low country tours

Shelling, Lighthouse, Wildlife & History

Lighthouse Shell Island Tour

Plantation River Tour

Sunset Eco Cruise

Private Charters

What are people saying about captain rods.

Cap'n Rod's Lowcountry Shell Island & Plantation Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Cap'n Rod's Lowcountry Shell Island & Plantation Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

GET YOUR FREE TRAVEL GUIDE

Welcome to the beautiful south carolina lowcountry region.

The South Carolina Lowcountry Region offers so much to see and do, from a variety of recreational pursuits (fishing, sailing, hunting, bird watching, paddling, surfing, golf, and tennis, to name a few) to seeing the sites (lighthouses, historic buildings, museums, art galleries, concerts, movie locations, the Penn Center Historic District, etc.). One way to “take-in” the Lowcountry is by going on a tour (a horse-drawn carriage, bus, boat or kayak, we even have some great walking tours). Shopping here can include one-of-a-kind treasures from the South Carolina Artisans Center, to clever, little, eclectic shops, to mega, bargain hunting at factory outlets.

We have a festival to celebrate nearly everything: the endangered Gopher Tortoise, watermelons, catfish, rice, harbors and water, shrimp, chilli and wine, and even more. Lowcountry dining can be an art practiced by gourmet chefs, or a quick bite on an old back porch. Overlook the water or one of dozens of beautiful golf courses while samplings some of the finest seafood on the east coast. We invite you and your loved ones to enjoy the many cultural, historical and recreational opportunities in this unique part of South Carolina. We have all the wonderful things that make the Lowcountry a great place to visit or call home.

Our accommodations range from a reasonably-priced rest from the busy highway, to the finest four-star resorts, bed & breakfasts, inns, or beach-front cottages. We also have great campgrounds at our terrific State Parks, right off I-95 at Point South and Walterboro and in other areas like St Helena, Bluffton and Hilton Head Island.

VISIT A TOP LOWCOUNTRY DESTINATION

Frampton Plantation House

VISIT TODAY

The “Frampton House” property was part of an original King’s Grant to the Frampton family in the 1700s. In 1865, General Sherman’s troops burned the plantation house and all the farm buildings that stood on this site. In 1868, John Frampton rebuilt the present charming Lowcountry farmhouse and continued to work the land.

BEGIN YOUR LOWCOUNTRY ADVENTURE

CHOOSE A LOWCOUNTRY DESTINATION

State Parks

Revolutionary Trail

Hampton Co. Area

HAMPTON COUNTY | VARNVILLE

Daufuskie Island

Beaufort Area

Beaufort | Port Royal | Sea Islands

Colleton County

Edisto Beach

Hilton Head Island

Jasper Co. Area

JASPER COUNTY | RIDGELAND | HARDEEVILLE

UPCOMING EVENTS & THINGS TO DO IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA LOWCOUNTRY

I AM VISITING? DESTINATIONS Bluffton Edisto Hampton Hardeeville Hilton Head Port Royal Ridgeland St Helena Island Walterboro

I WANT TO DO? ADVENTURE TYPES Arts & Crafts, Farmers Markets Book Signing/Author Reading Community Event Festivals, Yearly Events Fishing Tournament Food Fun Garden Tour Golf and Outdoor Events Health & Wellness History Themed Holiday Fun Kids & Family Fun Lectures, Talks, Classes, Movie Nights Lowcountry Nature, Dolphin Cruises, Classes, Lectures Music Nature Based Experience Nature Walks Outdoor Adventure The Arts Tour Virtual/Online Event Walks, Marathons, Plunges and 5Ks Water Sports

ARRIVAL DATE

I’M LEAVING ON?

ALL UPCOMING LOWCOUNTRY EVENTS

• Edisto ~ Turtle Talk Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 12:00:pm May 1 05/01/24  
• Edisto ~ Birds of Edisto Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 2:00:pm May 1 05/01/24  

• Ridgeland ~ Molding Together: Ceramics for All Guided Tour of the Language of Clay @Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage 5:00:pm May 2 05/02/24  
• Hilton Head ~ Music & Taste on the Harbour @Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina 6:00:pm May 2 05/02/24  

• Edisto ~ Lowcountry Tidal Treasures Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 10:00:am May 3 05/03/24  

• Beaufort ~ Clay Workshop with Dan McSweeney @Rotten Little Bastard Distillery 4:00:pm May 4 05/04/24  
• Port Royal ~ Street Music @Historic Port Royal 6:00:pm May 4 05/04/24  

• Edisto ~ Turtle Talk Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 12:00:pm May 8 05/08/24  

• Hilton Head ~ Music & Taste on the Harbour @Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina 6:00:pm May 9 05/09/24  

• Edisto ~ Turtle Talk Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 12:00:pm May 15 05/15/24  
• Edisto ~ Birds of Edisto Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 2:00:pm May 15 05/15/24  

• Hilton Head ~ Music & Taste on the Harbour @Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina 6:00:pm May 16 05/16/24  
• Edisto ~ Lowcountry Tidal Treasures Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 10:00:am May 17 05/17/24  
• Bluffton ~ Town of Bluffton Movie Night: Trolls Band Together @Buckwalter Place Park 5:00:pm May 17 05/17/24  

• Port Royal ~ Street Music @Historic Port Royal 6:00:pm May 18 05/18/24  

• Edisto ~ Turtle Talk Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 12:00:pm May 22 05/22/24  

• Beaufort ~ Original Gullah Festival @Henry Chambers Waterfront Park 12:00:am May 24 05/24/24  

• Edisto ~ Gators of the Lowcountry Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 12:00:pm May 28 05/28/24  
• Edisto ~ Turtle Talk Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 12:00:pm May 29 05/29/24  
• Edisto ~ Birds of Edisto Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 2:00:pm May 29 05/29/24  
• Edisto ~ Lowcountry Tidal Treasures Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 10:00:am May 31 05/31/24  

• Port Royal ~ Street Music @Historic Port Royal 6:00:pm Jun 1 06/01/24  

• Ridgeland ~ Swinging Medallions Concert @Jasper County Farmer's Market 8:00:pm Jun 14 06/14/24  

• Port Royal ~ Street Music @Historic Port Royal 6:00:pm Jun 15 06/15/24  

• Hilton Head ~ USA 5K @Coligny Beach 8:00:am Jul 4 07/04/24  

• Bluffton ~ May River Sunset 5K @Bluffton Oyster Factory Park 7:30:pm Jul 18 07/18/24  

LOWCOUNTRY EVENTS

For your visit.

• Edisto ~ Turtle Talk Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 12:00:pm May 1 Kids & Family Fun , Lowcountry Nature, Dolphin Cruises, Classes, Lectures , Nature Based Experience 05/01/24  
• Edisto ~ Birds of Edisto Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 2:00:pm May 1 Kids & Family Fun , Lowcountry Nature, Dolphin Cruises, Classes, Lectures , Nature Based Experience 05/01/24  
• Ridgeland ~ Molding Together: Ceramics for All Guided Tour of the Language of Clay @Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage 5:00:pm May 2 Culture , History Themed , Lectures, Talks, Classes, Movie Nights 05/02/24  
• Hilton Head ~ Music & Taste on the Harbour @Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina 6:00:pm May 2 Community Event , Food Fun , General , Music 05/02/24  
• Edisto ~ Lowcountry Tidal Treasures Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 10:00:am May 3 Kids & Family Fun , Lowcountry Nature, Dolphin Cruises, Classes, Lectures , Nature Based Experience 05/03/24  
• Beaufort ~ Clay Workshop with Dan McSweeney @Rotten Little Bastard Distillery 4:00:pm May 4 Lectures, Talks, Classes, Movie Nights , The Arts 05/04/24  
• Port Royal ~ Street Music @Historic Port Royal 6:00:pm May 4 Community Event , Music , Performances/Plays 05/04/24  
• Edisto ~ Turtle Talk Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 12:00:pm May 8 Kids & Family Fun , Lowcountry Nature, Dolphin Cruises, Classes, Lectures , Nature Based Experience 05/08/24  
• Hilton Head ~ Music & Taste on the Harbour @Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina 6:00:pm May 9 Community Event , Food Fun , General , Music 05/09/24  
• Edisto ~ Turtle Talk Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 12:00:pm May 15 Kids & Family Fun , Lowcountry Nature, Dolphin Cruises, Classes, Lectures , Nature Based Experience 05/15/24  
• Edisto ~ Birds of Edisto Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 2:00:pm May 15 Kids & Family Fun , Lowcountry Nature, Dolphin Cruises, Classes, Lectures , Nature Based Experience 05/15/24  
• Hilton Head ~ Music & Taste on the Harbour @Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina 6:00:pm May 16 Community Event , Food Fun , General , Music 05/16/24  
• Edisto ~ Lowcountry Tidal Treasures Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 10:00:am May 17 Kids & Family Fun , Lowcountry Nature, Dolphin Cruises, Classes, Lectures , Nature Based Experience 05/17/24  
• Bluffton ~ Town of Bluffton Movie Night: Trolls Band Together @Buckwalter Place Park 5:00:pm May 17 Community Event , Kids & Family Fun , Lectures, Talks, Classes, Movie Nights 05/17/24  
• Port Royal ~ Street Music @Historic Port Royal 6:00:pm May 18 Community Event , Music , Performances/Plays 05/18/24  
• Edisto ~ Turtle Talk Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 12:00:pm May 22 Kids & Family Fun , Lowcountry Nature, Dolphin Cruises, Classes, Lectures , Nature Based Experience 05/22/24  
• Beaufort ~ Original Gullah Festival @Henry Chambers Waterfront Park 12:00:am May 24 Arts & Crafts, Farmers Markets , Community Event , Culture , Festivals, Yearly Events , Food Fun , Kids & Family Fun , Music 05/24/24  
• Edisto ~ Gators of the Lowcountry Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 12:00:pm May 28 Kids & Family Fun , Lowcountry Nature, Dolphin Cruises, Classes, Lectures , Nature Based Experience 05/28/24  
• Edisto ~ Turtle Talk Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 12:00:pm May 29 Kids & Family Fun , Lowcountry Nature, Dolphin Cruises, Classes, Lectures , Nature Based Experience 05/29/24  
• Edisto ~ Birds of Edisto Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 2:00:pm May 29 Kids & Family Fun , Lowcountry Nature, Dolphin Cruises, Classes, Lectures , Nature Based Experience 05/29/24  
• Edisto ~ Lowcountry Tidal Treasures Program @Edisto Beach State Park's Environment Learning Center 10:00:am May 31 Kids & Family Fun , Lowcountry Nature, Dolphin Cruises, Classes, Lectures , Nature Based Experience 05/31/24  
• Port Royal ~ Street Music @Historic Port Royal 6:00:pm Jun 1 Community Event , Music , Performances/Plays 06/01/24  
• Ridgeland ~ Swinging Medallions Concert @Jasper County Farmer's Market 8:00:pm Jun 14 Community Event , General , Music , Performances/Plays 06/14/24  
• Port Royal ~ Street Music @Historic Port Royal 6:00:pm Jun 15 Community Event , Music , Performances/Plays 06/15/24  
• Hilton Head ~ USA 5K @Coligny Beach 8:00:am Jul 4 Community Event , General , Kids & Family Fun , Outdoor Adventure , Walks, Marathons, Plunges and 5Ks 07/04/24  
• Bluffton ~ May River Sunset 5K @Bluffton Oyster Factory Park 7:30:pm Jul 18 Community Event , Walks, Marathons, Plunges and 5Ks 07/18/24  

Please Choose Your Destination!

Use the above search bar to customize the events happening during your visit to the selected destination.

Please make sure that the arrival date is not greater than the leave date.

LEARN WHY WE HAVE SO MUCH TO DO IN THE SOUTH CAROLINA LOWCOUNTRY

Gullah History IN THE LOWCOUNTRY

Outdoor Adventures IN THE LOWCOUNTRY

Unplugging in the Lowcountry

Lowcountry Food Festivals

Beautiful Wonderful, Historic Place

South Carolina State Parks

See what our visitors love about the SOUTH CAROLINA LOWCOUNTRY

Use the #hashtag #sclowcountry to get your image featured.

The Lowcountry & Resort Islands Region of South Carolina includes the four, southern-most counties in the state, Beaufort, Jasper, Hampton, and Colleton, which are bordered on the east by the Atlantic Ocean and on the west by the Savannah River and the state of Georgia.

The South Carolina Lowcountry Guidebook is filled with many things to see and do in the beautiful Lowcountry of South Carolina. Please fill out the information and we will send you a FREE GUIDE BOOK.

ST. Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware District of Columbia Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Puerto Rico Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming

Mail me a hard copy Email me PDF document I want both

Stay Up To Date

Sign up for our newsletter.

Cap’n Rod’s Lowcountry Tours

705 Front St, Georgetown, SC 29440    (843) 477-0287

Description About Cap’n Rod’s Lowcountry Tours

Whether you are interested in learning about South Carolina’s beautiful Lowcountry atmosphere and culture, or if you’re just looking for something relaxing and educational to do while visiting the Grand Strand, Cap’n Rod’s Lowcountry Tours has something for you. Based in Georgetown, Cap’n Rod’s Lowcountry Tours offers two different types of tours to suit the interests of different parties. Both excursions are ran by Cap’n Rod Singleton, who is a native to the area and who personally provides guests with a look into the nature, history, and legends of the Lowcountry. One of the tours that Cap’n Rod’s offers is the Lighthouse Shell Island Tour. This tour takes guests to an unspoiled barrier island that can only be reached by boat. On this island, tourists will see a beautiful lighthouse and may even catch a glimpse of native species of eagles, dolphins, turtles, and more. The Lighthouse Shell Island Tour is about four hours in total, and it runs from Monday through Saturday each week. The tour departs around low tide, so you must call for departure times. The second tour offered at Cap’n Rod’s Lowcountry Tours is the Plantation River Tour. During this tour, guests will take a relaxing journey up a river, and Cap’n Rod will point out plantation mansions, old oaks, abandoned rice fields, and more. You’ll even hear some Lowcountry ghost stories famous to the area. The Plantation River Tour lasts about three hours and runs Monday through Saturday. This tour departs around high tide so you must call to find out departure times. The prices for both tours are as follows: Adults: $37.00 Children (4-12): $30.00 Children 3 and under: Free Cap’n Rod’s tour boat has a shaded deck, along with clean and modern restrooms. Each tour is handicap accessible. And, if you get hungry or thirsty during your tour, Cap’n Rod offers snacks and soft drinks! Priavte Charters are also available via Cap’n Rod’s Lowcountry Tours. Whether you are looking for a charter for a wedding, reunion, company outing, or for another occasion, Cap’n Rod’s is happy to serve you.

User Reviews Cap’n Rod’s Lowcountry Tours Reviews

See what 8 MyrtleBeach.com users said about Cap’n Rod’s Lowcountry Tours:

Avg. rating based on 8 reviews

Leave a Review

Great Trip to Shell Island✌️😎

Young and Old in our group enjoyed the voyage there & back. Wonderful stories & history lessons galore entertaining for all! We saw dolphins, bald eagles, gators and much more. The beach was pristine and we found beautiful shells, Highly recommended!

Capn Rods lowcountry tours

Capn Rods is the one must do for our family every year ....

LEAVE A REVIEW Share your experience!

Have you been to Cap’n Rod’s Lowcountry Tours? Add your opinion below:

• Hidden Rating *
• Review Title *
• Your Review *
• Your Name *
• Your ZIP Code *
• Hidden Review Site *
• Hidden Would you stay again?
• Hidden Related Profile *

Back to the Beach Giveaway

One grand prize winner will receive a 3-Night Stay at Landmark Resort Plus an Amazing Prize Pack!

Four-Day/Three-Night Stay at Landmark Resort

One YETI Roadie Cooler

JBL Flip 5 Speaker

4 Tickets to The Carolina Opry

4 Tickets to the Iconic show at Alabama Theatre

4 Tickets to Brookgreen Gardens

2 Tommy Bahama Beach Chairs

Enter by June 30

Enter to Win an Oceanfront Getaway!

Plus, get deals up to 50% off on hotels year-round in Myrtle Beach.

• Your Name * First Last
• Your E-mail Address *
• Send me Myrtle Beach deals and information!
• Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Cap'n Rod's Lowcountry Tours

Review Highlights

“ Captain Rod himself was the one who we booked the reservation with and the one who called us about the date change. ” in 4 reviews

“ Captn Doug And first mate Ken were great, providing Historical relevance of the area, local lore, and perfect weather to boot. ” in 2 reviews

“ While vacationing in Myrtle beach we drove down to Georgetown to take the plantation river tour here. ” in 6 reviews

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

701 Front St

Georgetown, SC 29440

Amenities and More

About the business.

Cap'n Rod Singleton brings a lifetime's experience of Tales & Folklore to Lowcountry Tours. Capt'n Rod a native of the lowcountry, Cap'n Rod weaves into the tours a magic mixture of antebellum history, lowcountry legends and personal experiences on a true Lowcountry barrier island. The Lowcountry Tour Boat is a safe, Lowcountry Tour Boat - Georgetown SC comfortable 56-foot pontoon boat, offering shaded deck seating and clean, modern restrooms. It is fully USCG certified, and Handicap Accessible. The sides are typically open to enjoy the warm river breezes, with clear side curtains available to provide protection when needed, without impeding your view. …

Ask the Community

Ask a question

Yelp users haven’t asked any questions yet about Cap'n Rod's Lowcountry Tours .

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

Great time Great staff. Good shelling. Really nice picnic lunch. Saw some gators and dolphins also from a distance.

Had a great time. Captain Thom was great and gave us tons of history about the bay & surrounding area. We found lots of shells on the island. We also found a beached starfish that had a missing arm, but was still alive, placed it deeper in the water to help it survive. Saw several eagles on the trip back. Couldn't get great photos, but was so nice to see. It was a really enjoyable experience and we would recommend it to friends and family.

See all photos from Diana D. for Cap'n Rod's Lowcountry Tours

We had an absolute blast on this tour. Not only did we find some lovely shells, but we saw quite a few dolphins which was the best part!! Even on an overcast day with some light rain we had a great time. Our captains both had a great sense of humor and were fountains of knowledge with so many interesting facts about the history of Georgetown, the wildlife and waterways. I would 100% recommend this tour to anyone I know.

An amazing afternoon with Captain Mike and Paige. The weather was a bit chilly but we had a grand time! I had no care or wants for shelling but we had a blast and came back with shells and driftwood! A wonderful history of Georgetown,SC with presentation by Paige. So much interesting knowledge. Everything was on time and comfortable. Great price for the value. And many shops and restaurants along Front St for after the tour.

We weee supposed to go on a plantation boat tour on 11/26/22 at 9am. On 11/25/22 I got both a text and an email saying that the trip was canceled. I was unable to get though to the company, still can't on 11/27/22. No refund has been issued as of yet. No explanation was given. I sure hope everyone is ok but the communication is awful! Sure hope I get my money back.

Good time good friends!!! Captain Michael is very fun and knows how to treat guest. Looking forward to doing this again

Great time and well worth the price. Very enjoyable afternoon, and the crew do a great job of making this engaging and telling the history of the area. Got to see dolphins on the way back from the shell tour of the north island. Highly recommend.

We had a great time! Thank you our guide and captain were very nice and knowledgeable. We learned a lot about the history of Georgetown.

Very fun! Loved seeing the dolphins! Many people on the boat found big shells. Beautiful day, boat was great! Captains were so nice and we learned a lot of history

Shell island!!

I have mixed feelings about this tour. The narration provided was excellent but there just wasn't enough of it. Much of the tour involved passing by abandoned rice fields (pretty boring after awhile) accompanied by some information regarding the rice culture. This presentation could be more interesting if further expanded. What was it like to plant and cultivate rice? FYI the short river tour at Brookgreen Gardens offered a more comprehensive presentation about this aspect of the area. Similarly there might be more information about the various rivers - the history, native flora and marine species, depth of river, impact of tides, etc. We saw a few bald eagles and that was all the wildlife covered by the tour. As the rivers are basically named for Indian tribes (Waccamaw, Pee Dee) it would make sense to discuss Native American life and traditions as well. It takes a long time to get to the part of the tour where the plantations are (not many), and it was kind of disappointing to have only cursory information about those plantations provided. What was daily life like on a plantation that focused on rice cultivation? How did the civil war impact life and the rice culture? Another way to enhance the lull in narration might be to make the tour more interactive by having a trivia game. A question and answer period would also be appropriate. There was a little bit of "get to know you" time as the tour ended but it focused on identifying medical and military personnel on the tour and ignored what others were doing in their lives. The seating was uncomfortable (3 hours of sitting on plastic lawn chairs bolted to the floor). Lastly, for the price (almost $45) free beverages and snacks should have been included in the tour. Ultimately we felt it would have been better to take the shell island tour and regretted not doing so.

92 other reviews that are not currently recommended

People Also Viewed

Rover Tours

Waccamaw Cooter Airboat Tours

Captain Steve’s River Tours

Blue Wave Adventures

Swamp Fox Tours

Murrells Inlet Outpost

Pirate Adventures

Crazy Sister Marina

Carolina Food Tours

Aces Up Fishing Charters

Best of Georgetown

Things to do in Georgetown

Other Places Nearby

Find more Boat Charters near Cap'n Rod's Lowcountry Tours

Find more Boat Tours near Cap'n Rod's Lowcountry Tours

Browse Nearby

Restaurants

Boat Charters Cost Guide

Boat Charters Near Me

Boat Rides Near Me

Boat Tours Near Me

Related Cost Guides

Boat Charters

Boudoir Photography

Bounce House Rentals

Event Photography

Valet Services

Videographers

Town Car Service

• 7 More Cost Guides

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

Road Trip: Low Country, South Carolina and Georgia

Few regions in the United States pack in as much history, culture, and natural beauty as the Low Country.

Few regions in the United States pack in as much history, culture, and natural beauty as the Low Country—a 200-mile (322-kilometer) stretch of coastal South Carolina and Georgia.

A pungent, slightly salty smell permeates the air of the Low Country. Its source is the area's pluff mud: the dark marsh soil left behind after the tide recedes. That smell—and term—is one of the Low Country's many distinctive qualities. Other features that tend to leave lasting impressions on visitors include the wide, flat expanses of marsh grass, the shrill songs of tree frogs and katydids, the silhouettes of live oak trees, their long, arching limbs shrouded in silvery clumps of Spanish moss. Then there's the seemingly omnipresent water—tidal marshes, rivers, estuaries, and the Atlantic Ocean—often with at least one shrimp boat trawling. On a road trip through the Low Country, Charleston and Savannah make convenient bookends. Some backtracking is required in between—out to the islands, and then back to the main road—but that just gives you more time to absorb the scenery. After all, this trip should not be rushed, but made slowly, Southern style.

Start in Charleston

Precise boundaries for the Low Country are unclear, but Charleston is generally agreed to be its largest economic center. Begin your trip on the edge of the historic district with a stroll down East Bay Street; on one side you'll see some of Charleston's historic architecture, from Italianate to art deco, and on the other, across the harbor, Fort Sumter, where the first shot of the Civil War was fired. For your first taste of the South, try the shrimp and grits fritters at High Cotton ( www.mavericksouthernkitchens.com/highcotton ) while live jazz plays.

The Angel Oak

Head out of Charleston on Route 17 south. After about 15 miles (24 kilometers), turn left on Main Road and continue eight miles (13 kilometers) to the Angel Oak, a 65-foot (20-meter)-tall live oak tree estimated to be around 300 years old. It's had enough time to grow a canopy that shades 17,000 square feet (1,579 square meters).

Edisto Island

Continue south on Route 17 before turning left onto Highway 174, the live oak-lined road to Edisto Island. On this tranquil island, without a single traffic light, the most visible commerce for miles might be a roadside stand run by Gullah women—descendants of the Low Country's first black inhabitants—weaving and selling coiled sweetgrass baskets. Stop at the Serpentarium ( edistoserpentarium.com ) to see reptiles from the region and beyond in low-walled enclosures (not behind glass) for optimal viewing. Photos, old farm implements, and a reconstructed plantation room relate the island's past at the tiny Edisto Island Museum ( www.edistomuseum.org ). Eventually, Highway 174 loops around a quiet beach, a favorite of shell collectors; the southern end, where the ocean meets the South Edisto River, boasts the best sunset views.

Farther along Route 17 south, take Route 21 to Beaufort, South Carolina's second-oldest city (after Charleston), and, before the Civil War, perhaps one of the wealthiest towns of its size in the country. Check in at the Rhett House Inn ( www.rhetthouseinn.com ), an antebellum plantation home, and pedal one of their bikes around the waterfront and historic homes.

St. Helena Island

Route 21 south continues on to St. Helena Island and Penn Center ( www.penncenter.com ), the country's first school for African Americans. The 50-acre (20 hectare) campus is preserved as a National Historic Landmark; a small museum displays photos, letters, and Gullah artwork. Up the road is the Red Piano Too Art Gallery ( www.redpianotoo.com ), its rooms brimming with a collection of paintings, sculpture, woodwork, and jewelry by local artists. For local food, including she-crab soup and sweet potato pie, cross the street to Gullah Grub ( www.gullahgrubs.com ).

Hunting Island

Hunting Island ( www.huntingisland.com ), home to a 5,000-acre (2,023-hectare) state park, is ten miles (16 kilometers) south on Route 21. The narrow road winding into the park squeezes through a forest ( Forrest Gump 's jungle scenes were shot here) that opens onto a three-mile (five-kilometer)-long beach. The lighthouse, built in 1859, destroyed during the Civil War, and rebuilt in 1875, is open to the public; it's 167 steps to the top.

Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge

• Nat Geo Expeditions

Retrace your path back toward Beaufort, but make a left turn to Route 802 and again on 170 to reach 278 east. Pull into the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, 4,000 acres (1,619 hectares) of salt marsh and tidal creeks, where you can get a close-up look at marsh life by kayak. "We have a giant tide here—six to eight feet (two to three meters)—so we can travel way back into the salt marsh mazes," says David Fleming, co-owner of Water-Dog Outfitter ( www.waterdogoutfitter.com ). The area is home to hundreds of bird species, including herons. "There have been trips where I've had a dolphin on my left and an alligator on my right," Fleming says.

End your trip in Savannah by returning to 170 and following it south to meet Route 17. Much of the city survived the Civil War. Rather than burn it, General Sherman offered Savannah to President Lincoln as a Christmas gift, and historic preservation remains a priority. The 2.5-square-mile (6.5-square-kilometer) historic district features some 2,300 buildings, most of them restored, and an atmosphere that can be described as gothic. Savannah is said to be "built on its dead" because of the old cemeteries beneath it. Ghost tours are popular. Down at the waterfront, you can buy pralines from River Street Sweets ( www.riverstreetsweets.com ) and enjoy them by the river.

The best times to drive this route are spring or fall; summer is also fine, although the heat and humidity can be high. For local weather conditions, see www.weather.com . For general information about Charleston, S.C., see www.charlestoncvb.com/visitors ; for general information about Beaufort, S.C., see www.beaufort.com ; for general information about Savannah, Ga., see www.savannahvisit.com .

—Text by Suzanne Bopp, adapted from National Geographic Traveler

Related Topics

You may also like.

Atlanta isn’t all that Georgia has to offer. Here are 7 other worthy trips.

Ultimate Italy: 14 ways to see the country in a new light, from road trips to street art

Free bonus issue.

25 essential drives for a U.S. road trip

8 campervanning essentials you must have

The essential guide to visiting Utah

Visit this little known culinary region outside of Québec City

How to plan the ultimate road trip adventure in Canada

• Environment
• Perpetual Planet
• History & Culture

History & Culture

• History Magazine
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

Cap’n Rod’s Lowcountry Tours

Take a relaxing and informative tour of the Georgetown area with Cap’n Rod’s Lowcountry Tours! These family-friendly tours are a great way to see the beauty of the Lowcountry all while getting a bit of education about the Grand Strand.

Cap’n Rod’s Lowcountry tours are based out of Georgetown, South Carolina, along the Harborwalk. The friendly Cap’n Rod Singleton offers two different excursions and provides local insight and knowledge into the history, nature, and folklore of the area.

Guests can opt for the Lighthouse Shell Island Tour, or the Plantation River Tour. The Lighthouse Shell Island Tour takes visitors to a natural barrier island that is only accessible by boat. The island is home to a lighthouse as well as many different species of flora and fauna. Some tourists may even get photos of cool animals like dolphins, turtles, eagles, and other types of Lowcountry creatures. This tour, which runs from Monday – Saturday each week, takes approximately 4 hours to complete, so be sure to set aside some time in your vacation agenda. Since this tour only begins at low tide, interested parties are encouraged to call Cap’n Rod’s for a specific depature time.

Looking for a shorter tour? Cap’n Rod’s Lowcountry Tours also offers the Plantation River Tour. This scenic tour takes visitors on a relaxing boat ride up the river, and includes interesting tidbits of information about the Lowcountry’s old oaks, plantation homes, historic rice fields, and even some spooky ghost stories! The duration of this tour is about three hours and runs Monday – Saturday. Since the Plantation River Tour departs around high tide, it is recommended to call for departure times.

Don’t worry about getting too much sun while on the boat; Cap’n Rod’s tour boat is furnished with a shaded deck! Also, guests will appreciate the handicap accessiblity, the clean restrooms, and the snacks and soft drinks for sale.

Enter to Win a 3-Night Stay!

Explore beautiful Pawleys Island, S.C., with a free getaway for two. 

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Email Address *
• I would like to receive more information about the Pawleys Island area.
• I would like to learn more about Pawleys Island area real estate.
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Must-see attractions in Lowcountry

McLeod Plantation

Opened to the public in 2015, this James Island plantation offers an honest and frankly devastating account of the lives of the enslaved and later …

Aiken-Rhett House

The only surviving urban town-house complex, this 1820 abode gives a fascinating glimpse into antebellum life on a 45-minute self-guided audio tour. The…

Guardians of Charleston Harbor

The first shots of the Civil War rang out at Fort Sumter, on a pentagon-shaped island in the harbor. A Confederate stronghold, this fort was shelled to…

Angel Oak Tree

Some folks reckon this Southern live oak tree is 1500 years old (others says it's 400 to 500 years old). Whatever the case, it's one of the oldest living…

Old Slave Mart Museum

Formerly called Ryan's Mart, this building once housed an open-air market that auctioned African American men, women and children in the mid-1800s, the…

Bulls Island

Part of Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, this pristine barrier island offers a haunting 'boneyard beach' (pines and myrtles poke out of the sand,…

Fort Moultrie

This layered fort encapsulates the history of US coastal defense spanning nearly 200 years and four wars. Aspects of the fort have been restored to help…

Heyward-Washington House

As the name hints, this 1772 Georgian-style town house is kind of a big deal because George Washington rented it for a week, and visitors can stand in…

Daufuskie Island

For those looking for an escape just a touch less discovered than Hilton Head Island, this idyllic island offers a sublime day trip and a window into the…

Magnolia Plantation

This 500-acre plantation, which has been owned by the Drayton family since 1676, is a veritable theme park. Enjoy a tram tour, a petting zoo and a guided…

Drayton Hall

This 1738 Palladian brick mansion is the country's oldest preserved plantation house open to the public. Yep, it's older than the nation. Drayton Hall was…

Middleton Place

Designed in 1741, this plantation's vast gardens are the oldest in the US. Countless slaves spent years terracing the land and digging the precise…

ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge

Formerly occupied by large rice plantations, this area fell out of use after the Civil War and was bought up by sportsmen who turned it into a hunting…

Hunting Island State Park

Lush and inviting Hunting Island State Park impresses visitors with acres of spooky maritime forest, tidal lagoons and a bone-white beach littered with…

Boone Hall Plantation

Just 11 miles from downtown Charleston on Hwy 17N, Boone Hall Plantation is famous for its magical Avenue of Oaks, planted by Thomas Boone in 1743. Boone…

Charleston Tea Garden

There's only one large-scale, working tea plantation in the US, folks, and this is it. A trolley tour takes visitors around the property, offering plenty…

Henry C Chambers Waterfront Park

Overlooking the bay, this iconic downtown anchor is flanked by dining options, shops and art galleries. Many of Beaufort’s festivals and events are held…

Calhoun Mansion

If you've ever wondered what the wealthiest, fanciest, most well-traveled hoarder's house might look like, visit the Calhoun Mansion. With 35 rooms and 24…

Nathaniel Russell House

A spectacular, self-supporting spiral staircase is the highlight at this 1808 Federal-style house, built by a Rhode Islander, known in Charleston as 'King…

Parris Island Museum

This fascinating museum covering Marine Corps history contains antique uniforms and weaponry, but is most engaging for its exhibits chronicling the…

At low tide on a warm day, Beaufort's sandbar is the place to drink and be drunk. It's only about a mile south of the Henry C Chambers Waterfront Park and…

Joggling Board

In the yard of the Nathaniel Russell House sits a fine specimen of a super-Charlestonian porch furnishing – the joggling board. It consists of a 16ft…

Kiawah Beachwalker Park

This idyllic stretch of sun-toasted sand at the southern end of Kiawah Island has been called one of the top 10 beaches in the USA and is the only…

Center for Birds of Prey

Make friends with owls, hawks, falcons, kites, vultures and eagles at this 152-acre conservation area, and watch them soar overhead during flying…

Rainbow Row

With its 13 candy-colored houses, this stretch of Georgian row houses on lower E Bay St is one of the most photographed areas in Charleston. The…

College of Charleston

Spread over a few city blocks at the center of Charleston's downtown, this university was founded in 1770 and is the oldest in the state. The campus is…

Marion Square

Charleston's most frequented park is 10 acres of green space in the middle of downtown, bordering on King, Calhoun, Meeting and Tobacco Sts. It's the home…

Hampton Park

A big, awesome park that locals love for its arboreal and floral displays, fitness trail and large swaths of open space, often utilized for things like…

Harbour Town Lighthouse

Hilton Head's lighthouse, with the only female lighthouse keeper in North America, was built in 1970 and is prettily perched at the Harbour Town marina on…

Edmondston-Alston House

Charles Edmondston built this Federal-style home in 1825 for a mere $25,000, and fell on hard times in 1837, forcing him to sell it to Charles Alston for …

Botany Bay Plantation Wildlife Management Area

An avenue of regal live oaks flanks the entrance to this 4687-acre wildlife preserve, where a mix of pine forests, agricultural fields, coastal islands…

Santa Elena History Center

Tucked into an old federal courthouse, this history museum tells the largely unfamiliar story of the earliest Europeans to settle in North America, and we…

Colleton Museum & Farmers Market

A quirky little museum with interesting exhibits on South Carolina nature, history, art and agriculture. Highlights include megalodon teeth, a 'Dave pot' …

Pat Conroy Literary Center

Until his death in 2016, South Carolina's literary great Pat Conroy called Beaufort home. The city inspired some of his most famous works, including The…

Patriot's Point Naval & Maritime Museum

This museum is home to the USS Yorktown, a giant aircraft carrier used extensively in WWII. You can tour the ship's flight deck, bridge and ready rooms…

South Carolina Aquarium

A showcase of South Carolina's wildlife, with creatures hailing from the mountain forest, piedmont, salt marsh, coastal and undersea habitats. Although…

Penn Center

Once the home of one of the nation's first schools for freed slaves, the Penn Center has a small museum that covers Gullah culture and traces the history…

St Michael's Church

St Michael's is the oldest church in town, dating back to 1752, and its beloved bells have been announcing the time and various events, including…

Charleston Museum

Founded in 1773, this is the country's oldest museum. It's helpful and informative if you're looking for historical background before strolling through…

Heyward House Museum & Welcome Center

The Bluffton Historical Preservation Society has meticulously preserved this circa-1841 Carolina-farmhouse-style home, converting it into a welcome center…

More destinations you need to see

Savannah First-Timer's Guide

Plan the Perfect Trip to Savannah

A Local’s Lowcountry Travel Guide

Let’s get this straight from the start; it’s called the South Carolina Lowcountry , not the “Low Country”.

That little space makes a big difference! No space tells me you’re local, while the added space says, “You’re not from around these parts, are ya?”

The Lowcountry got it’s nickname for a couple reasons; it’s located in the lower region of the state, and the land is, quite literally, low-lying ground.

Much of it falls along coastal regions where the elevation is within ten to twenty feet of sea level.

Note: This guide contains affiliate links to my trusted travel partners.

If you’re new around here, first of all… welcome !

My name is Erin, and I authored the  Savannah First-Timer’s Guide . It combines my top Savannah travel tips from this website into one handy downloadable guide.

The beautiful Lowcountry is just across the bridge from Savannah, and that area is much like a second home to me. If I’m not in Savannah, there’s a good chance you’ll find me hanging out somewhere in the Lowcountry!

Lowcountry South Carolina

The three primary destinations that make up the South Carolina Lowcountry are Beaufort, Charleston, and Hilton Head Island .

Although the Lowcountry includes other smaller cities and towns, I’m going to focus on those three main hubs. I’ll also tell you about the cool spots surrounding each destination so you can plan your day trips accordingly. (Some of the smaller destinations — St. Helena Island, for example — are even more intriguing than the bigger cities.)

No matter where you go in the Lowcountry, there’s one common denominator you can consistently count on; the area has some of the most breathtakingly beautiful massive Southern live oaks you can imagine.

Whether you’re walking down a dirt road on untamed Hunting Island or driving through “The Point” in Beaufort’s elegant Historic District, you’ll spot live oaks dripping in Spanish moss nearly everywhere you turn.

Here are some things all three of these three cities have in common: massive Southern live oaks, Spanish moss, fading Gullah Geechee communities, big bridges, waterfront areas, historic districts, incredible architecture, container ships, palmettos (trees and bugs), beautiful churches, alligators, sand gnats, gas lanterns, and porches with ceilings painted in pale shades of haint blue.

Beaufort | Charleston | Hilton Head Island

Beaufort, South Carolina

Distance from Savannah to Beaufort: It’s approximately 40 miles, but plan for an hourlong drive — depending on traffic. Best for: Beaufort can be a day trip, a good stopover on the way to Charleston, or a nice weekend trip.

When I think of Beaufort, I picture antebellum mansions with perfectly manicured yards, church grounds scattered with centuries-old headstones, stunning sunsets along the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, row after row of charming local shops lining Bay Street, and the cover of nearly every Pat Conroy novel I’ve ever read.

Beaufort is a mid-sized city with a very small-town feel. Of the three cities on this list, Beaufort is my favorite. It hasn’t completely sold out to developers, so it still retains many of the historic details that make it so charming.

Architecture in Beaufort

Once you’ve lived in the Lowcountry long enough, it’s easy to differentiate each area by its style of architecture.

The homes in Beaufort’s historic Old Point area consist of a mixture of beautiful mansions, like the Tabby Manse (pictured above), alongside smaller homes that typically feature metal roofing, wood siding (often painted white or a classic shade of yellow), and black shutters.

In fact, the black shutter game is so strong in Beaufort that I sometimes wonder if homeowners get a bonus if their home includes black shutters (as well as a front porch with an American flag on display).

Tabby construction is something you’ll see pretty often in the old section of Beaufort. Many of the structures in that area were made from a mixture of sand, lime, ash, and crushed oyster shells.

Here are some of the most famous homes in Beaufort:

• The Robert Smalls House
• Tidalholm, aka the Edgar Fripp House
• Tidewater, aka the William Fripp House
• Tabby Manse
• The Thomas Hepworth House

Beaufort Restaurants

A few of the top restaurants in Beaufort include Plums, Panini’s, Fish Camp, Black Sheep, Magnolia Bakery Cafe, Wren, Saltus, and Hemingway’s Bistro.

I enjoy supporting restaurants with ties to the local community, so I’m going to suggest you hop on over to nearby St. Helena Island to try Foolish Frog or The Gullah Grub Restaurant . Bill Green and his wife, Sara, operate the latter, and they specialize in fresh seafood and rice dishes.

Things To Do in Beaufort

The best things to do in Beaufort include a stroll around the historic Old Point area, a visit to at least one of the city’s many beautiful churches, and a walking tour that delves into the history of Robert Smalls and/or the Gullah culture.

If you’re a movie buff, this unique tour will take you past many of the film locations in the area!

You can find more of the top things to do in Beaufort here on Viator .

These are the must-see spots near Beaufort:

• Hunting Island State Park
• Lady’s Island
• St. Helena Island | Penn Center

Where to Stay in Beaufort

I suggest staying in the heart of downtown Beaufort so you’ll be steps away from shops and restaurants.

The Caretaker’s Cottage at The Beaufort Inn makes a great choice, but there are plenty of hotels, B&Bs, and home rentals in that area.

If you’re looking for a splurge option, there’s a 5-star inn facing the waterfront that I’ve been wanting to try. For more of a budget option, the Best Western in that same area is usually half the price.

Charleston, South Carolina

Distance from Savannah to Charleston: It’s approximately 110 miles and takes around 2.5 hours. Best for: Since the drive is longer and there’s so much to see and do in Charleston, I think it’s better as an overnight trip than a day trip. Plan to spend at least one day, if not a full weekend.

When I think of Charleston, I picture pastel-colored homes, window boxes full of colorful flowers, secret alleyways that allow glimpses into perfectly-manicured private gardens, row after row of fancy shops along King Street, the smell of pluff mud and the sting of the sea breeze along The Battery, the sound of horse-drawn carriages clippety-clopping down cobblestone streets, and the glowing nighttime lights of the Arthur Ravenel Bridge.

One thing that’s unique about Charleston is that the area still has plantations you can visit and tour. If that’s something that interests you, I would suggest doing your research first and choosing a tour that provides education about the lives of the enslaved individuals who maintained the plantation properties.

Something that isn’t as prevalent in Charleston as in the other Lowcountry cities, is the presence of beautiful old oaks covered in Spanish moss. While Charleston does have many stunning oak trees, some of the oldest and most stately ones were wiped out when Hurricane Hugo swept through the city in 1989.

Style of Architecture in Charleston

I can differentiate a Charleston home from almost any other style of home in the Lowcountry within seconds. The architecture in Charleston is very distinctive!

Charleston homes are generally very tall and thin, and many have porches that extend down the entire length of one side of the home. Due to Charleston’s proximity to the coast, most homes have functioning shutters to protect from hurricane-strength winds. It’s also very common for downtown homes to have decorative window boxes filled with flowers. The homes are often painted in pastel hues.

Downtown Charleston has a French Quarter District, so the historic homes and buildings in that area remind me of what you’d see in New Orleans (only Charleston’s are cleaner and prettier).

Charleston Restaurants

A few of the top restaurants in Charleston include Husk, Leon’s Oyster Shop, 167 Raw, Hall’s Chophouse, Lewis BBQ, Home Team BBQ, and Daps.

Things To Do in Charleston

Charleston is a shopper’s paradise, so you’ll want to set aside plenty of time to check out the city’s high-end boutiques. You can also find lots of locally handcrafted goods in the market.

It’s a fantastic city for photographers, since there’s a picturesque scene around nearly every corner. Rainbow Row is one of the most-photographed spots, as well as the iconic pineapple fountain and the adorable (and historic) pink house on Chalmers Street.

Finally, it’s such a foodies city that you’ll want to spend as much time as possible sampling different restaurants to get a taste of some of the best Southern-style food in the region.

Try a walking food tour or a small group walking tour of the hidden alleyways and historic sites.

You can find more of the top things to do in Charleston here on Viator .

Here are the must-see spots near Charleston:

• Edisto Island
• Folly Beach
• John’s Island
• Kiawah Island

Where to Stay in Charleston

If you want to be within easy walking distance of shops, museums, restaurants, bars, and attractions, I suggest picking a place within five blocks of King Street (east or west) and pretty much anywhere south of Cannon Street.

A few of the most popular places to stay include The Dewberry , Hotel Bennett , The Charleston Place , The Ryder , The Pinch , and the Mills House .

The most beautiful time of year to visit Charleston is during spring when all of the azaleas and dogwoods are blooming. Keep the Atlantic hurricane season in mind if you’re planning a late summer vacation. Storms are worst from August to October.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Distance from Savannah to Hilton Head: It’s approximately 30 miles, but plan for an hourlong drive — possibly more during peak traffic times. Best for: Hilton Head makes a great day trip from Savannah if you’re craving some beach time.

When I think of Hilton Head Island , I picture of miles and miles of golf courses, families cycling down winding bike trails, gated vacation properties (too many of which still regrettably feature “plantation” in the names), protected sea turtle nesting grounds, fading remnants of once-thriving Gullah communities, celebratory fireworks in Shelter Cove, tasty seafood, and the instantly-recognizable red and white stripes of the Harbour Town Lighthouse.

My family has owned property on the island in some form or another since the 1950s, so it’s been a special place for as long as I can remember. My parents even chose Hilton Head for their honeymoon!

I’ve seen a lot of changes on the island through the years, and I freely admit I’m part of the older generation that is nostalgic for days gone by.

Even though Hilton Head has been overtaken by tourism, there are some positive aspects that accompany the influx of visitors…

• The pros: You’ll find plenty of restaurants and family-friendly activities on the island, and it’s very easy to get around with helpful transportation options like the free Breeze Trolley .
• The cons: It’s next-to-impossible to get seated at some of the most popular restaurants (lookin’ at you Skull Creek Boathouse), traffic on the island — and on 278, which leads to the island — can be terrible, and there are times when the beaches are seriously overcrowded.

Style of Architecture in Hilton Head

The style of architecture in Hilton Head can best be described as… nondescript . (Ha! I speak the truth, though.) Homes and resort properties in many areas are designed to blend into the landscape, so they’re often painted a dull brown with matching brown or cream-colored trim.

There are at least a few sections of the island that feature more “beachy” pastel hues on the exterior. Overall, though, it seems like the majority of the homes have been stripped of all personality so they can serve as 25k per week short-term rental properties.

Hilton Head Island Restaurants

Some of the most popular restaurants on the island include Skull Creek Boathouse, The Crazy Crab, Old Oyster Factory, Frankie Bones, Charlie’s Coastal Bistro (L’Etoile Verte to us old-timers), Fish Camp, Black Marlin, and Bullies BBQ. My current favorite restaurant on Hilton Head Island is Hinoki.

I prefer recommending smaller, independent restaurants — especially those with Gullah Geechee roots — so I suggest trying Red Stripes Caribbean Cuisine. The owner, Lakesha Daley, is a native of nearby Daufuskie Island, and her partner and co-owner, Ezron Daley, is from Jamaica. They place a heavy focus on Caribbean-style dishes.

Things To Do in Hilton Head

Spending a day on the beach with loved ones is the main draw on Hilton Head Island. The beaches are clean and very family-friendly. Since much of the island is protected by sand bars, the waves are usually small and not the least bit threatening.

Because it’s such a tourist destination, there are lifeguards spaced regularly throughout much of the coastline during peak tourism season, and they keep a sharp eye out for rip tides and sharks.

If you’re looking for some mild adventure, the island has miles and miles of bike trails to keep you busy, and it’s also fun to go on a group sunset dolphin tour (or a private one !) or head out to the vanishing island . The most popular (and crowded) beach is Coligny Beach .

You can find more of the top things to do in Hilton Head here on Viator .

These are the must-see destinations near Hilton Head:

• Daufuskie Island
• Yemassee | Old Sheldon Ruins
• Pinkney Island National Wildlife Refuge

Where to Stay on Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head is a vacation destination, so you’ll find everything from beachfront hotels to family-friendly cottages to a plethora of oversized vacation rentals with private pools.

Sea Pines is one of the most popular places to stay. It’s a gated community on the southern end of the island, and it has virtually everything you’d need or want during a vacation. If you prefer a quieter and less touristy area, look for accommodations on the north end of the island.

Peak tourism season on Hilton Head Island falls begins around March or April (depending one what time of year Easter and Spring Break fall on the calendar), and it runs through early to mid-August when school starts back in session.

I suggest booking accommodations at least six months in advance for the best rates.

Visiting Savannah Georgia

For those of you who are new around here, I’m based out of Savannah, Georgia, so it’s the area I write about the most.

Here are a few resources I’ve created to help you plan your trip to Savannah.

• Savannah Georgia Travel Guide  – If you aren’t familiar with the city at all, this “quick start” guide will get you started! It provides a basic overview of Savannah.
• Free Resources Library  – When you sign up for my email list, you’ll get a checklist of “50 Things To Do On Foot in the Historic District (No Car Necessary)” and other helpful printables.
• Savannah First-Timer’s Guide  – My ebook combines my most helpful Savannah travel tips from this website in one handy downloadable guide.

When you purchase my ebook, you’ll also gain access to a private Facebook group where you can ask questions about your trip and get advice from others who have recently visited.

Do you have any Lowcountry South Carolina questions for me? Let me know in the comments below!

Explore Tours & Activites

Adventure awaits on Hilton Head Island! Kayak, paddleboard, and explore beautiful locations. Book now for an unforgettable experience!

• Mini Boat Tours
• Dolphin Tours
• Paddle boarding
• Boat Rental
• Daufuskie Island Round Trip Ferry
• PRIVATE EVENT

Hilton Head Island Dolphin Tour

STARTING LOCATION

Join us for a 90-minute, fully-narrated dolphin tour of Hilton Head! Hop aboard our cruise at the Palmetto Bay Marina and travel the scenic waterways off the breathtaking South Carolina coast. Our passionate captains and expert guides are sure to keep you entertained as they point out historic landmarks, scenic views, and of course, our beloved Atlantic bottlenose dolphins!

Observe these playful dolphins in their natural habitat as you cruise through the calm waters. Learn about their behaviors, feeding habits, and more from your informative guide. Look out for the diverse array of other marine life around you, including manatees, egrets, sea turtles, osprey, and herons.

Our small covered boats ensure that you don’t become overheated and that all of our passengers have an excellent view of the surrounding waters. This tour is perfect for nature lovers, young and old. Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime dolphin tour around Hilton Head and book your trip online today!

Fun included:

• 90-minute dolphin tour
• Narrated by an experienced naturalist/guide
• Observe the Atlantic bottlenose dolphin up close!

Yes, we guarantee dolphin sightings on this trip! We see these playful creatures sunrise to sunset.

Lowcountry Watersports strives to protect wild dolphins. Dolphins are protected by the National Marine Mammal Act; therefore, we do not touch, chase, pursue, harass, feed, or swim with wild dolphins. It is illegal and considered inhumane.

We will be aboard either a 35-45 foot pontoon boat, with full shade coverage, and comfortable seating.

This activity is great for all ages (infants to adults)!

There is a bathroom aboard 1 of our boats. Please inquire by phone if you’d like to ensure there is a bathroom aboard on your trip.

Yes, if a friend or family member can assist in boarding the boat.

RELATED ACTIVITIES

• TOURS & ACTIVITIES
• (843) 684-2004
• [email protected]
• 86 Helmsman Way, Suite 101, Hilton Head SC, 29928

• Drifter Nation & Friends

Daufuskie Island

• River Street & The Ports
• Shark Tooth & Fossil Finding

Wassaw Island

• Online Calendar
• Sign up for Special Announcements

Popular Destinations

Explore destinations less traveled, drift through the intracoastal with five of your favorite people., join low country drifters to watch the waves roll in and drift into some serious fun and relaxation..

Grab some cold drinks and five of your favorite people for a memorable outing, and we’ll take care of the rest! You’ll visit an island (or two) where you can catch some rays, try throwing a casting net, check out local wildlife, find some fossils and shells, or cool off in the water.

Unique to Low Country Drifters, each tour and excursion is reserved as a private party. You are welcome and encouraged to take advantage of your time aboard the boat and customize your trip to your liking to maximize your experience.

Private boat tours start at $600 for up to four hours, accommodating up to six people. Half and full-day boat tours are available. Please view our rates for more information. If traveling with more than six people, please contact Captain Bryan for possible accommodations.

• Shark Tooth & Fossil Finding
• Eco Excursions
• Remote Beaches & Sandbars
• Coastal History Tours
• Daufuskie Day Trips
• Island Adventures
• Dolphin Encounters
• Family Outings
• Celebrations
• Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties
• Customer & Employee Appreciation
• Sightseeing
• Corporate Events

Grab some cold drinks and five more people for a memorable outing! You’ll visit an island (or two) where you will learn more about local history, take in the beauty of the Intracoastal, catch some rays, find some shells, or cool off in the water.

Explore Little Tybee, Wassaw , Ossabaw, or Disappearing Island. You could even grab lunch on Daufuskie , a local spot on the water, or from the burger barge and swing by Shark Tooth Beach .

Whatever you’re in the mood for, Captain Bryan will help you plan the day. Unique to Low Country Drifters, each tour and excursion is reserved as a private tour for personal customization.

Half and full-day boat tours are available for up to six guests. If traveling with more than six people, please contact Captain Bryan for possible accommodations. 

QUICK LINKS

Rates • Plan Your Boat Tour  • FAQs Popular Destinations • Merchandise About • Captain Bryan  • Calendar

River Street & The Ports

Fossil Finding

Every Charter

• Every charter is booked as a private tour for up to six guests.
• Children and pets are welcome (dogs are not allowed on all beaches, so please discuss with Captain Bryan).
• Alcohol may be brought on board for guests ages 21 and over.
• We will provide a cooler with cold water and ice, plus two additional coolers for your personal beverages and snacks.

My husband and two young boys had the absolute best time on the water today with Low Country Drifters! We learned about the history of the Georgia & South Carolina low country, hunted for fossils, explored Daufuskie Island, and saw all the wildlife… crabs, dolphins, and a pair of bald eagles! If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure in Savannah, please consider supporting this veteran-owned small business . Captain Bryan is the very best! Lindsay T.  – Woodstock, GA November 2022

Captain Bryan is, by far, the most experienced in the business. His expertise, contagious attitude, love of the area, and personable attitude are BY FAR above and beyond expectations. I will DEFINITELY book with him again. Jacqueline A. – Richmond Hill, GA June 2022

Great experience! We saw dolphins, a sea otter and even found a shark tooth, had a great lunch on Daufuskie Island… Bryan was prepared as a captain and kept us informed every step of the trip, clean spacious boat, and overall A+ experience. I will definitely be coming back!!! Sean M. – Brooklet, GA February 2023

Low Country Drifters is the best on the ICW! Captain Bryan is an excellent captain and your guide. My boys loved “Shark tooth island”. We found multiple fossils and shark teeth, and my boys carried them around for weeks. Captain Bryan knew the best fishing and crabbing spots. He was flexible with our wants and kept us entertained the entire time. We can’t wait to go out for another excursion! Alex C. – Statesboro, GA July 2022

We had the best time on our charter with Captain Bryan! We explored a private little island and found sharks teeth, fossils, and crabs. Bryan has a wealth of knowledge and kept us all engaged. We had an absolute amazing time and will be booking future charters with Low Country Drifters! This will be a memory we will treasure for years to come! Thank you, Captain Bryan, for making this such a special day for us! Taryn N. – Orlando, FL November 2022

Captain Bryan gave us a wonderful family adventure! Loved the shark tooth/fossil hunting experience with our grandson, and exploring the Intracoastal waterways. Enjoyed it all! Nan T. – Savannah, GA November 2022

If you are visiting Savannah, this is a must! Great way to experience Savannah’s waterfront and surrounding marshlands. Captain Bryan was very knowledgeable and very personable. We enjoyed every part of the trip. Do yourself a favor and book a trip with Captain Bryan. You will be happy you booked with Captain Bryan. Barbara F. – Summit, NJ February 2023

My wife and I spent the day on the water with Low Country Drifters on Monday. It was both exciting and relaxing at the time. Stopped at Tubby’s for lunch. Highly recommend. Frank N.  – West Chester, PA February 2023

Captain Bryan was great! He is a fun guy and a very safe operator. We saw several groups of porpoises and had an amazing time touring the salt marsh. I highly recommend! Lance M.  – Statesboro, GA July 2022

Went on a tour last week.  Fabulous. Bryan is very knowledgeable. Stopped in Savannah for lunch. Saw lots of islands and inlets. Learned a lot about the history of the area. What a tour! Rose N.  – West Chester, PA February 2023

Captain Bryan of Low Country Drifters is an exceptionally knowledgeable boat captain, fossil hunter, and tour guide. He took my wife and daughter out today to look for shark teeth, dinosaur bones, pottery shards, and other relics of ages past, and we were fully satisfied. He gave us an ecological and historical tour of the Savannah ICW, brought us to Daufuskie Island in South Carolina for an excellent lunchtime meal, and made sure our photo opportunities were numerous and perfect. 10/10 would recommend to anyone wanting to tour the Savannah area! Chris B. – Statesboro, GA January 2023

Spent the day on the water with Captain Bryan and had an amazing time! He knew all the best spots in the area and made sure everyone in our group had a great experience. Highly recommend! Robert P. – Clarksville, TN June 2022

Our charter with Captain Bryan was the best part of our whole trip by far! We had such a fun time finding shark teeth and dinosaur bones and had an amazing lunch on Daufuskie Island! Cannot recommend Low Country Drifters enough!:) Courtney W. – Cedar Rapids, IA April 2023

What a great day out on the water and visiting Shark Tooth Island. Highly recommend Captain Bryan and Low Country Drifters for a great experience. Lisa B. – Gastonia, NC March 2023

Captain Bryan with Low Country Drifters was Great! He was very knowledgeable of the inter-coastal waters. You want to find shark’s teeth and fossils? He knows the spot. You want to see dolphins? He knows the spot. Want to catch a mess of fish? He knows the spot. His personality is easygoing and highly entertaining. Will be booking with Low Country Drifters again soon. Justin H. – Savannah, GA July 2022

Incredible charter experience! My wife and I took our 2-year-old daughter and her grandparents on a half-day trip and had an absolute blast. Captain Bryan, the owner, arranged a fantastic trip touring the area and was extremely knowledgeable about the local history and ecology. We saw tons of wildlife, including dolphins and eagles, and visited The Wyld restaurant for lunch before heading back in. We learned that Captain Bryan is a US Army veteran and it showed in his attention to safety and professionalism.  Amazing experience, totally recommend, especially for families! Gregory L. – Ambler, PA March 2023

Took a boat ride out with Low Country Drifters – Captain Bryan was outstanding! Enjoyed cruising around Savannah and ended up at Shark Tooth Island 40 shark teeth, some cool dolphin bones and a pepsi cola bottle from the 1940s! Kayli T. – Guyton, GA March 2023

Captain Bryan was great! He is a very safe operator. We had an amazing time while we were out on his boat. I highly recommend. Christopher L. – Statesboro, GA July 2022

Amazing experience for the entire family. Captain Bryan is the epitome of a true professional. He made us all feel so comfortable; it was like being out on the water with a trusted family member. He is so knowledgeable and has so many interesting facts about the area. We had some really good finds on our shark tooth tour, but we enjoyed the rest of the experience just as much. Already looking at the calendar so we can book another trip. Thank you, sir for the trip, and also your devoted service to our country. Spahos Family – Statesboro, GA April 2023

This Holiday Season,

Purchase Gift Cards Here!

Charleston Walking Tours

Join us for an educational and amazing walking tour with a small group in Charleston , SC!

• Most Popular Tour!
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Charleston’s Hidden Alleyways and Passages

Charleston’s alleys occupy spaces that blur the line between public and private areas and offer remarkable insight into the city’s history.

• Hour Glass 2-3 Hours

Charleston Private Walking Tours

Interested in booking a private tour with one of our talented guides? We are happy to accommodate private groups and can assist you in organizing a memorable event.

Downtown Charleston Walking Tour

This approximately two-hour walk provides an overview of Charleston’s Historic Downtown, focusing on the French Quarter and the area south of Broad Street.

Lowcountry Walking Tours

Purchase the perfect gift: a gift card with a value of your choosing!

Gift Certificates

Purchase a fantastic gift or gifts: each gift certificate is the exact value of one of our offerings.

Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

This Dreamy Riverfront Cottage Exudes the Lure of the Low Country

Tucked under a majestic live oak, a 1890s riverfront cottage gets thoughtfully updated for the next generation of paddleboarders and porch sitters.

From the outside in, the riverside house looks as if it’s lived this way for more than 100 years, tucked under sprawling live oaks dripping in Spanish moss. Its seamless renovation makes it difficult to tell where the old two-story structure stops and the new additions begin. To drive the design choices behind the renovation of the storied retreat, Stan says he and Jackye dreamed up a narrative. “Our fictitious story was that this 1890s house would have been renovated over time, in the 1920s, the ’30s, and the ’40s...” The resulting polished patchwork of rooms seems added on through the decades. “We brought the original house back to its glory while adding on a new wing for a modern-day kitchen and larger gathering space, plus a primary bedroom on the main level,” he says.

Preserved elements of existing architecture, including quirks like beadboard walls set on a diagonal, go hand-in-hand with the newer spaces that weave present-day livability with yesteryear charm, right down to exposed light switch conduits and simple cabinetry trim made with flat boards. Still, the rooms don’t read as period pieces. Mostly, the homeowners wanted ample areas to stretch out together with visiting family and friends, which is why the wraparound porch offers plenty of spots to kick up your feet and watch the world float by. “It’s very serene,” says Stan. “You can hear the birds chirp and the wind blow by. It’s why people have weekend houses.”

Idyllic Setting

A majestic live oak frames this 1890s South Carolina cottage. Clad in white clapboard, black shutters, and a red hand-crimped metal roof, the cottage’s vernacular is familiar to the historic neighboring homes. A tall cabinet on one side of the porch holds an ice machine and coolers ready to wheel out to the back dock.

An Open-Door Policy

“The house is meant for people rolling in on the weekend, bringing lots of food, and piling in,” says architect Stan Dixon. A wall of French doors in the main gathering room helps accommodate the influx. “We wanted the house to open up and blur the thresholds of what’s inside and out,” he says. Earth-toned interiors with touches of coral reinforce that seamlessness, and comfortable furniture can move around as needed. Take Note: To reinforce the feeling that the home had been added on to over the years, the ceiling of the kitchen area is lower than in the rest of the new great room, even though the space was conceived at once.

Walls with Character

Throughout the space, faded Turkish rugs soften the oak floors, and the creamy wall color reflects the Low Country light. “The color palette of mossy greens and coral reds, yellows, and browns that all look good together,” says designer Jackye Lanham. “That’s the way we unified the space where we had a lot of different things going on.” Painted reclaimed Charleston brick is stacked up along one wall in the gathering room. A wood-paneled door with iron strappings hides a storage closet next to the built-in firewood nook.

Get the Look: Wall Paint Color: Shoji White by Sherwin-Williams

Help Yourself Open Shelving

Open shelves in the kitchen stock grab-and-go dishes so guests can help themselves. “All the built-ins are constructed in a way that felt like a carpenter at that time might have built them on-site,” says Stan, referencing both the flat-panel doors and charming wood valances on the cabinets that frame the doorway. Jackye had black diamonds painted directly on the floorboards, creating the pattern that defines the kitchen area within the larger open space. The wood island provides warm contrast to Georgia granite countertops (the same stone used to build the Federal Reserve building in Washington, D.C.). The black metal hood and backsplash , banded in place with studs, echoes the checkered floors and iron lanterns .

Take Note: The new island is made of cypress for an old-timey vintage look. Jackye took the top to artist Ray Goins , who painted the pattern and triple-sealed the surface. “It looks like a linoleum pattern from the 1940s with some wear to it,” she says.

A Simple Scullery

A ’40s-era Formica countertop edged in chrome sets a simple tone for the scullery-like back kitchen. Open shelves stretch across the window, providing a pretty spot for glass to reflect the South Carolina sunlight.

Get the Look: Wall Paint Color: White Satin by Benjamin Moore

RELATED: Dreamy Open Shelving Ideas for Your Kitchen

A Dutch Door

A Dutch door in the back kitchen is the perfect passage to bring groceries inside without having to walk through the house. “We imagined the secondary kitchen had been renovated in the 1940s and topped with the cabinets and laminate countertops popular in the day,” Stan says.

A Dining Room-Meets-Library

In the original part of the cottage, including the library/dining room and bar (below), the existing southern pine beadboard walls are freshly painted a green-gray. “The wall paneling was set on a diagonal, which is very unique,” says Stan. During the renovation, his team dismantled the boards to update the wiring and install insulation, while keeping careful records so they could puzzle them back together. “We also left the wood on the ceilings because there was a certain patina and character to it that wouldn’t be possible for us to replace,” he says. New floor-to-ceiling bookcases help the dining area double as a cozy library; mismatched chairs reinforce a casual, come-as-you-are spirit.

Get the Look: Beadboard Wall Paint Color: Magnetic Gray by Sherwin-Williams

A Bar with Patina

The bar, which also has the freshly painted southern pine beadboard walls, is outfitted with vintage and antique furniture.

RELATED: Go Antiquing Like a Pro with These Designer Tips

A Quiet Entry

A separate side porch entry leads to the primary suite, which suggests it was originally an outbuilding later connected to the main house.

Cozy Quarters for Cat Naps

In the new primary bedroom, a vaulted ceiling with exposed rafters creates visual volume and makes room for a stately four-poster barley twist bed . “All of the beds [in the home] are made of wood to give that sense of cottage living,” says Jackye. “You don’t want a dust skirt or an upholstered headboard—that wouldn’t feel right.” The cornflower blue floral prints of the block-printed window coverings, coverlet, and pillows play into the rural countryside setting.

Get the Look: Bed: by The Beautiful Bed Co. Window Covering, Coverlet, and Pillow Fabrics: by Namay Samay

Serene Sunlight

In the primary bath, a primitive dressing table separates two marble-topped vanities with floating mirrors.

RELATED: Make Your Bathroom the Most Soulful Spot in the House with These Decorating Ideas

Charming Corridors

A side entry corridor in the new primary suite addition holds a built-in cabinet to store outdoor cushions. The antique bench has drawers to stow away smaller items, like swimming goggles, while peg rail is handy for grabbing a hat on the way out the door. An operable transom window above the paneled door helps circulate air. “The fact that it isn’t a built-in closet adds another piece of charm,” Jackye says.

A Splash of Yellow

To encourage more socializing on the breezy porch or in the big gathering room, the bedrooms are intentionally on the smaller side. In this guest room, a uniquely curved alcove frames the spindle bed, while a brown kilim rug grounds the room and complements the lemon curd yellow walls.

Get the Look: Wall Paint Color: Echelon Ecru by Sherwin-Williams Spindle Bed : by The Beautiful Bed Co.

RELATED: Our Best Bedroom Paint Color Ideas for a Restful and Inviting Space

Indoor-Outdoor Rooms

Guests in the downstairs spare bedroom have their own private entrance to the wrap-around porch and swing. “This is a great spot for morning coffee. Your eye draws you to the water and you get a peek at the island where the family goes shelling on the other side,” Jackye says.

Nautical Overlook

On the upstairs landing, vintage oars flank a window overlooking the front yard. The framed flag was a gift from the homeowners’ grown children. Throughout the upstairs of the original cottage, Jackye painted the floorboards a misty neutral gray.

Get the Look: Floor Paint Color: Front Porch by Sherwin Williams

Cheery Cherry

In another guest bedroom, twiggy vine wallpaper provides a sweet contrast to the cherry red painted dresser and Jenny Lind twin beds. The bird prints are vintage.

Get the Look: Wallpaper: “Leafy Scroll” by Schumacher

One-of-a-Kind Artwork

Open transoms in an upstairs guest bath allow light in from the water closet. The homeowner’s framed needlepoint adds a homespun touch. Jackye brought in subtle pattern with a painted stripe floor. Stan designed and built the marble-topped vanity and exposed the original chimney brick during the renovation. The architect created visual interest by juxtaposing wide vertical with narrow horizontal boards in the small space.

Get the Look: Floor Paint Colors: Front Porch by Sherwin-Williams and Chantilly Lace by Benjamin Moore

RELATED: Brilliant Ideas for Painted Floors

Weekend Gathering Spot

The music room provides a smaller space to catch up on conversations. The wicker seating’s cushions, Turkish rug, and gingham draperies continue the whole-house, all-season, color palette of browns, creams, and mustard yellows.

Guitar sessions and board games are regular occurances in the music room. “It’s the kind of place where you play cards, work puzzles—you know, stuff you don’t do during the week,” says Stan.

Sweet Tea, Sweeter Views

French doors from the main kitchen open onto the wrap-around screened-in porch. The space, outfitted with wicker and rattan furniture—including a rattan table that stands in as a makeshift bar—is yet another example of the unfussy character the cottage embodies, even in the new additions. Sailboats float between the family’s shore and the nearby island where they go shelling, and there’s a shrimp boat that comes in daily. “There’s fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, but the real purpose for a house like this is about spending time together and creating a place where people can get away,” says Stan. On a late afternoon, the homeowners might also stroll over to the nearby sailing club, where one of them plays live music with a band on an unadorned stage. “It has a Dirty Dancing vibe to it.”

.css-1shyvki:before{background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;content:'';height:0.819rem;margin-bottom:0;margin-right:-0.9375rem;width:3.125rem;}.loaded .css-1shyvki:before{background-image:url('/_assets/design-tokens/countryliving/static/images/arrow.svg');}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1shyvki:before{display:none;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1shyvki:before{display:inline-block;}} Country Farmhouse Style Decor .css-unxkmx:before{background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;content:'';height:0.819rem;margin:0.7rem auto 0.9375rem;width:3.125rem;}.loaded .css-unxkmx:before{background-image:url('/_assets/design-tokens/countryliving/static/images/arrow.svg');}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-unxkmx:before{display:block;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-unxkmx:before{display:none;}}

Upgrade Your Staircase With These Stylish Ideas

The Best Farmhouse Decor to Shop on Amazon

Dreamy Screened-In Porch Ideas

Meet Your New Favorite Reading Chair

Shop These Modern Furniture Finds at Walmart

Don't Miss Serena & Lily's Massive Sale Right Now

18 Best Backyard Chicken Coops

32 Cozy Living Room Decorating Ideas

Jenn Todryk Shares Her Top Walmart Home Finds

The Coziest Little Farmhouse in Michigan

Modern Farmhouse Style Explained

Southern Living Idea House 2024: A Lowcountry Classic

This year, we're building our dream home in a coastal community near Charleston, South Carolina.

For more than 35 years, Southern Living has partnered with builders, architects, and designers to produce custom houses that simultaneously celebrate the Southern lifestyle and the latest innovations in home design. This year, we are delighted to announce our Idea House is under construction in Kiawah River , a coastal community just 20 miles from historic Charleston , South Carolina. 

With thoughtful consideration for the natural landscape and an appreciation for the Lowcountry lifestyle, this year’s Idea House is designed to reference the simple beauty of the farmhouses that have historically informed the architectural vernacular of the region. Carefully positioned between two sprawling live oaks, our main house and adjacent carriage house make the most of their site on the banks of Abbapoola Creek, with views from nearly every space in the house (including the powder room!) and a floor plan that emphasizes an easygoing flow between indoors and out. Even the smallest details have been selected with the Charleston community in mind. In addition to including handcrafted products from area farm vendors, the team is also curating a collection of local art, like the sweetgrass baskets of 6th-generation artist Andrea Cayetano-Jefferson . Together, these elements celebrate Lowcountry traditions, honor the neighborhood’s agrarian roots, and welcome the future in a mindful way.  

Meet The Team

To make the vision for this year’s Idea House a reality, we’ve assembled a talented team with a unique understanding of the Lowcountry, as they’re all based in the Charleston area: the developers Kiawah River , builder Dillard-Jones , architect MHK Architecture , interior designer Allison Elebash , and landscape architect DesignWorks . 

Tour Our Idea House

Our 2024 Idea House will debut in the September 2024 issue, and launch online in August. The Idea House will be open to the public for tours from August 9 through December 22, Thursday through Sunday. (Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 pm. It will be closed for tours on Thanksgiving Day). Stay tuned for the link to purchase tickets.

2024 Idea House National Sponsors

• Alabama Stone Co. (A Division of Vetter Stone)
• Command ™ Brand
• 3M CLAW ™ Heavyweight Hanging Solution 
• Discover South Carolina
• James Hardie
• Ivory 
• Monogram Luxury Appliances
• PEDIGREE ® Brand
• Propane Education & Resource Council
• Regina Andrew ®
• Sherwin-Williams ®
• Southern Living ® Home Collection Exclusively at Dillard’s
• Southern Living ® Plant Collection
• Zuri ® Premium Decking

For more Southern Living news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Southern Living .

Every item on this page was chosen by a Veranda editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Explore the Lowcountry Greek Revival We're Calling the 'Maiden of the Marsh'

For a new build, she has a wise old soul—not to mention killer views.

“This is a family who really needed to be in nature, who craved a deeper connection to the outdoors,” says Dixon, noting the husband grew up on a farm in Kentucky, she in West Virginia. As newlyweds they’d settled in Charleston’s historic South of Broad neighborhood—dizzyingly charming, but with little room to stretch out. And with twins on the way, they would need it.

Given this, along with the new property’s magnificent view of the Kiawah River and surrounding marshland, “much of what we did here was about connecting to the outside,” says the Atlanta-​based Dixon, noting verandas upstairs and down, oversize doors and windows, and gentle, terraced rises extending out from the Greek Revival residence.

“I think the geometry of Greek Revival architecture lends itself to more youth and energy,” he notes. “The style has a classic sensibility but still feels bold and clean as opposed to something more ornamented.” Four imposing chimneys, an arched porte cochere, and graceful columns framing the front portico are quietly powerful, as is the historic narrative Dixon devised to guide the design.

Collaborating with Charleston-based interior designer Tammy Connor , he imagined a centuries-old Lowcountry home that had added and connected buildings like carriage and kitchen houses over time. “Building a compelling story, an imagined origin,” he contends, “helps give a new structure a feeling of age and permanence.”

The materials, then, become his narrators. Lime-washed bricks compose the center, or primary, section of the house, flanked on either side with clapboard wings. Old timber, heart pine flooring in 12-inch-wide planks has a swept finish, which has a look of early America. Plaster walls and painted wood trim appear in the center block of house; elsewhere brick walls are left exposed “to reinforce the idea that some of these buildings were once independent,” notes Dixon.

As for the larger scale windows (in the living room, the breakfast banquette, for instance), these are crafted of bronze as opposed to wood. “An older house would not have had large windows, so the use of a different material like bronze suggests they were added later.”

And the natural light and marsh color that filter through are breathtaking, says Connor. “When you walk in the door, you see straight through to the water,” says the designer, who sought to capture the essence of the surroundings and architecture without overwhelming them. Window treatments are light and elegant, “nothing heavy,” she says, and the ample sunlight allows for a brilliant dance of texture and shape.

“For instance, you notice how the lines of a chair contrast with those of the table next to it, how goatskin and hide play against simple caning,” she says. “Without patterns covering much of the furniture, the profiles and textures can really do their thing.”

Throughout, artwork leads or enriches deeply nuanced palettes, evidence of Connor’s deftness in balancing color and affinity for hues “you can’t quite describe in a single word,” she says. “A bluish green with a little gray in it, a sunlit raspberry.” She looked to artist Tyler Hays’s harborfront painting on puzzle pieces to balance an old-meets-new tension in the library. An English saddle-arm sofa in kindred sapphire silk velvet sits beneath it, opposite an updated wing chair upholstered in an Art Nouveau–patterned Fresie velvet.

In the entry monochrome oil paintings greet visitors with near-translucent color, like a continuation of the landscape. And a dusky, oak-canopied mural by Atlanta artist Raymond Goins, painted on boards of sinker cypress, commands an understated wet bar off the entry hall. An old English serving table is retrofitted for drink service (brass sink fixture included); bar appliances are cleverly hidden behind jib doors on either side.

And there are more smartly designed storage conceits: On either side of the breakfast banquette’s scene-stealing vista, a pair of closets tucks high chairs out of sight. Slideaway gates extend as mini–Dutch doors between the kitchen and the living room, keeping children in view. “Even with a very historical approach, we needed the house to work in a modern, real way,” says Dixon. “It has to fit the family living here.”

There are three children now and, with ground-level porches and a pickleball court and acres to run, plenty of room for the family to stretch out. “Living here is such fun,” says the wife. “We swim; we roast hot dogs; we sit around the fire at night.”

And as the children grow, so too will their paths around the property and through the marshy waterways behind the house. “I didn’t want a home that felt like an old house,” she adds. “I wanted it to represent us.”

Greek key detailing traces stair risers, a continuation of the home’s classical influences. Oil paintings, Katharina Chapuis

Living Room

In the living room, tower­ing bronze doors frame marshy views. Portoro marble mantel, Jamb

Dining Room

A bronze oak branch chandelier ( Cox London ) bends gracefully over an 18th-century English Cuban mahogany table. Paint­ing, William McLure

Muralist Raymond Goins painted the bar’s Lowcountry scene on cypress boards. Lantern, Rose Uniacke

A river-reclaimed cypress mantel with a honed black granite fireplace surround is the library's centerpiece. The Victoria Hagan wing chair is adorned in a vibrant floral velvet by Luigi Bevilacqua . Chandelier, Cartwright Lighting & Furniture

The kitchen’s etched glass pendants ( The Urban Electric Co. ) contrast humble surfaces like a wood-topped island, painted brick walls, and swept pine flooring. Stools, McGuire

Kitchen Dining Area

In the kitchen, French midcentury wicker chairs ( Xavier Nicod ) surround a farm-style table ( Mecox ) crafted of reclaimed pine. Chair cushion fabric, Perennials

Powder Bath

A leafy yew tree-inspired Cole & Son wallcovering cloaks a powder bath in verdure. The William IV mahogany washstand is topped with polished marble. Sink fixtures, Waterworks

Upper Stair Hall

Ceramic flowers by sculptor Bradley Sabin bloom across a Holland & Sherry grass cloth in the upper stair hall. The shagreen-wrapped coffee table is by Michael Morrow . Globe pendant, Hector Finch

Primary Bedroom

In the primary bedroom, an arrowroot wallcovering ( Studio Zen Wallcoverings ) and Parsons-style nightstand lacquered in Benjamin Moore’s Durango convey tonal, textural beauty. Headboard fabric, Pollack

Her Bathroom

Mosaic tile flooring ( Waterworks ) and a grasscloth-covered ceiling ( Phillip Jeffries ) enliven her bathroom's cream cabinetry (paint color, French Canvas by Benjamin Moore ). Tub, BainUltra . Sconces, Suzanne Kasler for Visual Comfort & Co . Alabaster bowl fixture, Hector Finch

Guest Bedroom

Framed pressed botanicals ( Botanicals by Sandy ) bring the Lowcountry's landscape into the guest bedroom. Bed, Hollywood at Home . Jute lamp shades, Edgar-Reeves Lighting . Indigo throw, Dixon Rye

Daughter's Bedroom

A 19th-century English amethyst glass bell jar lantern crowns the daughter's bedroom. An original painting by Sally King Benedict hangs over the custom daybed. Vintage Moroccan rug, Keivan Woven Arts

Terraced Lawn

Dixon and landscape architect Glen Gardner drew inspiration from Charleston’s Middleton Place for the terraced lawn, creating powerful vistas.

VERANDA Magazine

Featured in our May/June 2024 issue. Interior Design by Tammy Connor; Architecture by Stan Dixon; Landscape Design by Glen Gardner; P hotography by Eric Piasecki; Styling by Anita Sarsidi; Written by Jane Garmey.

From Veranda Magazine

This California Home Is an Open-Air Masterpiece

A Palm Springs Villa Made for Desert Lounging

Oscar de la Renta’s Home Is Pure Island Elegance

Step Inside This Gatsby-esque Atlanta Estate

Enter for a Chance to Win a $500 to spend with OKA

Fogo Island's Craft Awakening

Explore a Romantic 1930s Garden in California

Tour an English Garden Full of Wild Beauty

A Modern Hamptons Landscape That Feels Spa-Like

This California Garden Is a Lush Garden of Eden

A Romantic and Coastal Block Island Retreat

Advertisement

Supported by

Hot Oceans Worsened Dubai’s Dramatic Flooding, Scientists Say

An international team of researchers found that heavy rains had intensified in the region, though they couldn’t say for sure how much climate change was responsible.

• Share full article

By Raymond Zhong

Scenes of flood-ravaged neighborhoods in one of the planet’s driest regions stunned the world this month. Heavy rains in the United Arab Emirates and Oman submerged cars, clogged highways and killed at least 21 people. Flights out of Dubai’s airport, a major global hub, were severely disrupted.

The downpours weren’t a total surprise — forecasters had anticipated the storms several days earlier and issued warnings. But they were certainly unusual.

Here’s what to know.

Heavy rain there is rare, but not unheard-of.

On average, the Arabian Peninsula receives a scant few inches of rain a year, although scientists have found that a sizable chunk of that precipitation falls in infrequent but severe bursts, not as periodic showers. These rains often come during El Niño conditions like the ones the world is experiencing now.

U.A.E. officials said the 24-hour rain total on April 16 was the country’s largest since records there began in 1949 . And parts of the nation had already experienced an earlier round of thunderstorms in March.

Oman, with its coastline on the Arabian Sea, is also vulnerable to tropical cyclones. Past storms there have brought torrential rain, powerful winds and mudslides, causing extensive damage.

Global warming is projected to intensify downpours.

Stronger storms are a key consequence of human-caused global warming. As the atmosphere gets hotter, it can hold more moisture, which can eventually make its way down to the earth as rain or snow.

But that doesn’t mean rainfall patterns are changing in precisely the same way across every part of the globe.

In their latest assessment of climate research , scientists convened by the United Nations found there wasn’t enough data to have firm conclusions about rainfall trends in the Arabian Peninsula and how climate change was affecting them. The researchers said, however, that if global warming were to be allowed to continue worsening in the coming decades, extreme downpours in the region would quite likely become more intense and more frequent.

Hot oceans are a big factor.

An international team of scientists has made a first attempt at estimating the extent to which climate change may have contributed to April’s storms. The researchers didn’t manage to pin down the connection precisely, though in their analysis, they did highlight one known driver of heavy rain in the region: above-normal ocean temperatures.

Large parts of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans have been hotter than usual recently, in part because of El Niño and other natural weather cycles, and in part because of human-induced warming .

When looking only at El Niño years, the scientists estimated that storm events as infrequent as this month’s delivered 10 percent to 40 percent more rain to the region than they would in a world that hadn’t been warmed by human activities. They cautioned, however, that these estimates were highly uncertain.

“Rainfall, in general, is getting more extreme,” said Mansour Almazroui, a climate scientist at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and one of the researchers who contributed to the analysis.

The analysis was conducted by scientists affiliated with World Weather Attribution, a research collaboration that studies extreme weather events shortly after they occur. Their findings about this month’s rains haven’t yet been peer reviewed, but are based on standardized methods .

The role of cloud seeding isn’t clear.

The U.A.E. has for decades worked to increase rainfall and boost water supplies by seeding clouds. Essentially, this involves shooting particles into clouds to encourage the moisture to gather into larger, heavier droplets, ones that are more likely to fall as rain or snow.

Cloud seeding and other rain-enhancement methods have been tried around the world, including in Australia, China, India, Israel, South Africa and the United States. Studies have found that these operations can, at best, affect precipitation modestly — enough to turn a downpour into a bigger downpour, but probably not a drizzle into a deluge.

Still, experts said pinning down how much seeding might have contributed to this month’s storms would require detailed study.

“In general, it is quite a challenge to assess the impact of seeding,” said Luca Delle Monache, a climate scientist at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, Calif. Dr. Delle Monache has been leading efforts to use artificial intelligence to improve the U.A.E.’s rain-enhancement program.

An official with the U.A.E.’s National Center of Meteorology, Omar Al Yazeedi, told news outlets that the agency didn’t conduct any seeding during the latest storms. His statements didn’t make clear, however, whether that was also true in the hours or days before.

Mr. Al Yazeedi didn’t respond to emailed questions from The New York Times, and Adel Kamal, a spokesman for the center, didn’t have further comment.

Cities in dry places just aren’t designed for floods.

Wherever it happens, flooding isn’t just a matter of how much rain comes down. It’s also about what happens to all that water once it’s on the ground — most critically, in the places people live.

Cities in arid regions often aren’t designed to drain very effectively. In these areas, paved surfaces block rain from seeping into the earth below, forcing it into drainage systems that can easily become overwhelmed.

One recent study of Sharjah , the capital of the third-largest emirate in the U.A.E., found that the city’s rapid growth over the past half-century had made it vulnerable to flooding at far lower levels of rain than before.

Omnia Al Desoukie contributed reporting.

Raymond Zhong reports on climate and environmental issues for The Times. More about Raymond Zhong