Charleston to St Simon Island

Question

We will be flying to Charleston from Houston for a week - will rent a car and want to take 2 days of the week to drive to Hilton Head, then onto St Simon Island. Any recommendations for scenic drives, places to see, places to eat, other things to do. We are celebrating my 60th birthday!! Also, best things to do in Charleston?

Thank you

Answer

Happy upcoming 60th birthday! A week in Charleston with a 2-day coastal road trip to Hilton Head and St. Simons Island sounds wonderful. Here’s a detailed guide to help plan your trip, including scenic drives, sights, restaurants, and Charleston highlights.

Charleston Highlights:

Historic District: Walk along cobblestone streets, admire pastel-colored antebellum homes, and explore Rainbow Row.
Charleston City Market: Great for local crafts, souvenirs, and trying Lowcountry food specialties.
Waterfront Park: Take in views of the Cooper River and snap photos at the iconic Pineapple Fountain.
Fort Sumter National Monument: Accessible by ferry, it’s a key Civil War historical site.
Plantations and Gardens: Consider Magnolia Plantation & Gardens or Middleton Place for beautiful landscapes and history.

Scenic Drive to Hilton Head:

From Charleston, take US-17 South toward Savannah. This is the “Lowcountry” route, featuring marshes, tidal creeks, and charming small towns like Beaufort.
Stop in Beaufort, SC: Known for its antebellum architecture and scenic waterfront, perfect for lunch or a stroll.
Cross into Hilton Head Island via US-278. Enjoy beaches and bike trails; Coligny Beach is popular and has nearby shops and eateries.

Dining Recommendations Along the Way:

Beaufort: Saltus River Grill – seafood with a waterfront view.
Hilton Head: The Jazz Corner – great for dinner and live music.
St. Simons Island: Georgia Sea Grill – excellent seafood, close to the pier.

Things to Do on St. Simons Island:

Walk or bike along the beach and the scenic East Beach area.
Visit the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum and climb the tower for ocean views.
Explore the Pier Village for shopping and casual dining.
If time allows, consider a boat tour to see local wildlife and marshlands.

Additional Tips:

Start early from Charleston to maximize your time on the islands.
Consider staying overnight on Hilton Head or St. Simons Island to fully enjoy the area without rushing.
Use the coastal route rather than the interstate for more scenic views and photo opportunities.
Pack sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a camera—you’ll want to capture the charming towns and marsh landscapes.

Returning to Charleston, you could spend your remaining days exploring the Battery promenade, taking a carriage tour, and sampling Lowcountry cuisine at restaurants like Husk or Fleet Landing.

Charleston to St Simon Island

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