South Carolina and Georgia, Coastal Highlights
Are you ready for some fresh ideas for your next getaway? Consider visiting South Carolina and Georgia for Southern hospitality along the Atlantic coast. Beautiful coastlines, charming port cities, exquisite dining, and family activities await you at Myrtle Beach. Here is a look at just a few destinations you will find there.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
With 60 miles of beach and over 2,000 restaurants, Myrtle Beach hosts over 17 million visitors a year. Myrtle Beach offers everything you look for in a vacation spot. Beach activities, golf, boardwalks, fantastic dining, live music, and great shopping are all available at Myrtle Beach. Visitors of all ages enjoy what Myrtle Beach offers. With abundant oceanfront beaches, Myrtle Beach’s outdoor activities include surfing, swimming, volleyball, and lounging. Known for its over 90 golf courses, Myrtle Beach is also a hot spot for avid golfers. Those with little or no golf experience can also enjoy any of the 30 mini-golf courses or a visit to Top Golf. Myrtle Beach offers a great dining experience with a variety of restaurants to choose from. Whether you prefer fresh Atlantic seafood served up Southern style, soul food, Italian, barbecue, or something different, you'll find something to satisfy your appetite.
Additionally, Myrtle Beach is home to great live music and yearly festivals and events. The music scene at Myrtle Beach, which includes rock, jazz, country, and blues, is a favorite of both local and touring artists. Among the hot spots for music are The House of Blues, Tin Roof, and The Bowery. Myrtle Beach hosts yearly events and festivals like the World Famous Annual Blue Crab Festival, the Carolina Country Music Fest (CCMF), the Beach N’ Chili Fest, and the Little River Shrimp Fest. Check their local calendar for dates and times of these events.
Myrtle Beach has many lodging options from hotels, resorts, and Air B n B’s. If you travel as a couple or as a large group, many options fit almost any budget. However, the peak season is June-August and Spring Break, so book early. Click here for more information on Myrtle Beach.
Charleston, South Carolina
Nestled along the sparkling waters of the Atlantic, Charleston is a gem of the South, exuding historic charm and modern elegance. Welcoming over 7 million visitors annually, Charleston is a city steeped in history, culture, and Southern charm.
Charleston's cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and pastel antebellum houses are a testament to its rich history. The city's historic district, with its well-preserved buildings and landmarks, offers a journey back in time. The Battery Promenade and Waterfront Park both overlook Charleston Harbor, offering picturesque views and serene spots to relax.
Food enthusiasts will be delighted with Charleston's culinary scene. From traditional Southern dishes to innovative fusion cuisine, the city boasts many dining options. Favorites include shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and the iconic Charleston chewies. The city's vibrant food scene is complemented by its bustling bars, offering craft cocktails and local brews.
A visit to Charleston would be incomplete without a trip to Fort Sumter, the historic sea fort known as the birthplace of the Civil War. Located on an island in Charleston Harbor, Fort Sumter offers a poignant reminder of the nation's tumultuous past. The first shots of the Civil War were fired here in 1861, and the fort stands as a symbol of the nation's struggle for unity. Guided tours provide insights into the events that transpired, and the panoramic views of the harbor are genuinely breathtaking.
Charleston's accommodations range from luxurious hotels to quaint bed and breakfasts, catering to solo travelers and large groups. As with most popular destinations, it's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons. For a deeper dive into all that Charleston has to offer, click here.
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah, with its moss-draped oaks and historic squares, stands as a timeless testament to Southern elegance and charm. Each year, millions are drawn to this coastal city, captivated by its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
The city's historic district, with its 22 squares adorned with fountains, statues, and lush greenery, offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. Stroll along River Street, where cobblestone paths are lined with boutiques, galleries, and cafes, all set against the backdrop of the Savannah River.
Arts play a pivotal role in Savannah's vibrant cultural tapestry. The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) is at the heart of this, with its students and alumni contributing significantly to the city's artistic landscape. Throughout the year, Savannah hosts a myriad of art events, exhibitions, and festivals. The Telfair Museums, comprising the Jepson Center, Telfair Academy, and Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters, showcase a diverse range of art, from classical to contemporary.
Savannah's culinary scene is a delightful fusion of tradition and innovation. Classic Southern dishes, from fried green tomatoes to pecan pie, are served alongside contemporary creations that draw inspiration from global cuisines. The city's rich culinary heritage is celebrated in its many restaurants, cafes, and eateries, where farm-to-table is more than just a trend—it's a way of life.
Just a short drive from Savannah lies Tybee Island, a coastal haven known for its sandy beaches and iconic lighthouse. Whether you're looking to bask in the sun, explore the tidal pools, or indulge in fresh seafood at a beachside eatery, Tybee Island promises a refreshing retreat from city life.
Accommodations in Savannah range from historic inns to modern hotels, ensuring that every traveler finds their perfect stay. To truly immerse yourself in all that Savannah has to offer, consider planning your visit around one of its many festivals or events. For more information and to plan your trip, click here.
Hamilton Head Beach & Resort, South Carolina
Hilton Head Island, a shimmering jewel of the Lowcountry, beckons travelers with its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and coastal charm. This barrier island, renowned for its natural beauty and upscale ambiance, offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking a blend of relaxation and recreation.
Stretching over 12 miles, the island's sandy shores are perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing, and watersports. The gentle waves make it an ideal spot for families, while the scenic vistas of the Atlantic provide a picturesque backdrop for romantic sunset strolls. The island's commitment to preserving its natural beauty is evident in its numerous parks and nature reserves, where visitors can explore maritime forests, salt marshes, and lagoons.
Golf enthusiasts will find Hilton Head Island a paradise, with its world-class golf courses amidst stunning landscapes. Designed by legendary architects, these courses offer challenges for players of all skill levels, all while providing breathtaking views of the island's diverse ecosystems.
The culinary scene on Hilton Head Island is as diverse as its landscapes. From fresh seafood caught daily from the Atlantic to Lowcountry classics like shrimp and grits or she-crab soup, the island's restaurants cater to every palate. Al fresco dining by the water, upscale bistros, and cozy cafes offer a range of dining experiences, each infused with the flavors and traditions of the South.
A stone's throw away from the main island is the historic Harbour Town, marked by its iconic red-and-white-striped lighthouse. This bustling area is a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, with its marina offering boat tours, fishing charters, and water sports rentals.
Accommodations on Hilton Head Island range from luxurious resorts to charming beachfront cottages, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, Hilton Head Island promises an unforgettable experience. For more insights and to plan your island getaway, visit hiltonheadisland.org.
With so much to choose from for every traveler’s taste and style, the Atlantic coastline of South Carolina and Georgia can be your next destination. Whether it is exciting beach activity or quaint southern charm, you will find it here!
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