Thinking about a couple’s day trip somewhere near Greenville, SC? If you want to plan a dreamy day trip with your significant other this summer, we have many ideas for couples. We have put together a whole list of romantic day trip ideas! Whether you want to do something romantic, visit a new town, or have some adventure, our list will help you plan the perfect day trip.
If you are planning a family vacation to the SC coast, a stellar beach to visit is Isle of Palms. Things to do at IOP near Charleston are endless. Isle of Palms is convenient, family-friendly, and fun. You can even make a fun day trip out of it! She shares all the information that you need, including things to do, where to eat, and how much parking costs if you’re just planning a quick day trip at this local South Carolina beach.
About Isle of Palms
Recently, my family traveled to Charleston to spend the day at Isle of Palms. Yes, you read that right – we went for the day. Isle of Palms is completely doable as a day trip. It’s perfect if you’re like me and live on a budget but long to breathe in the salt air.
Let me tell you, I was so impressed. There’s a quaint beachfront road lined with restaurants and shops. The shops are your typical beach shops filled with t-shirts, trinkets, and every size/shape boogie board to hit the market. You know, the kind of shops full of souvenirs found only on the coast.
There are also plenty of unique places to eat, a wonderful and clean beach, and fun shops to explore!
Isle of Palms: Things to Do With Your Family
Hang out at the Beach
One of the best things to do while in town is to head to the beach. The beach at IOP is flat, and there is plenty of room, even during high tide. The boys had a great time with boogie and skimboards. You can also spend the day looking for seashells, building sandcastles, or just enjoying the sounds of the Atlantic Ocean. You can occasionally catch live music right by the dunes!
South Carolina’s crazy weather pattern has created a more hazardous environment for swimmers, so always be cautious of rip tides. In the midst of your family fun, make sure to keep an eye on the colored flag at the lifeguard stand.
Big Family Day Trip Tip: Isle of Palms County Park
If you park at Isle of Palms County Park, you’ll have restrooms, outdoor showers, and changing rooms available to you. This is a big deal when you have a 3-hour-plus ride back home!
The beach can get pretty crowded, especially on Saturday, so plan to get there early in the day if you want a large space on the beach to set up camp. If you are in need of chair and umbrella rentals, there is a company for that! You can rent surfboards, bikes, chairs, and umbrellas from IOP Beach Chair Co. They even rent accessible beach wheelchairs.
You’ll also find rentals for chairs, umbrellas, and boogie boards available at a cart by the restrooms at Isle of Palms County Park.
⭐Bonus tip: There is a Harris Teeter across the street from Isle of Palms park. It’s a good place to stop before the beach to load up on snacks, fruit, or even some pre-made sandwiches. You’ll save some money here over restaurants and beach carts!
Grab Some Delicious Seafood
There’s certainly no shortage of food choices. Whether you enjoy live music and seafood, or you’re looking for some good ol’ American burgers and fries, you will find a delicious meal at Isle of Palms. One of the most popular places is Acme Lowcountry Kitchen. They have mostly seafood options and use fresh and local ingredients, which would make for a great dinner after a long day on the beach. They also have a pretty decent kids’ menu, which is always a plus.
If you are looking for something delicious right off Ocean Boulevard, then Smugglers Island Eats and Raw Bar will hit the spot. They pride themselves on a family-friendly atmosphere with a casual vibe. Smugglers, of course, offers seafood like fried shrimp baskets, but also has smash burgers and vegetarian options if you want something else. Their frozen daiquiris are delicious by the way!
One of the most popular beach restaurants in IOP is Coconut Joe’s Beach Grill. They have lots of seafood dishes like crab cakes and shrimp and grits that are delicious, but they also have burgers and sandwiches. The restaurant is located by the ocean on Ocean Boulevard and offers a rooftop bar for patrons to enjoy a delicious cocktail while taking in the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.
Take a Barrier Island Ecotour
If you are a nature lover, then going on an ecology tour of the waterways and marshes near IOP would be a perfect addition to your trip. Barrier Island Eco Tours has public tours that are guided by a naturalist and include boat excursions, dolphin tours, an exploration of Capers Island, and more. You are certain to see lots of sealife on your excursion, and it is a wonderful way to learn more about the SC coast while also having a blast. The company offers public trips, private charters, school trips, and special events throughout the year.
Isle of Palms Beach Parking
The beachfront Isle of Palms County Park offers great parking, snack bars, restrooms, and beach access. Admission prices vary depending on the season, but car prices do not exceed $15 during the week, and $25 on weekends. If Saturday is your only option for travel, you’ll want to get an early start. The County Park lot will fill up, I promise. I’m speaking from experience.
Parking on the street is an option, but the spaces are limited on the weekends. There are electronic pay-boxes along the sidewalk, so make sure to have a card handy (it’s inexpensive). We lucked out with a spot on the street directly in front of beach access with a clean bathhouse.
Between the County Park and plenty of public beach access, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the Isle of Palms. Whether you are renting a home, having a day trip, staying at Wild Dunes Resort, or vacationing at one of the few hotels in town, you are certain to find your Isle of Palms vacation worthwhile.
Visit the Isle of Palms website for more information on where to eat, what to do, and where to stay if you need more than a day trip.
Find a Place to Stay in Isle of Palms
Use the map below to find the perfect place to stay in Isle of Palms. Kidding Around earns when you book through these links through an affiliate relationship with Stay 22.
What’s your favorite thing to do when visiting the Isle of Palms?
Did you know you can watch free movies outdoors near Greenville, SC? Are you wondering, “Where are all the free outdoor movies near me?” You are in luck because there are several parks and towns that offer free outdoor movies throughout summer and fall, including Greer, Spartanburg, Travelers Rest, and Downtown Greenville. Here’s your full schedule of free outdoor movies in Upstate, SC as well as what titles will be available.
Remember that these events are subject to weather, so check the Facebook page of the venue close to the movie date. Also, especially for extremely popular choices, you will want to be sure to arrive early.
Have you heard about the sunflower fields at the Draper Wildlife Area? If you are looking for a magical place to take family photos or just a place to visit for fresh air and a change of scenery, we found a place just south of Rock Hill that won’t cost you a dime to enjoy. The Draper WMA Sunflower Fields are only in bloom for a few weeks over the summer, but if you hurry you can see them in full bloom.
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.
Inside: Beautiful swimming holes in North Carolina and South Carolina, with gorgeous pictures and info from parents who’ve visited these swimming holes.
Searching for swimming holes near me or places to swim near Greenville, SC? Cool off in the South Carolina heat with these beautiful natural spots perfect for swimming, wading, and splashing around. From shady creeks to clear lakes and rivers, these local swimming holes offer an easy escape into nature.
Pack your towels and swimsuits—whether you’re swinging into a natural pool, finding a magical hidden swimming hole, or just soaking your feet, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you.
Are swimming holes better than pools? We’ll let you decide.
🛑Note: Always check your destination before heading out. And be cautious in areas recently impacted by Tropical Storm Helene, as debris may still be in the water.
If you love swimming holes and want more, here’s a great list of Swimming Holes in North Georgia. Please pack a lunch and make it an awesome day trip adventure!
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!
If you are planning an epic 4th of July with family and fireworks, then this Heritage Park 4th of July celebration is where to go! The city hosts its annual Simpsonville Simply Freedom Fest at Heritage Park for their 4th of July celebration on Thursday, July 3rd, 2025!
Again this year the city of Simpsonville will be hosting a free concert with performances by Eli Young Band, Corey Smith, and DJ Slim McGraw in celebration of the 4th of July in addition to the spectacular fireworks! Simpsonville, SC looking forward to celebrating Independence Day with you!
Heritage Park 4th of July Celebration (Fireworks: Simpsonville, SC)
If you love a spectacular display of fireworks, Simpsonville, SC, has you covered! The Independence Day Celebration is being held at the CCNB Amphitheatre at Heritage Park. The event proceeds 4th of July on Thursday, July 3rd, 2025 at 6 pm (gates open at 5:30 pm). Included in the festivities is a spectacular concert. There will also be post-concert fireworks. Entrance to the event and parking are FREE.
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.