There’s something captivating about water: the way sunlight dances on its surface, the rhythmic sound of waves lapping against the shore and the calm it brings to even the busiest of minds.
With their many coastal and lakeside landscapes, the Carolinas are a dream for groups seeking that mix of adventure and relaxation.
In addition to over 300 miles of Atlantic coastline, the Carolinas are also dotted with pristine lakes, rivers and estuaries, providing endless opportunities to explore, unwind and take in the region’s natural beauty.
North Carolina’s Outer Banks alone span more than 100 miles of barrier islands, offering everything from wild horse sightings to the hallowed grounds of the Wright Brothers’ first flight. Meanwhile, South Carolina’s Lowcountry is home to tidal creeks, marshlands and iconic beaches like Hilton Head, where the Atlantic meets Southern charm. Inland, lakes like Lake Norman and Lake Murray provide quieter, yet equally enchanting, alternatives to the coast.
These are places where groups can connect — not just with each other but also with the natural beauty and rich history that define the Carolinas.
Charleston, South Carolina
Overlooking the Cooper River, Charleston Waterfront Park is a testament to the city’s dedication to blending natural beauty with communal spaces. This 12-acre park, with its meticulously landscaped gardens, iconic pineapple fountain and shaded walking paths, offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of one of the South’s most historic cities. The park’s design reflects Charleston’s charm, with sweeping views of the harbor, swaying palmetto trees and benches perfectly positioned for watching sailboats glide by.
For groups, the park is often a starting point for exploration. Harbor cruises depart from nearby docks, offering panoramic views of Charleston’s historic skyline, Fort Sumter and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. The park’s proximity to downtown means groups can easily transition from a peaceful stroll to exploring Charleston’s cobblestone streets, boutique shops and award-winning restaurants.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Spanning a massive 42 square miles, this Lowcountry gem is a haven for groups seeking both adventure and relaxation.
“Hilton Head Island is unique — as the first eco-planned destination in the country, it has a very different look and feel than other beach destinations,” said Charlie Clark, vice president of communications at the Hilton Head Island Visitor and Convention Bureau. “It’s very tropical and lush with no building over five stories high, no neon or billboards. Signage must be muted, and you’ll notice the color palate of the island blends with nature.” There are also no streetlights on the island, so, as Clark points out, “the stars put on quite a show after dark.”
The island’s 12 miles of sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing or simply soaking in the Atlantic views.
“The first order of business for any group is get out on the water,” Clark said. “Hilton Head Island is a natural dolphin habitat, so we highly recommend groups take advantage of the island’s dolphin tours. Boat companies like Outside Hilton Head cater to groups and understand their needs and can cater and do custom trips to the private Page Island for group oyster roasts and other activities.”
Kayaking is also quite popular with groups, and groups might come across rays, herons, dolphins (and even a bald eagle if they’re lucky) when out on the water.
Hilton Head Island is also well known as a golf destination.
“We’re an island 12 miles long and five miles wide, and in that span are 24 golf courses,” said Clark. “Groups also take advantage of amenities on the island where golf and networking go hand in hand, such as the Top Tracer facility at Palmetto Dunes.”
Lake Murray, South Carolina
A short drive from Columbia, Lake Murray is more than just a body of water — it’s a retreat, a playground, and a gathering place for those who love the outdoors. Spanning 50,000 acres with 650 miles of shoreline, this man-made lake draws boaters, paddlers and nature lovers looking to escape the city noise.
For groups, Lake Murray offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Pontoon boats glide across the water, stopping at hidden coves where travelers can cool off with a swim or lay out a picnic under the Carolina sun. Kayakers and paddleboarders carve their way through quiet inlets, while thrill-seekers take to the lake for wakeboarding, tubing or jet skiing.
On land, groups can head to Dreher Island State Park to stretch their legs on wooded hiking trails or settle into a shady spot for an afternoon cookout. Birdwatchers can scan the skies for ospreys and bald eagles, while campers wake up to mist rising off the water. For a more relaxed experience, groups can book a sunset cruise to take in the lake’s evening glow or gather around a bonfire at one of the park’s designated fire pits.
When it’s time to take a break from the water, groups can explore Bomb Island, a historic site and a seasonal roosting ground for tens of thousands of purple martins. In the summer, sunset boat tours give visitors a front-row seat to this breathtaking natural spectacle. Those looking for a lively atmosphere can check out Lake Murray’s floating summer concerts, where bands perform from a barge while boaters, kayakers and paddleboarders gather around for a one-of-a-kind music experience.
Lake Norman, North Carolina
As North Carolina’s largest man-made lake, Lake Norman offers a sprawling waterscape perfect for groups looking to unwind, explore or embrace a bit of adventure. Stretching over 32,000 acres with 520 miles of shoreline, the lake’s size allows for everything from peaceful retreats to high-energy activities, all within a short drive from Charlotte.
For those drawn to the water, Lake Norman’s numerous marinas provide a variety of rental options, including pontoon boats for leisurely cruising, jet skis for thrill-seekers and paddleboards for those looking to explore at a slower pace. Groups can drop anchor in a secluded cove for swimming, set up a lakeside picnic, or take a guided boat tour to learn about the area’s history and wildlife. Sunset cruises are a popular option, offering a relaxing way to take in the lake’s breathtaking evening colors.
Beyond the water, Lake Norman State Park provides a scenic escape with 30 miles of hiking and biking trails winding through hardwood forests and along the shoreline. The Itusi Trail, a favorite among mountain bikers, offers a mix of rolling terrain and lakeside views. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s diverse wildlife, from great blue herons gliding over the water to deer grazing in the woods.
For groups looking for a hands-on experience, Latta Nature Preserve features interactive programs, horseback riding trails and the Carolina Raptor Center, where visitors can get up close with rescued birds of prey. Jetton Park and Ramsey Creek Park provide additional green spaces with walking paths, picnic areas and even a small sandy beach for those wanting to relax by the water.
Proximity to Charlotte means groups can easily add an urban element to their getaway, whether it’s visiting the NASCAR Hall of Fame, catching a show, or exploring the city’s food and craft beer scene before returning to the lake’s peaceful surroundings.
Beaufort, North Carolina
Set against North Carolina’s stunning Crystal Coast, Beaufort is a waterfront town where history, nature and small-town charm converge. Founded in 1709, it’s North Carolina’s third-oldest town, and its past is woven into every cobblestone street, Colonial home and harbor view. From pirate legends to scenic coastal landscapes, Beaufort offers an engaging mix of experiences for groups looking to explore both its past and present.
Strolling through Front Street, visitors can soak in views of the harbor, where sailboats bob on the water and fishing vessels return with the day’s catch. The Beaufort Historic Site, a collection of beautifully preserved 18th- and 19th-century buildings, brings the town’s maritime and Colonial history to life. Costumed guides lead tours through the Old Burying Ground, where weathered tombstones tell tales of sailors, soldiers and even a young girl buried in a rum barrel.
Boat tours to Rachel Carson Reserve, just across the water, provide an up-close look at the wild horses that roam the uninhabited islands. These tours also offer the chance to spot dolphins, herons and other coastal wildlife. For a more immersive experience, groups can kayak through the reserve’s marshes and peaceful estuaries.
Groups might also want to stop by Beaufort’s North Carolina Maritime Museum, which featuring artifacts from Blackbeard’s flagship, Queen Anne’s Revenge, which ran aground near the town in 1718. The museum’s exhibits bring the region’s pirate-filled past to life with real treasures recovered from the shipwreck. At the nearby Watercraft Center, traditional boatbuilding techniques are still practiced today.
Adventurous groups can take a ferry to Cape Lookout National Seashore, where they can climb the iconic black-and-white diamond-patterned lighthouse or comb the beach for seashells and sand dollars.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
Stretching over 100 miles along North Carolina’s coast, the Outer Banks is more than just a beach destination — it’s a place where history, nature and adventure come together. This string of barrier islands is known for its unspoiled shores, maritime heritage and distinctive small-town charm, making it an ideal getaway for groups looking to explore, unwind or do a bit of both.
History lovers can visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills, where Orville and Wilbur Wright achieved their groundbreaking first flight in 1903. Nearby, Roanoke Island offers a glimpse into America’s oldest unsolved mystery — the disappearance of the “Lost Colony” in the late 16th century. The island is also home to the Elizabethan Gardens, a beautifully landscaped tribute to the era of Queen Elizabeth I, and the North Carolina Aquarium, where visitors can get up close with marine life native to the region.
Nature enthusiasts won’t want to miss a guided tour to see the wild horses of Corolla, believed to be descendants of Spanish mustangs that arrived centuries ago. For a different perspective of the Outer Banks’ beauty, groups can climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse for open views of the Atlantic and the rolling sand dunes below.
Groups ready for true adventure should try kayaking through Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge for a chance to spot black bears and red wolves. After a day of exploration, groups can relax with a classic coastal meal at one of the area’s waterfront restaurants, where fresh seafood and sunset views are always on the menu.
