These Are 15 Absolutely Awesome Things To Do This Summer In South Carolina

The truth is there are so many things that you can do in a South Carolina summer. When asked, most people think of the places they can go that can really put a dent in your wallet. When I think of summer my mind automatically drifts back to my home in the Lowcountry. There were long, hot days of swinging on the swing my mom put up in the huge oak tree in the backyard, days of running barefoot on sun-kissed grass, swimming in the creek down the dirt road, eating tomato sandwiches and fresh sliced cucumbers out of the garden, and roasting marshmallows and hotdogs over an open fire in the yard. To me that is summer. So, I have compiled a list of childhood favorites as well as wonderful day trips.

1. Go barefoot...

as much as possible. It's good for the body and the soul. Let the grass tickle your toes and feel the earth beneath your feet.

2. Commune with nature.

In our everyday hustle and bustle we forget that there is a whole other place out there that asks nothing of you, but still gives so much. It gives peace and tranquility. Pick your outdoor place. There are so many state parks and trails for you to choose from.

3. Eat Ice cream.

Yes, I did say that. Gather your family, roll down the windows, and take them to your favorite ice cream parlor. Laugh, have fun, enjoy the day. My favorite ice cream is from the Dairy-O in Orangeburg, SC. Anytime I'm down that way, I scoot over and get a chocolate dipped cone. Yummm!

4. Get adventurous and go whitewater rafting.

There are a few places in South Carolina that offers this adrenaline-dipped activity. One of them is Wildwater in the Upstate on the Chattooga River.

5 Learn to paddleboard.

Is it just me or does this seem like a lot of fun? There are a few places that offer this such as Stand and Paddle in Bluffton, SC, and Cherry Grove Paddle Board Adventures in N. Myrtle Beach, SC to name a couple.

6. Take the children fishing.

Not only does it get you and them out of the house and let's face it, children these days rarely get out of the house, but it also gives you both that time together. It's fun and it's instructional. It teaches them a self-sufficient skill that they can carry throughout life. It also slows everything down for a moment and teaches them that not everything is accomplished by pushing buttons on a game controller.

7. Hit the water parks and splash pads.

One fact of South Carolina in the summer time is that it is H. O. T. hot! Myrtle Beach has Myrtle Waves which is a huge water park and there are tons of splash pads which, I bet you can find one in your own neighborhood or close by. These are great places to take the kids.

8. Dig your toes in the sand...

and there are so many opportunities in South Carolina. We have some of the most beautiful beaches here. So, take a day and go to the coast and let the ocean roll away your stress. But, don't forget the sunscreen or that one day will give you a week or more of pain.

9. Invite your family and friends for a cookout.

Some of the best times when I was young was when family and friends would come over and we would grill out and as night crept upon us we would light a fire. Eventually, someone would break out a guitar or at least a stereo and time would just stand still...until I was told to go to bed.

10. What's better than an outdoor concert?

There are usually low cost, great family entertainment, and so much fun! My husband absolutely adores music so, we will be visiting quite a few this summer.

11. Pick up the family or just you and your significant other and go play mini golf.

There are quite a few here in South Carolina and I don't think I have laughed so hard as when I try playing this. Make a day of it.

12. Ziplining has got to be on your list this summer.

It's not something that someone readily associates with South Carolina, but we have a few of them around. There's the Upstate, Hilton Head, Riverbank's Zoo, and Myrtle Beach. It's not for the little ones under approximately 40-50 pounds, but great for the more grown children and you.

13. What list would not be complete about summer ideas without mentioning yard sales?

Yard sales go on all year around in South Carolina, but let's face it, they are not as much fun when you can't feel your toes and your teeth are chattering. During the summer, they have them every weekend and they are everywhere. I love them because you can find the best things and it is truly a budget friendly activity.

14. Drag out your bike or you can rent one and go for a ride.

Motorcycling can usually be done all year around here in South Carolina, but it is most delightful when the weather is warmer. It's the wind in your hair and the freedom of the open road ahead of you.

15. Pack a basket and have a picnic.

There are so many beautiful parks here in South Carolina. Why not enjoy them? Pack your favorite foods and your preference of drink, get out the house, and spread a lovely blanket with a delicious array of foods. My backyard at home was so beautiful that I didn't have to go far to enjoy nature and I bet some of you have the same kind of nature right outside your backdoor.

I know that I could have put so many other things on this list, but I thought I would make it simple and remind you that sometimes the best things in life are not the most expensive things. It's the time you spend with your loved ones, the laughter, the joy, the memories made. What are some of your favorite summertime activities? Please, share them below!