From the stunning views of the mountains in upstate South Carolina to the sandy beaches on the coast, South Carolina has all that and everything in between. South Carolina just happens to be a lucky state that holds so much that everyone will find something that tickles their senses or 'strikes their fancy', which is what we say here. The following are just a handful of the most beautiful places in South Carolina that the state has to offer.
1) Angel Oak of St. John's Island: One of the oldest living trees in North America.
Angel Oak, historic South Carolina Oak Tree. Learn more here.
2) The Battery in Charleston, SC: A place so chock full of history that a day is just not enough.
3) Busted Plug of Columbia, SC: Made and installed by the artist, Blue Sky, this is just one of his pieces that will keep you in awe.
Visitors enjoy Busted Plug Plaza, a public art installation by Blue Sky on Taylor Street in Columbia, SC, Sunday, April 29, 2012. (© 2012 Brett Flashnick/flashnick visuals, llc.)Learn more here.
4) Caesar's Head State Park: This stunning view shows not only Table Rock, but also the Pinnacle Mountains as well.
5) Low Country marshes of Kiawah Island, SC: Home to so much wildlife, this is a birdwatcher's treat. However, I would stay away from them in the high heat of summer.
Tricolored heron taking off. Learn more here.
6) Forty Acre Rock of Kershaw, SC: A part of Flat Creek Preserve, this 14-acre granite outcropping can provide hours of hiking and family fun.
7) The Castle of Greenville, SC: Built in 1902 for a German Baroness, this castle sits on the south face of Paris Mountain. Who would have thought that South Carolina held such charms?
8) Hilton Head Lighthouse of Hilton Head, SC: The most visited lighthouse in South Carolina.
9) Hunting Island, SC: You can be a world away in a blink of the eye.
10) Magnolia Plantation of Charleston, SC: Founded in 1676, Magnolia Plantation has the honor of being known as the oldest public tourist site in the Lowcountry and the oldest public gardens in America.
11) Pearl Fryar Topiary Gardens: Three acres of visual delight.
12) Poinsett Bridge near Traveler's Rest, SC: The oldest bridge in South Carolina.
13) Rivers Bridge State Park of Ehrhardt, SC: This park marks the site of the Confederacy’s last stand against General William T. Sherman’s sweep across the South.
14) Old Sheldon Church of Yemasee, SC: Built between 1745-1755 and once known as Prince William Parrish Church, these awe inspiring ruins should be on everyone’s must see list.
15) The State House in Columbia, SC: Built entirely out of blue granite, this building is completely fireproof.
16) Swan Lake of Sumter, SC: This is the only public park that holds all 8 swan species and is home to the Iris Gardens.
17) Tunnel Vision of Columbia, SC: The artist, Blue Sky, does it again! They had to put up a barricade in front of this piece.
18) UFO Welcome Center of Bowman, SC: Yes, you read that correctly. We welcome everyone to South Carolina!
19) Yellow Branch Falls of Oconee, SC: Most people do not realize that South Carolina has waterfalls. This is just one of them...
20) Campbell's Covered Bridge of Greenville, SC: This is the last covered bridge in South Carolina.
When it comes down to it, this is just a 'drop in the bucket' of what South Carolina has to offer. There is a not a corner you can turn or a road you can cross without running into something that will absolutely astound you. I welcome you to come to my beautiful state. Get a glass of sweet iced tea, sit a spell, and take in the wonder that only South Carolina can offer you.
If you know of some other gorgeous spots in the Palmetto State that deserve to be highlighted, feel free to nominate them here!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
