South Carolina Road Trip Itinerary
Experience the best of South Carolina on this 12-day road trip! Start in Charleston, the birthplace of the American Revolution, and explore its cobblestone streets and historic charm. From there, head to Beaufort, a quaint town with a rich history, beautiful beaches, and plenty of outdoor activities. Then, drive to Augusta, home to a stunning riverwalk and a vibrant downtown. Next, make your way to Gaffney, a charming town with a small-town vibe and plenty of history. Finally, end your trip in Myrtle Beach, a popular destination with miles of sand and a lively boardwalk. This 1432 km road trip is perfect for any driver and offers a great experience at a reasonable budget. The best time to drive is in the spring or fall, when the road conditions are good and the temperatures are mild. You'll be sure to make memories that will last a lifetime!
12
number of days
1,432 km
route length
moderate
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Charleston
Distance 1,432 km
Driving time 19.9 h
Pace: fast
429.7 kWh
Airports
CHS
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Charleston is one of the most charming cities in the United States and the perfect starting point for a South Carolina Road Trip. With its cobblestone streets, centuries-old mansions, and inviting gardens, it is a must-visit destination.
The historical and cultural heart of Charleston is the Battery, a waterfront promenade lined with grand old homes. Take a leisurely walk here, and don’t miss the iconic Pineapple Fountain. For stunning views of the harbor, climb the spiral staircase of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. You can also take a boat tour or a horse-drawn carriage ride for a different perspective.
Visit the City Market for a taste of local culture. Here you’ll find handmade crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs. Also, don’t miss out on the opportunity to try some of Charleston’s iconic Lowcountry cuisine. The closest international airport to Charleston is the Charleston International Airport (CHS). Car rental services are available at the airport, a great option for those planning to explore South Carolina’s coast by car.
1
Charleston
- Beaufort
Distance 142 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: fast
42.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip that starts in Charleston and takes you along the Ashley River to Beaufort. This 88 mi journey takes less than 2 hours and you can explore some of the most interesting places in the area.
Begin your adventure in Charleston, a city with a rich history and numerous attractions. Visit the Charleston City Market, explore Fort Sumter and the Battery promenade, and learn about the city’s past at the Old Slave Mart Museum.
As you drive along the Ashley River, you’ll pass through the Middleton Place, a former rice plantation with a remarkable garden. The Drayton Hall is also worth a visit, as it is the oldest preserved plantation house in the country.
Finally, you’ll reach the city of Beaufort, a charming town with a unique atmosphere. Take a stroll along the waterfront and visit the Beaufort History Museum. You can also explore the Hunting Island State Park and its five miles of beaches.
Along the way, be sure to look out for historical sites and monuments. You’ll find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Beaufort - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Beaufort
- Savannah
Distance 68 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: fast
20.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Beaufort to Savannah? This 42 mi drive is one of the most beautiful routes in the United States, and it will take you less than an hour to get to your destination. On your way, you will be able to admire the gorgeous landscapes and visit some of the most interesting places in the area.
In Beaufort, don't miss the chance to visit the historic district and the iconic Spanish Moss Trail. In Savannah, be sure to explore the city's cobblestone streets and the impressive Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. You can also visit the fascinating Owens-Thomas House and the beautiful Forsyth Park.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start your engine and let the adventure begin!
Savannah - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Savannah
- Augusta
Distance 224 km
Driving time 3.0 h
Pace: fast
67.2 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Savannah to Augusta! This 139mi journey will take you less than 3 hours and will offer you some of the most beautiful sights in the area.
Start your trip in Savannah, one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in the United States. Take a stroll through its historic squares, admire the amazing architecture of the city and visit the famous Forsyth Park.
Continue your journey to Augusta, the second largest city in the state of Georgia. Here you can visit the Augusta Museum of History and the Morris Museum of Art. You can also take a walk along the Augusta Canal and enjoy its natural beauty.
This stage of the journey is only part of a larger tour. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for a memorable road trip from Savannah to Augusta!
Augusta - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Augusta
- Seneca
Distance 215 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: fast
64.6 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Augusta to Seneca? This 134mi trip will take you fewer than 4 hours and will be packed with interesting attractions!
Start your journey in Augusta, where you can visit the beautiful Augusta Canal Interpretive Center and Nature Trail. Then, drive along the Savannah River, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the river and the surrounding forests.
Next, head to the town of Seneca and explore the stunning Oconee Station State Historic Site. You can also visit the nearby Oconee State Park and take a walk on the trails.
For additional information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, you can find it in the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for this amazing road trip!
Seneca - United States - North America - Road Trip - en.wikipedia.org
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5
Seneca
- Gaffney
Distance 215 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: fast
64.4 kWh
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Welcome to the amazing road trip from Seneca to Gaffney! This 133mi drive will take you fewer than 4 hours to complete, and you will find yourself surrounded by the most incredible sights.
Starting in Seneca, you will be able to explore the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research and the Oconee Nuclear Station. Make sure to take a few pictures of the gorgeous lake and the nearby Oconee State Park.
As you drive along the route, you will find the stunning Issaqueena Lake and the historic Issaqueena Dam. If you are looking for a place to relax, the Stumphouse Mountain Park is the perfect spot.
Finally, you will reach Gaffney. Here, you can visit the Cowpens National Battlefield and the Cherokee Speedway.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Gaffney - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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6
Gaffney
- Columbia
Distance 156 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
46.8 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers! This stage of your journey will take you from Gaffney to Columbia, a distance of 97mi that can be covered in less than 3 hours.
Start your journey in Gaffney, where you can visit the Cowpens National Battlefield, a Revolutionary War site that offers a glimpse into the past. From there, you can take a short drive to Kings Mountain National Military Park, where the British were defeated in 1780.
Continue your drive to the city of Spartanburg, where you can explore the Spartanburg Science Center, a hands-on science museum. There is also the Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve, a beautiful garden and nature preserve full of native plants and wildlife.
Your last stop is Columbia, the capital of South Carolina. Here you can visit the South Carolina State House, a historic building that houses the state legislature. You can also visit the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, a popular zoo and botanical garden.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Columbia - United States - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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7
Columbia
- Myrtle Beach
Distance 245 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: fast
73.6 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Columbia to Myrtle Beach? This stage of your tour is only 153 miles long and takes less than 3 hours to drive. Along the way, you'll find some of the most interesting places to visit. In Columbia, you can explore the historic Congaree National Park, the South Carolina State House and the University of South Carolina. As you drive towards Myrtle Beach, you'll pass through the vibrant city of Florence where you can visit the Florence Regional Airport and the Florence Civic Center. Finally, you'll reach Myrtle Beach, the vibrant beach city, where you can visit Ripley's Aquarium, Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade, and the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the itinerary of this stage.
Myrtle Beach - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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8
Myrtle Beach
- Charleston
Distance 167 km
Driving time 2.4 h
Pace: fast
50.0 kWh
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Are you ready for a thrilling road trip from Myrtle Beach to Charleston? This 104mi journey will take you less than 3 hours, and you can explore some of the most interesting places in the United States.
Start your journey in Myrtle Beach and make sure to visit the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade, a 1.2mi long wooden walkway with plenty of restaurants and attractions. You can also explore the Brookgreen Gardens, a beautiful sculpture garden and wildlife preserve.
Continue on your road trip to Charleston and take in the beauty of the historic city. Don’t miss out on visiting the Charleston City Market, a historic open-air market that has been around since the late 1700s. You can also explore the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, a beautiful plantation and garden that is one of the oldest in the country.
As you drive along, make sure to pay attention to the historical sites along the way.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Charleston
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Charleston is the perfect ending point for your South Carolina road trip. Located in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina, it's the oldest and largest city in the state and is one of the most popular destinations in the Southeast. From the cobblestone streets and colorful buildings of the Historic District to the beautiful beaches, there's something for everyone in Charleston.
When visiting Charleston, be sure to check out the City Market, one of the most popular attractions in the city. Here, visitors can find handmade crafts, souvenirs, and delicious snacks. Another must-see is the Battery, a sea wall with stunning views of Fort Sumter and the harbor.
Those looking for a more relaxed experience should explore the many beaches in the area. Folly Beach, Sullivan's Island, and Isle of Palms are all great places to spend a day soaking up the sun. For a more active experience, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as kayaking, fishing, and biking.
No visit to Charleston is complete without a visit to its many restaurants. Whether you're looking for a classic Southern meal or a unique culinary experience, you'll find it in Charleston. Be sure to check out the many food tours available to sample the best of the city's culinary offerings.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Charleston International Airport (CHS). From there, you can easily access the city via car or public transportation.
Charleston is the perfect destination to end your South Carolina road trip. With its beautiful beaches, historic attractions, and delicious food, you'll find plenty to do and see.
South Carolina Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Charleston
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End:
Charleston
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Distance:
1,432 km
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Stay:
12 days
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Getting there:
Charleston International Airport (CHS)
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When to drive:
March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on an enriching 12-day Road Trip through the captivating landscapes of South Carolina, covering approximately 1432 kilometers (890 miles) of Scenic Drives. This journey takes you through historic towns and bustling cities, each brimming with its own unique attractions, cultural heritage, and Southern charm. From the antebellum architecture of Charleston to the sun-kissed shores of Myrtle Beach, this itinerary is perfect for those seeking a blend of adventure, history, and relaxation on the open Road.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Charleston: Step back in time as you explore the birthplace of the Civil War at Fort Sumter National Monument, stroll through the French Quarter, and marvel at the pastel-colored homes of Rainbow Row. Don't miss the chance to visit the historic plantations and gardens that dot the surrounding area.
- Beaufort: Soak in the ambiance of this antebellum town with horse-drawn carriage tours, visit the Penn Center to learn about African American heritage, and unwind at Hunting Island State Park with its lighthouse and natural beauty.
- Augusta (Georgia): Although located just across the border in Georgia, Augusta is a short drive from South Carolina and offers the serene Augusta Canal and the Masters Tournament at the Augusta National Golf Club, one of the four major championships in professional golf.
- Gaffney: Discover the Cherokee County History & Arts Museum, and don't miss the iconic Peachoid water tower, a quirky landmark celebrating the region's peach industry.
- Myrtle Beach: Experience the Grand Strand, a 60-mile string of beaches, visit Ripley's Aquarium, or take a spin on the SkyWheel for panoramic views. The area is also known for golf courses, amusement parks, and live entertainment shows.
Best Time to Go:
The ideal time for a South Carolina Road Trip is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). These seasons offer mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and the natural beauty of blooming or changing foliage, enhancing the drive's appeal and comfort.
Potential Risks:
Travelers should be aware of the potential for inclement weather, such as hurricanes and tropical storms, particularly from June to November. Traffic congestion can be common in popular tourist areas like Myrtle Beach during peak travel seasons, so planning your route and travel times accordingly is advisable.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- South Carolina boasts an extensive array of scenic routes, such as the historic Ashley River Road or the picturesque Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway.
- The state is rich in Revolutionary and Civil War history, with numerous monuments and museums, including the Fort Sumter National Monument and the South Carolina State Museum.
- South Carolina's culinary scene offers a taste of the Lowcountry, famous for dishes like shrimp and grits, frogmore stew, and succulent Carolina barbecue.
- The Palmetto State is home to the first museum in America, the Charleston Museum, established in 1773.
A good choice for:
A Road Trip through South Carolina is a tapestry of historical sights, natural wonders, and Southern hospitality. With its diverse destinations, travelers can expect a multifaceted journey that offers a deep dive into the state's rich past, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you are drawn to historical exploration, coastal relaxation, or outdoor pursuits, South Carolina's highways and byways lead to an unforgettable adventure.
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