From Charleston to Savannah: the ultimate Lowcountry adventure

Picture Spanish moss-draped oaks, grand manors set against verdant fields, marshy wetlands, and charming roadside farm stands – a road trip through the Lowcountry offers an unforgettable taste of southern charm. Along the way, you'll encounter the warm hospitality of locals who greet you at every stop.

Many visitors struggle to choose between two of the South’s most renowned cities. Why not enjoy both, along with all the historical, cultural, and culinary treasures in between? (Spoiler: expect ghost tours, wineries, and ancient ruins that will delight all your senses.) Here’s everything you need to know about making the most of your journey and where to explore.

What exactly is the Lowcountry?

The definition of the Lowcountry can vary by state and interpretation. Generally, it refers to a coastal area at or below sea level. For this road trip, we're covering the entire coastal region from Charleston to Savannah, extending west to the Midlands or Sand Hills. Simply put, the Lowcountry signifies the lowest elevation areas in the state.

When is the ideal time to visit?

It's hard to say there's a bad time to visit Charleston and Savannah, as both cities offer year-round activities for history enthusiasts and food lovers. However, the spring months (March to May) feature delightful temperatures, typically ranging from the upper 60s to low 80s. The cities are vibrant with blooming flora, and events like the annual Charleston Festival highlight their most stunning homes and gardens.

Evenings can get chilly, with temperatures dipping into the 40s and 50s, so bringing a light jacket is advisable. If you plan on hitting the beach (Tybee Island near Savannah is a fantastic choice), the summer months (June to August) represent the peak season for sea islands. While the Atlantic waters may be refreshing, be prepared for larger crowds and elevated accommodation costs.

Where to begin and rent a car

For this north-to-south journey, start your adventure in Charleston. Most likely, you'll land at Charleston International Airport, located about 20 minutes north of the city. The airport features a rental car pavilion at the end of the main terminal, just past baggage claim, with options including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and more. If you're arriving by Amtrak, the Charleston station is a quick 10-minute drive east of the airport.

What to bring along

Don’t be misled by the oaks and cypress trees; the sun here is intense, so pack sunscreen and sun-protective clothing for year-round use. For outdoor activities, including winery and estate tours, bug spray will be essential. If you play golf or have any interest in it, be sure to bring your clubs—the golf courses in this area are exceptional.

While the vibe is generally relaxed, the towns and cities maintain a stylish flair. For men, a vibrant button-up or polo, khakis, loafers, and perhaps a bow tie for a fancier touch are typical. For women, think bright pastel colors and fun patterns. If you have a nice dinner planned, you’ll fit right in with this attire.

And perhaps most importantly, don’t forget to pack a cooler. You’ll definitely want to keep your local culinary treasures and leftovers chilled, like pimento cheese, Brunswick stew, and she-crab soup.

Kick off your road trip in Charleston

Duration: 2.5 days/2 nights

Vibes: Known as ‘The Holy City,’ Charleston's skyline is punctuated with church steeples, while its streets are lined with cobblestones. This coastal treasure of South Carolina is celebrated for its Southern cuisine, quaint boutiques, and horse-drawn carriages that transport visitors to admire its stunning architecture.

Do: Take a leisurely stroll down King Street, stopping by shops like Blue Bicycle Books for rare literary gems, Worthwhile for designer fashion, and Candlefish for unique city-inspired candles. Don’t forget to capture a selfie in front of the charming pastel-hued Rainbow Row houses before heading south to the picturesque White Point Garden Park, where you can spot Fort Sumter National Monument on an island in the harbor.

Eat: Second State Coffee is Charleston’s premier specialty coffee shop and roaster, located in a cozy house on Beaufain Street. Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit is a local favorite – be sure to try their biscuit sandwiches stuffed with pimento or goat cheese. For hearty soul food, Bertha’s Restaurant serves up the city’s best sauce-covered pork chops. If you’re in the mood for fine dining, The Ordinary impresses with its elegant white marble decor and an array of fresh seafood delights.

Stay: Hotel Bennett offers a luxurious five-star experience right in Marion Square, complete with a spa and a rooftop pool. Charleston boasts a wealth of historic inns; consider a stay at Wentworth Mansion, featuring 21 uniquely designed rooms, marble fireplaces, and an on-site restaurant – Circa 1886 – known for serving one of the best breakfasts in South Carolina.

The drive: As you head out towards Kiawah Island, make a stop on Johns Island at Angel Oak Park to admire its namesake tree. This magnificent oak, estimated to be nearly 400 years old, boasts a circumference of 25.5 feet and is the largest living oak tree east of the Mississippi River.

Experience a round of golf in Kiawah Island

Duration: 1.5 days/1 night

Vibes: South Carolina is a paradise for golf enthusiasts. While Hilton Head garners much attention, this hidden gem embodies coastal luxury at its finest. Its Ocean Course was the host of the PGA Championship in 2021 and is set to host again in 2031, with breathtaking ocean views that are unmatched. In addition to golf, you can explore a 10-mile stretch of private beaches and the delightful shopping and dining hub of Freshfields Village. If the allure of the South Carolina Sea Islands captivates you, check out our guide to crafting your ideal getaway.

Do: Visit Kiawah Beachwalker Park, featuring a boardwalk and hard-packed sand, where you might spot a dolphin or two swimming nearby. If you’re in the mood for golf or want to practice your swing, Osprey Point Golf Course and Turtle Point Golf Course are excellent choices.

Eat: Head straight to the Ocean Course, even if you’re not playing golf – its seafood restaurant, The Atlantic Room, is known for some of the freshest seafood in the area. Jasmine Porch offers a taste of Lowcountry cuisine in a charming setting of brick and oak – don’t miss the shrimp and grits.

Stay: Experience luxury at The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, boasting 255 guest rooms, two pools, and stunning ocean views. For a more relaxed atmosphere, Andell Inn features a freshwater pool and is conveniently located within the Freshfields Village complex.

The drive: On your way to Beaufort via Routes 17 and 21, tea aficionados should make a detour to Wadmalaw Island and visit the Charleston Tea Garden – the only tea garden in North America, where you can take a trolley ride around the beautiful grounds. Enjoy the expansive, untouched landscape of over 125 acres growing nine varieties of tea.

Make a lively stop in Beaufort

Duration: 2 days/1 night

Vibes: Smaller than its bustling city counterparts, Beaufort is rich in coastal charm and historical nods, highlighted by the upcoming 2024 unveiling of a long-awaited Harriet Tubman monument in downtown. This is the “slow country,” where friendly locals will greet you on the street and the lifestyle is refreshingly relaxed.

Do: As you explore the Historic District, you’ll notice many porch ceilings painted blue – a Gullah tradition believed to ward off evil spirits. The Gullah people are descendants of enslaved Africans who labored on plantations across the sea islands. Consider booking a tour with Gullah-N-Geechie Mahn Tours to delve deeper into Gullah culture.

Eat: Old Bull Tavern is a cozy gastropub that serves comforting dishes like ricotta gnocchi with shrimp and duck accompanied by butternut squash puree. For a break from traditional Lowcountry cuisine, try La Marmota, a straightforward local market featuring a taco counter that offers an amazing birria.

Stay: Anchorage 1770 is an upscale, manor-style hotel just steps from the downtown marina and Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. Alternatively, The Beaufort Inn is a charming Victorian-style inn from the 1800s, complete with select cottages right in the historic center.

The drive: Next, it’s about a 50-minute journey to Bluffton, where you'll cross the 1.7-mile Broad River Bridge. Afterward, take a break at the Altahama Town Heritage Preserve, home to burial sites and artifacts from the Yemassee tribe. The preserve covers over 100 acres and boasts ancient oak trees.

Enjoy a well-deserved pause in Bluffton

Duration: 1.5 days/1 night

Vibes: This charming town of 35,000 residents is located on the May River, featuring delightful churches, historic sites, and local art galleries. Bluffton is just a 15-minute drive from Hilton Head Island, offering easy access to top-notch golf courses and shopping opportunities.

Do: While exploring the shops and boutiques in Bluffton’s Old Town, don’t miss out on visiting a local market to experience the community spirit. Lowcountry Made is located at Burnt Church Distillery, and Root and Bloom Market takes place every Wednesday at Martin Family Park.

Eat: Bluffton Oyster Co., established in 1899, remains a go-to spot for fresh seafood. Enjoy a variety of oysters, prepared baked (Rockefeller-style), steamed, fried, on the half shell, or in a sandwich.

Stay: Montage Palmetto Bluff offers a quintessential Southern retreat, complete with expansive marsh views, charming cottages, and village homes. This upscale resort features elegant bridges, a grand white-columned entrance, and nine dining options on-site.

The drive: It’s time to make the final stretch—a 40-minute drive south to Savannah. For a scenic detour, consider driving through the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge. Along the 4.5-mile Laurel Hill Wildlife Drive within the refuge, you’ll spot alligators, turtles, and a plethora of bird species.

A delightful farewell in Savannah

Duration: 2.5 days/2 nights

Vibes: The rhythmic clatter of horse-drawn carriages, a wealth of square parks, and lively bars and restaurants lining the Savannah River—there's nothing quite like it. While Atlanta serves as Georgia’s capital, Savannah stands as the true heart of coastal allure. For a fantastic itinerary in this charming city, be sure to check out this ultimate weekend guide.

Do: Schedule a tour to truly experience Savannah’s vibrancy, whether it's a stroll through Bonaventure Cemetery, the final resting place of American songwriter Johnny Mercer, or a ghostly walking tour—check out Hearse Ghost Ride Tours for a unique experience in a funeral hearse. The SCAD Museum of Art features contemporary works year-round and is affiliated with one of the nation's top art schools, Savannah College of Art & Design. For those on the hunt for souvenirs or keen on exploring local shops, here are our five favorite shopping spots in Savannah recommended by a local.

Eat: PERC Coffee is the trendy coffee roaster in town, while Cotton & Rye has become a beloved gastropub known for its homemade bread and exceptional sausages. Husk serves up Southern cuisine to perfection every evening from 5-10pm and boasts sister restaurants in Charleston and Nashville.

Stay: The Alida is situated along Savannah’s riverfront, offering easy access to various bars and music venues, plus complimentary bikes for guests. For a luxurious experience, consider Perry Lane, which features playful touches like in-room cookie jars and a rooftop deck complete with bocce ball and cornhole.