2026 Scenic Spots Guide

Visitors do not necessarily have to be a horticulturalist or garden lover to appreciate the toweringly impressive Angel Oak Tree, one of the most significant and oldest trees in Johns Island, if not the entire East Coast. With far-reaching branches...

A fascinating find off the beach, the Coastal Discovery Museum is sure to engage Hilton Head visitors of all ages, with a world of indoor and outdoor exhibits, all found on the site of a rich coastal ecosystem. With a series of exhibits that are...

But despite being an instrumental component to the island's very existence, and a protector against erosion and storms, Bald Head Woods serves a more visible role as a fun, outdoor destination for visitors to enjoy off the beach. A popular spot with...

The Ocracoke Island Lighthouse may not be the most imposing of the Outer Banks lighthouses, but as North Carolina's oldest lighthouse in operation, (and the second oldest in the United States), it is certainly one of the most beloved. At just 65...

If it weren't for the telltale palmetto trees and notable landmark neighbors, like the historic Dock Street Theater, a visitor might mistake this church for an authentic French house of worship, tucked away in a European countryside of decades ago.

Look at an aerial photo of the southern region of Hilton Head Island, and the Sea Pines Forest Preserve will thick out like a vibrant green thumb. This unique parcel of land, which features sand ridges, maritime forest, long wetlands and ponds, and...

Lawson Creek Park is an active destination that's suitable for nature lovers and outdoors fans of all genres. Encompassing a massive 140 acre site surrounded by the waters of Lawson Creek and Trent River, this park is a perfectly scenic locale that...

Located at the edge of the Ashley River, next to the Joseph P. Riley, Jr. minor league baseball stadium, Brittlebank Park is a refreshing breath of fresh air that serves up some of the best water views in the region, while serving as an occasional...

Sandy Run Park leads its visitors through the heart of Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Preserve, one of the largest maritime forests remaining in North Carolina. Completed in two phases, the park now encompasses 1600 acres of marshland, waterways and...

Visitors who want to take a break from Carolina Beaches' busy surfside scene, and instead enjoy its acres of wild, undeveloped territory, can pay a visit to the sprawling Carolina Beach State Park.

For Charleston locals and frequent visitors, Marion Square is much more than just a pretty block of green space in between Meeting Street and King Street. Like many of Charleston's attractions, beneath the surface lies a history of stories that date...

Visitors who are expecting a grand and perfectly preserved Civil War fort may be disappointed when they make a visit to Fort Howell, but patrons who love a unique bit of history with accompanying earthen remnants, as well as a gorgeous wooded...

North Myrtle Beach locals who want to unwind and relax off the beach head to the gorgeous, centrally located McLean Park. Located in the heart of the city, just 2 blocks west of Ocean Boulevard between 1st and 3rd Avenues, this sprawling natural...

The fascinating galleries throughout this extensive complex encourage visitors of all ages to meet and mingle with their aquatic neighbors, from interactive exhibits to "touch tanks" where patrons can have personal encounters with local bamboo...

It's perfectly possible for a Myrtle Beach visitor to spend their entire vacation at the renowned Broadway at the Beach complex and never run out of things to do, attractions to see, and fantastic shops to explore. The sprawling 350 acre shopping...

Folly Field Beach Park is a gorgeous stretch of shoreline that is known informally by residents and long-time visitors alike as a "local's beach." Seldom overcrowded, with parking spots that are almost hidden by a line of live oaks and squat...

Even cadets at the Citadel need to relax every once and a while, and there's no better place to escape the everyday drills than at neighboring Hampton Park. This historic park – one of the oldest in the city – boasts 60 acres of natural...

Beaufort explorers who want an easy launching point in the heart of town, or just a scenic spot to enjoy a quick picnic lunch and an incredible view, can head to the centrally located Grayden Paul Park. Tucked away along the waterfront on Front...

The sunny Wrightsville Beach Park, conveniently located in the heart of town, is a fantastic destination for an outdoor adventure that doesn't necessarily entail a trip to the beach. Adjacent to the Wrightsville Beach Parks & Recreation's main...

The Lou Mac Park, although easily one of Oriental's smallest parks, is also one of its prettiest and most inviting for water lovers of all varieties, locals and visitors alike. Located on the corner of Freemason St. and South Avenue, this park has...

The completely wild and uniquely pre-historic Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge is a fascinating natural adventure for cyclists, hikers, nature photographers, and anyone who wants to discover the untamed aspects of this otherwise...

Take a walk on Pine Knoll Shores' wild side with a visit to the pristine, undeveloped Theodore Roosevelt Natural Area, an expansive 265 acre nature preserve, conveniently located next to the town's most visited attraction, the North Carolina...

The Rachel Carson Coastal Reserve is a stunning stretch of barely-barrier island shoreline that’s found just off the coast of historic Downtown Beaufort. Covering 2,205 acres, this collection of three islands that are found along...

The Sullivan's Island Lighthouse, also commonly known as "Charleston Light" holds a unique title in Carolina Lighthouse lore as one of the most modern lighthouses in the country. The unique triangular and slim structure, which is broken up into two...

Fort Sumter, a historic site which can be viewed from virtually any point along the Charleston Harbor, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in this history-rich southern city. Easily one of the most famous forts of the Civil War, the Fort...

While Downtown Southport has an ample supply of wide front porches to take a load off and enjoy a breeze, many longtime visitors attest there's no better place to relax than the Southport waterfront Park.

Isle of Palms County Park is a welcoming and well-maintained coastal destination that offers everything visitors need for a perfect day at the beach. Managed by Charleston County Parks and Recreation, this popular beachfront park combines natural...

Veterans Memorial Park is a quiet and reverent green space dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifice of the men and women of the United States Armed Forces. Located near Shelter Cove, the park provides a peaceful setting where visitors can...

The expansive James Island County Park has a unique distinction as being one of the most entertaining and diverse destination in the Lowcountry. Able to accommodate a world of interests, from camping and fishing to splashing around in a seasonal...

The Cape Lookout Lighthouse is one of the most distinctive lighthouses along the Outer Banks coastline, due to its black and white diamond-patterned exterior, as well as its remote location along the Cape Lookout National Seashore. Accessible only...

Located just south of Nags Head, Coquina Beach is a refreshingly undeveloped stretch of shoreline that's close to the central Outer Banks towns of Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, and Kitty Hawk, but feels like it's miles away.

The North Carolina Estuarium is one of the highlights of Little Washington's downtown scene, and for good reason. The 12,500 square foot structure, which has served as an educational center since it was first managed by the Partnership for the...

Fish Haul Beach Park is a serene and naturally rich destination that offers visitors a more peaceful and secluded beach experience compared to the island’s more commercialized oceanfront areas. Located on the northern end of Hilton Head near...

Nature lovers who want to take an in-depth and self-guided exploration of Southport's wild terrain can take an easy stroll down the "Marsh Walk." This long boardwalk that begins along Brunswick Avenue on the edges of the busy downtown ends...

The Russell Burgess Coastal Preserve is a quiet and scenic refuge that offers a front-row seat to one of the most captivating natural environments along the Grand Strand. Situated beside the Cherry Grove Marsh, this small park provides a peaceful...

Nature and art lovers will find endless winding trails and tranquil gardens to enjoy at Brookgreen Gardens, a sprawling outdoor attraction set on a 9,100 acre property that is a masterpiece of decadent sculpture gardens, wildly natural local...

The Riverwalk in Downtown Wilmington is a showstopper of a stroll that is a distinctive attraction all its own. Originally conceived in the 1980s as a way to generate more interest and tourism to the Cape Fear River waterfront regions of...

Life in Little Washington revolves around the water, and this extends to all forms of recreation, including the local parks. The Havens Garden Park is a peaceful retreat located just off of Park Drive and Washington's thriving downtown, and offers...

Travelers by sea in search of an accommodating marina with plenty of access to the local coastal North Carolina sites will feel right at home at the Southport Marina. This destination is a worthy spot to drop anchor, as not only is the marina itself...

Fishermen, sightseers, and even history buffs will find plenty of reasons to take a quick trek to the Sunset Beach Fishing Pier, a sprawling wooden pier that is conveniently located at the end of Sunset Blvd., the main road on and off Ocean Isle...

Arlie Gardens is home to a stunning collection of natural gardens and eye-catching artworks which continually impresses visitors to the Wilmington area. Established in 1901, and originally used as a private garden for the wealthy Pembroke family...

The Oak Island Lighthouse and Coast Guard station have a long history together, and the tall lighthouse tower stands as a welcoming beacon to visitors who head to these picturesque shores. As the newest lighthouse in North Carolina, the distinctive...

The South Carolina Aquarium may be one of Charleston's newest local attractions, but it is certainly making waves as one of its most exciting and entertaining venues in an already packed southern destination.

The Huntington Beach State Park, located adjacent to the acclaimed Brookgreen Gardens, is a secluded paradise which combines miles of waterfront views with pristine beaches, towering Palmettos and maritime forests, and the almost-spooky and...

The small Pigeon Point Park, located appropriately along Pigeon Point Road on the Beaufort Riverbanks, is a small but beautifully relaxing public park located in a quiet residential area on the western borders of historic Beaufort. A perfect stop...

The New Hanover County Arboretum, located on the outskirts of Downtown Wilmington on Oleander Drive, is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers everywhere. With seven acres of greenery, and gorgeous foliage that changes with the season, every visit...

East Bay Park is located on the upper portion of a small peninsula that jets out into Sampit River and Winyah Bay, and as a result, visitors will admire distant water views from virtually any part of the park.

Mitchelville Freedom Park is a deeply meaningful and historically rich destination that offers both a scenic natural setting and a powerful connection to America’s past. Located on the northern end of the island near Port Royal Sound, this...

High-spirited visitors will adore a tour of Firefly Distillery, a 48 acre vineyard and winery that is located on Charleston's "back porch," also known as neighboring Wadmalaw Island. As the only domestic winery in the Charleston County Lowcountry...

The gorgeous Mitchelville Freedom Park, also known as the Fish Haul Creek Park, is a unique little property that is undergoing a transformation designed to properly honor the site's significant, historic roots. As the original location of one of the...

The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is easily one of the most spellbinding sites in the city of Charleston, with acres of wildly growing gardens that have captivated visitors for generations. A romantic and altogether enchanting destination located...

The White Point Garden public park certainly provides a scenic slice of Charleston life, with incredible views that span across the intersections of the Ashley and Cooper Rivers. Fort Sumter, Castle Pinckney, and the Sullivan Island Lighthouse can...

Explore Hatteras Island at its natural best with a visit to the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. Covering 13 miles of Cape Hatteras National Seashore land, this attraction is hard to miss, although there aren't many giant signs, hotels or...

Myrtle Beach fans may be surprised to learn that this shoreline has a quiet side, but visitors who want to soak up a natural coastal South Carolina landscape will find plenty of pristine and undeveloped room to roam at the Myrtle Beach State Park...

Canadian Hole may be an unfamiliar term to the typical, laid-back Hatteras Islander vacationer, but to windsurfers around the world, the phrase invokes thoughts of an exact, postcard-perfect locale on the Outer Banks, where windsurfing and water...

Edenton visitors who haven't explored this northern corner of the Inner Banks in a few years may be surprised to find a new, stunning structure perched above the open sound-facing waters of Edenton Harbor. This remarkable site is the Roanoke River...

Rainbow Row is a famous historical Charleston neighborhood that certainly lives up to its name. The collection of brightly-colored homes, which are stacked side by side, is arguably one of the most photographed sections of the city, and attracts...

It's easy to see why vacationers fall in love with Carova. Located almost literally off the Outer Banks map, while other towns along the barrier islands of North Carolina grew and developed over the decades and became popular East Coast tourism...

Coligny Beach Park is easily one of Hilton Head Island's top-rated beaches, and it won't take new visitors very long to discover why. From the extensive free parking to the kid-friendly splash pad, the park is remarkably accommodating, and simply...

Lawton Stables is much more than just a pretty spot for a trail ride, or an elite locale for local islanders to board and train their prized horses. In addition, the stables offer a world of fun for its regular and vacationing patrons, ranging from...

Cap off a leisurely day of exploring Southport with a scenic walk along the waterfront, courtesy of the Southport Pier and Riverwalk.  Located on the edge of Howe and Bay Streets, and therefore easy to reach for veritably any Downtown Explorer...

Washington Square Park, with its seasonally blooming azaleas, trickles of Spanish moss hanging off of ancient live oaks, and quiet setting in the heart of the city, is a romantic, serene destination that brings the inherent laid-back charm of...

The Mullberry Hill house has been an acclaimed residence along the banks of the Albemarle Sound for centuries, and today, visitors in the market for an elite and relaxing stay can enjoy the unique Mulberry Hill Inn's undeniable charm and prestige...

Fishing, incredible views, and romantic strolls overlooking the "Edge of America" are all on the agenda at the Folly Beach Fishing Pier, officially known as the more long-winded moniker the "Edwin S. Taylor Folly Beach Fishing Pier." A whopping...

Heritage Shores Nature Preserve is a hidden coastal treasure that offers visitors a chance to connect with nature. Situated along the edge of the Cherry Grove marshlands, this unique preserve encompasses a scenic stretch of land that juts out into...

Fort Moultrie, one of the oldest still-standing forts along the Eastern Seaboard, is a "must see" destination for history buffs. The low-laying coastal structure, which encompasses a large parcel of Atlantic Ocean bordering beaches on the southern...

Crystal Coast visitors who want an easy-going day on the seashore can head to one of the most convenient public beach accesses in the region, the Circle at Atlantic Beach. Known as the main “Town Beach” and located in the heart of the...

Outer Banks and Inner Banks Coast Guard personnel, as well as Coast Guard recruits from all over the nation, are very much familiar with the Coast Guard Air Station (CGAS) in Elizabeth City. This flagship station has been instrumental in leading the...

Visitors to Edenton's Colonial Park will find a veritable world of local attractions and gorgeously scenic landscapes just minutes away from the expansive parking area. A postcard-perfect place to picnic, paddle, or just take off for a leisurely...

Ferry Landing Park, nestled at the end of Shallotte Boulevard in Ocean Isle Beach, is a peaceful waterfront destination that offers visitors a glimpse of the area’s natural beauty and laid-back coastal charm. Located along the Intracoastal...

Clean and uncluttered beaches and a remarkable local history combine to make the Fort Fisher State Historic Site one of coastal North Carolina's most treasured barrier island attractions. This incredible locale, just miles away from Carolina Beach...

Life in the Lowcountry is all about slowing down and taking a moment or two to relax, and locals and visitors both agree that Charleston's Waterfront Park is the perfect venue to stretch out and soak up the scene. With a prime location overlooking...

Visitors to New Bern's historic downtown are advised to take a break from the shopping, antiquing and dining, and enjoy a comfortable seat and a great view at the scenic and newly revitalized, Union Point Park.

Before there was the infamous Jersey Shore crew, or the Southern California surfing hang-outs, there was the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. A southern icon for beach vacationers of multiple generations, from biker gangs to young families, the boardwalk...

The seasonally open Downtown Waterfront Market is a great locale for shoppers, art aficionados, and foodies to come together in an outdoor, homegrown environment that features the very best products that Albemarle residents have to offer. An...

Washington's Festival Park may look like a scenic and quiet natural park during a typical day in the downtown area, but the park comes to life regularly with an assortment of movies, concerts and festivals that have put the small town of Washington...