If you are looking for slow living, warm southern hospitality, and sunshiney beaches then South Carolina is the state for you. There are a whole lot of interesting and fun things to do in the Palmetto State.

Here are five unmissable things to do in South Carolina. 

Folly Beach

With a traditional pier spanning over 1000 feet into the ocean, and beautiful views out across the water, Folly Beach, of Folly Island, Charleston is a must-see for anyone visiting South Carolina. It is surrounded by wildlife habitats and preserves as well including the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve, and the Folly Beach County Park, the latter being home to some amazing seabirds including Pelicans. 

Along the beachfront, you will find charming stores selling everything from nautical and beachy souvenirs, to surf and beach gear. There are plenty of yummy places to eat as well including the Pier 101 Restaurant & Bar which serves great seafood dishes like delicious fried shrimp. Or why not try the frozen cocktails and funky plates at Taco Boy Folly Beach, best known for its legendary Baja fish tacos and house guacamole? 

Charleston Carriage Tour 

Our next must-do activity, slso in the fine city of Charleston is a traditional horse and cart carriage tour. The reason you’ll want to do an activity like this carriage tour Charleston is that it truly helps you to feel immersed in the rich history of the area like nothing else, giving you a wonderful insight into how people of the city used to live, while also exploring Charleston’s historic districts with a knowledgeable guide.

Another bonus is that because horse carriage rides are slower than car tours you’ll have plenty of time to take great photos of your trip for social media and your family albums. 

Brookgreen Gardens

Situated just south of Murrells Inlet, Brookgreen Gardens is another site you will not want to miss when visiting South Carolina. This stunningly beautiful botanical garden is packed with interesting places to visit including the Palmetto Garden and their very own Butterfly garden.

You’ll also find a massive collection of breathtaking sculptures in the  American figurative at Brookgreen many of which are displayed dotted through the gardens themselves.

Congaree National Park

Located less than 20 miles from Columbia, the capital of South Carolina is Congaree National Park. Spanning almost 27,000 acres, Congaree is the most wonderful place for a hike amongst its immense pine trees and enormous hardwoods. 

If you’ll be around in May or June, entering the synchronous firefly lottery is a must, as winners will be given tickets that allow them to view the amazing nighttime mating display of these insects. 

Fort Sumter National Monument

Once again located close to Charleston, the last must-visit location on your tour of South Carolina has to be the Fort Sumter National Monument. A sea fort constructed on a man-made island, Fort Sumter is an iconic location for anyone interested in Civil War history. The reason is that the battle that took place there in April of 1861 marked the beginning of the American Civil War.