The Palmetto State is a hot spot for small-town charm. Imagine sun-soaked walks under Spanish moss and ancient oaks, evenings of oysters and wine overlooking the dock, and historical streets that take you back to a time of simple pleasures. All those pleasures mean there are some amazing romantic getaways in South Carolina to enjoy with your loved ones.
The old adage of southern hospitality rings true in these romantic weekend getaways in SC that take you away from the stress of everyday life. Plan your perfect escape at any one of these delightful destinations to relax and reconnect.
Quick Ideas: Romantic Getaways in SC
- History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart
- French Quarter Historic Charleston Walk
- Get a Photoshoot and a Tour in Charleston
- Wine Sippin’, Tea Drinkin’ and Tree Huggin’ Tour: The Wadmalaw Adventure
- Polynesian Fire Luau and Dinner Show Ticket in Myrtle Beach
- Hilton Head Sunset Dolphin Watching Cruise
- Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour from Hilton Head
Romantic Getaways in South Carolina You Can Enjoy This Weekend!
Enjoy the Mountain vibe in Walhalla
Walhalla is a whimsical town for an amorous adventure, and visiting is one of the best things to do in South Carolina. It’s nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and surrounded by the flowing, cool waters of the Chattanooga River.
The longest hike and bike trail in the state, the Palmetto Trail, finishes right in town. German immigrants founded it, and its name means ‘garden of the gods’. As such, it hosts an eclectic energy of traditional Southern charm and Oktoberfest vibes.
The Issaqueena Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in South Carolina and is named after a Cherokee legend and are an alluring natural attraction in the area. In addition, the Stumphouse Tunnel is truly unique and a must-see. It’s a railroad tunnel dug with hand tools in the 1850s through a mountain and was never completed.
However, it was used as a blue cheese growing habitat for a time, due to its stable, cool temperature. It’s now home to many bats and a site of interest for curious wanderers. Walhalla is a surprising and lovely place to explore with a loved one. For one of the greatest romantic getaways in SC mountains make sure to head to this region.
Romantic place to stay nearby: Lakeside Lodge Clemson
Stroll Through Landrum
Landrum is a small, sweet gem of South Carolina and a fantastic laid back place for one of the best romantic getaways in South Carolina. At only 2.5 square miles, it’s a postcard town with a post stamp size, an idyllic retreat to say the least.
The quaintness and quality of the place shines through and you can really have an inexpensive weekend here. The Main Street has interesting specialty shops, and quiet eateries, all full of history.
White Buffalo features an astounding collection of indigenous art from all over the country, while Expressions Unlimited is a one-of-a-kind antique, candy, and flower shop; the Hare and Hound Pub is a charming establishment loved by locals, and Rustiques is dedicated to upcycled art for the hip home.
Campbells’ Covered Bridge is the only remaining covered bridge in the entire state and the Chestnut Ridge Heritage Preserve is known for its adventurous trails and stunning scenery.
Have a romantic weekend stay at Saluda Mountain Lodge
Enjoy the forests in Aiken
The sparkling Savannah River surrounds the town of Aiken, which has a charming and bustling downtown.
There are endless boutiques, cafes, galleries, and shops to explore while strolling down cute and historical streets. Whiskey Alley is the best in town for craft cocktails and creative cuisine.
Hopeland Gardens is popular for its magical canopies of majestic oaks, cedars, and magnolias and a gentle floating boardwalk stretching out over preserved marshland. The area has great museums centered around African American history and railroad history.
Hitchcock Woods is one of the nation’s largest urban forests at over 2,000 acres and has several trails to wander for adventurers of all skill levels. It’s a hub for equestrian enthusiasts. You can even go riding at Langley Pond Park Loop Trail.
One of the best places to have a romantic getaways in South Carolina is The Inn at Houndslake
enjoy lake life in Hartsville
Hartsville is a charismatic haven off the beaten path with something for everyone. It balances big city benefits with small town Southern hospitality, making it one of the best romantic getaways in South Carolina.
Prestwood Lake is a 300-acre reservoir with lily-covered waters, ethereal swamps, and the most picturesque sunsets in town. Neptune Island Waterpark is a fun-filled way to channel your inner kid and enjoy some thrilling water rides.
Black Creek Arts Center hosts rotating galleries from a diverse mix of talented artists. We recommend the rooftop at Mantissa for a relaxing drink with a view or stop into Vintage Craft Beer and Wine Boutique for the best selection in town.
Kalmia Gardens is a peaceful refuge full of fantastic flora and fauna. Book a cozy B&B and snuggle up with your cutie for an idyllic stay. This treasure trove of culture will not disappoint.
Book a romantic weekend getaway in South Carolina here at The Mantissa Hotel
get active in Travelers Rest
Situated in South Carolina’s beautiful upcountry near Greenville, this town is aptly named as the perfect reprieve from nearby attractions. It’s full of natural amenities and friendly townsfolk awaiting your arrival.
The local 22-mile hiking and biking greenway, Swamp Rabbit Trail, makes Travelers Rest a popular choice for active, outdoorsy visitors, as there are plenty of hiking, kayaking, fishing, tubing, and climbing opportunities.
It has a preserve dedicated to a small white flower, the bunched arrowhead, which exists in only three countries in the world. Be sure to see the gothic monument, Poinsett Bridge, the oldest bridge in South Carolina with a mysterious creator.
Visit Sunflower Hill at Beechwood Farms for a dreamy photo-op with your partner. Copperhead Mountain Distillery is famous for its mountain crafts and moonshine. This is definitely the place to enjoy some authentic down home country cooking at any number of the eateries around.
Trailblazer Park holds several cultural events throughout the year, helping to create its newer reputation as a hip, cool town. This includes Travelers Rest Farmers Market, an event beloved by tourists and locals alike.
Book a stay at Swamp Rabbit Inn for the most romantic getaway in SC.
beach time on Edisto Island
Secluded and striking, this sea island is located at the mouth of the North and South Edisto Rivers. This South Carolina beach area remains uncommercialized, allowing for a more intimate and organic beach getaway experience. Heading to Edisto Beach is one of the best things to do in South Carolina for couples.
The landscape’s natural beauty draws in many visitors who crave pristine wilderness. The Mystery Tree is a must-visit. A small and unassuming bare tree in a local field is consistently decked out with decorations. It’s a festive and quirky town institution of no clear origin that has been around for generations.
The Botany Bay Plantation has 4,000 acres of woods and fields to wander. Make sure to see the sea turtle beach while there. You can also take an eco-tour to watch whales and dolphins.
We also love Edisto Beach State Park for its maritime forests and ACE Basic Wildlife Refuge for its vast network of wetlands. It’s the ideal setting for an intimate nature-filled escape.
Book a fantastic stay at Club Wyndham Ocean Ridge
walk the pier at Folly Beach
Folly Beach is a stunning beach near Charleston and a place to relax and release all your worries. A favorite among all the romantic getaways in South Carolina, time slows down in this tiny paradise. A six-mile stretch of sandy shore, it’s a mecca for surfers, swimmers, and sailors.
Be sure to catch the legendary painted skies at sunrise or sunset. You can even search for remnants of ancient shellfish fossilized in limestone, that are five million years old, right on the beach! On the waterfront pier, there are many quaint establishments for eating and drinking with a cool ocean breeze and view.
There are plenty of bohemian boutiques and live music, ideal for spending a day strolling around. Trek to Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve for the perfect view of Morris Lighthouse. Grab a quick and tasty bite at Chico’s Feo for an evening of tacos and beer on the beach. Folly Beach Crab Shack is another local favorite. Where else can you get a bucket of shrimp or crabs that were caught five minutes before you arrived?
A beach town fit for any bucket list, don’t wait to visit this sunny, sandy sanctuary. If you’re looking for one of the best romantic getaways in Charleston SC, you can’t go wrong at Folly Beach.
One of the best weekend getaways in SC can be found at Regatta Inn
Walk the streets of Bluffton
Bluffton is a cool and calm coastal destination. With streets lined with century-old oaks and surrounded by the serene May River, this tranquil getaway is suited for any pair of travelers. There’s a rich cultural heritage here, that combined with an eccentric artistic atmosphere, creates a celebration of the South Carolina low country spirit.
The antique churches are destinations for architectural aficionados. Palmetto Oaks Sculpture Garden is an ethereal adventure for any art lover, along with several other galleries in town.
Stop by Southern Barrel Brewery to enjoy an array of refreshing pints with your sweetie in a sunny beer garden. Afterward, check out one of the best Bluffton restaurants for a romantic night out. If you love to relax by playing a game of golf, check out Old South Golf Links.
Book a stay at Old Town Bluffton Inn
dine at amazing restaurants in Hilton Head
One of the most romantic getaways in the south you can have! Hilton Head is a luxury vacation spot perfect for a decadent, lavish beachside retreat. It’s truly a classic choice of romantic getaways in South Carolina. It’s packed full of golf courses, tennis courts, world-class spas, delicious restaurants, and fancy beachfront hotels and vacation rentals serving up every amenity you can imagine.
The dining options offer gourmet dishes and the water is always a perfect temperature for any and all activities. The iconic island is shaped like a foot, so don’t be confused if people often give directions to the “toe” or the “heel.” It’s also the home of the Gullah culture. You can learn more about their fascinating practices when you visit.
Discover the island by sea and take a kayaking or boating excursion. There are other natural wonders to be explored here, if so inclined, such as the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge and the Coastal Discovery Museum. Spending a day wandering over scenic bridges and boardwalks at Sea Pines Forest can be a very intimate outing and among the best things to do in Hilton Head.
It’s also a great place to spend your days bronzing on miles and miles of sandy shoreline. It has only 40,000 residents but 2.5 million visitors each year. This is an ideal reprieve for those who love resorts.
Enjoy a romantic weekend in South Carolina at Waterside by Spinnaker Resorts
experience real southern charm in Beaufort
One of the greatest coastal getaways of SC that many don’t think about. The largest of South Carolina’s Sea Islands, Beaufort is a lovely historic harbor town. Nicknamed “Little Charleston,” it maintains all of the same character without the massive crowds.
It’s overflowing with charm, just waiting to swoon over. The parks shaded with green moss create a dreamy environment to spend a sweet slow-paced date day. Don’t miss a meander on the Spanish Moss Trail. The streets are centuries old and the oaks lining them even older. The architecture here holds a spectacular surprise around every corner.
While it’s most well known for its Southern hospitality, seafood is a close second. There are high-end and low-key options, all with a salty breeze, stunning view, and tantalizing selection of fresh oysters.
One of the best things to do in Beaufort is watch bottlenose dolphins play in Taylor’s Creek and go paddleboarding on Beaufort River. Wild horses are living on Carrot Island, see if you can catch a glimpse of them! The Cypress Wetlands are a thriving natural sanctuary and an ideal location for bird watching. If you’re up for it, make the daring climb to the top of Hunting Island Lighthouse.
Have a quaint stay together at The Beaufort Inn
beach and shop in Georgetown
Georgetown is the third oldest city in the whole country. It’s just the little hamlet you’ve been searching for, right at the center of the famous Hammock Coast.
It’s a quaint waterfront community with plenty of ways to play. It’s full of historic homes and a gorgeous harbor. A sweet slice of authentic coastal life, it has hospitality to spare and there is plenty of recreation for a rollicking good time.
Hike through marshes, wetlands, and forest at Tom Yawkey Heritage Center, home to many endangered bird species and Georgetown Lighthouse.
Downtown has many kitschy shops, fabulous foodie hot spots, and several cultural museums. Huntington Beach State Park boasts small sand dunes growing sea oats, and a generally pristine oasis of seaside nature.
Old Georgetown Creamery deserves a visit, with vintage flair and sweet treats to beat the heat.
watch for dolphins on Pawleys Island
Pawleys Island is easygoing and enchanting, one of the best kept secrets in South Carolina. Sweep your sweetie off their feet with a leisurely beach retreat here. It’s a small barrier island, separated by a stunning salt marsh.
It’s a great spot for surfing, fine for first-timers or experts. You can go crabbing or fishing, though the ambiance of the town may encourage you to do nothing more than soak up the views and relax. For an intimate dinner, we recommend Caffe Piccolo.
Several spooky myths surround the town. Ask a local about Gray Man or Alice Flagg. On a lighter note, it was super popular for making both hammocks and pimento cheese back in the day. You can still find these fun local fares around town.
Apache Pier is the longest wooden pier on the east coast and hosts plenty of quirky shops. You can also canoe, kayak, or take a boat out to spot wildlife. It’s a location that celebrates locally owned businesses, creating a more personal experience. Pawleys Beach feels secluded and special.
Enjoy an intimate stay together at Bridgewater!
Ride the SkyWheel at Myrtle Beach
A visit to Myrtle Beach may not be on everyone’s romantic wishlist, but for some a stroll down the strip and a ride on the giant ferris wheel is the perfect activity. The SkyWheel stands tall at 187 feet up into the sky.
Located at Pavilion Park, the SkyWheel is one of the largest ferris wheels in the country. The panoramas are unparalleled – enjoy the sweeping sights of the sparking seas and shores. After your romantic time on the ferris wheel, make reservations at one of the best Myrtle Beach restaurants!
Enjoy a weekend on the beach at Hilton Grand Vacations Club Anderson Ocean
Wine Tasting at La Belle Amie Vineyard
Located on 38-acres of land, La Belle Amie Vineyard and Winery has been owned by the same family for over 100 years and is one of the best vineyards in South Carolina. It’s located near North Myrtle Beach and a great getaway from the hustle of the city.
Besides the lovely vineyard, there’s also a gift shop, outdoor seating area and, of course, the winery and tasting room. There’s often live music in the afternoons and light meals are also available.
Stay nearby at Hampton Inn Harbourgate
Go Chasing Waterfalls
It may come as a surprise to some, but there are some amazing South Carolina waterfalls to see and hike to. One of the most beautiful is Raven Cliff Falls, located on Matthews Creek in Caesars Head State Park near Greenville.
Raven Cliff Falls is the tallest waterfall in South Carolina at over 320 feet high! It’s a strenuous journey to reach Raven Cliff Falls, an adventure not for the faint and best if you are looking for an outdoor romantic holiday. The trail is a bit over two miles long with 700 ft of gain, and offers plenty of spectacular panoramas of these enormous and enchanting falls.
Raven Cliff Falls is named for the notable native population of ravens that make their homes here. There are 150 species have been identified just within this region.
Get back to nature at Aunt Babbie's Cabin
Seabrook Island
There’s really no movie more romantic than The Notebook, and where was The Notebook set? Well, it was set on Seabrook Island, however it was truly filmed around the Charleston area.
Regardless, you can still visit this beautiful private community and we think it’s one of the most romantic getaways in SC. Book a vacation home and enjoy a bit of luxury, seclusion, beauty, and excitement all in one place.
Seabrook Island is the perfect place to head to in South Carolina! This pretty SC barrier island is widely known as a top bird watching destination but it’s also known for its prized golf courses and secluded beaches that rarely get crowded. Book a tee time for the morning and relax in the sand, sun, and warm waters until sunset.
Romantic Getaways in SC Map
TRAVEL AROUND SOUTH CAROLINA
- 20 Best Small Towns In South Carolina To Visit
- 25 Fun Facts About South Carolina to Know!
- 10 Best Places to Go Camping in South Carolina
- 11 Strawberry Farms in South Carolina to Pick Strawberries At
- 10 Best Resorts in South Carolina
Plan For Your Trip to the South!
- We like to use VRBO when searching for vacation apartment rentals and Hotels.com when searching for hotels.
- See our favorite cooler for the road!
- Get Around: We suggest renting a car for traveling the Carolinas. Check Prices on Expedia.com
- Our Favorite Brand of Shoes: Our answer to this question is always Keen. When hiking, enjoying the beach, or just needing a comfortable shoe for daily wear, this it it.
- Check out our favorite South Carolina Souvenir! Or for the coffee or tea lover in the family!
