South Carolina's fishing past and present are alive in a few places along the coast of the Palmetto State. And while much of the commercial fishing industry may be shrinking, these quiet and quaint fishing towns in South Carolina seem frozen in time. It's a perfect place to spend a day - immersed in these little-changed fishing towns remaining in the state. And who doesn't love visiting the many quaint and charming South Carolina small towns?
To be clear, there are several bonafide fishing towns along the coast, but these three are especially amazing because they've retained the charm of days gone by and managed to set aside space for visitors to enjoy their nostalgic appeal.
The three towns are only an hour and a half apart so we've created a mini road trip and mapped them out for you in a handy Google Maps link. Plan your day correctly and you could have breakfast, lunch, and dinner in different charming little old-timey fishing towns along the South Carolina coast! Have fun!
Are you searching for a "small fishing village near me?" Well, McClellanville, SC -- population 499 -- is a perfect place to explore the allure of an old-timey fishing town in the South. Stop at the McClellanville Diner for breakfast or a cup of coffee and then head over to the historic district to explore on foot.
Long a hotbed for commercial fishing, shrimping, and oystering, McClellanville still supports a commercial fishing industry.
Take a look at this video of McLellanville by @SouthCarolinaETV:
A walk around the few blocks that make up Historic McClellanville is a stunning and charming adventure. You'll love McClellanville. Then, it's back in the car for a short drive north to the next stop.
Georgetown's Historic District, a four-by-eight block along the waterfront, is a perfect spot to explore the historic old buildings that make up this part of town. Many of the original homes are still in place.
On Front Street, you can check out the South Carolina Maritime Museum and then head over to the Harborwalk, shown here.
For lunch, there are great options on the waterfront. It won't be difficult to settle on one of the many great eateries located here. Take your time and relax before you head out to the last "untouched" fishing town on this road trip.
Take a look at this video of Georgetown, SC by @travelrestrepeat9272:
Enjoy the drive on Coastal Highway 17 as you make your way to "Business 17" in Murrells Inlet enroute to the popular "Marsh Walk."
Although Murrells Inlet is probably the most traveled of the three fishing towns, it's still a fun and charming experience walking along the water here.
When it's time for dinner, you won't have any issues finding a great restaurant in Murrells Inlet. After all, this is considered the seafood capital of South Carolina. They are plentiful and most have superb views of the water. This is a great place to end the road trip with a meal and sunset.
Take a look at this video of Murrells Inlet, SC by @VisitMyrtleBeach:
Fall is the perfect time for this Lowcountry road trip to see three old fishing towns along the coast, although any time of the year will do. Have you visited any of these before? We'd love to know if you've ever been to all three on the same day and what are some of your other favorite South Carolina small towns!
If you plan on taking this or any other South Carolina road trip anytime soon, make sure you take a look at our Ultimate Road Trip Essentials Packing List before you hit the road.
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