A South Carolina Coastal Road Trip - Folly Beach, Beaufort & Hunting Island

Beautiful beaches, charming Southern towns, incredible seafood & a little coastal wilderness.

Some of my favorite memories from our road trips through the USA are the places we discovered along the way. And this little stretch of South Carolina's coast was definitely one of them.

From the laid-back beach atmosphere of Folly Beach to the charming streets of Beaufort and the wild beauty of Hunting Island, every stop felt completely different.

Folly Beach – Ocean Air & Fish Tacos

Our first stop was Folly Beach, and I absolutely loved it.

We spent some time exploring the beach, where we spotted starfish and beautiful large seashells along the shore.

And of course, a beach day calls for good food!

We stopped at Pier 101 for a little bite right by the ocean. The shrimp and fish tacos were delicious, and I'd happily recommend stopping there if you're visiting Folly Beach.

There's just something about enjoying fresh seafood with the ocean nearby.

Beaufort – A Little Southern Charm

Continuing along the coast, Beaufort is a place you really shouldn't skip.

It's one of those lovely little Southern towns with so much charm. The kind of place that makes you want to slow down, wander around, and take it all in.

We stayed nearby and went out for dinner that evening.

And let me tell you, I still think about the shrimp and grits I had at Dockside Restaurant!

The place was incredibly busy, and after eating there, I could understand why. It was one of those meals you remember long after a road trip is over.

If you're in the area and love Southern seafood, I'd definitely put Dockside on your list.

Hunting Island – South Carolina's Wild Side

Then came Hunting Island State Park, and the scenery couldn't have been more different.

When we arrived, there was only one other car in the parking lot. Maybe we were just lucky, but it felt like we'd discovered a little hidden paradise.

The beach was almost empty, with waves rolling in and huge weathered trees scattered along the shoreline. Some were still standing, others had fallen into the sand.

It was wild, peaceful, and hauntingly beautiful.

A Forest That Almost Feels Like a Jungle

As impressive as the beach was, I think the forest surprised me even more.

Tall trees, palms, palmettos, and thick greenery everywhere. Driving through it almost felt like being in a jungle.

I loved the contrast between the open Atlantic coast and the dense forest just a short distance away.

And tucked among all that greenery is the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse. There are even local legends that it's haunted, which somehow fits the mysterious atmosphere of the island perfectly.

Three Stops, Three Completely Different Experiences

That's what I loved most about this part of South Carolina.

Folly Beach was beautiful and relaxed, Beaufort had that wonderful Southern charm and unforgettable food, and Hunting Island felt like stepping into another world.

If you're planning a road trip along the South Carolina coast, I'd absolutely recommend making time for all three. 🤎