Image courtesy of The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection
The top vacation spots in South Carolina include historic cities and island retreats off the state’s quiet coast. Below, we cover five of the top options informed by insights from Fora travel experts. Here’s where to go, and our hotel recommendations for each locale.
Charleston
Charleston’s well-preserved 19th-century architecture and cobblestone streets set the backdrop for a blooming culinary scene, bustling art galleries and lively festivals. The city sits along a scenic harbor near pleasant beaches, inviting you to enjoy waterfront dining and leisurely strolls through historic districts.
“Charleston is a great option for a weekend getaway,” Fora Advisor Angela Poulin said. “The city is very walkable, and the restaurant scene is amazing.”
The city’s gastronomy is one of its biggest draws. Enjoy traditional Lowcountry cuisine — South Carolina and eastern Georgia’s take on Cajun dishes — and contemporary international menus. Shrimp and grits, she-crab soup and seafood boils are examples of the former, while the latter includes anything from ramen to chilaquiles.
“If you consider yourself a foodie, then Charleston needs to be at the top of your list,” Fora X Advisor Angela Marini said. “Over the last few years, the food scene in this historic city has absolutely exploded, transforming it into a culinary hotspot; I have so many favorite restaurants here, it's hard to list them all!”
Need a Charleston restaurant recommendation? Fora Advisor Melissa Star suggests FIG (“Food is Good”), which specializes in elevated Lowcountry fare. There is a catch, though: FIG is highly popular, and reservations have to be made a month in advance. She did offer consolation, though — if you’re traveling solo or with a smaller group, “you can still snag a seat at the bar for dinner if you're lucky.”
Beyond the gastronomy, things to do in Charleston include admiring the old architecture and visiting landmarks like Rainbow Row, 13 colorful and restored Victorian-era homes, or Fort Sumter, where the Civil War began. Boat tours take you around the scenic harbor. The Gibbes Museum of Art and Charleston Museum showcase local and regional works.
“Walk the city!” Fora Advisor Kristel Finns said. “That’s the only way to take in all of the historic homes and gardens.”
If it’s your first time in Charleston — or perhaps you’re visiting with kids — Angela Poulin recommended taking a tour by horse-drawn carriage, “gives you a greater appreciation for the city.”
As for when to visit this South Carolina vacation spot, Charleston is a year-round destination. But Fora Advisor and Charleston local Elizabeth Hills highlighted spring to catch the azalea blooms, fall for the oyster roasts and winter for the mild weather and sparse crowds.
Where to stay in Charleston: The Dewberry or The Charleston Place
Image courtesy of The Dewberry Charleston
The Dewberry is a boutique hotel in Charleston with a Southern-chic vibe. Rooms are elegant and spacious, with art inspired by the travels of Jaimie and John Dewberry, the property’s founders. A rooftop bar — the highest in the city — overlooks Marion Square, a small greenspace with historical landmarks. Elizabeth added that the Spa at The Dewberry is also excellent.
The Charleston Place epitomizes refined Southern luxury with a vintage style and furniture. The hotel’s prime location puts you just outside the city’s French Quarter in downtown.
“Stay in the Club Suite at The Charleston Place, which has an indoor pool, free bikes available and incredible food included in the price!” said Fora X Advisor Vicki Winters. “Although there are amazing restaurants in the area, you could have three meals a day without spending another dime!”
Fora X Advisor Jaime Windau highlighted that many of the best hotels in Charleston include complimentary bike rentals. (“Charleston is the perfect city to enjoy on bikes,” she said.)
Fora Reserve perks at The Dewberry Charleston include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at The Charleston Place include a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Kiawah Island
Image courtesy of The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection
Kiawah Island is a breezy, coastal retreat with ritzy golf courses (“Kiawah Island is a golfer’s paradise and a true bucket-list destination,” Angela Marini said) and quiet beaches about 45 minutes outside Charleston. It’s a great choice whether you’re looking for an upscale family beach vacation to pair with day trips into the city or hang back, enjoy the green scenery and practice your swing. There’s also an extensive network of wetland kayaking routes, bike trails and hiking trails, which take you through wide, sandy beaches and lush forest — all accessible from the high-end resorts that dot the shoreline.
Where to stay on Kiawah Island: The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection or The Sanctuary
Image courtesy of The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection exhibits refined luxury and the relaxed charm of the Lowcountry. It’s in a secluded spot along the Kiawah River. Cottage-inspired guest rooms feature screened porches and plenty of space to unwind amidst the marshland scenery. A mint-green and sky-blue color palette contrasts with oak accents to cultivate a relaxing, nature-focused vibe. Outdoor exploration is encouraged, and there are plenty of trails and viewing points throughout the property’s extensive grounds. While the resort isn’t directly on the beach, it offers unmatched privacy (and the nearest beach is still only minutes away).
“For an authentic Lowcountry experience in a marsh-side setting complete with crabbing, fishing or moonrise kayaking, check into The Dunlin,” Elizabeth said.
She also highlighted the resort’s spa, where treatments are informed by a blend of European and Southern traditions.
The Sanctuary trades seclusion for prime real estate on the island’s coastline. Elegantly appointed accommodations and tranquil outdoor spaces invite you to relax and reconnect with nature. Rejuvenate with bespoke spa treatments, enjoy serene moments on expansive verandas overlooking the Atlantic and participate in curated outdoor adventures that capture the spirit of the Lowcountry.
“The Sanctuary at Kiawah is one of my favorite hotels,” Jaime said. “I love the lobby and how it positions itself as your living room during your stay. Grab drinks, take in a game of chess or just enjoy some peaceful moments.”
Beach-chair service ensures you’re free to enjoy the scenery without having to lug chairs and other beach essentials around. There’s also an adults-only pool if you’d prefer to avoid the saltwater.
“The Sanctuary's beachfront location is unbeatable — waking up to those Atlantic views from your balcony hits different,” Fora X Advisor Seasen Acevedo-Zullo said. “While the property exudes luxury, the vibe is surprisingly relaxed.”
Fora Reserve perks at The Dunlin Auberge Resorts Collection include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort include a $100 resort credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island is another standout island vacation spot in South Carolina, but there are differences from Kiawah. While the latter is relaxed and more spread out, Hilton Head has a more diverse array of attractions beyond its natural beauty. Expansive, sandy beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing and water sports, while scenic bike trails cut through lush maritime forests and coastal vistas. Beyond its outdoor allure, Hilton Head is well equipped with family-friendly resorts, high-end golf courses and a mix of dining and shopping (think international eateries, Lowcountry restaurants, known retailers and boutiques). Fora Advisor Carlie Lee praised Hilton Head’s well-kept and clean atmosphere — this despite being a busier, family-friendly destination.
Where to stay on Hilton Head Island: The Inn & Club at Harbour Town or Omni Hilton Head
Image courtesy of The Inn & Club at Harbour Town at The Sea Pines Resort
The Inn & Club at Harbour Town is an upscale family retreat belonging to the greater Sea Pines Resort, which comprises several hotels and vacation rentals on the southern half of Hilton Head. It neighbors Harbour Town Golf Links and the Harbor Town marina, providing immediate access to the golfing green and kid-friendly attractions like an old pirate ship. Two more golf courses are found nearby. The resort itself offers a range of accommodations, from cozy guest rooms perfect for couples to large villas fit for families. Dining options feature coastal Lowcountry cuisine in restaurant and quick-service formats.
“The Quarterdeck restaurant offers one of the best sunset viewing points on the island," Carlie said of the hotel’s main restaurant.
Omni Hilton Head is an approachably priced resort with excellent beach access, solid rooms and suites and a mix of upscale and casual American dining. A central location puts all of Hilton Head’s offerings within easy reach, or you can simply soak in the sun and admire the waves.
Fora Perks at The Inn & Club at Harbour Town at The Sea Pines Resort include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora’s Omni Select partner perks at Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort include a $50 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Montage Palmetto Bluff in Bluffton, SC
Image courtesy of Montage Palmetto Bluff in Bluffton
Montage Palmetto Bluff is a standalone vacation spot in South Carolina, at the halfway point between Savannah, Georgia and Hilton Head Island (around 30 minutes from either). Its semi-secluded, nature-filled location along the May River promises exclusivity and privacy.
“Montage Palmetto Bluff is the ultimate escape from everything basic,” Seasen said. “The moment you drive under those massive oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, it's obvious this place is special.”
The setting is woodsy and tranquil before it blends into the marshlands and quiet rivers. It’s picturesque year round, though Fora Advisors called Montage Palmetto Bluff one of the best places to visit in fall because of the mild weather.
Melissa, who stayed here for a girls’ trip, highlighted the resort’s wealth of activities catering to travelers of all types. There are camps, tree houses with zip lines and scavenger hunts, among plenty more activities for kids. Adults can enjoy a luxury spa with treatments inspired by Indigenous Lowland tribes and a state-of-the-art fitness center. (She added that the local rivers are one of the few places in the world where you can watch dolphins strand feed — they coordinate to herd fish into shallow water for an easier catch.) Families will enjoy activities from guided kayak tours and private boat charters to a variety of outdoor sports and water tubing. There’s an on-site Golf Magazine-endorsed golf course and a shooting / axe-throwing / archery range for all skill levels.
“Sunrise over the May River is worth setting an alarm for, with dolphins often playing right offshore during morning coffee,” Seasen added. “And the s'mores-by-the-fire-pit situation at night? They bring out gourmet chocolate options that are mind-blowing.”
Dining at Montage Palmetto Bluff matches the luxe atmosphere. Menus range from elevated takes on Lowland and Americana cuisine to Mexican and Neapolitan fare. Melissa highlighted The River House in particular, which serves gourmet Low Country fare. She added that there’s an elegant and moody speakeasy, Hush, below the restaurant (she loved the jalapeño tequila cocktails).
“It's luxury that actually feels authentic and approachable — perfect for those who want the finer things without the stuffiness,” Season said.
Fora Perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Myrtle Beach
Iconic Myrtle Beach is one of the more family-friendly vacation spots in South Carolina. There’s no shortage of attractions here, from expansive (and often busy) beaches to amusement parks, shopping and more. It’s a great choice for families seeking an affordable spring break vacation or busy summer getaway. Fall through early spring offers a quieter, activity-focused escape if you don’t mind the milder (but not cold) weather — think mini golf, go-karting and quirky museums geared towards kids. Myrtle Beach also hosts a handful of smaller golf courses.
Where to stay in Myrtle Beach: Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort
Myrtle Beach resorts are limited to casual, family-friendly properties like Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort (enjoy Hilton Honors benefits when you book your stay with a Fora Advisor). The hotel is set in Arcadian Shores, a quieter neighborhood in Myrtle Beach, and offers beachfront dining, a golf simulator, a spa, private cabanas and a large pool area.
More travel inspiration in the American South
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