The charming beach communities along South Carolina's coast offer wonderful destinations all year-'round. Here are some of our favorite activities and foods by season.
FALL
For fall, it's all about pumpkins and festivals. Head to Boone Hall Pumpkin Patch or Legare Farms on St. John Island during October for a festive family excursion.
Harvest Festival is 11-5 on Saturday, Nov. 6, at Johns Island County Park. The admission is $8 per adult, free for kids 12 and younger. Enjoy bluegrass music by local bands, hayrides, pumpkin decorating and archery, and feast on Carolina barbecue, kettle corn, and more.
The Fall Festival at Night Heron Park on Kiawah Island is set from 5-7:30 p.m. Nov. 25. Enjoy live music, inflatables, and southern lawn games, all free of charge. Assorted crafts and concessions are available for purchase.
The oyster season is September 'til December, making it a perfect time to indulge in this flavorful delicacy.
WINTER
Things are quiet on the coast from December through February. It's still warm enough to stroll the beach, which you are likely to have to yourself. Play a round of golf at one of the premier courses. Swing by the courts for a tennis match.
Area resorts and attractions get all decked out for the holidays, so it's a great time to visit spots like A Traditional Christmas at Boone Hall Plantation and an array of festive events at Kiawah Island Resort. Reserve a table at one of the resort's restaurants for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day meals, including the Festa dei sette pesci (feast of the seven fishes), a time-honored tradition held each Christmas Eve in Tomasso at Turtle Point.
SPRING
The ocean starts calling when spring arrives. Warmer and longer days mean more time in the sun and sand. It's also perfect weather for bicycle riding, a great way to get around. You can rent bikes and equipment from Alligator Bike, which serves Kiawah and Seabrook Island.
Go horseback riding at the Seabrook Island Equestrian Center, which offers lessons and tours. Kayaking is another great activity for spring visitors. Coastal Expeditions get you out on the creeks and marshes, where you can watch dolphins play and take in the stunning views.
Spring is one of the best times of year for fishing. As the water warms up, fish get active and feed at inshore and reef sites. Sheepshead, redfish, black drum, and Spanish and king mackerel start arriving. That also makes it a great time to sample fresh seafood at a local restaurant.
SUMMER
We don't have to sell the summer season on the coast. There's a long list of activities to enjoy. Relax by the beach — splash in the waves. Sunbathe. Learn to surf. Go boating. Cast a fishing line. Eat local seafood.
Or play cards, catch a sunset from the balcony and relax with your family at a luxury vacation property.