3 Places in South Carolina That Are Like a Caribbean Paradise in the Summer

When the days start getting longer and those temperatures begin to rise, we all start looking for beaches to visit. While popular South Carolina beaches like Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head are certainly worth a visit, sometimes we want to experience the quiet beaches in South Carolina, where you can escape the crowds. These Caribbean-like places in South Carolina offer the chance to soak up the sun without the large crowds.

3 Hidden Beaches in South Carolina You’ll Want to Visit

Edisto Beach

Known for its small-town charm, you won’t find any high-rise buildings or large-scale entertainment in the town of Edisto Beach. It’s a family-oriented spot where long walks on the beach are rewarded with seashells and shark teeth, and everything moves a little slower. The town has nearly 40 public beach access points with endless opportunities to find a beach spot all to yourself. Book a stay at the Edisto Beach State Park Beach Campground to enjoy one of the quietest beaches in South Carolina. 

Myrtle Beach State Park

Located south of the iconic Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach State Park is one of those hidden South Carolina summer destinations hiding in plain sight. You can still enjoy all of the attractions in Myrtle Beach while enjoying the quiet side that this state park offers. There are six cabins and over 250 campsites, should you want to turn the beach day into a weekend adventure!

Fish Haul Beach Park

If you want to beat the crowds around Hilton Head, this quiet beach in South Carolina is the spot for you. The 31-acre preserve, which overlooks the Port Royal Sound, is an excellent spot for beach walks and birdwatching. It might not be the typical beach experience you’d find around Hilton Head, but it’s ideal for anyone wanting some solitude and to spend some time enjoying Mother Nature. 

When to Visit for Clear Waters and Fewer Crowds

Everyone wants to enjoy these Caribbean-like places in South Carolina without the crowds, but that’s easier said than done. Generally speaking, the summer months are when South Carolina’s beaches start filling up. July and August are the peak months. If you want to beat the crowds (and the prices that go along with peak times), you’ll want to be strategic about when you visit. The shoulder seasons (early May, June, September, October) are the best times to visit South Carolina’s beaches with fewer crowds. Basically, any time the kids are out of school, the beaches will be crowded. Avoid holidays like Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day, which are all known for being popular times to visit the beach.

It’s also important to remember that hurricane season runs from June to November, with August and September having the highest potential for storms. It’s tricky to plan your vacation around Mother Nature, we know. But nothing will take the wind out of your sails faster than seeing a storm form offshore and knowing your non-refundable beachfront condo is right in the path. 

How many of these Caribbean-like places in South Carolina are you planning on visiting this summer? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner. If you enjoy finding those secluded spots that are off the beaten path, check out this hidden gems road trip that will take you to some of the most underrated places in South Carolina.