South Carolina's combination of good weather, Old Southern charm, rich history, and stunning coast make it an incredibly popular tourist destination. From exploring the state's nature, to fun on a thrilling boardwalk ride, to browsing in antique shops, there's no end to the diversion's you'll find in the Palmetto State.
The climate in South Carolina is subtropical and humid, with four distinct seasons. Summers are typical long and hot, while winters are short and mild. July tends to be the hottest month, with much of the state averaging high temperatures between 90 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. The mountains in the northwest generally run an average of about 10 degrees cooler than elsewhere. Highs in the winter range from the upper 50s along the coast to the low 40s in the mountains. During hurricane season (June 1 to November 30), South Carolina can be affected by hurricanes, tropical depressions, and tropical storms. August and September are the most active for tropical weather conditions.
South Carolina contains three distinct regions: the Atlantic coastal plain, the Piedmont, and the Blue Ridge. The Atlantic coastal plain stretches from the shoreline to approximately 70 miles inland. Though most of the land is flat and swampy, some of the area inland has rolling hills, and there's also a patch of forest called the Pine Barrens. Sand hills running along the area's western edge suggest that once upon a time, it may have been the coastline. The Piedmont region covers most of South Carolina's interior. Rolling hills are standard, becoming higher as the region begins to meet the mountains to the west. The Blue Ridge region consists of only about 500 square miles in the northwest corner of the state, where the Blue Ridge Mountains sweep down from North Carolina and into Georgia. At 3,554 feet above sea level, Sassafras Mountain is the state's highest point.
At least 29 Native American tribes have called South Carolina's lands home over the past several thousand years, including Cherokees and Catawbas. Although the Spanish and French both founded settlements in the state during the 1500s, they were short-lived. The British established South Carolina's first permanent settlement in 1670, at Albemarle Point. Plantation culture began to evolve about ten years later, with both indentured servants and slaves (Native Americans and Africans) working the lands. Fur trading also became profitable, and pirates like Blackbeard roamed the coast. Beginning in the 1730s, European immigration was encouraged because the number of slaves had rapidly outnumbered whites. Germans and Swiss came first, followed by a migration of Scotch -Irish, and other groups from Virginia and Pennsylvania. South Carolina played prominent roles in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. The Civil War left a wake of destruction in the state, both physically and economically. The state struggled to recover from the conflict well into the 20th century. During the Civil Rights era, opposition to new measures made change difficult in South Carolina, but change did come. By 1970, four African-Americans became part of the Legislature. The 1970s and 1980s saw economic growth, and despite a dip in the 1990s, South Carolina's economy has continued to improve.
Despite the downfall of the plantations, tobacco and cotton, along with soybeans, still head the list of top crops. Due to the ready supply of cotton, textile and clothing industries are also well-developed in South Carolina. Other significant crops include peanuts, peaches, pecans, and and sweet potatoes. Among livestock, broiler chickens and cattle are the most important. With the state's ample coastline, commercial fishing contributes to the economy as well, particularly with blue crab and shrimp catches. The state's forests provide for lumber and related products, such as wood pulp and paper. Chemicals, machinery, and automobile manufacturing are other important industries. Military bases and nuclear facilities constitute another significant sector of South Carolina's economy. However, the top source of income for South Carolina currently is tourism.
Many tourists flock to South Carolina's renowned coastal areas, such as Myrtle Beach, Charleston, and Hilton Head. On South Carolina's shores, travelers can find anything they want in a beach destination. Those with urbane tastes can indulge themselves at luxurious resorts, spas, golf courses, tennis courts, fine restaurants, and cultural attractions. There are plenty of things for the whole family to do, too, like a trip to a boardwalk amusement park, or a carriage ride through historic Charleston. Those who seek to escape the crowds and get back to nature will find wild, pristine shorelines in South Carolina. On Bulls Island, part of the 60,000 acre Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, visitors may even spot tracks from the rare red wolf. Other ways you can enjoy South Carolina's coast include deep-sea fishing, beach volleyball, horseback riding, dolphin watches, body surfing, and beach combing. You can also scuba dive among the wrecks and reefs offshore.
South Carolina has plenty more to offer. With the state's numerous lakes and rivers, plus whitewater rapids and waterfalls in the mountains, water activities can be enjoyed year-round. Springtime is perfect for a stroll through a botanical garden in full bloom, or Fryar's Topiary Garden in Bishopville. The fall finds trees bursting with brilliant autumn colors, particularly in the mountains. Equestrians may want to take in a polo game, fox hunt, or steeplechase race. For races on four wheels instead of legs, head to the NASCAR speedway in Darlington. For a slower-paced adventure, enjoy a day at one of several zoos, or an animal park.
Historic sites and museums abound all over the state, giving visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past. There are also a number of art museums, galleries, and complexes where travelers can see both famous works of art, and pieces by local artisans. You'll also find handmade crafts, like Native American baskets woven from native plants. The performing arts are alive and well in the Palmetto State, with plays, concerts, operas, and other live entertainment thriving. There are also festivals and other special events to enjoy too. Some pay tribute to the state's heritage, like the Gullah Festival, or Yap Ye Iswa (Day of the Catawba); others celebrate the state's favorite foods, offer arts and crafts, or commemorate historic events.
With all the Palmetto State has going for it, beaches and seaports aren't the only reasons to visit. Whatever your dream vacation entails, you're sure to find it in South Carolina.
