Summer comes early in the Southeast. That’s why now is the perfect time for a road trip along the beautiful and historic Atlantic coastal plain. From the delicious South Carolina Lowcountry cooking to the fascinating stories of the oldest city in the U.S. – St. Augustine, Florida, founded in 1565 – you’ll find adventures around every corner on this road trip!
Starting Point: Myrtle Beach, SC
Families have made Myrtle Beach their vacation destination for more than 70 years. With 60 miles of beaches, it’s easy to see why. You also won’t want to miss the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk where you can stroll along the oceanfront and visit the numerous restaurants, bars, the fishing pier and arcade. The crown jewel is the 187-foot SkyWheel where you can get the best view of the coast in air-conditioned comfort.
For golf enthusiasts, South Carolina is one of the top places in the world for the game. And it all began in Myrtle Beach nearly 100 years ago. Here you’ll find everything golfers can dream of, so leave room to pack your clubs! Myrtle Beach is also known as the mini golf capital of the world. Courses range from challenging putting greens for the pros to fun ones for the kids with surprises and whimsical themes. No matter which course you choose, start with some helpful mini golf tips.
Coastal Highway 17
From Myrtle Beach, take the scenic route down Highway 17 to Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort where you can relax on the sugar sand beaches of the #1 island in the continental US. This resort features private Hilton Head beach access. No need to pack your chairs; rentals are available for an easy getaway. Choose from several sparkling pools to splash around with the kids as well as an adults-only pool where you can enjoy quiet time. And don’t miss the beachside hot tubs!
There are multiple dining options onsite including poolside dining, so you can plan a quick casual lunch or a leisurely upscale dinner. Take a bike ride on a beach cruiser or grab a racket for tennis and pickleball. And of course, there are three championship golf courses. Or perhaps your perfect activity is visiting the spa? Whatever your idea of fun, you’ll find it here.
Amelia Island by Lunchtime
Just three hours south of Hilton Head, Amelia Island waits for you to discover its wonders. Visit 200-year-old Fernandina Beach for shopping, dining and art on a stroll through the historic district. You’ll find kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding tours, plus golf on the classic Oak Marsh Golf Course at Omni Amelia Island Resort. Search for shells on the resort’s 3.5 miles of barrier island beach or catch some sun at Northeast Florida’s largest poolscape. For access to all the resort amenities with more space and privacy, choose The Villas of Amelia Island with up to three bedrooms, a full kitchen and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
A Road Trip to Remember
Wrap up your Southeast road trip in St. Augustine, the oldest city in the nation. Founded in 1565, this is a place steeped in history and culture. Start with Castillo de San Marcos to learn how the Spanish built this fortress to defend the Atlantic trade route. Check out the cannons! Naturally, you might wonder at whom the cannons were aimed. PIRATES! Find out about the fearsome pirates who raided the city at the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, then as all self-respecting pirates must, visit the whiskey distillery for a tour. If that’s not enough to renew your spirit, perhaps a sip from the Fountain of Youth might do the job?
Road tripping is a wonderful way to see the beauty of the Southeast Coast, learn about its people and history, and have the time of your life along the way! Omni Hotels and Resorts offer all the comfort and amenities you want while you’re on the road. For more ideas on your next road trip check out our road trip essentials guide.