Don’t overlook the Palmetto State’s coastline: A South Carolina vacation is a great way to escape winter’s chill without flocking too far south.
Coastal cities like Charleston, Hilton Head Island and Myrtle Beach offer the same charm, excitement and delicious dishes all season long — but in the low season, you’ll share the Lowcountry with a much smaller crowd.
Whether you’re using HGV ClubPoints before they expire or need destination inspiration for a winter vacation, these Hilton Grand Vacations properties will give you a warm welcome to South Carolina’s shoreline cities.
1. Myrtle Beach
When East Coast travelers envision the quintessential southern beach getaway, many picture a classic boardwalk stroll in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It’s a longtime family-friendly destination that has fun, thrills and recreation for all ages.
What to expect in winter: Mild temperatures descend on Myrtle Beach in winter. Precipitation is rare, so leave your snow jacket and umbrella at home. Instead, wear your coziest sweater so you can walk around the mile-long Oceanfront Boardwalk & Promenade in comfort. Fewer crowds mean shorter wait times for restaurants and more room to explore the attractions around the city.
Where to stay: Myrtle Beach spoils Hilton Grand Vacations Members with overnight options designed to suit any group size and travel style. All of these Myrtle Beach resorts feature spacious 1-, 2- or 3-Bedroom with fully equipped kitchens and private balconies.
Things to do: Home to Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, WonderWorks, Dave & Buster’s and more, Broadway at the Beach is a shopping, dining and entertainment complex that will keep you smiling no matter the weather.
If you’ve got energetic children or outdoorsy friends in your group, treat them to a scenic walk at Myrtle Beach State Park. Follow the trails through the forest and shoreline in this oceanside parkland.
Myrtle Beach restaurants range from Lowcountry eats to international fare so take advantage of the smaller crowds by dining at the ever-popular Pier 14. This seafood restaurant at the northern end of the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade serves up Carolina clam chowder and a massive fish sandwich.
Explore more: Winter is sports season in the Carolinas. Plan a day trip to Raleigh’s PNC Arena where the NHL Carolina Hurricanes take the ice, drive to Charlotte to see the NBA Carolina Hornets at the Spectrum Center or watch the NFL Carolina Panthers on the gridiron of Bank of America Stadium.
2. Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina, is a gem of the South. Since its founding in 1670, its charming cobblestone streets, shady oak trees and Georgian architecture make it a lovely vacation destination for those who embrace art, culture and history.
What to expect in winter: You won’t see a snowplow moving through downtown Charleston. Snow flurries might blow by around the holidays but expect mild temperatures with the occasional rain shower. A pair of gloves and a hat might make your visit to this pedestrian-friendly city more comfortable.
Where to stay: Liberty Place Charleston, a Hilton Club is an excellent choice for staying in a central part of the city. The South Carolina Aquarium, the International African American Museum, the Charleston Museum and the Fort Sumter Visitor Education Center are all within walking distance of this historic district property.
Before exploring the sites from this Charleston property, spend time getting ready in a cozy Studio or spacious 1- or 2-Bedroom Suite. Grab a morning juice or acai bowl from the on-site Beech Cafe & Marketplace, then end your day with a Planter’s Punch cocktail at the lobby’s Muddle Cocktail Bar.
Things to do: The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry is a fun-filled space to hide from winter’s wind. A series of interconnected rooms each have an engaging activity for little ones and the young at heart.
Taking a stroll along Rainbow Row is one of the most popular things to do in Charleston, but it’s far from the only architectural photo spot in the city. From White Point Garden’s monuments to historical houses like the Aiken-Rhett House Museum and the Nathaniel Russell House, your camera will have plenty to focus on.
Explore more: Check a national park off of your bucket list with a visit to Congaree National Park. Although you can hike trailways, a boardwalk circles the park, allowing visitors of all ages and abilities to see this ecologically diverse part of the state.
3. Hilton Head Island
When South Carolina residents need a getaway, they flock to Hilton Head Island. It’s a respite from the busyness of the day to day where its beaches, golf courses and waterways provide hours of R&R.
What to expect in winter: Snow is so rare in the area that you have a better chance of hitting a hole in one at Hilton Head golf courses than you do catching flurries on your tongue. Make sure you pack a T-shirt and cool pair of pants; you never know when the winter sun will turn up the heat to spring-like levels.
Where to stay: Ocean Oak Resort, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club is where you’ll lose track of time during an easy-going getaway. Ocean Oak Resort’s 2-Bedroom Suites have fully equipped kitchens, separate living and dining areas and private balconies. A kids’ activity center makes cooler days easier to plan while warmer evenings are great for outdoor dining and instant beach access.
Things to do: There are 26 golf courses in the Hilton Head Island area if you’re keen to return from vacation with a lower handicap. The Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Course, Golden Bear Golf Club and Heron Point by Pete Dye are just a few of the exciting championship golf courses ready for your tee off.
Swap the tee box for a tackle box and explore one of South Carolina’s premier fishing destinations. Cast a line off of the free Charles C. Haigh Jr. Fishing Pier or at the family-friendly Jarvis Creek Park.
The best way to warm up during winter is at Hilton Head restaurants and foodie events. Low season is seafood season and the best time of the year to try fresh oysters. Plan your visit around the Hilton Head Island Wine and Food Festival, the Annual Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebration or the Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival to fill your schedule and your stomach.
Explore more: Take a day trip to Savannah and explore its annual Christmas Market. This European-style outdoor market lines Plant Riverside District with live performances, festive food and drinks and a special photo session with Santa Claus.
Read “4 Helpful Packing Tips For Cold Weather Vacation” for planning advice.