10 Best Resort Towns In South Carolina, USA - Updated 2024

south carolina resort towns
S.N.
S.N. 
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 5 min read

Boasting an array of stunning natural attractions, South Carolina is renowned for its breathtaking subtropical beaches, quaint island towns, tranquil lakes and lush hills. It is known for its many attractions, including the Blue Ridge Mountains, Congaree National Park and Francis Marion National Forest. The state is known for its rich history, from its colonial roots to its role in the American revolution and civil war. It also has attractive sites, including Fort Sumter and Angel Oak Tree, allowing visitors to explore and learn about new things.

South Carolina provides a range of experiences, from the tranquil beaches of Charleston and Myrtle Beach to an immersive historical experience. Tourists flock here for its numerous beach and waterfront resort towns, which offer year-round fun and entertainment. Read on to discover the best resort towns in South Carolina, USA.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on May 31, 2024.

1. Myrtle Beach (from USD 211)

Atlantic Ocean shoreline in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Loadmaster used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Myrtle Beach is a popular vacation destination on the Atlantic Coast and is about 224 km (139 mi) from Columbia, the capital of South Carolina. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, world-class golf courses, local cuisine and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach retreat or an action-packed family vacation, Myrtle Beach can be the perfect getaway. This city is home to various shops, restaurants and attractions for all ages. From popular amusement parks such as Family Kingdom Amusement Park and SkyWheel to the numerous museums and theatres, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Since this destination is known for various fancy resorts, your best bet is to look into accommodations such as Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Enclave Myrtle Beach and Homewood Suites by Hilton Myrtle Beach Coastal Grand Mall.

Stayed at this property?

Homewood Suites By Hilton Myrtle Beach Coastal Grand Mall

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 302 Seaboard Street
138.07 km (85.8 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works

Parking Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km) Terrace Non-smoking rooms


Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Enclave Myrtle Beach

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 1600 North Ocean Boulevard
141.26 km (87.8 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works

Parking Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km) Terrace Non-smoking rooms Business centre

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, United States
142.57 km (88.6 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works
Wheelchair accessible Visual Aid: Braille
condo 8 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
beds were super comfy and the view of the ocean was fantastic
beautiful kitchen and tons of space in the unit for all six of us
the beds were very comfortable and the kitchen had everything we needed
Host:
staff is very pleasant
Location:
location was great and it was very kid friendly
our family loved walking to the pier
Read more reviews

2. Folly Beach (from USD 300)

Folly-Beach-from-pier-sc
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Brian Stansberry used under CC BY 4.0

Are you in search of the perfect weekend getaway? Look no further than Folly Beach, situated only 201 km (125 mi) from Columbia. This blissful destination features white sandy beaches and a relaxed surf vibe. It boasts an array of surf spots, ranging from beginner-friendly waves to more intense breaks for experienced surfers.

This place is also home to diverse wildlife, such as sea turtles, dolphins and marine birds. Check out popular lodging options such as Tides Folly Beach and Hotel Folly.

Stayed at this property?

Tides Folly Beach Hotel

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 1 Center Street Highway 171
14.16 km (8.8 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Terrace


Hotel Folly with Marsh and Sunset Views

Wifi Available

Address: 87 Center Street
13.74 km (8.6 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works

Parking Pets allowed Non-smoking rooms Free parking Internet services Heating WiFi Available Free WiFi

Folly Beach, South Carolina, United States
13.92 km (8.7 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works
PRIVATE VACATION HOME 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
house was clean and well equipped
the place was great super clean and convenient location ernie was excellent with communication
we loved this property great location and the house was so clean and neat
Host:
the host was super
the wagon to bring chairs and toys to and from the beach was super helpful
Location:
we love this house for the price the location is fantastic
this is a nice little beach house in a great location
Read more reviews

3. Isle of Palms (from USD 500)

Isle of Palms, South Carolina 2
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user DiscoverWithDima used under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Isle of Palms is an idyllic island located 204 km (127 mi) from the capital city of Columbia, approximately a two-hour drive away. It’s a perfect spot for a beach and resort getaway. No matter the season, this island is a great destination, offering plenty of recreational activities and attractions to explore. Water-sport enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, surfing, sailing, paddle boarding and fishing on the picturesque beaches.

Others who prefer to keep their feet on the ground can opt for activities such as golfing, tennis, beach volleyball and hiking. Wild Dunes Resort - Sweetgrass Inn and Boardwalk Inn and The Palms Oceanfront Hotel are two of the most popular accommodations.

Stayed at this property?

Wild Dunes Resort - Sweetgrass Inn and Boardwalk Inn

Address: 5757 Palm Blvd
17.67 km (11.0 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works

Parking Restaurant Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km)


The Palms Oceanfront Hotel

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible Visual Aid: Braille Visual Aid: Tactile

Address: 1126 Ocean Blvd
13.05 km (8.2 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works

Parking 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Golf course (within 3 km) Non-smoking rooms Fishing Facilities for disabled guests Family rooms Internet services

Isle of Palms, South Carolina, United States
18.37 km (11.5 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works
PRIVATE VACATION HOME 10 Guests 4 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Host:
the owner was lovely to deal with and very helpful
the owner was lovely to deal with and very helpful
Read more reviews

4. Georgetown (from USD 195)

Georgetown, South Carolina harbor
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Thomson200 used under CC0

Located in Georgetown County of South Carolina, the charming city of Georgetown has been around since 1729 and is the third-oldest city in the state. It is situated a mere 204 km (127 mi) from the capital city and is a two-and-a-half-hour drive. Georgetown offers stunning riverfront views and plenty of recreational activities to enjoy. Hampton Inn Georgetown-Marina is a great place to stay during your visit to this little town. The city also has a vibrant art and culture scene, with numerous galleries, museums and performing arts centres you can visit.

Kaminski House Museum, Georgetown County Museum and South Carolina Maritime Museum are some of the popular tourist destinations. The added attraction of ghost tours further enhances the appeal of this location for visitors.

Stayed at this property?

Hampton Inn Georgetown-Marina

Wifi Available

Address: 420 Marina Drive
89.35 km (55.6 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works

Parking Meeting/banquet facilities 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Non-smoking rooms Fishing Business centre Dry cleaning

Georgetown, South Carolina, United States
88.73 km (55.2 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works
cottage 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the cottage itself is nicely appointed and comfortable in every way
Host:
our hosts graham & julie we’re wonderful
the owners were very helpful and right there if we needed anything
Location:
charming cottage located just a five minute walk from the boardwalk
i would definitely stay here again beautifully appointed and wonderful location walking distance to everything
we could walk to almost everything nice safe neighborhood
easy access to shops and restaurants
the location was perfect for walking the historic district with its quaint shops and restaurants
Read more reviews
Georgetown, South Carolina, United States
86.22 km (53.6 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works
PRIVATE VACATION HOME 8 Guests 4 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
comfortable beds & couches
Cleanliness:
the house was beautiful and very clean
house is newer and very clean the view of the marsh is amazing
Location:
it's not super close to there but still an easy drive
Read more reviews

5. Edisto Island (from USD 384)

Botany Bay Plantation Outbuilding
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Race2Beach - Sara... used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Edisto Island is a small seaside town on the South Carolina coast, renowned for its white-sand beaches and abundant wildlife. Visitors can often spot loggerhead sea turtles, bottlenose dolphins, reptiles and birds in their natural habitats. Suppose you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind wildlife experience and an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. In that case, the Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve and Wildlife Management Area is a must-see. If you’re looking for an exciting excursion, visit Edisto Beach State Park for camping, hiking, biking and other activities.

Edisto Island makes for a great weekend escape as it is just 212 km (132 mi) away from the heart of South Carolina. If you’re looking for top-notch accommodations, Club Wyndham Ocean Ridge is the perfect place to book your stay!

Stayed at this property?

Club Wyndham Ocean Ridge

Wifi Available

Address: 1 King Cotton Road
50.29 km (31.3 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works

Parking 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km) Non-smoking rooms Family rooms Free parking

Edisto Beach, South Carolina, United States
49.25 km (30.7 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works
PRIVATE VACATION HOME 10 Guests 4 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
unbelievably clean very easy walk to an uncrowded beach
Location:
great house and location centrally located and an easy walk to the beach
great house and location centrally located and an easy walk to the beach
great beach weekend close to the beach clean and well appointed
Read more reviews
Edisto Island, South Carolina, United States
50.55 km (31.5 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works
PRIVATE VACATION HOME 14 Guests 6 Bedrooms 7 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the ping pong table was a blast the kitchen is very well stocked
Cleanliness:
very clean comfortable and plenty of room
the house/property was clean and just as advertised
the house is spacious clean and conveniently located near the beach and fun restaurants
Host:
the owner is very friendly and quick to respond
owner was great/very responsive to include easy check in procedure
Location:
it is a very peaceful neighborhood and close to the beach
the house is perfect space location and pool
easy walk to the beach - great area for walking and biking
Read more reviews

6. Clemson (from USD 2500)

Tillman Hall 2008
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user hager.angie used under CC BY 2.0

Surrounded by a mountain and lake, Clemson is renowned for its lively culture and surreal location. Columbia is just 211 km (131 mi) away, approximately a two-hour drive from here. Clemson is known for its prestigious Clemson University, South Carolina Botanical Garden and Fort Hill Plantation. This city has an irresistible charm, boasting a picturesque downtown area, a thriving arts community and a wealth of outdoor activities, including golf, hiking and biking. Those looking for a great day out have loads of dining and shopping options.

The Abernathy and James F. Martin Inn are two of the most sought-after lodgings in Clemson.

Stayed at this property?

The Abernathy

Wifi Available

Address: 157 Old Greenville Highway
342.54 km (212.9 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km) Non-smoking rooms


James F. Martin Inn

Wifi Available

Address: 240 Madren Center Dr
341.31 km (212.1 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre

Clemson, South Carolina, United States
342.74 km (213.0 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works
PRIVATE VACATION HOME 8 Guests 3 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
from the moment we walked in the house was extremely clean and inviting
Host:
thanks to our hosts for making it an enjoyable & convenient stay in clemson
awesome house very close to everything the owners were very easy to work with
Location:
walking to either the campus or downtown is easy
exquisite house with excellent location
Read more reviews

7. Surfside Beach (from USD 1600)

Surfside Beach Pier
Source: Photo by Flickr user Kari used under CC BY 2.0

Tucked away along the Grand Strand of South Carolina is the tiny coastal town of Surfside Beach. It is a popular destination for families, offering miles of white sandy beaches and plenty of activities such as fishing, boating, swimming and surfing. Kids can enjoy various activities here, such as playing miniature golf, visiting amusement parks and splashing around in water parks. It is a three-hour drive from Columbia to Surfside Beach, which is approximately 232 km (144 mi) away.

Visitors may enjoy their stay at Surfside Beach Oceanfront Hotel and Quality Inn Surfside Myrtle Beach. The area also offers a selection of golf courses, parks and nature trails for visitors to explore.

Stayed at this property?

Surfside Beach Oceanfront Hotel

Wifi Available

Address: 15 S Ocean Blvd
127.63 km (79.4 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works

Parking Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Terrace Non-smoking rooms Fishing Business centre


Quality Inn Surfside Myrtle Beach

Wifi Available

Address: 1201 US Highway 17 North
128.87 km (80.1 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works

Parking 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Non-smoking rooms Business centre Free parking Internet services Heating Fax/photocopying

Surfside beach, South Carolina, United States
126.9 km (78.9 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works
PRIVATE VACATION HOME 14 Guests 4 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the pool and the view are the real super stars
the house was very comfortable & just as pictured/described
Cleanliness:
beautifully decorated super clean and comfortable
bedrooms were spacious and comfortable - clean linens were a nice touch
Host:
the owner was very easy to work with
Location:
wonderful location and beautiful home
close to almost everything and the pool it perfection
close to everything but far enough away that it was peaceful thank you
the location is fantastic & convenient to anything you’d want
close to pier for fishing and many great places to eat
Read more reviews

8. Hilton Head Island (from USD 545)

Harbour Town July 2007
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user MoodyGroove used under CC BY-SA 3.0

The beautiful Hilton Head Island is well-known for its awe-inspiring natural scenery, recreational opportunities and rich history. European settlers arrived on the island in the 16th century, and it has since then blossomed into one of the most popular resort destinations in the United States. Hilton Head Island is about 248 km (154 mi) or a three-hour drive from the centre of South Carolina. Marriott’s Barony Beach Club and Royal Dunes are popular resorts to stay in here.

This island also offers a variety of water sports activities, from kayaking to parasailing. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the island’s numerous golf courses, shops and restaurants provide plenty of options.

Stayed at this property?

Marriott's Barony Beach Club

Wifi Available

Address: 5 Grasslawn Avenue
95.15 km (59.2 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works

Parking Restaurant 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Sauna Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km) Non-smoking rooms Business centre


Royal Dunes

Wifi Available

Address: 8 Wimbledon Court
95.42 km (59.3 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works

Parking Tennis court Sauna Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km) Garden Non-smoking rooms Facilities for disabled guests

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, United States
105.95 km (65.9 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works
Wheelchair accessible Visual Aid: Braille
villa 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
this property is updated spotlessly clean and well decorated
the place was very cozy and clean
stayed 3 nights loved it beautiful accommodations very clean lovely near to all
Host:
great owners got back to us immediately when we had questions
the hosts were super sweet and helpful
hosts were great and check in was a breeze
Location:
the location is perfect with easy beach access and close to restaurants etc
it was a perfect spot for us - location is ideal
Read more reviews

9. Travelers Rest (from USD 198)

U.S. Route 276 in Travelers Rest, SC June 2019 1
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Thomson200 used under CC0

Travelers Rest is only 182 km (113 mi) from Columbia, the capital of South Carolina. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it is one of the most popular resort towns in the United States. With hundreds of comfortable accommodation options available, Hampton Inn Greenville/Travelers Rest and Best Western Travelers Rest/Greenville are ideal choices you can consider. The downtown area is full of locally owned boutiques, restaurants and cafés.

Furthermore, Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail offers miles of picturesque bike paths and walking trails.

Stayed at this property?

Hampton Inn Greenville/Travelers Rest

Address: 593 Roe Center Court
334.99 km (208.2 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works

Parking Meeting/banquet facilities 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km) Non-smoking rooms Fishing Business centre


Best Western Travelers Rest/Greenville

Wifi Available

Address: 110 Hawkins Rd
335.63 km (208.6 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works

Parking Pets allowed 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km) Non-smoking rooms Business centre Family rooms

Travelers Rest, South Carolina, United States
336.1 km (208.9 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works
PRIVATE VACATION HOME 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Location:
cute town which was walking distance away
great location super nice property
Read more reviews

10. Mount Pleasant (from USD 90)

Mount Pleasant - South Carolina
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user B. Childress used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Mount Pleasant is famous for its stunning harbour, picturesque waterfront views and the many historic homes that line its streets. Boone Hall Plantation is a popular destination for visitors, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the history of African-American slaves. Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Pavilion is another popular spot where visitors can observe traditional basket-making and purchase a variety of handcrafted baskets. Moreover, Mount Pleasant is also one of the largest towns in South Carolina and is 192 km (119 mi) away from Columbia.

This town is an excellent destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking and swimming. Moreover, Inn at I'On, Ascend Hotel Collection and The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina are ideal accommodations for an unforgettable getaway experience.

Stayed at this property?

The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina

Wifi Available

Address: 28 Patriots Point Rd
2.18 km (1.4 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre


Inn at I'On, Ascend Hotel Collection

Wifi Available

Address: 148 Civitas Street
5.68 km (3.6 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works

Parking Pets allowed Fitness centre Non-smoking rooms Free parking Internet services WiFi Available Outdoor pool

Mt Pleasant, South Carolina, United States
6.7 km (4.2 mi) from Palmetto Carriage Works
condo 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the beds are incredibly comfortable with lots of extra blankets sheets and pillows
Host:
the area guide the owners have for guests recommends great activities and restaurants
the owners made sure we had everything we needed and gave us great suggestions for area restaurants
wonderful hosts with great recommendations for eating shopping and things to do
wonderful hosts with great recommendations for eating shopping and things to do
the owners made us feel welcome and the condo was the perfect place to rest and relax
Location:
great location convenient to so many things
beachburg is in a great location convenient to everything we wanted to see and do
this condo was such an amazing place
Read more reviews

Discover the hidden treasures of South Carolina

South Carolina is a beautiful state with many hidden treasures to explore. It might be tough to pick which resort towns to explore during your next holiday, but no matter your choice, you’ll have a great time and create everlasting memories.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Hailing from the diverse country of India, Millenium is a journalist and a freelance writer by profession. Her love for food and travel has attracted her to Trip101! She has explored various parts...Read more

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