9 Stunning Small Towns In South Carolina
Some states make you choose between mountains and coasts, not South Carolina. Up north, the Blue Ridge rises around Landrum and Walhalla, offering ridge hikes and waterfall trails. Down in the Lowcountry, Bluffton and Edisto Beach swap peaks for marshes and tidal creeks, perfect for dolphin spotting or kayaking. And threaded through it all is a rich coastal history, especially in places like Georgetown and Beaufort, where harbor views, museums, and centuries-old ruins turn an afternoon stroll into a time-travel moment. Let’s dive into the nine most stunning towns in South Carolina.
Bluffton
Known as the “last true coastal village of the South,” Bluffton lies along the May River in South Carolina’s lowcountry, famous for its seafood and art scene. During a visit, definitely consider signing up for a tour that ventures through this region’s majestic creeks and marshes. Outside Palmetto Bluff, for example, is a local agency that provides May River dolphin cruises, kayaking nature tours, fishing charters, and many other tour types to the public.
While you can enjoy May River Oysters and other Lowcountry seafood year-round in local restaurants, you can also plan your visit for the annual Historic Bluffton Arts & Seafood Festival. This October street fest showcases work from over 100 artists along with premier seafood from the area's top dining establishments. The local art scene is extremely active throughout the year as well, with galleries such as Maye River Gallery exhibiting work from over two dozen artists.
Landrum
Heading north, South Carolina’s other extreme in the Blue Ridge Mountains, located right around the town of Landrum. This town is fantastic for hiking, home to spots like Blue Wall Preserve, a 575-acre preserve in the Blue Ridge Escarpment. Here, you will find Virginia pine forest, hardwood uplands, open water lakes, waterfalls, and at least 114 bird species!
After your hike, head back into town to grab a bite and drink at Stubborn Mule Restaurant & Brewery, which serves artisan pizzas, pub fare, and a rotating selection of beers. For those looking to spend the night in Landrum, The Red Horse Inn is an excellent option, a boutique bed and breakfast that looks out over the stunning mountains.
Walhalla
Driving a little over an hour southwest of Landrum, you will reach another one of South Carolina’s most prized mountain towns: Walhalla. Meaning “The Garden of the Gods” in Norse mythology, this town certainly lives up to its reputation. Several waterfalls sit in the surrounding area, such as Issaqueena Falls, a 100-foot cascade that hikers can reach via a 15-minute hike from the Stumphouse Tunnel parking area. Station Cove Falls is another favorite, a 60-foot waterfall that lies along a 0.75-mile trail. Or dedicate an afternoon to learning about the region’s history, stopping by the Oconee History Museum, which tells the story of the county’s Cherokee towns, mill villages, railroads, lakes, and more.
Aiken
Aiken is the equestrian heart of South Carolina, home to equestrian museums and shows where visitors can watch history in the making. The Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum should be the first stop on your itinerary, celebrating the many champion thoroughbreds that have been trained on the iconic Aiken Training Track. Also check out the calendar at Bruce’s Field before you visit, an equestrian venue that hosts dressage, grand prix events, and other shows. Afterward, if you feel inspired to go horseback riding yourself, sign up for an excursion with The Trail Riding Company, a local agency that provides guided horseback riding tours to the public.
Georgetown
As the third-oldest town in South Carolina, Georgetown has over 250 stunning historic homes in its downtown district, along with several notable museums. The Georgetown County Museum is the perfect place to begin, exhibiting nearly three centuries of American history. The South Carolina Maritime Museum has plenty to see as well, featuring interactive exhibits, artifacts, photographs, and documents related to the state’s maritime history. You will also likely enjoy a meal at the Georgetown Corner Tavern, which lies on the historic Harborwalk, serving fresh seafood and seasonal specials that represent the area’s culinary heritage well.
Beaufort
Known as the “Queen of the Carolina Sea Islands,” Beaufort has all kinds of maritime culture and coastal beauty to explore. Travelers should definitely visit Hunting Island State Park, one of the most popular state parks in South Carolina, offering a nature center, a tranquil fishing pier, a 19th-century lighthouse, and several miles of beach. Visitors can also explore the Sea Islands via an excursion with Coastal Expeditions, which provides dolphin tours and sunset cruises that depart right from the downtown Beaufort dock.
About 25 minutes north of town, you can also reach the Old Sheldon Church Ruins. These remnants of a Greek Revival-style church were originally built in the 18th century, burnt down by the British, rebuilt, and eventually burnt down again by General Sherman in February 1865.
Travelers Rest
Travelers Rest is an extremely scenic and bike-friendly town, particularly well known for the Swamp Rabbit Trail. This trail runs along Main Street, extending for 22 miles and connecting to the neighboring community of Greenville. While in town, you can visit the Travelers Rest Farmers Market during the spring and summer, which brings in over 70 farmers and vendors on average. Or take a pitstop at the Swamp Rabbit Brewery & Taproom, which serves IPAs, Oktoberfests, Rye Pale Ales, Pilsners, and other select beers. Trivia nights, book exchanges, and food trucks also occasionally make appearances, so take a look at the brewery’s calendar before your visit!
Conway
Conway is just inland of Myrtle Beach, renowned for its live oaks and riverwalk that make it feel like an especially magical river town. The Conway Riverwalk is at its heart, stretching for about a mile and a half along the Waccamaw River, perfect for strolling and fishing. The LW Paul Living History Farm is an interesting stop as well, presenting what local farm life was like in the early 20th century, with tours lasting about an hour. You might also enjoy attending a show at the Theatre of the Republic, which hosts a season of Broadway-style shows each year.
Edisto Beach
Edisto Beach is one of the last remaining uncommercialized coastal communities in South Carolina. As a result, the experiences here will be largely nature-focused, disconnecting you from the typical tourist hum of other coastal towns in the area. A lot of outdoor recreation will likely take place at Edisto Beach State Park, which covers over 1,250 acres with miles of hiking trails, places to boat, and opportunities to go surf fishing and salt marsh fishing. For those hoping to rent a kayak or sign up for an excursion, you can also look into a reservation with Edisto Watersports & Tackle. They will provide the equipment or guided tour you need to explore the local waters and marshes. Grab lunch during your visit at McConkey's Jungle Shack, which serves an extensive menu of seafood, burgers, sandwiches, and wraps.
A Year For The Stunning Adventures
2026 is definitely feeling like a year for the adventurers, and in South Carolina, there are plenty of exciting places waiting for you. Enjoy a day of waterfall hunting in destinations like Walhalla, or explore the countryside while horseback riding in Aiken. If you are up for a slightly more strenuous trip, you also might enjoy biking down the Swamp Rabbit Trail from Travelers Rest to Greenville! The journey is just beginning.
