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HomeRoad TripsNorth AmericaUnited StatesSouth USASouth CarolinaSouth Carolina
Drayton Hall South Carolina

South Carolina Road Trip

Charleston - Beaufort - Savannah - Augusta - Seneca - Gaffney - Columbia - Myrtle Beach

Expect on your itinerary

Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Security Security
Beach Beach
Urban life Urban life
Culture Culture
Historical sites Historical sites
Landscape Landscape
Comfort Comfort
South Carolina Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages8 km1,432 h/stage2.5

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a South Carolina Road Trip in South Carolina?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 540EUR drive & more 188EUR sleep & more 946EUR eat & more 864EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,998EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 2,538EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 648EUR drive & more 263EUR sleep & more 1,430EUR eat & more 1,296EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,989EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,637EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,080EUR drive & more 350EUR sleep & more 2,376EUR eat & more 1,728EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 4,454EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 5,534EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,700EUR drive & more 388EUR sleep & more 660EUR eat & more 864EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,912EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,612EUR
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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!
number of days 12 number of days
route length 1,432 km route length
budget moderate budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level 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 View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options
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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!

2 Beaufort - Savannah

Distance 68 km Driving time 1.0 h Pace: fast 20.4 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options
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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!

3 Savannah - Augusta

Distance 224 km Driving time 3.0 h Pace: fast 67.2 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
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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!

4 Augusta - Seneca

Distance 215 km Driving time 3.3 h Pace: fast 64.6 kWh View map Itinerary
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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!

5 Seneca - Gaffney

Distance 215 km Driving time 3.3 h Pace: fast 64.4 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options junction of road trips
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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!

6 Gaffney - Columbia

Distance 156 km Driving time 2.1 h Pace: fast 46.8 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options
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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!

7 Columbia - Myrtle Beach

Distance 245 km Driving time 2.9 h Pace: fast 73.6 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
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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.

8 Myrtle Beach - Charleston

Distance 167 km Driving time 2.4 h Pace: fast 50.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options
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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

No doubt our journey will become a superb inspiration for your future holiday excursions.
Our itinerary can be used as a base that can be recreated in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with interesting attractions of your choice.
If travelling by car is your plan when moving around South Carolina, there are a number of essential road rules to follow and a list of things to bear in mind to make your adventure smooth. These tips will surely become useful for travellers who are considering vehicle hire or hiring a camper.
When sightseeing around South Carolina, there are multiple traffic regulations to be bore in mind. Alcohol is best to be avoided at any price when South Carolina is your holiday destination. Travellers should remember that the allowed level of alcohol in blood is rather low and is only 0.5‰. You can drive at the maximum speed of 40km/h when driving around the build-up areas. In rural areas, there is a possibility to travel at the maximum speed of 72km/h. Avoid exceeding the maximum car speed of 129km/h while on highways. Driving with your headlights on at daytime and having a fire extinguisher and first aid kit greatly increase the safety.
You’re probably wondering about the costs of the whole trip. Of course, depending on the budget option that interests you, the amount of money that you have to pay for your tour expenses may vary. A wide range of budget options is presented below.
We estimate that the budget option when it comes to fuel to cover the planned 1,432km while travelling around South Carolina may amount to 188 EUR. You will have to pay approximately 946 EUR for economy accommodation options. Those who opt for this option will spend more or less 864 EUR on restaurants and food. Travellers will have to pay around 540 EUR if they aim for the cheapest rental car offer as well. Thus, you can expect the travel expenses to be approximately 1,998 EUR without car rental and 2,538 EUR with vehicle rental.
When it comes to the standard offer, the gasoline for 9 stages around South Carolina can cost around 263 EUR. Those who are looking for standard accommodation options should be ready to pay about 1,430 EUR. The standard option in terms of food and restaurants may cost up to approximately 1,296 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the trip in a standard rental vehicle should expect a cost of around 648 EUR. Summing up the standard offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total around 3,637 EUR for drivers who would like to try car rental and 2,989 EUR for those who are not interested in rental.
The highest level of comfort of the premium option will live up to the expectations of the most demanding drivers. When it comes to this offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total around 5,534 EUR for holidayers who are considering car rental and 2,989 EUR for those who do not need a hire car. Travellers who would like to cover the trip in a premium hire car can expect a cost of about 1,080 EUR. When it comes to the premium configuration of the trip, the fuel cost will be up to more or less 350 EUR. Holidayers should expect to pay roughly 1,728 EUR for restaurants and food and more or less 2,376 EUR for overnight stays if they are searching for the exclusive standard of services.
Our trip will also be perfect for all camper fans, as it can be easily adjusted to their needs. If you choose this transport option, you will pay up to roughly 2,700 EUR. Camper fans will spend roughly 388 EUR on gasoline allowing to cover all stages of the South Carolina Road Trip. Holidayers who are considering camper hire should expect to pay about 660 EUR for overnight stays and around 864 EUR for expenses connected with food.
The Road Trip Costs section presents all the above details in an easy to follow manner.
The part of South Carolina presented in our South Carolina Road Trip is perfect to be explored between March and November. There are countless picturesque road adventures that are available on our website if you’d like to see other of our road trip opportunities. Even the most demanding of holidaymakers will surely be taken aback by the broad spectrum of trips that we offer.

Facts for safer driving in South Carolina

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 40 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 72 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 129 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher yes
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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