Want to see what the world looks like from behind a waterfall? A short hike, about .6 miles, is all it takes to get to Moore Cove Falls in Pisgah National Forest. The trail isn’t difficult and runs into the forest via a beautiful bridge. The waterfall is beautiful, cascading 50 feet over a rock overhang.
Walk Behind Moore Cove Falls
The coolest part, in my opinion, is that there is enough space to walk behind the falls (and take cool photos). You can even sit on either side and have a snack since there are so many giant boulders.
Since it is a waterfall, caution is always recommended, especially as you walk around the waterfall and pools. I found this waterfall to be easy to navigate and had no problems with the large boulders and walking behind the falls, although it was a bit muddy.
Moore Cove Falls Trailhead
The trailhead to the Moore Cove Falls Trails is between Looking Glass Falls and Sliding Rock in the Pisgah Forest on 276. If you’re coming from Brevard, the trailhead will be on your right. There is a small pull-off where you can park that holds maybe seven or eight cars. There is an information board there as well.
To get to the falls, just cross the bridge and head up the stairs to the right. The trail is well-marked and has a few creek crossings and bridges. You’ll hear Moore Cove Falls before you see it, especially during the summer months when the forest canopy is at its fullest.
The trail is about 1.2 miles round trip and is great for families with smaller kids since you don’t need to work hard to see a beautiful sight! The trail is 90 minutes from Greenville. Make it a full day and head to Sliding Rock, Looking Glass Falls, or other great swimming holes in the Pisgah National Forest.
For directions, put into your GPS “Moore Cove Falls” or US-276, Brevard, NC 28712, and then start looking for the trail after you see Looking Glass Falls on your right.
Inside: If you’re looking for a lovely family trip not far from the Upstate, SC, consider Newnan-Coweta, GA, a little over three hours away. The small town charm and filming location of big television hits will captivate you!
Thanks to Explore Newnan-Coweta for inviting us on a media trip to experience their little slice of heaven.
Way down yonder on the Chattahoochee lies the charming small town of Newnan in Coweta County, just outside of Atlanta, Georgia. It’s the same town where country music legend Alan Jackson grew up and no doubt was inspired by his time on the iconic river to write his chart-topping hits.
Today, the town of Newnan is one of the must-see spots if you make the drive down I-85 to Coweta County. The other iconic town is Senoia, where “The Walking Dead” was filmed. We spent a weekend in this beautiful area and think you and your family will love it if you’re looking for a little getaway not far from the Upstate.
Newnan-Coweta is part of the greater metropolitan area of Atlanta and because of its proximity to the city, has been growing rapidly. But Newnan and Senoia both retain their small town charm.
The town square is the center of historic Newnan and quite literally all the small businesses surround the square. You can find anything from unique clothing to handmade tea towels to jewelry, pottery, chocolate, coffee, and books. This is what made me fall in love with Newnan.
Newnan was a hospital town during the Civil War since it was right off the railroad. The town was supported by the textile and manufacturing industries and you can still see some of the stately homes from that era as you drive into town. Many of the buildings date back to the mid-1800s.
Downtown Newnan, GA
One of the really neat buildings is the Alamo Theater on one of the corners of the town square. Originally built in 1880, it housed a harness shop, general store, and butcher shop throughout the decades. In 1928, it was converted to a movie theater with one screen and 551 seats. I felt like I was in one of the “Back to the Future” movies looking at the Alamo Theater.
Senoia is also super fascinating but for a whole other reason: I learned that Senoia is classified as Anytown, USA, which means it was built to basically conform to whatever a production team would need for a film or series. The streets of downtown have been laid with dirt and the buildings transformed to look like a Wild West town for one movie and the entire “Walking Dead” series was filmed in Senoia along with dozens of movies.
Things to do in Newnan-Coweta
Summer Wined Up
The weekend I spent in Newnan happened to be the same weekend of the Summer Wined Up festival. This event is meant to highlight not only various local wines but also showcase Newnan’s small businesses.
After you show your ID and get your wristband, you get a map of the small businesses and the wines they are serving, which are all about one ounce pours. You don’t have to try every single wine available – there are about 35 small businesses participating and that’s a lot of wine. I don’t know how many tickets they sold (they did sell out) but it was the perfect number because nowhere was crowded.
Enjoying downtown Newnan, GA
I really could not have envisioned a better introduction to the town of Newnan. Not only was the wine I tried delicious but having the opportunity to walk into each of the small businesses was just fantastic.
Many of them had small hors d’oeuvres like fruit, cheese, and cookies, which my daughters (ages 12 and 8) loved but we also got to check out local bookstores, shops overflowing with handcrafted jewelry and bags, apparel stores, pottery shops, medical businesses, and restaurants.
I was completely floored at the diversity of shops around the town square. It was amazing and my girls and I had such a blast shopping and picking up some really neat items.
We will be sure to update this story before next year’s Wined Up so you can make plans to go to Newnan for the weekend! Newnan will host a similar event, Oktoberfest on Friday, October 3rd from 5-10 pm, if you’d like to start making travel plans.
Senoia Farmers Market
This farmers market is adorable. We loved strolling through the stalls and finding everything from freshly cut flowers to produce and vegetables to iced coffee to French pastries and bread. There are so many unique vendors and it was a lot of fun to wander through the farmers market before we headed over to main street in Senoia to check out where “The Walking Dead” was filmed.
Full confession: I have never seen one episode of “The Walking Dead” but can certainly appreciate cinematic aspects of any film or series and love getting to see where movies are made.
Senoia Farmers Market
I picked up a lavender iced coffee from one of the local coffee vendors and cinnamon raisin bread and a danish from the French baker. She was quite convincing and I’m impressed with myself that I didn’t walk out of there with a lot – like, a lot – more baked goods.
When you walk around downtown Senoia, you’ll come across plaques on the ground that tell you about the different movies and shows that were filmed in the town. “Fried Green Tomatoes” and “Pet Cemetery II”, among many other movies, were filmed there.
We walked into one unique shop that had clothes from “The Walking Dead” that they acquired when the show ended. The owners had some great stories about how the production team would film in the town and when they even used their shop for some of the scenes. The Georgia Tour Company offers walking tours of the different areas around Senoia that have been used for movies.
There are coffee shops, breakfast and lunch bistros, a lovely bookstore, and stores that sell handmade goods up and down main street in Senoia. It’s a great place to spend some time exploring.
Bank of Woodbury in Senoia, GA
Full Circle Toys
Full Circle Toys & Games place is right off the main square and we just happened to stumble upon it when we got into town. My youngest child saw the words “toy shop” and she wanted to check it out so we did.
This store is so neat because they have toys from the 80s and 90s like collectible baseball figurines, Star Wars characters, Cabbage Patch dolls, Strawberry Shortcake dolls and houses, Fisher Price toys, Elmo and Cookie Monster dolls, collectible Barbies, and old school McDonald toys. I had such a blast wandering around this shop!
How to enjoy the outdoors in Newnan-Coweta
There are some great spots to enjoy the outdoors in Newnan-Coweta.
C.J. Smith Park
This park has a great playground with lots of swings and rope-climbing structures. There are two big slides down a hill that were under construction when we were there but they looked super fun.
This park also has a huge skate park. We got to watch several skateboarders show off their moves, which was a blast. I have a lot of admiration for these daredevils. A splash pad is near the parking lot but wasn’t on when we were there.
92 Farmer Street, Newnan, GA
Skate Park at C.J. Smith Park
Chattahoochee Bend State Park
Part of the Georgia State Park system, Chattahoochee Bend State Park has lots of camping, a couple of playgrounds, about six miles of trails, and a boat ramp into the river. There really aren’t any swimming spots but you can certainly fish in the river off the banks.
If you have your own kayak, you can launch right from the park into the river. The Park also has programs available that sometimes involve kayaking on the river. Check out the park events page to see what’s going on when you are planning a visit. We did a short, shaded (thankfully) hike along the river and it was really pretty.
425 Bobwhite Way, Newnan, GA
Chattahoochee Bend State Park
Where to eat in Newnan-Coweta
There are several restaurants right in downtown Newnan and Senoia. Here’s where we ate:
Meat N Greet
Meat N Greet was our first stop for dinner when we got to Newnan and the staff was awesome. Our waitress explained the menu and gave us her recommendations. They are known for burgers so that’s what we got. All our dishes were really good and the fries were amazing. Meat N Greet is right off the main square in Newnan so it’s a great starting point if you want to wander around downtown.
11 Jefferson Street, Newnan, GA
Curious Kitchen at the Senoia Farmers Market
After our morning at the Senoia Farmers Market, we were going to head over to the Chattahoochee Bend State Park. I wanted something for lunch on the go so we got bacon and egg burritos and sandwiches from the Curious Kitchen at one of the stalls at the market. I was given a tip that these were pretty famous and that is a hundred percent the truth.
My kids devoured their sandwiches and I couldn’t even finish my burrito. The flavors were outstanding! If you go to Senoia on a day when the Farmers Market isn’t open, you can still get an amazing burrito or sandwich at the Curious Kitchen and Bar located in downtown Senoia.
42 Main Street Suite 1B, Senoia, GA
The Cellar
The Cellar is a steakhouse located in downtown Newnan that serves a variety of both meat and seafood dishes. I had shrimp and grits and roasted vegetables, which were delicious. My kids ordered off the children’s menu and had grilled cheese and chicken tenders. I’ll admit I stole a bunch of their fries because excellent fries are my weak spot. The Cellar is more on the fine dining scale so reservations are recommended.
20 Jefferson Street, Newnan, GA
Bistro Hilary
This cute restaurant is located in Senoia and is a great stop for lunch. Bistro Hilary is based on French-inspired cuisine that sources their ingredients locally.
21 Barnes Street, Senoia, GA
Rock Salt Milk Bar
If you go anywhere in Newnan, Rock Salt Milk Bar should be it. They make all their own ice cream, sourcing as many ingredients as they can both locally and organically. And they make their own waffle bowls and cones.
I honestly could have eaten just those. I got honey lavender ice cream in a waffle bowl and I was in heaven. The kiddie size, which is a small(ish) scoop, and is perfect. I like ice cream but don’t like to overindulge and this size was perfect. My kids were also in heaven, so big win.
8 East Washington Street, Newnan, GA
Waffle bowl at Rock Salt Milk Bar
Where to stay in Newnan-Coweta
We stayed at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott just seven minutes from the Newnan Town Square. I always look for places with kitchenettes to help save on food costs when traveling and this place had a great kitchenette with a refrigerator, sink, two burner stovetop, and dishwasher. We took advantage of the refrigerator to keep our waters cold because it was super hot when we visited (not the hotel but the weather!).
Pool
The hotel also had complimentary breakfast each morning with eggs (one of my kids declared these eggs some of the best she’s ever had so there’s that), waffles, oatmeal, cereal, bagels, and muffins. There’s also juice and coffee/hot chocolate/tea available 24/7.
On the way to Newnan-Coweta, my kids wanted to know if the hotel had a pool and were delighted to find out that indeed, their dreams would be coming true when we arrived. The pool is outdoors and there is also an indoor fitness center.
Lastly, the rooms are very spacious and clean and all the hotel staff were very helpful. There is free parking for all guests.
4001 McIntosh Pkwy, Newnan, GA
Fall 2023 Events in Newnan-Coweta
Don’t miss any of these great fall events happening in Newnan-Coweta!
Oktoberfest in downtown Newnan on Friday, October 3rd from 5-10 pm. It will be set up similar to the Wined festival where you can visit local shops and sample good brews.
Spirits and Spice Festival: At the Spirits and Spice Festival, on October 25th, from 2-7 pm, visitors can indulge in a delightful October afternoon filled with eating, drinking and bewitching fun. The downtown area will be full of nostalgic businesses serving up specialty cocktails, locals participating in a chili cook-off and talented artists showcasing their creations. It’s the perfect time for guests to have a gourd time and embrace the Halloween Spirit.
CowetaCoastal Social:Coweta Community Foundation is hosting Coweta Coastal Social, a concert fundraiser at Line Creek Reserve on August 8th, 2025. The Emerald Empire Band will perform, and they will have a shrimp boil, oysters, an open bar, and more! All proceeds benefit the Coweta Together Fund’s Impact Grants, which support the community.
Overall Impression of Newnan-Coweta
I’m always up for a new adventure and visiting new places but I really had no idea what to expect at Newnan-Coweta. That first night walking around the main square in downtown Newnan was unexpectedly fantastic. I absolutely loved the small town charm, the local businesses, the kindness of everyone we met, and the calm atmosphere of Newnan. It was almost like stepping back in time, which I so enjoyed.
I love traveling with my daughters and seeing their excitement at exploring new places and they felt the same way about Newnan and Senoia. These little towns are both unique and interesting but also just give off such a calm and peaceful vibe that I couldn’t help but get caught up in the beauty of it.
Downtown Newnan, GA
And Alan Jackson. I love country music from the 90s and have been a fan of his for many years. Finding out that this is where he grew up was quite exciting.
Normally, our trips involve a lot of hiking and adventure and more high-strung activities, so exploring Newnan-Coweta in a more relaxed fashion was certainly a newer experience but one that we really enjoyed. If you’re looking for more of a low-key trip that has elements of uniqueness and invites restfulness and family or couple time, this is the place to go.
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Spend a weekend in Newnan-Coweta, Georgia, as a family! Here are some of the best places we found while visiting!
Summary: An organized list of places near Greenville, SC that offer upick peaches, plus where you can buy pre-picked local peaches.
Are you looking for a place to go peach picking? SC peach picking spots are located near Greenville and into Western North Carolina. And, just in case you’d like to skip the picking and just get some delicious peaches, we’ve added some great places to get local pre-picked peaches. If you’re wondering, “Where can I get peaches near me?” you’ve come to the right spot.
Did you know that South Carolina actually grows more peaches than Georgia? Yep, peach picking SC is a real thing because, believe it or not, South Carolina was the second-highest peach-producing state in 2024. Georgia was third. Even though we aren’t the Peach State, we can unofficially claim that title for fun with our acres and acres of peaches, orchards, peach farms, and peach stands.
While there are not a lot of local places you can pick your own, there are plenty of places to get locally-grown peaches. We’ve got both of those lists right here for you so you can get to eatin’ some peaches.
Are you in need of some Group Therapy? Greenville has an indoor playground for adults that will bring out your inner child for a little fun. Group Therapy Pub & Playground is a great place to play, for everyone!
Sometimes you just need some space to chill out, play some games, and belt out some karaoke, or if you’re like me, just cheer on the brave souls who do. All of that and more is at the new Group Therapy Pub & Playground at Camperdown Plaza in downtown Greenville.
What’s Inside: A guide to over 20sandy lake beaches near Greenville, SC with beautiful, mountain-fed swim spots perfect for a summer day trip. All are within two hours of Greenville and offer sun, sand, and family-friendly fun.
🧺 Best lake beaches for swimming & sunbathing 🌄 Lakes with scenic mountain backdrops & clear water 🐾 Pet policies, fees, and bathroom info included 🗺️ Bonus beaches in NC & North Georgia, too!
Can’t decide if you like the beach or the mountains? Have both – just alter those beach expectations a little – with these sandy lake beaches. Greenville, SC offers so many beach options fed by cool, refreshing mountain water. If you’re wondering “where are all the lake beaches near me?” you’ll want to keep reading this list. Everything here is within 2 hours of Greenville, South Carolina.
I grew up near the Jersey Shore so I know what a beach should look like. Get that version of miles and miles of sand and shore out of your head. However, be prepared to be pleasantly surprised by these sandy mountain beaches that do have sand and sun, just not exactly like you may be used to at the ocean.
OK, now that you’re sufficiently prepared to enjoy both the beach and the mountain, here are our best recommendations of where to grab the sand toys, beach towels, and cooler and head out for some sun and a refreshing swim for the day.
2025 NOTE: Harmful blue algae has appeared in parts of Lake Hartwell early this summer so be sure to check your intended location before heading out. SCDES has been testing the water.
Where: Devils Fork State Park, 161 Holcombe Circle, Salem Cost: $8/adults, $4/kids ages 6-15, under five are free Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: All pets must be on a leash no longer than six feet.
Lake Jocassee beach is one of our favorites in the Upstate because you look out over the stunning and crystal clear lake. The view is unbeatable. Water shoes are best since you have to scramble down some rocks to get to the sandy oasis. How large the beach is will depend on the water level of the lake. If it’s around 96 or below, you’ll have a decent amount of sand. If it’s above that, you won’t. The lake is great for water sports, and is a treasure of Upstate, SC. Check it before you go to prepare!
Pinnacle Lake
Where: Table Rock State Park, 158 Ellison Lane, Pickens Cost: $6/adults, $3.50/kids ages 6-15, under five are free Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: No dogs allowed in the swimming area or beach. All pets must be on a leash no longer than six feet.
This lakeside beach area has a decent-sized shorefront with lots of sand. Get there early in the summer to make sure you are able to get into the park. Kayak and paddleboard rentals available; you cannot bring your own. They do have a life jacket area for boaters to borrow from. This beach is around 30 minutes from downtown Greenville.
Lake Placid
Where: Paris Mountain State Park, 2401 State Park Road, Greenville Cost: $6/adults, $3.50/kids ages 6-15, under five are free Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: No dogs allowed in the swimming area. All pets must be on a leash no longer than six feet.
Small beach in this state park located inside Greenville County. Watch the Paris Mountain website for swim advisories as water there has been found to be contaminated in recent years. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available; you cannot bring your own.
Chau Ram County Park
Where: Oconee County, Chau Ram Park Road, Westminster Cost: $3/car Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: All pets must be leashed and on physical restraint
A nice little sandy beach with lots of shallow spots to swim and wade.
Beach at Chau Ram County Park
Riley Moore Falls
Where: Sumter National Forest, Riley Moore Falls Trail, Westminster Cost: Free Bathrooms: No Pet policy: Dogs are welcome but they must be leashed according to SC leash laws.
This swimming hole and beach is accessible by a two-mile round-trip hike and people even camp there. Park near the sign that says “Riley Moore Falls” if you don’t have a 4×4 SUV or truck to get up the logging road to the trailhead. There is a good size sandy beach with views of the 50-foot wide waterfall. Lots of places to let the kids play around in the water but because so many people have littered, there is some trash around and we had to watch for glass. Water shoes were worn the whole time.
Sandy Mountain Beaches Near Anderson
Twelve Mile Park Recreation Area
Where: 113 Twelve Mile Park, Clemson Cost: $5 parking fee Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: Pets are not permitted on the beach.
Pretty beach right in Clemson within the beautiful setting of Lake Hartwell. Learn all about it in our review of Twelve Mile Park .
Clemson Y
Where: 245 YMCA Cir, Seneca Cost: The parking pass is $7.50 Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: Pets are not allowed.
The Clemson Y, as it is locally known but is officially called the Snow Family Outdoor Fitness and Wellness Complex, has opened back up for public access from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend from 8 am – 8 pm.
South Cove Park
Where: On the shores of Lake Keowee, 1031 S Cove Rd, Seneca Cost: $3/car Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: Pets are welcome anywhere in the park on a leash (including the swim beach and nature trails).
South Cove Park has a small sandy beach for sunbathing and playing, a great playground as well as lots of lakeside campgrounds. The park is actually a peninsula that extends into the lake.
South Cove County Park
Darwin Wright Park
Where: 106 Anderson Beach Boulevard, Anderson Cost: Free Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: No animals allowed in the park at all.
Darwin Wright Park in Anderson County has a good-sized beach along the lake where you can swim. Swim at your risk since there are no lifeguards.
Sadlers Creek State Park
Where: 940 Sadlers Creek Rd, Anderson, SC Cost: $3/adults, $1/kids ages 6-15 (free if you have a SC State Parks Pass) Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: Pets are allowed in most outdoor areas provided they are kept under physical restraint or on a leash not longer than six feet. Owners will be asked to remove noisy or dangerous pets or pets that threaten or harass wildlife.
There are multiple beaches at Sadlers Creek State Park plus plenty of spots to picnic, hang a hammock, grill, fish, or take out your kayak or paddleboard.
Sweet Gum Beach at Sadlers Creek State Park
Broyles Recreation Area
Where: 900 Smyzer Road, Townville, SC Cost: $5/car Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: Pets are allowed but must be kept on leash (6 ft or less) or otherwise physically restrained.
This small park is perfect for a day of fun with a beach along the shores of Lake Hartwell. They also have camping available.
Sandy beach at Broyles Recreation Area
The Shores of Asbury
Where: On the shores of Lake Hartwell, 1600 Asbury Park Road, Anderson Cost: $10/parking per two people + $10/person beach access Parking: Yes Pet policy: No dogs are allowed on the whitebeach sand or sod areas at the restaurant. They are allowed on the patio area but must stay off the sod. There is an area designated as a dog friendly relief area with a pet station on the opposite side of the parking lot near the boat landing and near the smoking area.
The Shores of Asbury is a campground that has imported sand from Florida and a huge Aqua Zone floating obstacle course that operates seasonally. Beach access is available. Kayak and paddleboard rentals available; you cannot bring your own.
High Falls Park
Where: On Lake Kewoee, 671 High Falls Road, Seneca Cost: $3/car Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: No dogs are allowed at the swimming areas are inside buildings.
Right on the beautiful Lake Keowee, High Falls Park has a small sandy beach, restrooms, changing rooms, and a campground.
Singing Pines Recreation Area
Where: 6600 US-29, Starr, SC on the shores of Lake Hartwell Cost: $5/car Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: Pets are allowed but must be kept on leash (6 ft or less) or otherwise physically restrained.
With a boat ramp, two playgrounds, and two designated swim areas/beaches, Singing Pines is a popular summer destination.
River Forks
Where: 710 River Forks Rd, Anderson, SC Cost: $4/car Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: All pets must be kept on a leash (not to exceed 6 feet) and are prohibited in the swimming beach areas and on the boat ramp.
There are designated swim beaches, a playground, picnic area, and boat ramps at this recreation area in Anderson.
Mile Creek County Park
Where: On Lake Keowee, 757 Keowee Baptist Church Road, Six Mile Cost: $5/day parking fee Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: All pets must be on leash or under physical restraint at all times. Pets will not be left unattended. Noisy/aggressive animals must be removed from the park. Owners are required to pick up after pets.
This great little beach is perfect for families. It’s got a playground, swimming area, bathrooms, picnic facilities, and camping. Read our review here.
Mile Creek County Park
Calhoun Falls State Park
Where: On Lake Russell, 46 Maintenance Shop Rd, Calhoun Falls, SC Cost: $3/adults, $1/kids Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: Pets are allowed in most outdoor areas provided they are kept under physical restraint or on a leash not longer than six feet. Owners will be asked to remove noisy or dangerous pets or pets that threaten or harass wildlife.
Small sandy beach right on Lake Russell. And there’s great camping sites here also.
Lake Hartwell State Park
There’s a very, very small sandy beach inside the park on Lake Hartwell off a small trail on the road leading to the fishing pier.
Where: 19138-A Hwy 11 S, Fair Play, SC Cost: $3/adults, $1/kids ages 6-15 Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: Pets are allowed in most outdoor areas provided they are kept under physical restraint or on a leash not longer than six feet. Owners will be asked to remove noisy or dangerous pets or pets that threaten or harass wildlife.
Sandy Mountain Beaches in Western NC
Lake Lure [This beach and lake was heavily affected by Hurricane Helene and will likely not open until 2026 – but restaurants are open!]
Where: 2724 Memorial Hwy, Lake Lure, NC Cost: $10/adults, $8/kids ages 4-12 + 45” tall, Kids four and under are free with adult Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: Pets are not allowed on the beach.
Lake Lure has a huge beach for relaxing, sunning, and playing. Admission also includes access to the on-site small waterpark. Lifeguards are present at Lake Lure. Opens Memorial Day weekend.
Lake James State Park [Swim area CLOSED due to Helene damage]
Where: Just outside the Linville Gorge in NC, 6883 NC-126, Nebo, NC Cost: $5/adults, $4/kids 12 and under Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: Pets are allowed at the park and at campsites. They are not permitted on the swim beach or inside buildings.
Large sandy beach just under two hours from Greenville with bathrooms, changing rooms, and a concession stand. No pets allowed on the beach. the lake has a designated swimming area with lifeguards from May to September. Parts of the park is open following Hurricane Helene but the beach is not one of them.
Wildcat Lake
Where: Hickory Nut Gap Road, Banner Elk, NC Cost: Free; you do pay if you want to rent a paddleboard/kayak Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: Pets are not allowed at this lake
Wildcat Lake in Banner Elk is a beautiful spot where you can sunbathe, swim, either rent your own paddleboard or kayak or bring your own. It’s open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Hours you can swim are Monday-Saturday 11 am – 6 pm and Sunday 1 pm- 6 pm.
Lake Powhatan
Where: In Pisgah National Forest, 375 Wesley Branch Rd, Asheville Cost: $4/person day use fee; $30 day use annual pass Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: Pets are not allowed on the beach.
This is a small lake and campground only 90 minutes from the Upstate with a sandy beach where lifeguards are on duty. It’s open Memorial Day to Labor Day. If you’re camping or glamping there, the fee is waived.
Pines Recreation Area on Lake Glenville
Where: 1965 Pine Creek Road, Cullowhee, NC. Cost: Free Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: Pets are not allowed at the Pines Recreation Area.
Beautiful little beach on the shores of Lake Glenville in Jackson County, NC.
Pines Rec, Lake Glenville
Sandy Mountain Beaches in North Georgia
Sandy Creek Park
Where: Athens, GA Cost: $2/per person Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: Pets are not allowed on the beach.
Sandy Creek Park has it all: a playground, shaded picnic areas, a lake with boat rentals, 28,000 square feet of sandy swimming beach, and trails. It’s a great spot to cool off during the summer and walk the trails during the cooler months. It’s only 15 minutes outside of downtown Athens. Hours are Tuesday – Sunday from 7 am – 8:30 pm and closed on Mondays.
Sandy Creek Park
Wildwood Park
Where: 3780 Dogwood Lane, Appling, GA 30802 Cost: The daily rate is $3 a day for cars, trucks, or motorcycles and $6 for vehicles with a boat or watercrafts. Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: Pets are not allowed on the beach area.
Wildwood Park is just outside of Augusta, GA and has a beach, playground, camping, and watersport rentals.
Cane Creek Park
Where: 5213 Harkey Road, Waxhaw, NC Cost: $4/car + $2/person for swimming or $5/person for swimming, mini-golf, and peddle boat day pass Bathrooms: Yes Pet policy: Dogs and other animals shall not be allowed within the fenced ballfield, swim areas, or inside buildings.
Cane Creek Park in Waxhaw, NC has a big, sandy beach where you can swim and play. They open in June and their hours are Wednesdays – Fridays 11 am – 6:30 pm. The park runs on a modified schedule due to a lifeguard shortage. They have also trails, peddle boats, kayak rentals, and mini-golf at this park.
Where’s your favorite sandy beach near the Upstate?
You don’t have to drive to the coast to play in the summer sun on a sandy beach! There are plenty of mountain beaches near the Upstate, and this list has some of the best places near Greenville, SC with sandy mountain beaches.
Too hot to enjoy the outdoors? If you’re searching for things to do on a hot day near me in Greenville, SC, we’ve got you covered. Kidding Around’s Kristina rounded up the best ways to stay cool, from indoor play and splash pads to sweet treats like ice cream. Whether you’re trying to beat the heat or just need fresh ideas for steamy summer days, this list is packed with fun!
Craving something sweet and wondering where to find the best ice cream near me? If you’re searching for a delicious scoop (or two!) of Greenville, SC ice cream, you’re in luck! Local mom Kristina Hernandez has the inside scoop on all the best spots in Greenville and Spartanburg Counties. From an ice cream shop tucked inside a peach stand to a retro soda fountain in a local pharmacy and a downtown parlor serving up trendy rolled ice cream, this list is full of cool, creamy adventures your whole family will love. Info on vegan and dairy-free options included.
Are you looking for a wonderful park in Mauldin? City Center Park is a beautiful park with a cultural center, a fabulous playground, an ice cream shop, and more! This large park in Mauldin, South Carolina, also hosts several family-friendly events a year.
When the temperatures heat up in the summer or drop to freezing in the winter, you can still have a really fun date night indoors in Greenville, SC. We’ve got the best ideas for indoor dates, from axe throwing to seeing a play to dancing and rock climbing.
If the idea of feeling sweat drip down your back while on a date outdoors this summer doesn’t sound romantic, we can sympathize. Summers, while fun in South Carolina, can be brutally hot, and planning a fun date together where you aren’t melting may take some creativity – and that’s where we can help you out. And on cold winter nights, you can stay warm indoors while having fun together, too!
Fortunately, there are lots of fantastic places in the Upstate to have a memorable and cool date night in the AC besides the standard dinner and a movie. You can enjoy some quality time together while also maybe even checking off some bucket list items. No matter your interests, we think you’ll find something on this list where you can plan a great summer or winter date night together.
Best Indoor Date Night Ideas for Playing
Group Therapy Pub & Playground
Located in Camperdown Plaza in downtown Greenville, Group Therapy has an 18-hole mini-golf course, axe throwing, curling, ping pong, and tons more, plus an extensive bar and food menu. You must make reservations to play the games.
Throw it back to the 90s with an awesome arcade that has more than a dozen pinball machines, but old school games like Nintendo, Paper Boy, and Pac-Man. It’s $10/person for all-day play. Vaughn’s Food Hall is right next door, where you can grab dinner together.
Double Stamp Brewery
Play Nintendo together at the bar while enjoying delicious craft beer or sodas made right in-house at Double Stamp Brewery in Greenville.
Pinky’s Revenge
Get some 80s square pizza and play lots of fun arcade or video games together at Pinky’s Revenge.
Best Indoor Date Nights for Busting Stress
Break some stuff
Take a bat to some glass, an old car, or windows at Mad Smash Rage Room in Taylors Mill. You’ll absolutely love breaking stuff, we promise!
Best Indoor Date Nights for Making Something Together
Maybe you’re trying to have a cozy, rainy day date that goes beyond the living room or playing board games. Go out and make something together! These make for a great romantic indoor date!
These shows are a great way to enjoy time with each other, and are also the perfect excuse to catch your favorite comedy show, a tour through outer space, or even a rock concert.
Starry Nights
Relax in the planetarium at Roper Mountain Science Center and gaze up at the stars and learn about our magnificent solar system at Friday Starry Nights. They also offer the Laser Days of Summer shows that feature rock music and lasers (in the winter, Holiday laser shows are quite fun too). You must buy tickets online ahead of time.
If you love to dance – or want to learn – there are some great spots to do so. Check out country line dancing at Cowboy Up Greenville. Landmark Hall in Greer and the Blue Ridge Dance Lab in TR they have different dance nights so check their website.
You can also dance the night away at one of these local music venues (many of which are breweries, so you can grab a drink and relax or dance!)
Inside: Local mom visits Pirates of Hilton Head, a pirate cruise in Hilton Head, SC that is perfect for families! You can dress up like pirates, shoot water cannons, and find treasure!
Ever been on a pirate boat? Pirates of Hilton Head will have your kids practicing their pirate lingo for the entire vacation. Kids get to dress up as pirates and fight off the bad guy in search of treasure during one of the most entertaining cruises on Hilton Head Island. We sent contributor Kristina to check it out with her family. Your kids will be saying “aye-aye captain” in no time on the Pirates of Hilton Head cruise!
