South Carolina

South Carolina has long been the perfect spot to get away from it all –a place for fun and relaxation, a getaway for the best vacation imaginable. Beautiful resort islands, miles of wide beaches and marshlands teeming with wildlife are nestled among our vast coastline.

One of the original 13 colonies, South Carolina’s rich history spans more than 300 years from its founding at Charles Towne in 1670. Throughout the Lowcountry and along the Ashley River Scenic Highway centuries-old plantations, gardens and opulent townhouses recall the antebellum period when planters found immeasurable wealth from rice, indigo and cotton sustained by the labor of slaves imported from Africa. Today, the Sea Island descendants of these slaves still speak Gullah, a melodic blend of Kings English and African dialects, and continue the tradition of weaving sweetgrass baskets using techniques from their native land.

Entertainment venues are found in towns large and small, and colorful festivals abound. Amusements, water parks and theme parks offer family fun while outlet shops offer deep discounts. Outdoor recreation is always near on our state beaches, mountain lakes, marshes and rivers which provide outlets for most water-based activities. Tennis courts are plentiful, especially Charleston, Hilton Head Island and Myrtle Beach area resorts.

Idyllic ocean settings, marshes and breathtaking mountain vistas provide settings for the more than 350 championship golf courses across the state making South Carolina “The Golf Capitol of the South.” And, public access to the best of these allows you to play where the pros play. Coupled with the state’s mild year-round climate and course affordability, South Carolina golf is the best deal around.

Long the perfect spot to get away from it all – South Carolina continues to be the best family vacation imaginable.