for an affordable summer activity - Edisto Beach is the place to be.

Downtown Greenville Sc, Greenville, SC 29601, USA

Greenville Events & Cultural Arts/Facebook

Location: Downtown Greenville, SC

Popularity: Downtown Alive and Main Street Fridays are highly popular events in Greenville.

Need To Know: Before visiting Downtown Alive and Main Street Fridays in Greenville, check the event schedule and arrive early for a good spot. Expect crowds, so consider bringing cash for purchases and dress for the weather as events are held outdoors rain or shine.

Experience the vibrant culture of downtown Greenville at the free weekly events of Downtown Alive and Main Street Fridays, held on Main Street. These lively gatherings offer live music performances, food vendors, and street entertainment, creating a festive atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

It's a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Greenville's lively culture, enjoy talented local musicians, and connect with others in a bustling outdoor setting. Whether you're exploring the city or simply looking for a fun evening out, Downtown Alive and Main Street Fridays offer an unforgettable taste of Greenville's dynamic energy and community spirit.

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Best Summer Events And Festivals In South Carolina

Discover SC’s lively culture at three amazing events: the Beaufort Water Festival, the South Carolina Peach Festival, and the South Carolina Festival of Discovery. From fun beach parties to peach-inspired celebrations and music-filled gatherings, these events offer a variety of experiences that showcase the state’s unique spirit.

Beaufort Water Festival HQ, 103 Charles St, Beaufort, SC 29902, USA

Annual Beaufort Water Festival/Facebook

Location: Beaufort, SC

Popularity: Very popular with locals and tourists alike.

Need To Know: Before attending the Beaufort Water Festival, it's recommended to plan your visit in advance, especially if you're interested in specific events or performances. Be sure to check the festival schedule for dates and times of activities you'd like to participate in. Additionally, consider arriving early to secure parking and good viewing spots for parades and concerts, as the festival can attract large crowds. Don't forget to bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, as many events take place outdoors during the summer months.

Experience the lively coastal culture of South Carolina at the Beaufort Water Festival, a wonderful 10-day event held in the charming town of Beaufort every mid-July. This exciting festival offers a variety of activities, such as music concerts, parades, boat races, air shows, arts and crafts, and delicious food vendors.

Key events include the Water Festival Grand Parade, the Blessing of the Fleet and Parade of Boats, and evening concerts with the beautiful Beaufort River as a backdrop. With its focus on water-themed fun and its scenic riverside location, the Beaufort Water Festival guarantees an unforgettable summer experience for anyone looking to explore South Carolina's vibrant coastal heritage.

South Carolina Peach Festival, 110 Railroad Ave, Gaffney, SC 29340, USA

South Carolina Peach Festival/Facebook

Location: Gaffney, SC

Popularity: Quite popular, drawing crowds of locals and visitors.

Need To Know: Before attending the SC Peach Festival in Gaffney, check the schedule, arrive early for parking, and come prepared with sunscreen and water for outdoor activities. Don't forget to bring your appetite to enjoy all the delicious peach-inspired dishes and products available at the festival.

Join the fun at the SC Peach Festival in Gaffney, South Carolina! This event celebrates the delicious peaches grown in the state. It's held in the middle of July and has lots of cool stuff to do, like contests for the best peach recipes, parades, live music, exciting rides, and a car show.

The festival's big attractions are the Peach Dessert Contest, the lively Peach Parade, and the Battle of the Bands. What makes this festival special is that it's all about peaches, which are a big deal in South Carolina. You can try all kinds of yummy peach foods and products while enjoying the fun and lively atmosphere.

120 Main St, Greenwood, SC 29646, USA

South Carolina Festival of Discovery/Facebook

Location: Greenwood, SC

Popularity: South Carolina Festival of Discovery in Greenwood is quite popular, drawing large crowds of locals and visitors.

Need To Know: It's helpful to plan your visit in advance. Check the festival schedule to see what events and activities interest you most and to ensure you don't miss out on any highlights. Consider arriving early, especially if you want to secure good parking and prime viewing spots for performances and competitions.

Have all the fun at the South Carolina Festival of Discovery in Greenwood, where you can experience the best of Southern culture. This festival, held in early July, is all about celebrating barbecue and blues music. You can enjoy exciting barbecue cook-offs, live blues music, arts and crafts, and educational exhibits.

Don't miss the barbecue competition sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS), the Blues Cruise with live performances throughout downtown, and a variety of food vendors offering delicious Southern cuisine.

This festival is special because it brings together amazing barbecue and soulful blues music, creating a lively and unique atmosphere in downtown Greenwood that's perfect for visitors of all ages.

Have you been to any of these spots? Which is you’re favorite? Let me know – I’d love to hear your thoughts!

And if you’re taking an epic road trip to visit some of these places and are looking for a place to spend the night, be sure to check out these cozy vacation rentals! Are you still searching for things to do this summertime season? Take a look at these three lazy river tubing trips!

3 Lazy River Tubing Trips In South Carolina To Start Planning Now