Sometimes, I find that the best way to unwind is to escape to a place where time moves a bit slower, and the Eastern South Carolina Lowcountry is filled with hidden gems that offer just that.
From quaint fishing villages to tiny hamlets immersed in nature, this region is dotted with towns that provide the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. As someone who loves discovering off-the-beaten-path destinations, I’ve compiled a list of 10 secluded towns that capture the essence of peace and tranquility.
Each one offers its own unique charm, surrounded by the natural beauty of forests, rivers, and farmlands. Join me as we count down these serene spots where you can truly get away from it all and experience the quiet side of the Lowcountry.
10. Salters: A Hidden Retreat in the Lowcountry
Salters is a serene spot in the Lowcountry that I’ve come to appreciate for its peaceful ambiance and tight-knit community of just a few hundred residents. Nestled away from the hurried pace of larger towns, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of rural living.
One of my favorite things to do here is exploring the countryside, where vast fields and old oak trees create a picturesque landscape that’s ideal for leisurely walks and photography. Agriculture is the backbone of Salters, and the town’s rich farming traditions contribute to its laid-back charm.
What truly sets Salters apart is its seclusion—tucked off the main roads, it offers a quiet haven where you can disconnect from the noise of everyday life. This hidden retreat is all about embracing tranquility and savoring the authenticity of the South Carolina Lowcountry.
Where is Salters?
Located in Williamsburg County, Salters sits comfortably off the beaten path in Eastern South Carolina. It’s this tucked-away position that enhances its secluded feel, as it’s not directly accessible via major highways, which means fewer visitors and a more intimate atmosphere.
To get to Salters, I usually take Interstate 95 and then venture onto the smaller country roads that meander through charming rural landscapes before reaching the town.
The journey itself is part of the appeal, offering a glimpse into the area’s natural beauty and reinforcing why Salters remains a peaceful escape from the bustle of city life.
9. Andrews: Small-Town Living Amidst Natural Beauty
Andrews is a charming small town with a population of around 2,800, where I’ve found a delightful blend of seclusion and Southern hospitality. Surrounded by lush forests and pristine waterways, it’s a haven for nature enthusiasts like me who enjoy activities such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking along scenic trails.
The town’s history is rooted in agriculture and timber, and you can still feel that heritage in the local culture and landscapes.
What makes Andrews truly special is its away-from-it-all atmosphere—despite offering all the essentials, it feels worlds apart from the noise and rush of bigger cities. The quiet streets and friendly faces make it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the natural beauty that defines Eastern South Carolina.
Where is Andrews?
Andrews is situated in Georgetown County, nestled between the cities of Georgetown and Kingstree in Eastern South Carolina. Its location off the main tourist routes contributes to its secluded charm, allowing the town to maintain a peaceful, close-knit community vibe.
When I visit, I usually take U.S. Highway 521, which leads me through picturesque rural settings before arriving in Andrews. This accessibility, combined with its tranquil surroundings, makes Andrews an ideal escape for those looking to enjoy small-town living amidst the natural beauty of the Lowcountry.
8. Lane: Tranquility in the Heart of Williamsburg County
With a modest population of just under 600 residents, Lane has become one of my favorite spots to experience true tranquility. This small town boasts quiet streets and an absence of bustling traffic, making it an ideal place for leisurely strolls and unwinding from the daily grind.
Surrounded by sprawling farmlands and dense woods, it’s a haven for anyone who appreciates the simple beauty of nature.
Agriculture is at the heart of the community, and the local farms add to the picturesque charm of the area. Lane’s rural setting and minimal development enhance its secluded character, offering a peaceful escape that’s hard to find elsewhere in today’s fast-paced world.
Where is Lane?
Located in Williamsburg County, Lane sits comfortably in Eastern South Carolina, away from the major highways and urban centers. This off-the-beaten-path location is a key part of why I find it so peaceful—the lack of through traffic ensures a quiet environment that’s perfect for relaxation.
To reach Lane, I typically take U.S. Highway 521 and then navigate onto smaller country roads that lead directly into town. The journey through the scenic countryside only adds to the charm, making Lane a delightful destination for those seeking a serene retreat in the heart of the Lowcountry.
7. Gresham: Rural Charm in Marion County
Gresham is a place where rural charm meets a close-knit community, and it’s a joy to spend time among its friendly residents, who number just a few hundred. The extensive open lands surrounding the town are perfect for those who appreciate the quiet serenity of the countryside.
I’ve enjoyed exploring the vast fields and forests that make Gresham feel like a world away from the hustle of city life. Agriculture plays a significant role here, with local farms contributing to the town’s laid-back ambiance and providing fresh, local produce.
Gresham’s distance from larger towns enhances its secluded character, offering a tranquil environment that’s hard to resist for someone like me who loves rural escapes.
Where is Gresham?
Situated in Marion County in Eastern South Carolina, Gresham is tucked away from major highways and bustling tourist areas. This location off the main thoroughfares contributes greatly to its peaceful atmosphere and seclusion.
When I head to Gresham, I often take State Route 41 or 908, which take me through scenic landscapes before arriving in this quiet community. The town’s remoteness and the journey to get there make it a perfect destination for those seeking a genuine rural retreat amid the natural beauty of the Lowcountry.
6. Nesmith: A Tiny Hamlet Immersed in Nature
Nesmith is one of those places where you can truly disconnect, with a very small population that offers a sense of privacy and solitude I rarely find elsewhere.
Immersed in lush natural surroundings, it’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities like bird watching, fishing, and simply taking in the peaceful environment.
There aren’t any major industries here, which only adds to the town’s quietude—it’s a place where nature takes center stage. What draws me to Nesmith is that feeling of being completely off the grid, where the stresses of modern life seem to melt away amid the whispering pines and open skies.
Where is Nesmith?
Located in Williamsburg County, Nesmith lies in the heart of Eastern South Carolina’s rural landscape. Its seclusion is amplified by its position away from major highways and urban centers, ensuring a tranquil atmosphere that’s hard to come by.
I usually reach Nesmith by taking U.S. Highway 701 and then venturing onto smaller rural roads that lead into this hidden hamlet. The journey itself is a relaxing drive through scenic farmlands and forests, making the destination all the more rewarding for those seeking a peaceful escape.
5. Bonneau: Lakeside Serenity on the Shores of Lake Moultrie
Bonneau is a delightful town of about 500 residents that I’ve fallen in love with for its serene lakeside setting. Nestled on the shores of Lake Moultrie, it offers stunning water views and a range of outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and kayaking that I can’t get enough of.
The town’s main industries revolve around recreation and the natural beauty of the lake, with small businesses catering to visitors and locals who enjoy life by the water.
What makes Bonneau truly secluded is its tranquil atmosphere—despite its recreational offerings, it remains a quiet lakeside town where you can unwind and soak up the peaceful surroundings.
Where is Bonneau?
Bonneau is located in Berkeley County, in Eastern South Carolina, positioned comfortably along the western shore of Lake Moultrie. Its seclusion comes from being tucked away from major highways, offering a quiet retreat that’s still accessible.
To get to Bonneau, I often take U.S. Highway 52 and then navigate onto local roads that wind their way to the town. The scenic drive alongside the lake and through wooded areas sets the tone for a relaxing getaway, making Bonneau an ideal destination for those seeking lakeside serenity away from the crowds.
4. Hemingway: A Peaceful Retreat Surrounded by Farmland
With a population of around 530, Hemingway offers a laid-back ambiance that I find incredibly refreshing. Surrounded by expansive farmlands, this town is steeped in agricultural roots, particularly tobacco farming, which has shaped its history and culture.
I enjoy visiting Hemingway for its quiet streets and the chance to experience authentic rural life, far from the clamor of bigger cities. The local community is warm and welcoming, and the simplicity of life here is a reminder of the charm inherent in small-town living.
The expansive rural landscapes not only provide beautiful scenery but also contribute to the town’s secluded feel, making it a peaceful retreat where I can truly relax.
Where is Hemingway?
Situated in Williamsburg County, Hemingway lies in Eastern South Carolina, comfortably distanced from the busier coastal areas. Its location amid vast farmlands enhances its seclusion, offering a quiet environment free from heavy traffic and urban noise.
When heading to Hemingway, I usually take State Highway 41 or 261, which lead me through picturesque countryside before arriving in town. The journey is a pleasure in itself, highlighting the natural beauty of the region and reinforcing why Hemingway is such a tranquil escape.
3. Jamestown: Hidden Gem Nestled in the Lowcountry
Jamestown is a tiny treasure with a population of just around 72 people, offering an intimate small-town atmosphere that I absolutely adore. Nestled amid the towering trees of the Francis Marion National Forest, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts like me who enjoy hiking, bird watching, and exploring nature trails.
The town doesn’t have major industries, but its proximity to the forest makes it an important spot for forestry and conservation efforts.
What enhances Jamestown’s seclusion is not just its size but also its distance from urban centers, providing a quiet lifestyle that’s hard to find in today’s fast-paced world. It’s a place where I can truly disconnect and immerse myself in the tranquility of the Lowcountry.
Where is Jamestown?
Located in Berkeley County, Jamestown sits in Eastern South Carolina, deep within the expanses of the Francis Marion National Forest. This location contributes significantly to its secluded feel, as it’s enveloped by miles of woodlands that separate it from larger towns and cities.
To reach Jamestown, I often take U.S. Highway 17A and then venture onto State Road 45, which winds through the forest and leads directly into town. The drive through the dense woods is a serene experience in itself, setting the stage for the peaceful retreat that awaits in Jamestown.
2. Awendaw: Nature Lover’s Escape Along the Wando River
Awendaw is a peaceful town of about 1,300 residents that I’ve come to cherish for its rich natural beauty along the Intracoastal Waterway and the Wando River. It’s a haven for nature lovers like me, with abundant wildlife, serene waterways perfect for kayaking, and miles of trails in the Francis Marion National Forest.
The town’s connection to the sea and forests also means that ecotourism plays a significant role in its local economy. What makes Awendaw particularly secluded is its proximity to the Cape Romain Wildlife Refuge, which adds to the sense of seclusion by surrounding the town with protected lands and waters.
Where is Awendaw?
Located in Charleston County, Awendaw sits along the eastern edge of South Carolina, north of Mount Pleasant. Despite its relative proximity to Charleston, it maintains a secluded charm due to the vast stretches of protected lands that envelop it.
To get to Awendaw, I usually take U.S. Highway 17, which offers a scenic route flanked by marshlands and forests. The journey underscores why Awendaw feels so removed from the hustle of urban life, making it an ideal escape for those looking to reconnect with the natural world.
1. McClellanville: A Quaint Fishing Village Surrounded by Forests
McClellanville is a quaint fishing village with a population of around 500, and it’s easily one of my favorite secluded spots in Eastern South Carolina. The town is rich in history, with beautiful historic homes shaded by ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss.
I love strolling through the quiet streets and soaking in the charm of this timeless place. Seafood is at the heart of McClellanville’s heritage—it’s renowned for its shrimping industry, and indulging in fresh-caught seafood is a must when I’m there.
The surrounding Francis Marion National Forest not only enhances the town’s natural beauty but also adds to its seclusion, making it a peaceful haven where the pace of life is delightfully slow.
Where is McClellanville?
Situated in Charleston County along the coast, McClellanville is nestled between Charleston and Georgetown but feels worlds away due to its secluded setting.
The town is enveloped by the Francis Marion National Forest and bordered by the Intracoastal Waterway, which together create a buffer from the bustle of nearby cities. To reach McClellanville, I take U.S. Highway 17, and as I drive deeper into the forest-lined roads, the serenity becomes palpable.
This off-the-beaten-path location is part of what makes McClellanville so special—a hidden gem where I can escape the noise and reconnect with the simple pleasures of coastal living.
