South Carolina is proudly known as the Palmetto State, after the tall trees with fronds of green bursting at their heads. This state has everything for every kind of traveller. For all the foodies, there’s obviously a plethora of hearty, decadent Southern comfort food to tuck into: shrimp and grits, hushpuppies, and sweet tea. For history and culture buffs, there are plenty of museums, heritage centres and plantations to tour and educate yourselves. For those who love golfing, this is the perfect destination to visit. But the beaches, with their powdery white sand and gentles surfs, are quite possibly the best thing this state has to offer. Be it Hilton Head Island or Myrtle Beach, nothing can beat the sand and the Atlantic Ocean under your feet. Holiday by the coast, and check out the best family resorts in South Carolina, USA.
1. DoubleTree by Hilton Myrtle Beach (from USD 101)
DoubleTree sits right beside Myrtle Beach State Park, so you can enjoy the sun and the sand whenever you want. Guests can also head over to Springmaid Pier, a great spot for fishing or enjoying views of the jewel-toned ocean. The resort boasts two lazy rivers, six pools and an 18-hole miniature golf course, so there’s plenty of options for in-house family fun. Rooms are clean and simple, featuring a TV and balcony where you can take a quiet moment to yourself. Ocean Blue serves up mouthwatering food all day, along with beach views. Family Kingdom Amusement Park and The Market Common are a five-minute drive away.
DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Myrtle Beach Oceanfront
Address: 3200 South Ocean Boulevard
Accommodates: 6
Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-hour front desk Fitness centre
2. Sonesta Resort - Hilton Head Island (from USD 179)
Sonesta Resort is a gorgeous getaway for families. Head over to the beach, dive into the turquoise pools or relax in the cabanas. Sweet Cane Bar and Grille offers refreshing beverages and light snacks after a day in the sun. Every room features a patio or balcony, making the place airy and expansive. Enjoy other amenities like a smart TV with movies, premium toiletries and a coffee maker. Shipyard Golf Course is right next to the property, and Sea Pines Forest Preserve is 3.2 km (2 mi) away. Rejuvenate your spirit at Arum Spa with locally sourced lavender and sea salt products. A kids’ club and kids’ meals are available, and pets are welcome at Sonesta Resort.
Sonesta Resort - Hilton Head Island
Address: 130 Shipyard Drive
Accommodates: 5
Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-hour front desk Tennis court Fitness centre
3. Beach House, A Holiday Inn Resort, an IHG Hotel, Hilton Head Island (from USD 77)
This wonderful resort in Hilton Head Island has everything you’ll need for a thrilling beach-side vacation. The island’s popular Coligny Beach will be right outside your door. Beach House also boasts the beach bar Tiki Hut, where you can sip cocktails by the fire pit and enjoy live music as you watch the sun set. Take a dip in the pool, looking out to the magnificent coastline. Indulge in comfort foods at The Porch Southern Kitchen & Bar. If you’re travelling with children, consider booking the family suite. Coligny Plaza Shopping Center and Coastal Discovery Museum are no more than 10 minutes away.
Beach House Resort Hilton Head Island
Address: 1 South Forest Beach Drive
Accommodates: 4
Parking Restaurant Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-hour front desk Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km) Garden
4. The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spas (from USD 174)
Situated on a stretch of the Atlantic beachfront, this resort promises tropical fun for the family. Hit the beach right outside the property or take a dip in the sparkling pools surrounded by palmetto trees. With sleek decor and warm wooden hues, the rooms feel just like home, but with the added bonus of stunning ocean or island views from the balcony. Unwind with premium bath products under a soothing rain shower in your room, or book a calming treatment with Heavenly Spa. Sample “sea to table” dishes at The Carolina Room or more casual fare at Splash. Explore Hilton Head with the family by hopping onto the Breeze Trolley service near the property.
The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa
Address: 2 Grasslawn Avenue
Accommodates: 2
Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-hour front desk Tennis court
5. North Beach Resort & Villas, Myrtle Beach (from USD 285)
North Beach Resort & Villas offers stylish stays on Myrtle Beach. Not only are the azure waters and white sands a short walk away, but the resort also boasts a spectacular Caribbean-themed pool complex. Soak in invigorating pools, drift on the lazy river and enjoy a swim-up pool bar - kids will love it, and so will you! Whether you book a condo, private villa or penthouse, you’ll be treated to views of the Atlantic Ocean, plenty of space to relax and free Wi-Fi. Treat yourself to exquisite wines, desserts and a world-class raw bar at 21 Main Prime Steak House. Barefoot Landing, an entertainment village featuring games, rides and eateries, is 1 km (0.6 mi) away.
North Beach Resort & Villas
Address: 719 North Beach Boulevard
Accommodates: 12
Parking Restaurant Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-hour front desk Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km) Non-smoking rooms
6. Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grand Dunes (from USD 469)
This beachfront resort promises fun in the sun for the whole family. The golden-white sands of Myrtle Beach are steps away from the property. Two sparkling pools surrounded by palm trees await you. Rooms are bright and spacious enough for a large group, featuring views of the ocean or resort. Free Wi-Fi and a TV will keep the kids entertained. Popular attractions like Myrtle Waves Water Park, Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade and various golf courses are close by. Ocean’s on 82nd offers seafood, kid-friendly meals, and other delicacies, along with stunning views of the beach. Parents can round off a busy day with a massage at the on-site Hibiscus Spa.
Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes
Address: 8400 Costa Verde Drive
Accommodates: 5
On-site parking Massage Facilities for disabled guests Cycling Board games/puzzles Safety deposit box WiFi available in all areas Fishing
7. Ocean 22 by Hilton Grand Vacations, Myrtle Beach (from USD 687)
Embark on a sun-soaked vacation for a great price at Ocean 22. Myrtle Beach and the Atlantic Ocean is right at your doorstep. Opt for a dip in the resort’s indoor or outdoor pool if you fancy a relaxed day in. At this all-suite property, enjoy a kitchen, dining area, private bathroom and balcony along with comfy beds - perfect for big families. Guests get free entry to Wild Water & Wheels waterpark! Broadway at the Beach and Myrtle Beach Boardwalk are 3.2 km (2 mi) away. Grab meals or snacks from the on-site marketplace to fuel you as you explore the area.
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean 22 Myrtle Beach
Address: 2200 North Ocean Boulevard
Accommodates: 8
Parking Restaurant Bar 24-hour front desk Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km) Non-smoking rooms Fishing
8. Embassy Suites Greenville Golf Resort & Conference Center (from USD 135)
This property in Greenville has a great location: it’s only 9.6 km (6 mi) from downtown, and 15 minutes from the airport via free shuttle. Rooms and suites are spacious, featuring a sitting area, plush beds, a TV and free Wi-Fi. The resort boasts an indoor and outdoor pool, so you can take a dip no matter the weather. Bond with the family over sports by visiting the tennis court or the golf course, Verdae Greens. Adults in the family, don’t miss the Manager’s Reception in the evenings for drinks, snacks and chit-chat. Craft 670 Restaurant & Bar, serving up all-American and Southern delights, has a meal for every palette.
Embassy Suites Greenville Golf Resort & Conference Center
Address: 670 Verdae Boulevard
Accommodates: 6
Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-hour front desk Tennis court
9. Marina Inn at Grand Dunes, Myrtle Beach (from USD 119)
As its name suggests, this hotel overlooks the deep blue waters of the marina. Guests have access to a private slice of beach that rarely gets too crowded. Just board the complimentary shuttle service to zip on over there! Relax in the pool or watch the boats and barges float by on the marina. Rooms are spacious and well-appointed. Enjoy sweeping views of the waters, a TV, free Wi-Fi, luxury linens and a bathroom with a rain shower. Be sure to savour a meal at WaterScapes, which not only serves fresh seafood but also caters to kids’ palettes. Marina Inn is centrally located, so you can visit attractions like Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Skywheel with ease.
Marina Inn at Grande Dunes
Address: 8121 Amalfi Place
Accommodates: 6
Parking Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-hour front desk Tennis court Sauna
10. The Inn at Middleton Place, Charleston (from USD 159)
Nestled in South Carolina’s historic Middleton Place Gardens, this resort offers a peaceful sanctuary for guests. Immerse yourself in nature, and enjoy tours of the Plantation Stableyards and Beyond The Fields for free. All rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, a fireplace and marble bathroom - the perfect place for downtime with the family. On-site activities include kayaking on the adjacent Ashley River, horseback riding, swimming in the river-facing pool and biking through the gardens. While you’re here, enjoy classic Low Country fare at the in-house restaurant.
The Inn At Middleton Place
Address: 4290 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC, USA, 29414
Accommodates: 2
Fax/photocopying Children television networks Special diet menus (on request) Kid meals Free parking Restaurant Security alarm Indoor play area
Bask in the sun in South Carolina
South Carolina is a state with truly wondrous attractions. To experience each city to its fullest, stay at any of these family-friendly resorts. You’ll never tire of the delectable food, luxury amenities and fun activities!
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our privacy policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to bookmark our articles, like local expert tips, receive great stories in your inbox, and follow writers and topics that you love.
Log in with Facebook Log in with Twitter Log in with Google ×