This Scenic Drive Runs Straight Through South Carolina’s Hunting Island State Park, And It’s A Breathtaking Journey
Highway 21 in South Carolina offers a scenic drive through notable locations like Hunting Island State Park and Fripp Island, featuring beaches, marshlands, and historic sites.
Highway 21 is a designated scenic byway in South Carolina, one of 21 scenic byways that all together total over 450 miles. There’s something to add to your bucket list … drive all 450-plus miles of our scenic highways! And today, we’ll get you started with some inspiration from Highway 21, which runs through our most-visited state park, Hunting Island State Park, which sees over a million visitors each year.
Highway 21, a gorgeous scenic byway in South Carolina, enters the state at the North Carolina border in the Fort Mill area, and it travels all the way through the middle of the state, ending on Fripp Island. We'll begin our look at this scenic byway, though, as it leaves Saint Helena Island, crossing over the Harbor River Bridge. This portion of the highway is called Sea Island Parkway.
The current Harbor River Bridge structure was a $77-million replacement of a swing bridge that had begun malfunctioning, causing motorists to be stranded for hours. The project won a 2022 America’s Transportation Award, sponsored by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials for its innovative technology, which allowed the road to stay open throughout the construction of the new 3,353-foot span. Learn more about Saint Helena Island.
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Along the route on the Harbor Island stretch, you will pass pretty little fun-colored beach houses and typical island scenery, such as palm trees and marshland. Talk about SC scenic routes!
You'll also see some restaurants and shops. It's a good place to stop for a bite to eat or to get out and stretch your legs along one of the best driving roads in SC.
Another great spot on this scenic drive near me in South Carolina is Barefoot Bubba's, a charming beach shop with a nice selection of T-shirts, flip-flops, swimsuits, beach toys, and ice cream!
As you leave Harbor Island, you'll be crossing over Johnson Creek and entering Hunting Island. Almost immediately, you'll notice Campground Road to the left of this scenic byway in South Carolina.
This road leads you to the campground area of the island. It's a wonderful place if you'd like to stay overnight off of one of the best scenic byways in South Carolina. There are tent and RV campsites and one cabin rental available. Get all the details about Hunting Island State Park.
Beyond Campground Road, you'll continue traveling along this SC scenic route, and you'll pass roads on your left that will lead you to the Hunting Island Lighthouse and gift shop. Learn more about the Hunting Island Lighthouse.
You'll also notice some state park signs that will provide directions for different areas of the park. Learn more about the amenities at Hunting Island State Park.
You'll want to plan for time to explore this gorgeous area of South Carolina while you're here. There are five miles of pristine beaches, thousands of acres of marsh and maritime forest, and a saltwater lagoon. Make a fun pit stop off one of the best driving roads in SC. Not convinced about how great this park is? Check out some more reasons why you need to make a stop at Hunting Island State Park.
Towards the end of this scenic drive near me in South Carolina, you'll see an entrance to the Marsh Boardwalk Trail on your right, one of a dozen trails on the island. Learn more about the Marsh Boardwalk Trail.
And now, you've reached the end of this scenic byway in South Carolina trip through Hunting Island State Park on Highway 21. If you'd like to continue on, you can explore Fripp Island during this adventure, too! Get more details on Fripp Island.
Given that South Carolina was the fastest-growing state in America in 2023, it's interesting to see which parts of the state people moving here are most interested in. Most counties in South Carolina grew in population size, but Jasper County in the Lowcountry region of the state grew at a rate of 4.87%, higher than all other counties in the state, according to population growth data from the U.S. Census Bureau. We've put together a road trip through the ten fastest-growing counties in South Carolina, so anyone considering a move to the state can get a taste of what makes these counties so appealing as the next place to call home. From natural beauty to rich history to wonderful things to do in your downtime, each of these areas of South Carolina has its own personality and charm.
Along this road trip, we will not be traveling in the order of the counties from fastest growing to least. We're starting with the #1 fastest-growing county and then traveling a route that makes the best sense for travel time. You can customize the map we've created at Google Maps if you'd like to order the counties differently based on where you live. The total drive time if you were to drive the route straight through is approximately 13 hours. The total length of this road trip is going to depend upon how much time you'd like to spend in each county. Some of them you may wish to spend more time in than others! We would suggest exploring 2-3 counties per day, staying overnight in a few of them along the way. You can find a great rental in any of these areas on Vrbo.
Jasper County is one of the more rural counties in this list of ten fastest-growing counties in South Carolina, with a total population of only 33,544 as of the 2023 census. One of the most beautiful attractions to visit in Jasper County is the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge, which actually straddles the South Carolina-Georgia border. In fact, the area has become known through the years as a sportsmen and nature enthusiast paradise. Other points of interest you may wish to explore include Sargeant Jasper Park and the Blue Heron Nature Trail. Sun City Hilton Head is located in this area and is a popular age-restricted planned community for retirees.
Dorchester County is our second stop on this road trip through South Carolina's fastest-growing counties, but it ranks as 8th for growth rate. Its 2023 population totaled 169,833. This area may get overlooked by tourists for Charleston, but it has plenty to offer. Middleton Place, America's oldest landscaped garden, has been voted multiple years as the best place to take a tourist in Dorchester County in the Post and Courier Charleston's Choice awards. In North Charleston, you can visit the world's largest inclusive playground, the Park Circle Playground, and the Noisette Creek Pedestrian Bridge, named one of the most beautiful elevated walkways through nature by Architectural Digest.
Next, we'll explore Berkeley County, which borders Dorchester to the east and is #2 in overall growth rate. Its 2023 population was 255,217, and it's probably best known for the scenic Cypress Gardens where scenes from films like Patriot and The Notebook were filmed. Stop by the adorable Cross General Store & Ancient Grounds Coffee while in the area, and take some time to explore the small town of Moncks Corner.
If you've vacationed in Myrtle Beach, you're already familiar with Horry County. It's the 4th most populous county in the state and 4th in growth rate, with a population total of
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397,478 in 2023. Myrtle Beach is the Miniature Golf Capital of the World. We recommend playing at Molten Mountain Miniature Golf followed by lunch at Boardwalk Billy's. Myrtle Beach has been named one of the most affordable beach towns and Myrtle Beach State Park was the first state park to open in 1955.
Moving away from the coastal areas into the northern region of South Carolina, Kershaw County made #6 in the list of fastest-growing counties in the state. Its 2023 census population was
69,905. History buffs will love this area, home to the Revolutionary War Visitor Center and the charming, historic town of Camden. The Camden Antiques Market is rumored to have the best selection of fine antiques in the state.
Bordering Kershaw County to the north is Lancaster County, the #5 fastest-growing county in the state of South Carolina. Its 2023 census population was 108,215. This county offers a rich art community – the Lindsay Pettus Greenway intersects public art with nature in a surprising setting. You'll also find plenty here in the area of history with Andrew Jackson State Park, where you can camp overnight at the boyhood home of a President, and the Native American Studies Center.
The most populous county in South Carolina, Greenville comes in at #10 for overall growth rate with a 2023 population of
558,036. The Poinsett Bridge is an old medieval-looking stone bridge known for being haunted and a beautiful spot, especially in the fall season. Downtown Greenville features an award-winning park with a stunning waterfall and bridge, great restaurants, shopping, and attractions. You'd never run out of things to do in Greenville County.
McCormick County is the smallest county on our route (2nd in the state only behind Allendale County) but #9 of the fastest growing in the state, with a 2023 population of just 9,941. It's along the Georgia border, on the western side of the state. Perhaps one of the most fun things to do in McCormick County is to pan for gold at Heritage Gold Mine Park. Hickory Knob State Park is worth a visit as well, the only South Carolina state park resort with a swimming pool, campground, golf course, and more.
Last but not least, bordering McCormick County to the south is Edgefield County, ranked #7 for overall growth rate. Its 2023 population was
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27,607. Known as the "Home of Ten Governors," you can learn all about each of the 10 governors produced by Edgefield along the Ten Governors Rail Trail. It's also one of the most peaceful towns in South Carolina.
If you've got the time, you could spend a day exploring each of these counties more fully. Did any of these areas that made this list of fastest-growing counties of South Carolina surprise you?
I vividly remember the first time I saw the ocean. My aunts and uncles invited me to come along on their trip to Myrtle Beach and after a very long drive, we were heading down Ocean Boulevard. I looked out the window and there, between the hotels and condo buildings, was a sliver of sand and surf - glimpses of magic between brick and mortar.
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I was 8 years old then, and now that I am an adult, glimpses of the beach still hold the same magic. One thing that has changed for me is my desire to seek out those beaches that are relatively untouched, quiet, and remote. This takes a relaxing day at the beach to a whole new level. This is why, when my friend told me about one of her favorite places — Daufuskie Island — I immediately added it to my list of places to visit.
To discover more incredible off-the-beaten-path destinations across America, Destination Detour has you covered.
What makes Daufuskie Island special?
Photo by Kristi Aytes
Daufuskie Island is approximately 8 square miles of remoteness in South Carolina, close to Bluffton and Hilton Head. Its history is long, its natural beauty is vast, and it is a quiet respite amongst the busy and popular beaches of this area of South Carolina. My friends, the Aytes family, have visited for decades and they say Daufuskie is like traveling back in time. “When you are there, you get to escape the chaos and slow down. It’s a laid back island. No one is in a hurry to get anywhere.”
Photo by Kristi Aytes
I’ve always been mesmerized by their photos of empty beaches, fishing under rainbows, and golf cart adventures. As I did my own learning, I also became fascinated with the history of the island and the people who call it home. In addition to all of this, Daufuskie is an island with no bridge. You cannot drive to Daufuskie; the only way to reach this place is by boat through the Calibogue Sound.
While I believe Daufuskie Island is worthy of its own week-long vacation, many visit the island as a day trip from Hilton Head. Either way, with no bridge, you must take a boat to get there. There are many options for ferry services, private boats, and boat tours that offer one-way rides or back and forth for a day trip.
This is one aspect of your visit that you will definitely want to plan ahead of time. Your accommodation may be able to help coordinate your boat ride to the island or you can book with one of the services listed below (There are others, but these are some of our favorites.). Keep in mind, you’ll be leaving your car at this ferry service and taking everything you need for your visit with you.
If you’ve visited other South Carolina beaches, such as Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head, you know you’ll find just about every type of accommodation. The quiet escape of Daufuskie Island is nearly the opposite of these well-known beaches and its overnight stays are no exception. You won’t find towering hotels or massive, multi-unit condo buildings. Instead, you’ll discover a mix of quaint cottages and beachfront homesteads, many of which are available to rent through sites such as Airbnb.
Palmetto Cottage is the guest house of the historic Sarah Grant home. It is nestled amongst palm trees and marsh grass and the views are remarkable.
It’s a small, studio-style home that shares the property with the owners of the main house, but this is the ideal accommodation for those looking to slow down while delving into the history of this island.
If you’re traveling with a larger group, Secret Beach Cottage is the beachfront oasis you’re seeking. With five bedrooms and lovely, inviting living spaces, there is plenty of room to spread out both within the home and outside. The screened in porch is where you’d find me, sipping iced tea and taking in the views of the Atlantic Ocean. And better yet… that sandy beach is just a 90-second walk away and you’ll likely have it all to yourself.
36 Hours on Daufuskie Island: A Quintessential 2-Day Itinerary
Live Oaks and Palm Trees with Spanish Moss and Dirt Roads of Daufuskie Island SC
The peace and quiet of Daufuskie Island and its slow pace nature mean that it’s not for everyone. I am actually grateful for this because hopefully it means that the island will remain the same for years to come. You could spend a few hours or an entire week on Daufuskie and only have one thing on your agenda - slow down. But because this is such a special place and there are incredible experiences, kind locals to meet, and delicious food to taste, we recommend slowing down while taking in quintessential Daufuskie.
Begin your day with a golf cart ride to the historic Mary Fields School and School Grounds Coffee. Whether iced or hot, their coffee is delicious and it’s always a treat to support a local endeavor. If you’re hungry, grab a baked good while you’re there and then ride around the corner, down Beach Road, to the nearby public beach. You can’t go wrong with starting your day with an ocean breeze and toes in the sand.
The beautiful, blue ocean gently laps the white,sandy beach of Daufuskie Island, South Carolina. The Hilton Head Harbor lighthouse can be seen on the distant shore.
The history of Daufuskie Island is best learned from its locals and we highly recommend you continue your day with a tour led by Sallie Ann Robinson. She is a sixth generation native of the island and hearing the stories of this land and its people from her perspective will give you even more insight into the magic and mystery of Daufuskie. Book an 11 am tour and spend three hours seeing the island through the eyes of someone deeply tied to its roots.
After the tour, head to another historic site on the island, Silver Dew Winery. South Carolina’s first winery and the only island winery in the country, this spot is worthy of a visit, even if you are only on the island for a short amount of time. Reserve a tour, taste the wine, and take a bottle or two with you to enjoy throughout the rest of your trip.
Daufuskie may be small, unassuming, and quiet, but it has its own culinary scene that must not be missed. For dinner, head to Old Daufuskie Crab Company at Freeport Marina. This marina is arguably the busiest area of the island, but you should have no problem dining here, especially during the week. Sit outside, people watch - and boat watch - and don’t leave without ordering the island’s specialty, Daufuskie Deviled Crab.
One activity that I love to seek out while traveling is horseback riding. It’s such a unique way to experience the natural beauty of an area and on Daufuskie, you can book a ride with Haig Point to begin your second day. Daufuskie Trail Rides will customize your ride to your group, your abilities, and what you’d like to experience during the ride. While this is a bit of a splurge experience, it may just be the most memorable.
After working up an appetite, head to a mouthwatering hidden gem on the island, Frye’s Corner. This walk-up counter eatery may look like a shack in the middle of nowhere, but don’t judge a book by its cover. Frye’s serves up hand-battered chicken and freshly made onion rings, among a few other menu items. Order the Beach Box that also includes an ice cold bottle of water and enjoy lunch in the lowcountry shade at a picnic table.
Photo by Kristi Aytes
Remember the theme of your time on Daufuskie is slow down. So it’s time to slow down at the beach and perhaps even indulge in an afternoon nap on the sand. This time, head to Bloody Point, a site named after battles that took place there in the 1700s. The name may be disturbing, but the scenery is far from it. Use the public beach access, set up a chair and umbrella, and enjoy the respite of a quiet beach.
The Signs all Around Daufuskie Island
When it’s time to tear yourself from the beach and wash off the sand and salt, head to a local favorite shop, Daufuskie Soap Company. Located in the middle of the island, you are going to fall in love with the handmade soaps and lotions. Stop in, chat with the owner, and grab a few new favorite soaps to take a bit of the island home with you.
As the day winds down, it’s time for one more meal. All of Daufuskie feels off the beaten path and so do its hidden restaurants. The Sportsmen at Melrose is a great little spot for dinner and you won’t find it unless you’re looking for it. The building blends right in with the surrounding horse barns, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the friendly service, comfortable atmosphere, and delicious array of menu options.
One last stop you must make while on Daufuskie is Fuskie Bikes. Their electric bikes are a great way to get around the island, but your priority should be to snag one of their fresh fruit ice cream cones. Here’s a tip… You will need to stop here earlier in the day as they usually close around 5 or 6 pm and they often sell out. Expect a line, but it’s worth it!
If you’re staying overnight on Daufuskie, slowing down to watch the sun set is a must. Any spot on the beach is wonderful, but head to County Dock on the southwest side of the island for spectacular sunset views.
Plan your ferry ride and golf cart rental ahead of time. These are both essential when visiting Daufuskie Island.
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Find a place to stay that will assist with the logistics of visiting an island with no bridge. Many rental companies and owners will help with ferry and golf cart arrangements. Sandy Lane Condos, like this oceanfront, 3-bedroom option, is a great place to look into for ease of planning and travel.
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Confirm hours and locations of destinations you wish to visit on the island. We've recommended our favorites, but business hours do change and places come and go in such a sleepy place.
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Pack minimally. Remember, you have to bring everything over on a boat and the whole point of a visit to Daufuskie is to slow down and simplify.
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Photo by Kristi Aytes
The beauty of Daufuskie Island is its ability to force you to slow down. Everyday life is fast-paced and often overflowing with the unnecessary. This South Carolina island begs you to notice the ocean breeze, see the beauty of a backroad, listen to the locals, truly taste your food, and enjoy the simplicities of life that we tend to rush through. I’m grateful there is no bridge to Daufuskie, because once you hop on a ferry and head to the island, you won’t want an easy route back to that other way of life.
