4 Small Towns in South Carolina So Dreamy, You’ll Swear You’ve Seen Them on TV

With wild islands, rolling green mountains, and colorful coastal towns, South Carolina is undeniably beautiful. But the state also has a painful history of slavery and segregation. Both sides have captured Hollywood's attention for decades, earning the Palmetto State plenty of time on the big screen. Although Charleston gets the most attention from Hollywood, there are many small towns with enough history and good looks to deserve a close-up.

In these four dreamy small towns in South Carolina, you’ll find memorial sites, natural wonders, and, of course, great food. What you won’t find are streets overrun by tourists or attractions with long, boring lines. Instead of fighting for reservations or beach space, you'll get to relax in some of the most charming yet underrated parts of this fascinating state.

1. Saint Helena Island

Before the Civil War, enslaved Black people were sent to the then-remote Saint Helena Island to grow crops like rice. The isolation helped them hold on firmly to different African traditions that eventually blended to create the unique Gullah/Geechee culture. While you'll find Gullah/Geechee people in various parts of the Atlantic Coast, this island near Beaufort is one of the culture's strongholds and a great place to learn more about it. If you're interested in history, the Penn Center National Historical Park is not to be missed, as it was one of the first schools for formerly enslaved people established in the country. You can also enjoy a bit of the coast's nature at Hunting Island State Park — which has appeared in movies like “Forest Gump” and “Rules of Engagement,” as well as the TV show “Outer Banks” — and the secluded Lands End Beach.

2. Camden

Boasting the title of South Carolina’s oldest inland town, Camden is only about 40 minutes away from Columbia. Its pretty downtown is filled with historic homes that now operate as restaurants, shops, and cafés. Large oaks drape over streets, creating an atmosphere that almost makes you feel as if you’ve stepped inside a movie screen. Head to the Historic Camden Revolutionary War Site to learn more about this town's role in the country's fight for independence, or enjoy canoeing at the peaceful Goodale State Park. Horse fans will want to plan their visit around the exciting Carolina Cup, considered the state’s most important horse race.

3. Landrum

For a tiny town, Landrum has a surprising amount of cool things to do. This Blue Ridge Mountains destination near the North Carolina border offers a downtown filled with antique shops and access to the scenic Blue Wall Nature Preserve. After shopping and hiking, take a break at the Eagle Mountain Vineyard & Winery, or visit Poinsett Bridge, the oldest still-standing stone bridge in South Carolina. Don't feel like doing anything except relaxing while looking at the mountains? Go for it! Landrum is a great place to kick back and forget about your worries. 

4. McClellanville

Some towns seem to have escaped from the traps of modernity. McClellanville is one such place. With just over 600 residents, this town has managed to keep a slow pace that invites visitors to stop rushing and enjoy the Lowcountry. Life here revolves around shrimp fishing, so you’ll see boats in the water from the early morning, and can look forward to deliciously fresh seafood. When you’re not enjoying the catch of the day, spend time in nature at the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge. Here, you'll have the chance to see various species of birds, alligators, red wolves, and sea turtles.

Excited to visit more picture-perfect destinations in South Carolina? You can plan your own small-town trip using Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.