This Mid-Sized City in South Carolina Is 10/10, No Notes

It all started when my girls begged me to go to the beach. I am more of a mountain person myself, but when it came time to plan a trip, we decided to give it a shot and plan some time at the beach as well. Being from landlocked Tennessee, we don’t see the ocean much anymore. I lived near the water my whole life until recently, but you do start to miss hearing the gentle calm of the ocean tide. So, to make my daughter's wildest wishes come true, we made the drive out to Mount Pleasant in South Carolina.

Our original plan was to go to Charleston, but a campground was open in Mount Pleasant, so we decided that was close enough. I really didn’t know what to expect as we left the mountains behind and found ourselves in the flatland once again. As we drew closer, the sun set, and we watched the tall marshland grass gently sway in the breeze, its golden hue illuminated by the setting sun. We rolled down our windows, and the familiar scent of the salty air came wafting as we drove. It felt like a lovely change of pace from the mountains to the sea once again.

Truth be told, we loved Mount Pleasant and found that it lived up to its name quite nicely, although there was not a mount to be seen. We stayed at the Mount Pleasant/Charleston KOA, and the scenery was breathtaking. I woke up early and just sat watching the calm water, but what struck me the most were the trees. The live oak trees were everywhere, with twisting branches and hanging Spanish moss. I used to live in Florida, and it brought me right back to those fond memories I have of the Sunshine State.

It was good to feel the warm sun again, and once everyone was awake, it was time to start exploring. The city felt like the perfect size, with upscale neighborhoods that were fun to drive around. We found the whole place incredibly charming, and there were many activities nearby to partake in. We took a quick drive to the Isle of Palms, and I have to say, I may have found my favorite beach ever.

Dogs are allowed on the beach, and since we have an adventure dog, he joins us everywhere. He has hiked mountains, dug sandcastles with the girls at the ocean, you name it, and he has done it. He was living his best doggie life, taking a nap in the shade in the soft white sand. We had the greatest time splashing in the water with him and soaking up the sun. 

After spending some time in this amazing little city, we can’t wait to go back. It was one of the highlights of our trips, and as the sun set, closing out the day, we knew that this place was special. It was a pleasure spending time in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, and I look forward to visiting again.

If you're planning on visiting Charleston, carve out some time to spend exploring Mount Pleasant. You won't regret it! Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.