12 Breathtaking Places in South Carolina That Showcase Its Beauty

South Carolina is packed with beautiful places perfect for landscape and travel photography. From charming historic towns to stunning natural landscapes, the state has plenty to offer. Whether you’re planning a South Carolina trip or just looking for new places to visit in your home state, there’s no shortage of scenic spots.

Below, you’ll find details on the most noteworthy spots and best places to photograph in South Carolina. Use the map to see where each spot is located and plan your trip.

The Most Beautiful Places in South Carolina

1. Congaree National Park

Located just 18 miles outside of Columbia, Congaree National Park is a unique place and an excellent location for photographers. This old-growth forest showcases some of the tallest trees in the Southeastern United States. With a canopy that filters sunlight to create a dappled, golden effect, and a swamp-like terrain often mirrored in still waters, the park provides spectacular opportunities for nature photography.

Be sure to walk the iconic Boardwalk Loop trail, which immerses you in the enchanting hardwood forest. For those into astrophotography, Congaree’s darkness makes it one of the best spots in the state for stargazing. And since it doesn’t get as much attention as some of the more popular national parks, Congaree is usually not as crowded.

2. Table Rock State Park

Hikers and photographers alike will find inspiration at Table Rock State Park, located near the town of Pickens in the northwestern part of South Carolina. The park’s centerpiece, Table Rock Mountain, is a natural landmark that towers over the area and reflects beautifully on Pinnacle Lake, perfect for landscape shots.

For breathtaking view, hike to the summit via the Table Rock Trail—it’s a challenging but rewarding hike. The mountain trails also lead to beautiful waterfalls and scenic overlooks. While you’re in the area, you can visit Caesar’s Head State Park for more landscape photography opportunities.

3. Charleston

No list of top places in South Carolina would be complete without Charleston, one of the most picturesque cities in the United States. Its cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and coastal views give the city a unique charm. Rainbow Row is a popular spot, offering a colorful yet timeless aesthetic.

For waterfront photography, head to The Battery or the Pineapple Fountain at Waterfront Park. Don’t forget to stroll through the charming alleys like Philadelphia Alley, as they provide quieter spots to capture Charleston’s signature look.

4. Cypress Gardens

Just 30 miles from Charleston, Cypress Gardens feels like stepping into another world. This botanical wonder features swampy waterways surrounded by bald cypress trees cloaked in Spanish moss. The swamp’s still waters offer the perfect mirror reflection photography.

Rent a flat-bottom boat to explore the swamp up close—the unique vantage point allows you to capture one-of-a-kind perspectives.

5. Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is more than just a hotspot for summer vacations; it’s also ideal for coastal photography. This iconic destination along South Carolina’s Grand Strand offers golden sands, crashing waves, and a few picturesque piers including the 2nd Avenue Pier and the Cherry Grove Pier (pictured above) in North Myrtle Beach.

The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel is a popular subject for photos, including night photos when it’s lit up. Sunrise shots along the piers are another great option.

6. Yellow Branch Falls

Located in Walhalla, Yellow Branch Falls is a beautiful 50-foot cascading waterfall hidden within Sumter National Forest. The hike to the falls is a gentle 1.5-mile trail through the beautiful forest.

The layered rock formations create a unique look as water flows over them, perfect for slower shutter speeds. Visit during the fall when bright reds and oranges highlight the landscape. If you’re visiting Table Rock State Park, this stunning waterfall is just a short drive away and is well worth the detour.

7. Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is a beautiful beach destination just 25 miles southwest of Charleston. Known for its beaches, abundant wildlife, and pristine marshlands, this picturesque island is perfect for nature photographers.

Capture the surreal beauty of the sunrise over Kiawah’s dunes, or snap photos of graceful herons. The island is also a sanctuary for sea turtles.

8. Hunting Island

This barrier island, located near Beaufort, combines idyllic beaches with historic landmarks. The Hunting Island Lighthouse is the park’s crown jewel and offers stunning widescreen views of the coastline reachable by climbing its 167 steps.

Venture to the Boneyard Beach, a hauntingly beautiful shoreline scattered with weathered driftwood and skeletal trees. The contrast of life and decay here creates a striking narrative for photos. Hunting Island is also a fantastic spot for bird photography, with pelicans and egrets frequently making an appearance.

9. Old Sheldon Church Ruins

Almost hidden in Yemassee, the Old Sheldon Church Ruins date back to the mid-1700s. These hauntingly beautiful ruins feature towering brick columns and ivy-covered arches.

The ruins are surrounded by sprawling oak trees draped in Spanish moss. Morning fog sometimes covers the area, adding texture and mood to your photos. A short drive from Hunting Island, the Old Sheldon Church Ruins is a must-visit for those seeking unique shots.

10. Folly Beach

Folly Beach, just outside of Charleston, is a lively coastal destination offering natural beauty. The Folly Beach Pier is a favorite spot for sunrise photography. The beach is also known for its vibrant surfing community, so you’ll have plenty of dynamic action shots to capture as well.

11. Morris Island Lighthouse

Located just off the coast of Folly Beach, Morris Island Lighthouse is a South Carolina icon. Though no longer in operation, it’s still an excellent focal point for your coastal and seascape photos.

To photograph the lighthouse at its best, time your visit during low tide or golden hour when the light paints its brick tower in warm hues.

12. Lake Jocassee

Nestled in the Jocassee Gorges of northwest South Carolina, Lake Jocassee is ideal for photography. The crystal-clear waters are surrounded by breathtaking mountain views from nearly every angle.

Kayak or take a boat tour to access hidden waterfalls and shoreline nooks. Autumn is particularly magical here—the surrounding forest flares with fall colors as they reflect off the calm waters.

Explore South Carolina’s Photogenic Wonders

South Carolina offers an array of stunning landscapes and historic wonders all within a few hours’ drive of one another. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, admiring coastal beauty, or exploring historic sites, the breathtaking places mentioned here are sure to help you enjoy your time photographing South Carolina.