10 Best Day Trips from Charleston!

Charleston is surrounded by incredible destinations that make perfect day trips, from historic towns like Beaufort and Savannah to natural escapes like Kiawah Island, Folly Beach, and Congaree National Park. Each spot offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor beauty, all within a short drive from the city. In this guide, we’ll take you through 10 best day trips from Charleston, explain each spot in detail and these destinations give you a chance to see more of South Carolina without needing an overnight stay.

1. Hopsewee Plantation

Taking a day trip to Hopsewee Plantation is a easiest way to explore South Carolina’s Lowcountry history, sits along the North Santee River and is about a 90 minutes drive from Charleston. Built in the 1740s, visitors can tour the historic house and learn about the families who lived there as well as the enslaved people who worked on the rice plantation. Beyond the house tour, guests can join workshops like sweetgrass basketmaking or indigo dyeing, both tied to the region’s traditions. For food, the River Oak Cottage Tea Room serves Lowcountry dishes and a Southern tea service, making the visit feel complete.

2. Cypress Gardens

From Charleston, a day trip to Cypress Gardens is a simple way to enjoy nature and is located in Moncks Corner, about a 40 minutes drive from the city. The swamp boat rides are one of the highlights, giving you a close look at the trees, water, and wildlife in a quiet setting. Walking trails lead through shaded areas where you can spot birds and even alligators. The butterfly house is another favorite stop, where colorful butterflies fly freely and can be seen up close. Educational displays explain the history of the gardens and the importance of protecting wetlands, making the visit both fun and informative.

3. Ernest F. Hollings ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge

A day trip to Ernest F. Hollings ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge is a great way to explore nature from Charleston. The refuge is about an hour’s drive from the city and is known for its wide wetlands, forests, and rivers. Visitors often come here to watch wildlife, and hiking along the trails gives you different views of the landscape, from shaded woods to open marshes. One of the highlights is the boardwalk, which takes you across the wetlands and is a favorite spot for photos. The visitor center has displays that explain the history of the refuge and the importance of protecting the local ecosystem.

4. Lake Moultrie

The Lake Moultrie is about an hour’s drive from Charleston, making it an easy and convenient getaway. Visitors often come here for boating, kayaking, or fishing, and the boat ramps and piers make it convenient to get on the water. The lake is well known for good fishing, with plenty of spots to cast a line and try your luck. If you prefer staying on land, there are picnic areas where families can relax and hiking trails that give you a chance to explore the natural surroundings. Most of the trails are easy for a pleasant walk, while other trails offer a longer hike for those who want more exercise.

5. Francis Marion National Forest

Located just a short drive from the Charleston, the Francis Marion National Forest offers a peaceful retreat with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. The forest has many trails, some easy for a calm walk and others longer for those who want more of a challenge. Rivers and streams run through the area, giving people a chance to go kayaking or canoeing, with calm waters that make the experience relaxing. Fishing is also popular here, with plenty of spots to cast a line and spend time by the water. Families often bring food and use picnic areas, while hikers enjoy exploring shaded paths under tall trees.

6. Myrtle Beach

Planning a day trip to Myrtle Beach takes about 2 hours drive from Charleston, and once you arrive, the sandy beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing with family and friends. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is one of the main highlights, lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment spots. Visitors can walk along the boardwalk, stop for a meal at a seaside café, or try out attractions like the SkyWheel for scenic ocean views. After lunch, visitors often explore local boutiques or head to nearby places such as Ripley’s Aquarium or Myrtle Beach State Park for more activities.

7. Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge

From Charleston, a day trip to Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge takes about 2 hours drive, covering thousands of acres, and boardwalks let you explore wetlands at a slow pace, while the Cox Ferry Lake area is popular for hiking and spotting wildlife. Kayaking and boat tours are also available, giving you a closer look at the cypress trees and calm waters. The visitor center near Conway has displays that explain the history of the refuge and why protecting wetlands is important. Families often enjoy picnicking in shaded areas, while nature lovers spend time birdwatching or taking photos along the river.

8. Columbia

Staring a day trip to Columbia takes about 2 hours drive from Charleston and gives visitors a chance to see South Carolina’s capital city. The downtown area is home to the South Carolina State House, where you can walk around the grounds and see historic monuments. Families often enjoy Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, which has animals, gardens, and walking paths. For those who like museums, the South Carolina State Museum offers exhibits on art, history, and science, while the nature lovers can spend time at Congaree National Park nearby, known for its old hardwood forest and boardwalk trails.

9. Savannah, GA

Start a day trip early from Charleston and drive nearly 2 hours to reach Savannah in Georgia. Once you arrive, the city’s historic district is the best place to begin, with its cobblestone streets and old buildings that show Savannah’s long past. Forsyth Park is a favorite stop, with its well‑known fountain and wide green space that’s perfect for a picnic or a quiet walk. The riverfront is another highlight, offering shops, restaurants, and views of the Savannah River where boats pass by. For something different, Savannah is also known for ghost tours and stories of haunted places, adding a unique experience to the trip.

10. Augusta, GA

Taking a day trip to Augusta, GA takes about 2.5 hours drive from Charleston and the city is best known for hosting The Masters golf tournament, but the city has much more to offer beyond golf. The Augusta Riverwalk is a favorite spot, with paths along the Savannah River where you can walk, relax, or enjoy local events. The Augusta Canal National Heritage Area is another highlight, offering boat tours and trails that explain the city’s industrial past while showing off natural scenery. Downtown Augusta has restaurants serving Southern food, along with historic buildings that give the city its charm.

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