26 Exciting Things to Do in South Carolina in 2026 (You’ll Want to Save This List)

South Carolina offers us endless excuses for adventure. Whether you're fond of sandy beaches or the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, you'll find the perfect setting for your next activity. But it's not all about the outdoors either; the Palmetto State is home to some of the country's most impressive restaurants, hotels, and tucked-away shops. Although the calendar year may be halfway over, there's still plenty of time for adventures. With this in mind, I've put together a list of 26 things I can't wait to experience in the months ahead. Some of these items may seem obvious, and others may be obscure. I've visited South Carolina countless times in my life, and with each visit, my bucket list grows longer.

1. Attend the Beaufort Oyster Festival

It's technically in 2026, but you'll want to save the date for March 6th and 7th, 2026! The Beaufort Oyster Festival will be taking place at the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, and promises live music, festivities, and, of course, as many oysters as your heart desires. Prepared steamed, raw, fried, or roasted, there's no shortage of varieties for oyster lovers to enjoy.

2. Visit Daufuskie Island

Accessible only by boat, Daufuskie Island is tucked away between Savannah and Hilton Head. It offers visitors a chance to experience the Sea Islands, a place where many residents earn their living on the water through oystering and fishing. The island is vibrant with history and culture, and it's believed that the earliest residents lived on Daufuskie Island over 9,000 years ago!

3. Explore the South Carolina Aquarium

Located in downtown Charleston, the South Carolina Aquarium is worth a visit from any corner of the state. The aquarium is home to an impressive variety of animals, many of whom live in South Carolina's varied landscapes, including the mountains, forests, piedmont, and coastal plains. If you're traveling with kiddos, be sure to check out the Touch Tank, where visitors can feel different species of invertebrates, including hermit crabs, whelks, and sea urchins. Advanced reservations and tickets are required.

4. Admire the Angel Oak Tree

I've always felt that Live Oak Trees were magical, and the Angel Oak Tree is among the most beautiful of them all. I've never seen it in person, although I can imagine even photos can't do justice to the nearly 400-year-old giant. It can be visited on St. Johns Island.

5. Stand Atop Sassafras Mountain

For an epic hike, climb to the top of Sassafras Mountain via the Foothills Trail, an 8.4-mile out-and-back trek. It takes most hikers around five hours to complete, but by all accounts, the views are worth it!

6. Climb the Hunting Island Lighthouse

Now that we've seen an unforgettable mountain view, it's time to head to the coast. Hunting Island Lighthouse is located on Saint Helena Island, South Carolina. It's no longer used as a functioning lighthouse, but it's still an iconic part of the landscape.

Editor's Note: Hunting Island Lighthouse is currently closed for repair, but can still be viewed from its base.

7. Spend the Night Inside This Picturesque Treehouse Airbnb

There's something so magical about spending the night among the trees, and this can be your exact experience when you opt for a stay inside this Luxury Treehouse near Columbia. It comfortably accommodates two guests and is perfect for a romantic getaway. Though it's just minutes from town, you'll feel totally immersed in the mountains!

8. Dine at City Limits Barbecue

Located in Columbia, City Limits Barbecue feels hyper-local, yet it's also been recognized by The New York Times as one of the best restaurants in the country. Diners will enjoy a vinegary South Carolina-style barbecue and some of the best peach cobbler in the state. The restaurant is open only on Saturdays and Sundays.

9. Enjoy a Beachfront Getaway

No matter the time of year, a trip to the beach is always a good idea. We've discovered a stunning Airbnb in Folly Beach with ocean views and a heated pool! This luxury Airbnb is within walking distance to the area's best shops and restaurants, plus just steps from the beach. What could be better?

10. Take a Charleston Ghost Tour

Charleston is undeniably stunning by day, but it quickly becomes a bit haunting after sunset. Embrace this notorious city's spooky side when you sign up for a Charleston ghost tour. Your knowledgeable guide will take you through the city's shadows, unearthing chilling stories and unexpected beauty.

11. Explore Beaufort’s Spanish Moss Trail

If you love the charm of Charleston but prefer smaller crowds, you'll be quite pleased by all that Beaufort has to offer. Plus, it's wonderfully walkable, especially with the relatively new addition of the Spanish Moss Trail, a 10-mile multi-use trail that showcases some of the historic town's best views.

12. Visit King George Lavender Farm

There are few things better than the scent of fresh lavender, and if you agree, you'll want to add King George Lavender Farm to your bucket list. Located in Barnwell, this farm and wedding venue is home to picturesque and fragrant lavender plants. Plus, there's a farm shop that offers some truly spectacular products. You'll feel as though you've been transported to the spa!

13. Ride the Myrtle Beach Skywheel

If you're looking for a stunning view, it doesn't get much better than the top of the Myrtle Beach Skywheel. The 187-foot Ferris wheel is located on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade and features 42 temperature-controlled gondolas. It's the number one attraction in Myrtle Beach for a reason!

14. Spend the Day in Travelers Rest

Travelers Rest is one of South Carolina's most lovable small towns. It has a little bit of everything: stunning natural wonders to explore, delightful local businesses, dining, and even some impressive local beer and wine.

15. Enjoy Out-Of-This-World Ice Cream at Sweet Cream in Columbia

There's really nothing better than a good ol' fashioned ice cream cone. That's precisely what you'll find at Sweet Cream in Columbia, plus a creative twist on flavors. This ice cream spot is famous for its homemade ice cream cookie sandwiches, with flavors like molasses walnut cookies with whiskey ice cream.

16. Walk Among Ancient Trees at Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park is the only national park in South Carolina, but it leaves us wanting for nothing. It's home to the largest remaining expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeast and can be explored via a network of boardwalk trails. (And if you love national parks as much as we do, check out this National Parks Pass from REI!)

17. Take a Trip to Kiawah Island

It's home to ten miles of protected shores, award-winning accommodations, and delightful local restaurants. It may be famous for its world-renowned golf courses, but there are plenty of hidden gems to be discovered here.

18. Dine at Lost Isle Restaurant

There are so many visit-worthy restaurants in Charleston that it's easy to become overwhelmed. One that's been on our radar for a while now is Lost Isle Restaurant. It's a fire-to-table restaurant that specializes in Lowcountry fare.

19. See Pretty Place Chapel

It's one of the most photographed places in South Carolina, and it's no mystery why. Pretty Place Chapel, officially Fred W. Symmes Chapel, was built in 1941 and sits at approximately 3,000 feet above sea level, offering visitors one of the most stunning Blue Ridge Mountain views imaginable.

20. Hike Yellow Branch Falls Trail

Well, there you have it: 26 fun things to do in South Carolina in the New Year. Whether you consider yourself an avid outdoor explorer, a small-town lover, a history buff, or a big-city enthusiast, you're bound to find something new and exciting this year in South Carolina.

21. Get to know Greenville

Greenville has consistently been ranked among the state's best, and we'd argue that it's the top city to visit in South Carolina for 2026. The city has so much in the way of restaurants, hiking trails, and unique attractions that you could efficiently devote a week to exploring it. For the perfect home base, book a few nights at the Grand Bohemian Lodge.

22. Attend Newberry's Oktoberfest

Newberry, South Carolina, transforms into Bavaria during a select weekend in October each year. Enjoy German foods, Biergarten, live music, festivities, and more during this not-to-be-missed event. The Newberry Oktoberfest is one of the best things to do in the fall in South Carolina!

23. Go for an Exhilarating Zip Line Tour

There's nothing quite as adrenaline-fueled as a zip line tour, and the Caanan Zipline Tour is one of the best in the state! Adventurers will have the opportunity to fly over the Catawba River on a guided tour led by friendly experts.

24. Take a Guided Food and Wine Tour Through Charleston

Indulge your inner foodie with a guided food and wine tour, plus a private cooking demonstration led by an acclaimed chef. The experience begins with a 1.5-hour walking tour where you'll dive into the history of the foods and flavors that have shaped Charleston. The tour finishes at a local bistro with exceptional food and wine pairing.

25. Explore Brookgreen Gardens

Just south of Murrells Inlet awaits one of the most stunning places in South Carolina: Brookgreen Gardens. It's a fantastic place to visit year-round, especially magical in the winter with the production of "Nights of a Thousand Candles." After dark, the garden comes to life with nearly 3,000 hand-lit candles. It's an event that has to be seen to be believed.

26. Walk the Raven Cliff Falls Trail

My 2026 bucket list wouldn't be complete without mentioning a walk at the Cliff Falls Trail. When you choose to hike this trail, I promise it's one of the most rewarding experiences you'll ever remember. The round trip for this trail is 4 miles. Before you arrive at the dramatic suspension bridge, you'll pass through a lush forest. But here is one thing that will probably take your breath away: having a look at the tallest waterfall in South Carolina – Raven Cliff Falls. For a better experience, consider visiting after the rain or in spring.

Well, there you have it: 26 adventures for 2026. What will you accomplish first? For even more bucket-list inspiration, please take a look at our list of the best hiking trails in South Carolina.

Ready to start planning? Remember to use our itinerary planner to map outthese South Carolina adventures with ease.