Overview of South Carolina
Photo credit: Iempleh
White sandy seashore stretches from the Grand Strand in the north to the mouth of the Savannah River in the south. The resort of Myrtle Beach is the glitzy heart, which is famous for its family entertainment, amusement park attractions, and recreational activities, especially golf.
Resorts populate the coast to historic Georgetown, sitting between the carnival atmosphere of Myrtle Beach and the old port grandeur of Charleston, one of the most elegant cities in the country. South of Charleston, the coastline breaks into small marshy islands that preserve traces of Gullah culture.
The Sea Islands are home to descendants of West African slaves, brought to labour on the plantations but given land when freed in 1865. They speak a dialect known as Gullah that's unique to the African Americans of the Sea Islands of South Carolina and Georgia.
Nicknamed the 'Palmetto State', it has a rich history documented in the historic district of Charleston and restored plantation estates. Civil War enthusiasts and those interested in the history of slavery in the USA enjoy a wealth of attractions in South Carolina, while those less engaged can simply soak up the distinct southern culture.
Key Facts
- Language:
- English is the most common language spoken but Spanish is often heard in the south-western states.
- Passport/Visa:
It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from them travel destination. A visa is required for short visits unless travellers qualify for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables citizens of certain countries to travel to the US for a stay of up to 90 days without a visa. Visitors under the VWP need to register online three days before travel and have an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This allows the US government to screen all visitors before travel. Visitors entering the country under the VWP must have a machine-readable passport (MRP) that has a barcode on the photo page. Travellers under the VWP must have passports that include biometrics if they wish to enter the country without a visa, which means that passports must contain unique personal data such as fingerprints or iris details. All passports must contain a digital photo image in order to travel visa-free. All visitors to the USA have a photograph and two fingerprints taken by an inkless scanner on arrival, including those travelling visa-free under the VWP.
As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA, a valid passport is required by immigration authorities. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD), which is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widespread and credit cards are widely accepted. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 120 volts, 60Hz. Plugs are mainly the type with two flat pins, though three-pin plugs (two flat parallel pins and a rounded pin) are also widely used. European appliances without dual-voltage capabilities will require an adapter.
Travel Advisories
Travel to South Carolina
Climate
The climate of South Carolina is subtropical, with plenty of humidity in its long, hot summers. Temperatures tend to be higher on the coast, with colder conditions in the mountains. But on average, winters are short and mild.
With predominately low altitudes in the state and the protection of the Appalachian Mountains screening South Carolina from cold interior air, average temperatures tend to range from 58°F (14C) in the northwest to 68°F (20C) on the coast.
Summer temperatures usually climb to 90°F (32C) and up, particularly in the central part of the state. Rainfall occurs mostly in the spring and summer, with more precipitation occurring in summer along the coast and in spring further inland.
Health Notes when travelling to United States of America
There are no specific health risks associated with travel within the USA. Medical facilities are excellent, but expensive. Only emergencies are treated without prior payment and treatment can be refused without evidence of insurance or proof of funds. Good medical insurance is essential. Visitors must be fully vaccinated with the primary series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to travel to the United States by plane if they are non-U.S. citizens.
Safety Notes when travelling to United States of America
Travel within the United States is generally trouble-free, though travellers should be aware that the US shares with the rest of the world, an increased threat from terrorist incidents. Security has been heightened, particularly at airports. Restrictions on hand luggage apply and travellers are advised to check on the latest situation with airlines in advance. Travellers should also be alert to the dangers of car and street crime in cities and should use common sense and take basic precautions. Hurricanes are common between June and November, putting the southern USA, including the Gulf Coast and the eastern US at risk. There is a risk of wildfires in many dry areas in the US, particularly on the West Coast from March to November.
Customs in United States of America
Laws vary from state to state, including speed limit, fines and punishment. The age at which alcohol may be legally bought and consumed is 21 years.
Duty Free in United States of America
Travellers to the United States who are returning residents of the country do not have to pay duty on articles purchased abroad to the value of $800 provided their stay was longer than 48 hours and their duty-free allowance was not used in the 30-day period prior. For passengers arriving from Samoa, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands, a duty-free allowance of $1,600 is allowed. The following items are included in this: 50 cigarettes and 10 cigars and 150 millilitres (5 fl. oz.) of alcoholic beverages or 150 millilitres (5 fl. oz.) of perfume containing alcohol. Restrictions may apply to goods from Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Burma (Myanmar), Angola, Liberia and Sudan. It is prohibited to import Cuban cigars from any country.
Travellers to the United States who are non-residents do not have to pay duty on the following items: 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes and gifts to the value of $100 provided their stay in the USA is not less than 72 hours and that the allowance has not been used in the preceding six-month period.
Prohibited items for residents and non-residents include meat or meat products, poultry, narcotics, absinthe, plants, seeds, vegetables, fruits, soil, live insects and other living plants or animal pests. Fish is prohibited unless it carries disease-free certification. Wildlife and animals or their by-products carry restrictions. Dairy products and eggs from specified countries are not allowed. Firearms and ammunition are not allowed without the necessary license and permit.
Doing Business in United States of America
In such a large country, filled with so many diverse groups, business practices may differ according to each state, however rarely to any large degree. The East Coast is traditionally more formal than the West Coast, though in states such as California, dress code and conservative appearance are as common as they would be in New York. Punctuality is important throughout the country and it is considered rude to be late for a meeting. Gift-giving is uncommon as it may be construed as bribery. Appropriate titles (Mr, Mrs, Ms) are used upon introduction and until otherwise stated. Americans favour politeness and greetings of 'Hello' and 'How are you?' are often expressed with sincerity. Business hours may vary in each state, but an 8am start and 5pm finish Monday to Friday is the most common with an hour over lunch.
Status and age are not necessarily indicative of seniority, nor do they carry much weight in themselves. Those doing business in the States should be mindful of this fact; foreigners should never make assumptions about someone's position or rank. Best practice is to be respectful to all parties. That said, the US upholds a hierarchal business structure, in which 'the boss' is the ultimate decision-maker. Senior leaders have the power of the last word, and can go against the grain just as easily as they can follow popular opinion. Foreigners should concentrate on winning over this individual, even if the greater group seems unsupportive. Americans value a direct style of communication. In this fast-paced, consumer culture 'time is money', and small-talk is viewed as unnecessary and wasteful. It's best for foreigners to get to the point quickly, speak about issues in a frank and open manner, and to avoid taking offence if someone questions or challenges them outright.
Communication in United States of America
The international country dialling code for the United States is +1. Mobile networks cover most of the country, especially all urban areas, and WiFi is widely available.
Tipping in United States of America
A 15 percent tip is expected by taxi drivers, bartenders, hairdressers and waiters, but travellers shouldn't tip in fast-food or self-service restaurants. In expensive restaurants or for large parties, the tip should be 20 percent of the bill. It is normal to tip staff such as valets and porters in hotels; this is discretionary, although a minimum of $5 is expected. Most services are customarily tipped if the service is good.
Passport/Visa Note
It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from them travel destination. A visa is required for short visits unless travellers qualify for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables citizens of certain countries to travel to the US for a stay of up to 90 days without a visa. Visitors under the VWP need to register online three days before travel and have an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This allows the US government to screen all visitors before travel. Visitors entering the country under the VWP must have a machine-readable passport (MRP) that has a barcode on the photo page. Travellers under the VWP must have passports that include biometrics if they wish to enter the country without a visa, which means that passports must contain unique personal data such as fingerprints or iris details. All passports must contain a digital photo image in order to travel visa-free. All visitors to the USA have a photograph and two fingerprints taken by an inkless scanner on arrival, including those travelling visa-free under the VWP.
As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. If departing from the USA, a valid passport is required by immigration authorities. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
The most important requirement on entering the U.S. is providing proof of Canadian citizenship. A valid Canadian passport is the best document to prove Canadian citizenship and the right to return to Canada. However, several other documents can serve, depending on the mode of transport. Generally, Canadian citizens do not require visitor, business, transit or other visas to enter the United States from Canada, though there are some exceptions.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK nationals require a passport valid for duration of stay. Most passport holders can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) through the Visa Waiver Programme, which allows travel to the US for up to 90 days. The VWP includes tourism, certain types of business visit and transit to another country.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Passports must be valid for the period of intended stay. If visiting the US for fewer than 90 days, Australian nationals may be eligible to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), and enter under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Passports must be valid for duration of stay. Irish nationals can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Programme for entry into the United States.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
Passports must be valid for duration of stay. New Zealand nationals can get an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Programme for entry into the United States.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South Africans must hold a passport valid for duration of stay. A visa is required.
Currency
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD), which is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widespread and credit cards are widely accepted. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.
| Exchange rate for 1 USD - U.S. Dollar | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
0.00 BMD Bermudan Dollar |
0.93 EUR Euro |
0.80 GBP U.K. Pound Sterling |
152.99 JPY Japanese Yen |
1.37 CAD Canadian Dollar |
0.91 CHF Swiss Franc |
|
1.52 AUD Australian Dollar |
39.40 UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia |
443.91 KZT Kazakhstani Tenge |
93,075.00 LBP Lebanese Pound |
4.86 LYD Libyan Dinar |
6.86 BOB Bolivian Boliviano |
|
0.00 NPR Nepalese Rupee |
0.00 OMR Omani Rial |
0.00 QAR Qatari Rial |
1.35 SGD Singapore Dollar |
10.82 SEK Swedish Krona |
0.00 TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar |
|
0.00 VEF Venezuelan Bolivar |
58.11 DOP Dominican Peso |
0.00 HRK Croatian Kuna |
16.95 MXN Mexican Peso |
610.53 XOF West African CFA Franc |
0.00 PGK Papua New Guinean kina |
|
0.00 BSD Bahamian Dollar |
0.00 FJD Fiji Dollar |
0.00 HNL Honduran Lempira |
133.87 DZD Algerian Dinar |
0.00 MMK Myanma Kyat |
0.00 BWP Botswana Pula |
|
3.72 PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol |
938.44 CLP Chilean Peso |
386.84 AMD Armenia Dram |
23.29 CZK Czech Koruna |
17.63 MDL Moldova Lei |
139.89 ISK Icelandic Krona |
|
12,582.40 UZS Uzbekistan Sum |
3.72 ILS Israeli New Sheqel |
0.71 JOD Jordanian Dinar |
0.00 KWD Kuwaiti Dinar |
38.15 UYU Uruguayan Peso |
0.00 MUR Mauritian Rupee |
|
0.00 NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba |
10.88 NOK Norwegian Krone |
4.03 PLN Polish Zloty |
3.75 SAR Saudi Riyal |
0.00 LKR Sri Lanka Rupee |
36.79 THB Thai Baht |
|
3.66 AED U.A.E Dirham |
5.09 BRL Brazilian Real |
4.63 RON Romanian New Leu |
7.81 HKD Hong Kong Dollar |
610.53 XAF Central African CFA Franc |
25,405.70 VND Vietnamese Dong |
|
878.36 ARS Argentine Peso |
0.00 XCD East Caribbean Dollar |
0.00 GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal |
10.06 MAD Moroccan Dirham |
0.00 BHD Bahrain Dinar |
1.00 PAB Panamanian Balboa |
|
1.70 AZN Azerbaijan Manat |
3,920.00 COP Colombian Peso |
88.42 KGS Kyrgyzstan Som |
362.00 HUF Hungarian Forint |
10.89 TJS Tajikistan Ruble |
16,073.70 IDR Indonesian Rupiah |
|
47.95 EGP Egyptian Pound |
1,358.84 KRW South Korean Won |
7,456.52 PYG Paraguayan Guaraní |
4.74 MYR Malaysian Ringgit |
508.31 CRC Costa Rican Colón |
1.67 NZD New Zealand Dollar |
|
277.87 PKR Pakistani Rupee |
91.39 RUB Russian Rouble |
18.51 ZAR South African Rand |
3.13 TND Tunisian Dinar |
0.00 BBD Barbadian Dollar |
1.82 BGN Bulgarian Lev |
|
32.33 TRY Turkish Lira |
57.28 PHP Philippine Peso |
32.31 TWD New Taiwan Dollar |
1,164.84 NGN Nigerian Naira |
0.00 XPF CFP Franc |
0.00 GHS Ghanaian Cedi |
|
0.00 JMD Jamaican Dollar |
0.00 ANG Neth. Antillean Guilder |
0.00 BND Brunei Dollar |
108.90 RSD Serbian Dinar |
7.24 CNY Chinese Yuan |
6.94 DKK Danish Krone |
|
3.49 TMT New Turkmenistan Manat |
83.42 INR Indian Rupee |
||||
Euro to U.S. Dollar
1 EUR = 1.07 USD
Canadian Dollar to U.S. Dollar
1 CAD = 0.73 USD
U.K. Pound Sterling to U.S. Dollar
1 GBP = 1.26 USD
Australian Dollar to U.S. Dollar
1 AUD = 0.66 USD
New Zealand Dollar to U.S. Dollar
1 NZD = 0.60 USD
South African Rand to U.S. Dollar
1 ZAR = 0.05 USD
Airports in South Carolina
Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR)
Myrtle Beach International Airport
http://www.flymyrtlebeach.com
Location: Grand Strand and Myrtle Beach The airport is situated three miles (5km) southwest of downtown Myrtle Beach.
Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).
Contacts: Tel: +1 843 448 1589.
Getting to the city: Coast RTA provides public bus service to and from the airport every day. There are hotel shuttles that run to and from the airport, as well as taxis and rental cars.
Car rental: Car rental companies located at the airport include Avis, Alamo, Thrifty, Budget, Hertz, National, Thrifty, and Enterprise.
Airport Taxis: There are a number of taxi companies operating from outside the baggage claim section of the airport. Passengers are urged to take the first taxi waiting in line.
Facilities: Airport facilities include a variety of restaurants and snack bars, a newsagent, information booths, and ATMs.
Parking: Short-term parking is free for 15 minutes and $3 for the first 30 minutes, with each additional 15 minutes costing $1. There is a daily maximum of $21. Long-term parking is $12 per day. Credit card parking costs $10 a day.
Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE)
Columbia Metropolitan Airport
http://www.columbiaairport.com
Location: Columbia The airport is situated eight miles (13km) southwest of Columbia.
Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).
Getting to the city: Taxis and rental cars are available and many hotels provide airport shuttles. Limousines can also be arranged.
Car rental: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty are represented at the airport.
Airport Taxis: A large number of taxi companies service the airport and a taxi can usually be found without pre-booking. Taxis can be found just outside the terminal.
Facilities: Airport facilities include a business centre, eateries, gift shops, a bookstore, and ATMs.
Parking: Covered parking in the multi-level garage is free for 20 minutes, $3 for up to 40 minutes, then $1 for each subsequent 20 minutes up to a daily maximum of $12. Surface parking is $1 per 20 minutes up to a maximum of $8 per day. Valet parking is available for $14 per day.
Charleston International Airport (CHS)
Charleston International Airport
http://www.iflychs.com
Location: Charleston The airport is situated 12 miles (20km) northwest of downtown Charleston.
Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).
Getting to the city: CARTA offers services to and from the airport on the NASH Express between about 8am and 9pm on weekdays and Saturdays, and 12pm and 6pm on Sundays. Bus tickets cost $3.50 per person per trip. Once in town, passengers can access the free DASH shuttle service that travels to numerous destinations. There is a shuttle bus that makes multiple stops and is shared among multiple passengers. Adult shuttle fare to downtown Charleston is $15, departing every 15 minutes. Taxis and rental cars are also available. There are also ride-hailing apps available such as Uber.
Car rental: Avis, Alamo, Budget, Hertz, National, and Enterprise are represented at the airport. Dollar and Thrifty sites are located off the premises.
Airport Taxis: Taxis operate at the airport. The taxi fare to downtown Charleston is roughly $30.
Facilities: Airport facilities include pay phones, ATMs, bookstores, restaurants, and shops.
Parking: In the surface lot, parking costs $1 per 20 minutes and up to a daily maximum of $10. On the parking deck, hourly rates are the same but the daily maximum is $15. Valet parking is $21.
Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport (GSP)
Greenville–Spartanburg International Airport
http://www.gspairport.com
Location: Greenville The airport is situated about 13 miles (21km) from Greenville.
Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).
Contacts: Tel: (864) 877 7426
Getting to the city: There are various shuttles and transportation companies servicing the area, with Eastside Transportation being the official shuttle service. As well as limousines and rental cars, there are also ride-hailing apps such as Uber.
Car rental: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Thrifty, and Hertz are represented at the airport.
Airport Taxis: Eastside Transportation is the authorised airport taxi service. Uber also services the airport.
Facilities: Airport facilities include an ATM, conference rooms, business workstations, a restaurant, snack bars, and a gift shop.
Parking: All airport parking costs $1 for every 30 minutes. A full day costs $15 in the garages, $9 in the daily lots, $9 in the Sky Lots, and $7 in the Economy Lot.
Charleston
Photo credit: Akhenaton06
The port of Charleston is the oldest city in the state, sat on the peninsula separated by the Ashley and Cooper Rivers. A large downtown district boasts hundreds of preserved and restored buildings built over brick and cobblestone streets, housing old-fashioned inns, antique shops, and pubs.
Narrow houses festooned with wrought-iron balconies and wooden shutters line the streets, and ornate gates enclose pretty gardens and shaded porches. Many of its double-storey houses are authentically furnished museums that once belonged to wealthy colonial merchants, while many are still the beautiful private homes of wealthy residents.
The city started as an important seaport serving the rice and cotton plantations throughout the region. It was a major slave-trading centre with about a third of America's slaves being bought and sold at the riverfront market.
Populated by ancestors of West African slaves, the Gullah culture of the islands has a tangible presence. This is especially evident at the Old City Market that vibrates with the humming of traditional spirituals, local vendors, iron makers, basket ladies, and distinctive Gullah dialects.
Getting around in Charleston
Charleston is fairly compact and it's easy to explore many attractions on foot or on a rented bicycle. To visit plantations and other attractions outside the city, hiring a car is the best option. A comprehensive and efficient bus service covers most areas in the city, operated by the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA).
The most useful public transport for visitors is the tram system (DASH), offering free transport in the historic downtown area every day of the week. It's possible to reach many of the city's top attractions on the system. Taxis are available but must be called for; Lyft and Uber are available.
Climate in Charleston
Charleston has a humid subtropical climate. Summer, between June and August, is hot and humid, with temperatures averaging between 70F (21C) and 91F (33C). The city's coastal situation helps to keep summers a bit cooler than inland.
Summer is also the wettest season, although Charleston receives significant rainfall throughout the year. Hurricanes are a threat in summer and early autumn. Winter, between December and February, is short and mild, with occasional snow flurries.
In the winter months, temperatures average between 38F (3C) and 62F (17C). Spring is generally a mild and pleasant season, perhaps better than summer because of the comfortably warm temperatures.
Sightseeing in Charleston
To holiday in Charleston is to travel back in time to the Old South. This lovely city preserves the ambience and distinctive architecture of its past, boasting fascinating historic sites and buildings, including forts, museums and old plantations with picturesque mansions and sprawling gardens.
Those who travel to Charleston will leave with a better understanding of the historic slave trade and the Civil War, the first shots of which were fired in Charleston at Fort Sumter. Visitors will most likely also leave with plenty of unique souvenirs picked up at the popular riverside market.
The best time to travel to Charleston is during spring (April and May), when the city is in bloom and the weather is dry, warm, and sunny. Most rain falls during the summer months (June to August) when thunderstorms are common. During autumn, there's the threat of hurricanes while winter is short but chilly.
A holiday in Charleston is best suited for those who enjoy sightseeing and soaking up history in a laidback manner, whether in a horse-drawn carriage or on a walking tour. A Charleston holiday is educational and fun for children, with the South Carolina Aquarium a particular drawcard for kids.
The city is compact and much of it is comfortably explored on foot or by hired bicycle, adding another element of fun and freedom for the whole family.
Charleston Attractions
Fort Sumter
Photo credit: Methaz
Website: http://www.nps.gov/fosu
Plantations
Photo credit: Thomas Namey, Namey Design Studios
South Carolina Aquarium
Photo credit: Harry Alverson
Website: http://www.scaquarium.org
Charleston Museum
Photo credit: Matt Howry
Website: http://www.charlestonmuseum.org
Angel Oak
Photo credit: Lil Rose
Caw Caw Interpretive Center and Charleston County Park
Photo credit: Charles Rhyne
Website: http://www.ccprc.com
The Hunley
Photo credit: lns1122
Website: http://www.hunley.org
Provost Dungeon and Old Exchange Building
Photo credit: Howard Arnoff
Website: http://www.oldexchange.org
Airports in Charleston
Charleston International Airport (CHS)
Charleston International Airport
http://www.iflychs.com
Location: Charleston The airport is situated 12 miles (20km) northwest of downtown Charleston.
Time: GMT -5 (GMT -4 from mid-March to the first Sunday in November).
Getting to the city: CARTA offers services to and from the airport on the NASH Express between about 8am and 9pm on weekdays and Saturdays, and 12pm and 6pm on Sundays. Bus tickets cost $3.50 per person per trip. Once in town, passengers can access the free DASH shuttle service that travels to numerous destinations. There is a shuttle bus that makes multiple stops and is shared among multiple passengers. Adult shuttle fare to downtown Charleston is $15, departing every 15 minutes. Taxis and rental cars are also available. There are also ride-hailing apps available such as Uber.
Car rental: Avis, Alamo, Budget, Hertz, National, and Enterprise are represented at the airport. Dollar and Thrifty sites are located off the premises.
Airport Taxis: Taxis operate at the airport. The taxi fare to downtown Charleston is roughly $30.
Facilities: Airport facilities include pay phones, ATMs, bookstores, restaurants, and shops.
Parking: In the surface lot, parking costs $1 per 20 minutes and up to a daily maximum of $10. On the parking deck, hourly rates are the same but the daily maximum is $15. Valet parking is $21.
Grand Strand and Myrtle Beach
Photo credit: Hlecroy
The population at Myrtle Beach swells during summer, with vacationers flocking to the funfairs, waterslides, arcades, and shops at its amusement park. When the bright lights and relentless entertainment wear thin, Myrtle Beach State Park offers nature trails, camping, fishing, and swimming.
At the southern end of the Grand Strand lies Georgetown. It's a picturesque historic district and a restored waterfront that buzzes with activity. During colonial times, it boasted a successful plantation culture and was the centre of America's rice empire. A number of estates can still be visited in the area.
A visit to the collection of islands sprinkled about the coast is a popular excursion. Named the Sea Islands, they make up more than half of the South Carolina coastline and are separated from the mainland by estuaries and marshes.
The Sea Islands are traditionally home to black communities called Gullah people, descended from slaves brought to the Carolinas during the 18th century. When freed by the Union army in 1865, the slaves were granted the lands.
They have preserved much of their culture as well as their dialect, a speech heavily influenced by several African languages. During the labour-driven height of the rice culture, slaves from West African rice kingdoms were in high demand so they could teach colonists how to plant and grow rice.
Getting around in Grand Strand and Myrtle Beach
Hiring a car in Myrtle Beach is generally the most convenient way to see the city, with a number of car hire companies operating in the area. It's worth remembering that roads can be quite congested, especially during the busy tourist season.
There are a number of taxi companies in Myrtle Beach. Taxis are often found congregated around popular tourist spots and at the airport. They can also be arranged via the telephone. While taxis are convenient, they can be quite expensive relative to other transport options in the city. Lyft and Uber are also available.
Public transport in Myrtle Beach takes the form of a bus network, managed by The Coast RTA. Buses run regular routes within Myrtle Beach as well as to other towns and cities along the Atlantic Coast. Exact change is required when paying for a ticket on the bus, as drivers do not have change. Bus passes are available for frequent travellers.
Climate in Grand Strand and Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers tempered by ocean breezes and winters that stay cool and comfortable. The influence of the warm currents of the Gulf Stream just offshore ensures that this holiday strip is warm enough for fun in the sun most of the year.
Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, and experience frequent thunderstorms. Average highs during the summer hover around 86F (30C). Winters are mild, with highs averaging around 57F (14C) and lows dropping to 37F (3C).
As the city's climate is pleasant all year, any time of the year is a good time to visit Myrtle Beach. Although for travellers wanting to avoid the crowds, travel outside of the summer season is a good idea.
Tropical cyclones can sometimes affect Myrtle Beach but major storms are not common. It does rain suddenly, and heavily, particularly during summer. But the sandy soil allows for quick drainage and even the emerald green golf courses are ready for action again as soon as the showers let up.
South Carolina Attractions
Overview
South Carolina conjures images of antebellum plantation houses, scents of jasmine and notions honeysuckle floating over long stretches of sun-drenched coastline. It's in many ways an ornamental state, thanks to a heritage of elegant British architecture from a time of aristocratic colonial rule.
The turbulent history of slavery and civil war adds an edge to this otherwise entrancing rural state. Yet travellers embrace this aspect, educating themselves with trips to restored plantations, battlefields, and museums promising rich sightseeing fodder.
Although Columbia is the capital and largest city of South Carolina, famously atmospheric Charleston is the most popular travel hub of the state. It invites visitors to step back centuries, with horse-drawn carriages one of the most popular forms of touristic transport.
Alongside this old-fashioned cultural powerhouse, the coastal resorts of glitzy Myrtle Beach offer a different sort of holiday fun, with water sports, outlet malls, amusement parks, and arcades warring for attention with the lovely beaches.
Most of South Carolina's popular attractions sit along the coast and the majority of visitors don't explore further inland. But for those looking to get off the tourist track, the interior promises dramatic mountains, mysterious swamps, rolling farmlands, and sleepy old towns, best explored by hiring a car and getting a bit lost.
Fort Sumter
Photo credit: Methaz
Website: http://www.nps.gov/fosu
Plantations
Photo credit: Thomas Namey, Namey Design Studios
South Carolina Aquarium
Photo credit: Harry Alverson
Website: http://www.scaquarium.org
Charleston Museum
Photo credit: Matt Howry
Website: http://www.charlestonmuseum.org
Angel Oak
Photo credit: Lil Rose
Caw Caw Interpretive Center and Charleston County Park
Photo credit: Charles Rhyne
Website: http://www.ccprc.com
The Hunley
Photo credit: lns1122
Website: http://www.hunley.org
Provost Dungeon and Old Exchange Building
Photo credit: Howard Arnoff
Website: http://www.oldexchange.org
News about South Carolina
- North Carolina vs. South Carolina: Which Is Better This Summer?
-
North Carolina offers more diverse natural scenery, from mountains to beaches, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. South Carolina is ideal for beach lovers with year-round beach destinations and a rich cultural and historical experience. South Carolina is more affordable to visit
- The Civil War Begins
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At 4:30 a.m. on this day in 1861, the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Confederate troops fired on Fort Sumter in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor for 34 straight hours. On April 13, Union forces
- Boeing Whistleblower Found Dead, Years After Speaking out About Safety Concerns, Reports Say
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A former Boeing employee who spoke out about safety concerns with the company's aircraft production was found dead in his car over the weekend in Charleston, South Carolina, several outlets reported. John Barnett, 62, a quality manager who worked with Boeing for over 30 years before he retired in 2017 was found dead Saturday with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to multiple
- A Black history road trip through North and South Carolina
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From Greenville and Durham in North Carolina to Brattonsville and Rock Hill in South Carolina, here are some of the best places to learn about Black history while taking a road trip through the South
- The Best Spring Break Travel Destinations That Won't Break Your Budget
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Priceline shared the most affordable spring break destinations, based on average prices for roundtrip flights and nightly hotel prices. These destinations include Florida and South Carolina hot spots
- The Tybee Bomb is Lost
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Somewhere off the coast of South Carolina on the bottom of a shallow channel lies an 11-foot-long canister. Written on it, a serial number: "No. 47782." It is a fully functional hydrogen bomb, lost by the US Military fifty years ago. On February 5, 1958, a B-47 bomber collided with a fighter plane during exercises. The bomber jettisoned its cargo: a 7,600 pound hydrogen bomb known as the Tybee Bomb. The Navy and Air Force began recovery efforts
- Coast Guard suspends search for man who went overboard on cruise ship
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The vessel had departed Baltimore for the Bahamas and was 127 miles east of Charleston, South Carolina, when the incident occurred
- The First African American Congressman
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On December 12, 1870, Joseph Hayne Rainey became the first African American to be elected and serve in the United States House of Representatives.
Another African American, Hiram Revels, had earlier been appointed to the U.S. Senate, but Rainey was elected a congressman from the state of South Carolina. His parents were both slaves, but his father was also a barber and had managed to save enough money to buy their freedom
- Montage Palmetto Bluff’s Well Living Program: A New Standard in Luxury Wellness Travel
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Wellness travel is more than a trend. As travelers navigate their busy schedules and the demands of life, traveling to new destinations with wellness at the forefront is a must. On a recent trip to Montage Palmetto Bluff in Bluffton, South Carolina, I got to experience firsthand the
- 10 Hotels in Myrtle Beach With Indoor Pools for Year-Round Aquatic Bliss
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Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, beckons vacation-goers with its alluring combination of pristine beaches, vibrant attractions, and rich cultural heritage. This coastal paradise offers an unparalleled vacation experience with its collection of stunning Myrtle Beach hotels and resorts. Its
- 10 Best Myrtle Beach Hotels That Elevate Your Coastal Getaway to New Heights
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Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a vibrant and enchanting vacation destination that perfectly blends sun, sand, and fun. With its pristine beaches, exciting attractions, and countless recreational activities, Myrtle Beach has become a sought-after destination for those seeking a
- 'I Really Thought I Wasn't Going To Make It Back': Carnival Cruise Ship Rocked By Weather
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A Carnival Cruise Line ship was rocked by rough weather on its way back to the U.S. over the weekend. Carnival Sunshine had been sailing on a round-trip Bahamas cruise from Charleston, South Carolina, when it got delayed ahead of its return Saturday. “It felt like it was tilting
- Hospitality Staff Often Feel Invisible—Here’s How to Make Them Feel Seen
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When I was 12, I became the shopkeeper for my family’s roadside produce stand. My life, as most people would have defined it, was small: The South Carolina town that contained my family’s farm had a population of 162 people, and a good
- The Civil War Begins
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At 4:30 a.m. on this day in 1861, the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Confederate troops fired on Fort Sumter in South Carolina's Charleston Harbor for 34 straight hours. On April 13, Union forces surrendered
- Affordable Southern Hospitality: 10 Budget-Friendly Hotels In Charleston
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With an old-world charm and picture-perfect Southern details, there’s no better place to experience Southern hospitality than in Charleston, South Carolina. It’s a popular tourist destination with amazing activities that keep history buffs, food, and nature lovers glued for
- 10 Top-Rated Things To Do In Myrtle Beach
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South Carolina is a state with Southern charm with an eclectic city touch. Nestled in South Carolina’s coastline, Myrtle Beach is a great vacation spot for anyone wanting to experience the city's charm and all of its attractions with the scenic views only a beach can provide. With 60
- One Woman on This Tiny Island Is Keeping Centuries-Old Culture Alive
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Stepping onto Daufuskie Island is like being transported back in time. Spanish moss drips from live oak branches that sway in the breeze, waves lap against the shore, and a golf cart hums along a sand and shell path. It’s only a 30-minute ferry ride from Hilton Head, South Carolina
- 12 Best Tropical Vacations in the U.S. for Stunning Islands, Charming Beach Towns, and Beautiful Resorts
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From Florida to South Carolina, these U.S. destinations prove you don't need to travel far for a tropical vacation.
- 8 Charming Small Towns in South Carolina - From the Mountains to the Beach
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From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean, these are the best small towns in South Carolina.
- The Civil War Begins
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The first shots of the civil war were fired on this day in 1861. Confederate batteries opened fire on the fort, located in Charleston harbor, South Carolina, for 34 straight hours. On April 13, Union forces
- The Tybee Bomb is Lost
-
Somewhere off the coast of South Carolina on the bottom of a shallow channel lies an 11-foot-long canister. Written on it, a serial number: "No. 47782." It is a fully functional hydrogen bomb, lost by the US Military fifty years ago.
On February 5, 1958, a B-47 bomber collided with a fighter plane during exercises. The bomber jettisoned its cargo: a 7,600 pound hydrogen bomb known as the Tybee Bomb. The Navy and Air Force began
- 7 Things To Do In Beautiful Charleston, SC In The Fall
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If you’ve never visited Charleston, South Carolina, you are missing out. Charleston feels like a historical time capsule with a modern vibe. The port city, founded in 1670, has original cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriage rides, and charming neighborhoods lined with antebellum mansions. It is a fantastic foodie destination that has an incredible bar scene (especially on the rooftops).
- One of the World's Best Resorts Is Tucked Away in Bluffton, South Carolina
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Travelers in search of paradise need look no further than South Carolina’s Lowcountry. Many tourists in this corner of the state drive right through Bluffton, South Carolina on their way to Hilton Head Island. But one turn off May River Road lands you in 20,000 acres of lush woodland, pristine riverfront, and a charming community that gives even the best island in the U.S. a run for its
- The First African American Congressman
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On December 12, 1870, Joseph Hayne Rainey became the first African American to be elected and serve in the United States House of Representatives. Another African American, Hiram Revels, had earlier been appointed to the U.S. Senate, but Rainey was elected a congressman from the state of South Carolina
- How We Learned to Love Traveling with Our Families: Women Who Travel Podcast
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Family travel comes in all shapes and sizes these days: Women Who Travel contributor Priya Krishna takes an annual trip with 20 of her extended family members; editor Megan Spurrell travels each July 4 with her sisters and mom; and editor Corina Quinn heads south, to coastal South Carolina, where her slew of nieces and nephews will be endlessly entertained. Truly experts when it comes to
- "Heritage travel" is surging in the era of DNA testing. It has a special significance for black Americans.
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Tiffany Ferrette, a 26-year-old policy analyst who lives in Washington, DC, started piecing together bits of her family tree while she was in college. “My father’s family is from Charleston, South Carolina, one of the largest slave ports in the country,” she said. “They were really curious about the history our family had in this country. That sparked my own ideas about wanting to connect that within my US context
- How to Spend the Perfect 24 Hours on Kiawah Island, South Carolina
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While Charleston is a beloved South Carolina destination, nearby Kiawah Island tends to fly under the radar — and that’s exactly what makes it the perfect place to unwind for a day. As soon as you arrive on the magnolia-lined avenues of Kiawah, serenity sets in... Perhaps that's why it's consistently voted by T+L readers as one of their
- Searching Out the Hidden Stories of South Carolina's Gullah Country
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On an overcast June day, I parked my car under a live oak outside a weathered-looking church on St. Helena Island, S. C. I’d interrupted our family vacation for an outing to some of the cultural sites on this island where the Gullah Geechee culture has endured since the days of slavery. My nephews and son had grumbled a little about missing a day on the
- The Civil War Begins
-
The first shots of the civil war were fired on this day in 1861. Confederate batteries opened fire on the fort, located in Charleston harbor, South Carolina, for 34 straight hours. On April 13
- The Tybee Bomb is Lost
-
Somewhere off the coast of South Carolina on the bottom of a shallow channel, lies an 11-foot-long canister. Written on it, a serial number: "No. 47782." It is a fully functional hydrogen bomb, lost by the US Military fifty years ago. On February 5, 1958, a B-47 bomber collided with a fighter
- The First African American Congressman
-
On December 12, 1870, Joseph Hayne Rainey became the first African American to be elected and serve in the United States House of Representatives. Another African American, Hiram Revels, had earlier been appointed to the U.S. Senate, but Rainey was elected a congressman from the state of South Carolina. His parents were both slaves, but his father was also a barber
- How Hotels and Airlines Are Helping Out Ahead of Hurricane Florence
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North Carolina and South Carolina are under a hurricane warning. Hurricane Florence is expected to make impact Thursday and Friday...
- Spirit Passengers on Fort Lauderdale-bound Flight Sickened by 'Dirty Socks' Stink
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What’s that smell? That’s what passengers aboard a Spirit Airlines flight bound to Fort Lauderdale Thursday night had to wonder. Whatever the odor was — passengers likened it to the smell of “dirty socks” according to CBS 4 News in New York — it caused the flight to be diverted to Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. According to CBS, 220 passengers were on board Spirit Airlines Flight 779 that
- 50 State Road Trip: Best Museum in Each State
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Few institutions stamp the cultural identity of a nation, region, or city like museums. Whether they are venerable sites such as the Art Institute of Chicago, whimsical venues like the Kazoo Museum in South Carolina, or contemplative places like the Civil Rights Museum in Atlanta, museums have become sources of civic pride.
- The Civil War Begins
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The first shots of the civil war were fired on this day in 1861. Confederate batteries opened fire on the fort, located in Charleston harbor, South Carolina, for 34 straight hours. On April 13, Union forces surrendered the fort. The Civil War had begun and would last another four years.
- One of the Best Travel Destinations in the World is Just a Two-Hour Drive from Atlanta
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Greenville, South Carolina, recently received the designation as one of the best travel spots in the world by Travel Leisure
- The Tybee Bomb is Lost
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Somewhere off the coast of South Carolina on the bottom of a shallow channel, lies an 11-foot-long canister.
- An Insider's Guide to Charleston, According to the Cool Couple Behind This Chic New Café
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Charleston has become an increasingly popular destination for its growing food scene, but Basic Kitchen stands apart with healthful, nourishing, local fare. The couple behind the café share their favorite spots in the South Carolina city
- Savannah: Food Tour, Historic Squares and the Purple Line
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Savannah is on Georgia’s Atlantic coast, just south of the South Carolina state line. Hilton Head, South Carolina, is less than an hour away, and Tybee Island, Georgia, is a half-hour drive
- Get off the Beaten Path and Head to the South's Lowcountry
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The 100-mile coastal strand of the Atlantic from Charleston, S.C., to Savannah, Ga., is a paradise lost in time, where dolphins, giant loggerhead turtles and prehistoric-looking palmettos abound. But if you want to unravel the region’s mysteries, you’ll have to venture beyond Hilton Head, the South Carolina tourist mecca partway between the two cities
- Missing the US Solar Eclipse? Here are 11 More Heavenly Spectacles to Mark in your Diary
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The USA will witness a solar eclipse today, which will glide right across the torso of the country, from Oregon on the west coast to South Carolina on the east. Alternatively, here are a few other heavenly events for your diary
- At South Carolina’s only national park, paddle through some of the country’s oldest trees
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These 11,000 acres have evaded the ax and plow since large-scale logging started in the 1880s, obliterating up to 50 million acres of American forest within five decades. Ancient trees fell along coasts and major rivers. Here in the vast, tangled wetlands of Central South Carolina, logging was more trouble than it was worth. So these giants stood, mostly forgotten, until the 1950s, when journalist and conservationist Harry Hampton recognized the value of the remaining old growth and worked to preserve it. In the 1970s, when the threat of logging loomed anew, a public campaign led to the establishment of Congaree Swamp National Monument, named after the Congaree River that winds through the park
- At South Carolina’s only national park, paddle through some of the country’s oldest trees
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The coffee-colored creek laps at our canoes as a sad reality soaks in: We’re surrounded by the biggest swath of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest left in the Eastern United States. These 11,000 acres have evaded the ax and plow since large-scale logging started in the 1880s, obliterating up to 50 million acres of American forest within five decades. Ancient trees fell along coasts and major rivers. Here in the vast, tangled wetlands of Central South Carolina, logging was more trouble than it was worth
- Hurricane didn't blow away Hilton Head's well-planned perfection
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This lovely island just off the South Carolina mainland is as renowned for its hospitality toward visitors as it is for its Low Country cuisine and distinctive Gullah culture, the latter originating from the descendants of former slaves who migrated here after the Civil War
- 36 Hours in Charleston, S.C.
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The belle of South Carolina, with its cobblestone streets and complex history, has become a cultural hotbed and gastro-magnet
- Southwest Airlines flight diverted after woman gives birth while on airplane
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A Southwest Airlines plane made an emergency landing in Charleston, South Carolina, after a baby was born in the middle of the flight
- Hurricane Matthew Unearthed Cannonballs That Date Back to the Civil War
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After Hurricane Matthew passed through an island in South Carolina, residents found it had uncovered Civil War-era cannonballs
- How To Do Charleston In 48 Hours
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Upon leaving, I was astounded by the city of Charleston and already fantasizing about returning. The weekend was one filled with southern hospitality and food that I'll be dreaming about until I come back for more. I had just under 48 hours to explore this South Carolina city and it was just the right amount of time to completely engulf yourself into the city's history and eateries. Even though two days seems like a short time... We were truly able to make it worthwhile
