Where to Get Outside in the Lowcountry

From the beach to the swamp, discover the Lowcountry by getting outdoors

Botany Bay Heritage Preserve

Edisto Island

To see towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss, visit Botany Bay Heritage Preserve/Wildlife Management Area in Edisto Island. This Southern scenery spans more than 3,300 acres and includes a boneyard beach accessible at low tide. A day use pass, available for purchase on-site, is required. The preserve is closed on Tuesdays.

Francis Marion National Forest

Huger

Take a memorable hike through a wilderness of swamps and marshes in Francis Marion National Forest, located in Huger. Launch a kayak and paddle past abundant wildlife like otters, beavers, and deer or follow the Sewee Shell Ring boardwalk trail, a 1-mile loop overlooking a prehistoric shell mound.

Cypress Gardens

Moncks Corner

Made famous by The Notebook, Cypress Gardens in Moncks Corner offers beautiful swamp scenery in the Lowcountry. Paddle through the gardens with a loved one and spot cypress trees, birds, turtles, and lily pads along the way. Admission is free on select Saturdays for county residents.

Driessen Beach Park

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island includes 12 miles of sandy beaches accessible to the public at several points, including Driessen Beach Park. The park features a scenic, tree-lined boardwalk to the sand along with a playground, picnic tables, and outdoor showers. You may spot wildlife like pelicans, rabbits, and sand dollars.

The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort

Kiawah Island

Hosting major tournaments like the PGA Championship and Ryder Cup, The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean while you play a round with friends. Stop by The Ryder Cup Bar at The Ocean Course Clubhouse for a drink and lunch at this famous, and famously windy, course on Kiawah Island.