South Carolina is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant cities. From the cobblestone streets of Charleston to the mountain trails of the Upstate, the state attracts millions of tourists annually. Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach vacation, a history-filled road trip, or an adventurous outdoor escape, South Carolina has it all. But to make the most of your journey, choosing the right travel company is crucial.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best travel companies in South Carolina that offer exceptional customer service, customized itineraries, and memorable travel experiences. These companies specialize in various services such as group tours, luxury travel, corporate trips, and local excursions. Let’s dive into the top names that make travel in South Carolina unforgettable.
Adventure Sightseeing – Charleston’s Iconic Tour Experts
Adventure Sightseeing is one of Charleston’s oldest and most trusted travel and tour operators. With over three decades of experience, they offer guided tours that showcase the city’s rich history, well-preserved architecture, and Southern charm. From horse-drawn carriage rides to historic plantation tours, their offerings are ideal for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers.
What sets them apart is their commitment to storytelling. Each tour is led by a licensed guide who brings Charleston’s history to life with fascinating anecdotes and facts. Whether it’s the haunting tales of the Civil War or the culinary delights of Lowcountry cuisine, Adventure Sightseeing covers it all.
Southern Living Tours – Customized and Classy Travel
Based in Greenville, Southern Living Tours caters to those looking for a tailored travel experience. This company focuses on personalized itineraries for couples, families, and corporate clients. Whether you’re exploring the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains or taking a food-and-wine trip through Columbia, they ensure every detail is handled with finesse.
Their upscale service and attention to detail make them a popular choice for honeymooners and special occasions. Southern Living Tours also collaborates with local businesses and media like Paris PR to promote culturally rich and exclusive travel packages that go beyond traditional tourism.
Coastal Expeditions – Eco-Tourism at Its Best
Coastal Expeditions is a pioneer in eco-tourism in South Carolina. They specialize in kayaking, paddleboarding, and wildlife tours in the Charleston area. This company is perfect for those who want to connect with nature and learn about South Carolina’s unique coastal ecosystems.
Their guided tours explore barrier islands, salt marshes, and natural preserves. What makes them stand out is their dedication to conservation and education. Coastal Expeditions also partners with schools and nonprofits to promote environmental stewardship among locals and tourists alike.
Let’s Go Travel – Budget-Friendly and Reliable
Let’s Go Travel in Columbia is known for offering affordable vacation packages without compromising on quality. From last-minute getaways to full-scale family vacations, they manage everything from flight bookings to hotel accommodations and car rentals.
Their competitive pricing and flexible payment options make travel more accessible. Whether you’re booking a quick weekend trip or a long-term adventure, Let’s Go Travel ensures a smooth planning process and offers 24/7 customer support. Their long-standing reputation and repeat clientele speak volumes about their dependability.
Old South Carriage Company – A Journey Through History
Charleston’s charm wouldn’t be complete without a visit with Old South Carriage Company. This iconic provider offers authentic horse-drawn carriage tours through the city’s historic district. The clip-clop of hooves on cobblestones combined with expert narration makes this a favorite among history buffs and romantics alike.
Old South Carriage Company is committed to animal welfare and professional service. They go beyond standard tours by offering private charters, ghost tours, and holiday-themed rides. For anyone visiting Charleston, this experience is a must.
Coastal Travel Planners – Your Cruise and Group Travel Experts
Located in Myrtle Beach, Coastal Travel Planners specializes in cruise vacations and large group travel arrangements. Whether it’s a church retreat, family reunion, or corporate retreat, they handle every aspect with precision. Their agents are Certified Travel Associates who help travelers find the best cruise lines, dates, and destinations that match their preferences.
This company is a one-stop-shop for booking, documentation, insurance, and excursions. They often collaborate with publications like Home PR Services to offer exclusive cruise packages and themed group vacations.
Carolina Tailwinds – Bicycle Touring Excellence
Carolina Tailwinds offers guided and self-guided bicycle tours across scenic locations in South Carolina, including the Lowcountry and the foothills of the Appalachians. Their well-organized tours feature upscale accommodations, gourmet dining, and local cultural immersion.
Ideal for active travelers, their itineraries strike a balance between physical activity and leisure. From oceanfront rides to vineyard stops, each tour is curated to maximize enjoyment and safety. Carolina Tailwinds is a favorite among cyclists looking for something more adventurous yet stress-free.
Palmetto Carriage Works – Family-Friendly Fun in Charleston
If you’re looking for a fun and family-friendly experience in Charleston, Palmetto Carriage Works is another great carriage tour company. Their large red carriages are iconic around the historic city, and their focus on family-friendly narration makes them a hit with kids and adults alike.
Unlike other companies, they offer combo tickets that include harbor tours, aquarium visits, and plantation entries. Their team is known for its warm hospitality and entertaining guides. A ride with Palmetto Carriage Works is both educational and enjoyable.
Charleston Sole – Walking Tours with Personality
Charleston Sole is ideal for those who prefer exploring cities on foot. Their walking tours offer a deeper, more intimate look at the city’s art, history, and culture. Small group sizes mean that each guest gets personal attention and can interact with the guide freely.
From hidden alleyways to colonial churches, Charleston Sole uncovers gems that many tours miss. Their guides are not just locals but passionate historians and storytellers. Their five-star reviews and high TripAdvisor ratings attest to the quality of the experience.
The Travel Connection – Luxury and Corporate Travel
Headquartered in Columbia, The Travel Connection provides full-service luxury and corporate travel management. They specialize in high-end international travel, business retreats, incentive travel, and event planning. With decades of industry experience, they work with major hotel brands and airlines to offer premium services.
This agency is perfect for clients who demand perfection. Whether it’s a custom trip to Europe or a corporate event in the Bahamas, The Travel Connection ensures every detail is flawless. Their collaboration with Berlin PR News also adds a layer of European flair to their marketing campaigns.
All About Charleston – Locally Curated Tours
All About Charleston focuses solely on delivering local experiences in Charleston. From food tours and pub crawls to historical deep dives and Black history walks, they offer a comprehensive view of the city’s cultural tapestry. Their guides are residents, chefs, and cultural historians who bring authenticity to every tour.
Perfect for curious minds and cultural explorers, All About Charleston emphasizes real connections with the city’s neighborhoods and people. They offer private and group tours with customizable options, making each experience truly one-of-a-kind.
Upstate Travel Group – Serving the Mountain Regions
Upstate Travel Group is based in Spartanburg and specializes in the mountainous regions of South Carolina. Their packages often include hiking trips, cabin stays, and seasonal adventures like white-water rafting and leaf-peeping tours.
They are ideal for travelers who love nature but prefer a guided experience. Upstate Travel Group is known for its well-planned logistics, knowledgeable guides, and deep local connections. Their trips often highlight South Carolina’s overlooked treasures like Lake Jocassee and Table Rock State Park.
Vacation Myrtle Beach – Resorts and All-Inclusive Travel
Vacation Myrtle Beach is not just a travel company—it’s a network of beachfront resorts offering all-inclusive vacation packages. From spa services and golf retreats to waterpark fun for families, they cater to a wide demographic. With 14 properties along the Grand Strand, this company offers something for everyone.
Their website is user-friendly, and they frequently run promotions and discounts. They also offer wedding and event planning, making them a go-to choice for destination celebrations. Their customer service is highly rated, and their loyalty programs keep travelers coming back.
Garden City Realty – Beach House Rentals and Management
While primarily a real estate company, Garden City Realty offers full vacation rental services for travelers looking for beachside homes in the Murrells Inlet and Surfside Beach areas. Their rentals range from cozy cottages to luxury villas.
They handle everything from booking and concierge services to maintenance and housekeeping. Ideal for long-term vacationers or large family reunions, Garden City Realty offers the comfort of home with the convenience of hotel-level service.
Magnolia Tours – Boutique Travel with Southern Hospitality
Magnolia Tours offers boutique travel experiences with a touch of elegance and charm. From bridal party getaways to photography-focused tours, their niche is creative and memorable experiences. Based in Charleston, they often incorporate Southern traditions and hospitality into their itineraries.
They also partner with content platforms like Home Tips MAG to highlight unique travel tips, lifestyle content, and hidden gems throughout South Carolina. Their tours are beautifully curated and ideal for those looking to blend culture, leisure, and personal enrichment.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right travel company can transform your journey from ordinary to extraordinary. South Carolina, with its rich blend of natural beauty, history, and hospitality, offers a wide range of travel experiences for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re a history buff, beach lover, foodie, or outdoor adventurer, the travel companies listed above will help you explore the Palmetto State in a meaningful and enjoyable way.
From luxury travel and eco-tours to budget-friendly getaways and custom group adventures, South Carolina’s best travel companies provide service with a personal touch. So pack your bags, pick your ideal travel partner, and get ready to experience everything this stunning state has to offer.