// 6 min Read

7 Lowcountry Day Trips to Put on Your New Year’s Calendar

Written by Palmetto Bluff

Must-Visit South Carolina Day Trips

 

South Carolina has a wide variety of attractions, making the upcoming year one of the best to explore the Lowcountry. When it comes to day trips, you learn to appreciate a little planning and preparation before you start your travels. So, with a short three and a half hour drive, from state line to state line, we’ve put together a list of the best South Carolina day trips that you should put on your 2023 calendar!

 

Continue reading and discover the ultimate guide to exploring the great Palmetto State.

 

1. Charleston Harbor

 

If you live at Palmetto Bluff, Charleston Harbor is just a two hour drive away!

 

With so much to do on land and water, this is one of the best South Carolina day trips. For the history buffs, walk, bike, or take a horse-drawn carriage through Historic Downtown Charleston to explore the city’s hidden gems. For water enthusiasts, enjoy a daytime or sunset Charleston Harbor cruise. If you want to enjoy both history and the water, take a ferry ride to Fort Sumter and enjoy a guided tour led by a historic professional.

 

2. Hunting Island State Park

 

With over a million visitors each year, Hunting Island is the most visited park in the state — making it a must-visit South Carolina day trip. The park’s natural environment includes five miles of scenic South Carolina beaches, hundreds of acres of marsh and maritime forest, a saltwater lagoon, and an ocean inlet. The island’s historical highlight is The Hunting Island Lighthouse, originally constructed in 1859 and rebuilt in 1875 after being demolished during the Civil War. Visitors can view this iconic landmark among the island’s 5000 acres.

 

 

Also nearby is the charming town of Beaufort, South Carolina. Just 15 miles away, you can explore one of the largest Sea Islands off the southeast Atlantic coast!

 

3. Lake Jocassee

 

Surrounded by verdant woodlands, the picturesque Lake Jocassee is characterized by its pristine shores and turquoise waters. The lake offers rejuvenating outdoor activities that you may take advantage of all year long. Beat the heat by swimming in the crystal-clear lake or sunbathing on its sandy beaches. Or, you may explore some of the most outstanding fishing locations in the Lowcountry with local fishing guides. If you wish to stay on land, take a hike in the lush woods along the Foothills Trail, Bear Cove Trail, or Oconee Bells Nature Trail.

 

4. Historic Camden

 

Historic Camden combines museum exhibitions and historic preservations to bring the past back to life! The Revolutionary War Center, managed by their partners, the City of Camden, is just around the corner and is home to a state-of-the-art museum. The best part is that it is open to the public for free tours because everyone should understand the history of the Lowcountry! Enjoy self-guided or guided tours in Historic Camden — it’s all up to you to choose your experience.

 

5. Columbia

 

Plan a South Carolina day trip to the Palmetto State’s capital — Columbia! No matter if you consider yourself a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, a purveyor of the arts, or you’re planning a family road trip that will impress everyone, Columbia has everything you need for the perfect getaway.

 

 

Here, the excitement of the major metropolis coincides with its small-town charm, all while showcasing the breathtaking splendor of nature.

 

6. The ACE Basin

 

Located between Hilton Head Island and Charleston, South Carolina, the ACE Basin is one of South Carolina’s most valuable habitats. With more than 215,000 acres of protected habitat, 79,000 are open to visitors. Located around the Ashepoo, Combahee, and Edisto rivers, the Ace Basin is one of the largest areas of unspoiled wetlands ecosystems on the Atlantic Coast.

 

The ACE basin is also home to numerous species of wildlife. On your visit, you may witness peregrine falcons, and other birds soar gracefully under a canopy of ancient cypress trees. You don’t want to miss this Lowcountry treasure!

 

7. Hilton Head

 

Situated along the coast of South Carolina, Hilton Head Island is a serene beach haven all year-round. With more than 12 miles of white sandy beaches, Hilton Head is perfect for playing golf, family bike excursions, and intimate wildlife watching.

 

 

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway or family vacation, Hilton Head is the place for you! A bonus is that it is just a half-hour drive from Palmetto Bluff.

 

Take a Trip Home to Palmetto Bluff

 

These South Carolina day trips are just a glimpse into the Lowcountry lifestyle. These neighboring towns and noteworthy attractions are just a short drive from Palmetto Bluff, making it possible for you to go on many more exciting road trips. Although you could make the easy, quick trip to the best-kept secret of the Lowcountry, there are so many more incredible things to do when you become a Palmetto Bluff member.

 

Want to learn more about what it’s like living at Palmetto Bluff and becoming a member? Click the button below to contact us and schedule a visit or real estate tour!

Contact Us Contact Us

Conservation
Songbirds of Spring

As April approaches the promise of spring is unmistakable here at the Bluff, especially for bird enthusiasts. Above us, migratory flocks signal the start of a new season. Northern parulas, often among the first to migrate, arrive early in March. Their song—a r...

Mar 2025

Club Life
Pilates Reformers: Forming New Ways to Stay Fit

Palmetto Bluff's Fitness and Wellness team keeps residents energized by introducing innovative equipment like the Pilates reformer. As part of the exclusive wellness amenities available to residents, this versatile machine features a sliding carriage, resistan...

Mar 2025
moreland village

Real Estate
Real Estate Spotlight: Moreland Village Homes

Explore All Moreland Village Has to Offer at Palmetto Bluff Moreland Village at Palmetto Bluff offers a rare blend of Lowcountry charm, modern amenities, and a deep connection to nature. Surrounded by the serene waters of the Inland Waterway, the New River, a...

Feb 2025
lowcountry housing trends 2025

Real Estate
Lowcountry Housing Trends & Market Updates of 2025

Real Estate in Bluffton, SC: Trends, Updates, and Insights As we step into 2025, the South Carolina housing market continues to shift and evolve, with Palmetto Bluff standing out as a premier destination for luxury and Lowcountry living. With a record-setting...

Feb 2025
palmetto bluff activities

Sporting Life
Sticking to Your New Year Resolutions: How to Stay Active at The Bluff

Create Lasting Habits With These 6 Palmetto Bluff Activities As the new year sets in, many of us find ourselves determined to stick to those resolutions we set just a few weeks ago. Whether it's getting fit, staying active, or embracing a healthier lifestyle,...

Feb 2025

Real Estate
Pattern Play: Wallpaper and Tile Take Center Stage

Gone are the days of whitewashed walls and neutral greys; patterned wallpaper and tile are making a comeback in the interior design world in a big way. Around Palmetto Bluff, the trend (or tradition, according to some) offers surprising details and delightful ...

Feb 2025

Conservation
Three Can't-Miss Conservancy Events

The Palmetto Bluff Conservancy is starting 2025 off with a calendar full of exciting educational events and workshops. At the Bluff, we are lucky to have an abundance of programming for both members and the public. We asked Outreach & Education Manager Aar...

Feb 2025

Artist in Residence
Sewing Sweetgrass

On a warm summer afternoon in Moreland Village, light streams in the windows of the Conservancy classroom as Michael Smalls and Dino Badger lay out bunches of sweetgrass and curling palmetto fronds. The workshop today is part of The Arts Initiative at Palmetto...

Jan 2025
bluffton south carolina upcoming events

Club Life
9 Can’t-Miss 2025 Events in the Lowcountry

2025 Events Near Palmetto Bluff Positioned in the heart of the Lowcountry, Palmetto Bluff stands as a beacon of coastal elegance, offering an unparalleled blend of luxurious living and unforgettable events that capture the essence of this charming region. In ...

Jan 2025
james swift, director of golf at palmetto bluff

Sporting Life
Behind the Bluff with Director of Golf: James Swift

James’ Journey to Palmetto Bluff At Palmetto Bluff, golf is more than a sport—it's an experience deeply rooted in the Lowcountry's natural beauty and unique culture. James Swift, the Director of Golf, brings a lifetime of dedication and passion to this except...

Jan 2025

CURIOUS ABOUT LIFE AT THE BLUFF?

Sign up for our newsletter

LIVE
Community Villages
Experience
Palmetto Bluff Club
On The Water
The Arts Initiative
Events
Conserve
About Us