19 Best Weekend Getaways From North Charleston, SC (2024)

Are you trying to find weekend getaways from North Charleston but are unsure where to begin? We’ll go over the most incredible weekend getaways in this post and provide you with all the information you need to make the ideal travel plans. You may locate some fantastic low-country trips and Smoky Mountain vacations in whatever direction you point your compass. Here are our top suggestions for the best weekend getaways from North Charleston.

19 Best Weekend Getaways From North Charleston, SC

1. Beaufort

Beaufort is located on Port Royal Island, one of the largest Sea Islands off the coast of South Carolina. It has top-rated restaurants, distinctive art galleries, and a rich history. Beautiful antebellum houses constructed before the Civil War border the streets of the downtown core, which has been recognized as a National Historic Landmark District. Though guests are permitted to wander the streets on their own, the best ways to get a sense of the area are to participate in a skilled walking tour or board a classy horse-drawn carriage.

Distance from North Charleston: 72.1 miles

2. Pawleys Island

The relaxed and tranquil ambiance of Pawleys Island is something that the town takes great pride in. The town’s deliberate absence of large resorts and commercial buildings is one of its most endearing features, and the historic area is home to several of the community’s original residences. This South Carolina barrier island is only four miles long and broad enough for one road, so getting there requires a boat or a causeway. Despite its small, Pawleys Island has many locally-owned eateries.

Distance from North Charleston: 78.2 miles

3. Edisto Island

Edisto Island is a hidden coastal paradise perfectly suited for families and anybody searching for a relaxing trip. It is situated between the mouths of the South and North Edisto Rivers, which give the island its name. Even though the island’s primary activities—kayaking, camping, hiking, and beach strolling—have primarily remained uncommercialized, its main town does have a few top-notch eateries, museums, and shops. Boating is another well-liked pastime on the island, and the surrounding seas are ideal for fishing.

 Distance from North Charleston: 46.5 miles

4. Savannah

Even though Savannah is only a two-hour drive from North Charleston, it offers a delightful vacation due to its distinct reputation and history as one of the South’s most haunted cities. Visit the Spanish moss-covered tombs of Savannah’s famous past residents in the Bonaventure Cemetery. You can also take a ghost tour at one of the famous sites of Savannah. The picturesque Tybee Island, located just outside the city, is where you’ll find Savannah’s famous beaches and marshes for paddleboarding excursions.

Distance from North Charleston: 110 miles

5. Bluffton

Bluffton, a friendly village on the banks of the lovely May River, is one of the best weekend getaways from North Charleston, SC. It is well-known for its thriving arts and cultural scene, top-notch dining places, and unique boutique shops. Although the town’s ancient Church of the Cross, which has a rose-hued sanctuary with palmetto-shaped decoration, is an excellent architectural centerpiece, the streets are lined with antebellum mansions. If you’re in the mood to shop, head to the Promenade. If you have time for a snack, visit the Bluffton Oyster Factory to try some May River oysters.

Distance from North Charleston: 95 miles

6. Hunting Island State Park

With good reason, this State Park is the most visited in South Carolina. Everything is available at this lovely Eastern edge of Beaufort County, where five miles of soft white sand beaches are spread, and a lot of space is available for outings, fishing from piers, and private picnics. Besides the sand, Hunting Island is home to many acres of protected wetlands and marshes, making it a great place to go bird and wildlife watching. Take a stroll along the island’s nature trails to get up-close views of painted buntings and thin white egrets.

Distance from North Charleston: 89.6 miles

7. Greenville

It is a beautiful city where you can escape from the daily chaos. Greenville County Museum of Art is a must-visit place where you can find displays of works by Southern artists. You can plan a stay at the historic Westin Poinsett Hotel in the center of downtown. Everyone can find something to enjoy in Greenville. Falls Park on the Reedy offers beautiful views of gardens and waterfalls. Near the park is Peace Center, where you can enjoy impressive theatrical performances. Visit the quaint shops on the wooded slopes of Greer or Downtown Greenville. Take the Swamp Rabbit Trail for a hike.

Distance from North Charleston: 204 miles

8. Asheville

Asheville is a city in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. There are several galleries and cafes, and you will find it a very artsy place. The location makes it ideal for individuals who prefer hiking, bicycling, or other adventurous activities. Consider renting one of Yonder’s luxurious log cabins, tucked away in the Asheville mountains, offering an actual mountain experience. The place provides a look at beautiful art pieces and handmade crafts, which you can also purchase at art galleries.

Distance from North Charleston: 258 miles

9. Wilmington

A unique history of North Carolina’s particular coastline will provide Wilmington to the local Charlestonians with a different flavor. You can find Wilmington’s historic structures and shopping districts along the boardwalk in the city, situated along the Cape Fear River. Wrightsville beach near Wilmington is a fun place to get at for a vacation with stretches of sand all around. While soaking up the rays on the beach, try going for a sunset sail or going on a guided fishing trip.

Distance from North Charleston: 182 miles

10. Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is indeed a popular tourist destination. This location remains crowded with tourists at any time deemed “beach season.” Just visit one of the numerous beaches found along the coast of South Carolina. From relaxation with activities like fishing, and golf-playing to entertainment like watching theater or movies, you can find everything here. The road trip takes around two hours from North Charleston to Myrtle Beach without traffic. You can also enjoy a two-and-a-half-hour train ride and save some bucks while traveling to Myrtle Beach.

Distance from North Charleston: 100 miles

11. Bee City

Bee City is a fantastic option if you’re searching for a one-day family trip. Visitors may observe a functioning beehive from behind a glass wall in safety while learning about the various honeybee species and why they are so vital to the ecosystem. Groups of 15 or more can reserve a field trip package with the option to bottle their honey and create a tiny beeswax figurine or candle. The petting zoo, which features animals like alpacas, donkeys, monkeys, and ringtail lemurs, is also open to visitors.

Distance from North Charleston: 33 miles

12. St. Augustine

Explore the old city of St. Augustine by traveling a bit further south. The city is the site of Ponce de Leon’s renowned Fountain of Youth and was the first European settlement to become permanent in North America. The Old City also provides a variety of dining and shopping alternatives to suit every taste and price range. Even though Florida is stunning all year round, February to June are the finest months to visit St. Augustine since the lower temperatures make it more comfortable to stroll around the city. The summer draws more people, but the fall and winter have less consistent weather.

Distance from North Charleston: 277 miles

13. Georgetown

Georgetown, one of South Carolina’s oldest towns, can be the ideal location for your weekend getaway. In addition to providing many opportunities for historical sightseeing, its beachfront placement offers some breathtaking views. The Rice Museum’s rustic town clock may be seen there, and you can take a ghost tour to get most of Georgetown. You can also visit the South Carolina Maritime Museum.

 Distance from North Charleston: 66.3 miles

14. Kiawah Island Golf Resort

This beautiful resort provides the ideal setting for an adventurous couple’s romantic getaway. At the Kiawah Island Golf Resort, there are five golf courses to choose from, so you can spend your days hitting the courses and your nights relaxing. If you and your partner are interested in learning a new sport, this is the best tennis resort in the world to do it. A ton of other activities allow you to enjoy while spending time with each other, such as kayaking, nature tours, visiting beaches, and resort events. Charleston is a short drive away and offers a day of sightseeing.

Distance from North Charleston: 33.1 miles

15. Hilton Head

It is one of the top attractions in South Carolina and is a perfect place for people of all ages. For hours, kids, adults, elders, and everyone can enjoy the sun and windy tides at nearby beaches. History buffs seeking to learn something new about a city can visit the Coastal Discovery Museum. Check out Shelter Cove Land if you’re interested in Hilton Head’s contemporary characteristics. This marina harbor is jam-packed with the best stuff for shopping.

Distance from North Charleston: 100 miles

16. Caesars Head State Park

Consider camping in Caesars Head State Park if you’re searching for inexpensive weekend getaways in South Carolina. The vast wildness that makes up this park is demanding to be explored. You won’t get bored with the 60 miles of trails available. Amazing views may be found throughout the park, with waterfalls and gardens. The Raven Cliff Falls is quite magnificent. You will adore this state park if you enjoy being outside. This state park should be top of your list if you’re seeking weekend vacations in the mountains of South Carolina.

Distance from North Charleston: 235 miles

17. Aiken

Aiken, located in the western portion of the state close to the Georgia border, is a hidden gem that flourished as a winter equestrian resort for affluent northerners in the 19th century. It is still that way even now; it has produced numerous thoroughbred champions and is the site of sporting activities like polo matches, horse races, and fox hunts. Visitors can also take pleasure in exploring the streets of the picturesque downtown district brimming with exciting shops and delectable restaurants while strolling beneath a lovely oak canopy.

Distance from North Charleston: 123 miles

18. Jacksonville

This coastal city offers exciting sightseeing and entertainment, and the adjacent natural treasures draw all travelers to the area. Amelia Island is a favorite low-key destination for nature lovers and adventurers due to its proximity to Jacksonville. Lofton Creek is a must for kayaking, and ecotourism is a terrific way to explore the area’s unique botanical splendor, with cypress and southern oaks offering a lush shade from the Florida sun. Or, if you like the ocean, Jacksonville’s docks are the perfect place to go on beach boat trips or even private fishing expeditions.

Distance from North Charleston: 240 miles

19. Sumter

Over 300 years of colorful history can be explored in Sumter in a variety of enjoyable and fascinating ways without hurting your pockets. A renovated Edwardian-style farmhouse serves as the home for the Sumter County Museum, which has a wide variety of historical exhibits. A log cabin, settler’s home, barn, loom house, smokehouse, blacksmith shop, outhouse, and commissary can all be found in the Carolina Backcountry Homestead, which offers a fascinating look at county life in the 19th century.

Distance from North Charleston: 96.6 miles

The Bottom Line

You now know some magnificent places close to North Charleston, South Carolina, for ideal weekend road vacations. Aside from gorgeous plantations, beaches, and food scenes, these little communities around Charleston have exceptional southern charm. With this guide, plan your ideal and the best weekend getaways from North Charleston, South Carolina.