// 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

Culture
Chef Beth’s Southern Sausage & Sage Stuffing

Warm, fragrant, and deeply comforting, Chef Beth’s Southern Sausage & Sage Stuffing is a holiday classic that brings together rich pork sausage, fresh herbs, and toasted bread for the ultimate savory side dish. Studded with green apples and aromatic vegeta...

Dec 2025

Conservation
Naturally Festive: Palmetto Bluff’s Native Pines and Berries

As December settles over Palmetto Bluff, it brings softer light, cooler mornings, and the natural beauty of native evergreens and winter berries that define the Lowcountry landscape. Palmetto Bluff Conservancy’s Education and Outreach Manager, Aaron Palmieri, ...

Dec 2025

Club Life
2025: A Year of New Beginnings and Continued Discovery

In 2025, Palmetto Bluff welcomed new neighbors and old friends, groundbreakings, and long-awaited openings. From inspired Club gatherings and elevated programming to the creation of our latest golf course, the year was defined by connection and excitement for ...

Dec 2025

Real Estate
Three Homes With Views to Elevate Mind & Mood

There is something serene about waking up to shimmering water, the stillness of the woods, or the sweep of marsh and sky right outside your window. Even without stepping outside, science shows that simply seeing nature from home can meaningfully improve mental...

Dec 2025
Palmetto bluff homes for sale

Real Estate
The Top 8 Benefits of Building on a Homesite

The Ultimate Choice: Building vs Buying a Home in Palmetto Bluff  For those searching for  Palmetto Bluff homes for sale, this common question often arises: Should you choose an existing residence, or embrace the opportunity to build your own? While a complet...

Nov 2025
south carolina winter

Culture
How to Spend a Winter Day in the Lowcountry

A Complete Guide to South Carolina Winter at Palmetto Bluff  South Carolina's winter is unlike any other on the East Coast. While many travelers search for “South Carolina winter” expecting cooler temperatures and limited outdoor options, the Lowcountry revea...

Nov 2025
palmetto bluff real estate

Real Estate
Real Estate Spotlight: Discover River Road

River Road: Where Lowcountry Beauty Meets Elevated Everyday Living  Tucked gracefully between Wilson Village and Moreland Village, River Road is one of Palmetto Bluff’s most immersive communities. It's where the pace of life seems to soften, classic Southern ...

Nov 2025

Club Life
‘Tis the Season for the Holiday Farmers Market at Palmetto Bluff

Sunday, December 14 | 9am to 1pmVillage GreenThe season’s most festive farmers market, the Holiday Farmers Market, comes to Wilson Village on Sunday, December 14, from 9am to 1pm. All are welcome to visit and experience the magic of holidays at the Bluff. The ...

Nov 2025

Real Estate
Tour This Light-Filled Lowcountry Retreat with a Modern Point of View

Tucked amid whispering pines and overlooking a tranquil water trail, 11 Lyonia Street is where Lowcountry charm meets modern artistry. The newly built residence redefines Southern living with a balance of craftsmanship and calm. This is a home that feels both ...

Nov 2025

Club Life
Home for the Holidays at Palmetto Bluff

The holiday season in the Lowcountry brings crisp air, oaks draped in twinkling lights, and laughter drifting from homes where families and friends gather once again. At Palmetto Bluff, the holidays are more than just a season; they’re a feeling of togethernes...

Nov 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