Summer’s best-kept secret.
When it comes to summer travel, one destination continues to stand out: the Carolinas. They hit a rare sweet spot—easy to reach, rich in character, and offering a range of experiences that can be tailored to exactly what you’re in the mood for, whether that’s beach time, exceptional food, or a quieter reset in the mountains.
The Carolinas, your way
To get you thinking, here are a few ways to experience the region—each one easily shaped around your travel style and what inspires you most.
For Lowcountry luxury: Kiawah Island and Palmetto Bluff
These South Carolina stalwarts capture the essence of South Carolina’s woods and waterways. Kiawah Island is defined by its windswept beaches, miles of bike paths, and a collection of championship golf courses. (The Ocean Course is a top choice for its dramatic seaside setting.) Tucked further inland, Palmetto Bluff feels more residential, with oak-lined roads, riverfront landscapes, and a quieter, more private atmosphere. I often book Montage Palmetto Bluff for its stately architecture and inviting indoor-outdoor living spaces. The hotel’s roomy cottages are perfect for families, and its direct access to boating, fishing, and guided nature activities makes it easy to explore.
For elevated outdoor adventures: Highlands and Cashiers
This pocket of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains offers a cooler, pine-scented escape at elevation, with winding drives through Nantahala National Forest and easy access to waterfalls like Dry Falls and Whitewater Falls. Days might include hiking, fly fishing, or simply lingering on a shaded porch. Old Edwards Inn works well if you want to be right in town with a strong spa and multiple dining options, while High Hampton feels more like a private camp, with lake views, classic cabins, and a more immersive, unplugged atmosphere.
For memorable meals: Charleston and Greenville
Charleston has become one of the country’s most compelling food cities, thanks to a mix of authentic Southern cooking from chefs pushing the category forward. Restaurants like The Ordinary, FIG, and Chubby Fish are standouts. Greenville, meanwhile, is smaller but increasingly interesting, with a walkable downtown and a wave of thoughtful, ingredient-driven spots like Jianna and The Anchorage. It’s a great option if you want a strong dining scene without the crowds.
For laid-back beach days: Outer Banks
North Carolina’s Outer Banks are best approached with a bit of time and a willingness to slow down. You might start the day with a quiet walk along the beaches in Duck, spend the afternoon exploring the dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, and end with sunset views over the sound. The Sanderling Resort stands out for its understated, coastal aesthetic—light-filled rooms, direct beach access, and a setting that feels removed without being difficult to reach.
Hatteras Island sits at the southern end of the Outer Banks—a chain of barrier islands off the North Carolina coast. For a true escape, settle into an oceanfront beach house or opt for boutique stays like The Atlantic Inn, Inn on Pamlico Sound, or the classic Swell Motel. Here, mom-and-pop nostalgia meets iconic lighthouses, maritime history, world-class fishing, and watersports—all within Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
The Carolinas aren’t about doing everything—they’re about doing the right things, at the right pace. Whether you’re drawn to the mountains or the coast, I’d love to help you craft an itinerary that feels just right for you.
Living on Hatteras Island, I may be a little biased—and truly blessed to call this amazing place call home. If you’re considering a visit, I’d be delighted to share insider recommendations on where to stay and how to experience the very best of the island!