8 Must-See Places to Visit in the Carolinas this Season

The Carolinas are home to many wonderful places you must visit in the wintertime. Whether you are looking for a mountain oasis to enjoy the beauty that comes from the snowy peaks, or you long for a quiet beach to spend a day sunning, you will never go wrong with either choice. 

From quaint beach towns to idyllic mountain towns, see our list of our favorite places to visit in the Carolinas below. 

Places to Visit in the Carolinas: Beach Towns

If you despise the cold weather of winter and long to escape somewhere warm, a beach town is your solution. Among the best places to visit in the Carolinas, several areas along the coast provide an ultimate getaway when you are in need of sun and the salty air of the sea.

1. Kiawah Island, South Carolina

As one of the highest-ranked Island destinations in the country, Kiawah is a luxe community rich with culture and natural beauty. Abundant waterways filled with flora and fauna provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and watersport activities. Good food and drink is also part of the Kiawah lifestyle, and several incredible restaurants can be found across the Island. In all, a mild climate gives visitors plenty to do year-round, making Kiawah one of the top places to visit in the Carolinas. 

Golf is one of the most popular pastimes on the Island. In fact, Kiawah is home to two of the highest-rated links-style courses in the country, The Ocean Course and Cassique. The Ocean Course is the crowning jewel of Kiawah and a top East Coast venue, and will be hosting its second PGA Championship this year. 

Explore all of Kiawah Island’s golf courses ranked by playing level. 

2. Charleston, South Carolina

Not so much a beach town but rather a bustling city, one does not visit South Carolina without heading over to Charleston. The area’s historic architecture lures in history buffs with an appreciation for traditional design and historical value. One of the oldest cities in America, its historic charm is unparalleled and a must-see on every bucket list. 

3. The Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks are a string of barrier islands located off the coast of North Carolina. Each Island provides a unique experience different from one another and offers their own set of amenities and attractions that entice visitors. Popular spots within The Outer Banks include Cape Hatteras National Seashore, which is known for being a top spot for watching wild seals in the wintertime. Also consider visiting Corolla, where herds of wild horses are often seen roaming the shores all year long.

4. Hilton Head, South Carolina

Sitting just 30 miles north of Savannah, Georgia is the lovely Hilton Head. This small island is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities such as tennis and golf. While many go for sport, Hilton Head is a fabulous spot for visitors in search of a little rest and relaxation away from the city. 

Places to Visit in the Carolinas: Mountain Towns

If the mountains are calling, you must go. Scattered across both states are lovely mountain towns perfect for a winter escape. Venture out west if you are drawn to the idea of a winter wonderland. 

5. Asheville, North Carolina 

Artsy and eclectic are just a couple words to describe the charming mountain town of Asheville. This friendly community is vibrant, and a perfect place to visit in the Carolinas when looking for a mountain getaway with award-winning food and drink. For a spectacular chance to tour one of America’s largest estates, visit the Biltmore Estate located just minutes from Downtown Asheville. 

6. Boone and Blowing Rock, North Carolina

Boone is known for being home to Appalachian State University, a modern college campus that blends into the town’s main streets. Thanks to its close proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway, visitors come from all over the country to see the blue and green colored vistas of layered mountain ranges. 

Also close by is the quaint mountain town of Blowing Rock, which offers exceptional mountain views of the area’s highest peaks and is on the way to the Appalachian Ski Mountain. 

7. Highlands, North Carolina

The Highlands have been referred to as the Aspen or Martha’s Vineyard of the Carolina mountains. This gem of a mountain community is a wonderful place for familial gatherings. Take the whole family skiing or sledding for a day of winter adventure and finish with a cup of hot chocolate and other wintry treats at Kilwins, a local favorite.

8. Clemson, South Carolina

By far one of the greatest reasons to visit Clemson in the winter is to attend a late-season football game and cheer on the Tigers. Stay the weekend and soak up the Southern hospitality of the locals and see what makes this town so charming. Be sure to take the time to wander through the many historic homes and museums that tell the story of Clemson’s history. 

Visiting Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is one of the best places to visit in the Carolinas for endless reasons. In the winter, the mild climate lends to days on the water going boating and fishing, afternoon strolls on miles of beaches, drinks and dinners at incredible restaurants, and finding new adventures every day. 

Visitors have seen for themselves what makes this Island such an incredible place to not only visit, but to live. See for yourself what your life could be like as a local, and why so many luxury homebuyers are flocking to the Lowcountry. From homesites with an opportunity to build, to gorgeous homes in some of the East Coast’s prominent communities — there is no doubt you will find your dream home here. 

If you’re interested in seeing the various amenities and premiere lifestyle places like Kiawah Island can provide you, check out our available real estate listings that qualify for a Kiawah Island Club Membership.