Top 19 'Spanish-Moss-and-Seafood' Lowcountry Road Trips to explore in January 2025 - Goh Ling Yong
There's a certain magic that settles over the Lowcountry in January. The humid haze of summer gives way to a crisp, salty air. The crowds thin, leaving the historic streets and meandering marsh roads open for exploration. This is the season when the Spanish moss, draped like ancient lace from the limbs of live oaks, seems to hold the quiet morning mist just a little bit longer. It's a time for cozy sweaters, crackling fires, and, most importantly, the peak of oyster season.
Forget the bustling peak season; January is the Lowcountry's best-kept secret. It's a month tailor-made for slow, deliberate road trips where the journey itself—the scenic byways, the roadside shrimp shacks, the pull-offs overlooking vast tidal creeks—is the main attraction. It’s a time to savor the region's two most iconic features: the hauntingly beautiful landscape and the bounty of fresh, briny seafood pulled from its waters.
This is your ultimate guide to the 'Spanish-Moss-and-Seafood' experience. We've curated 19 distinct road trips across coastal South Carolina and Georgia, each offering a unique slice of Lowcountry life. Whether you're seeking historic grandeur, wild nature, or a deep dive into the local culinary scene, it's time to fuel up the car, roll down the windows, and let the salty air guide you.
1. The Classic Charleston Charm Offensive
Charleston isn't just a destination; it's an immersive experience. In January, the cobblestone alleys of the French Quarter are yours to wander without the summer crowds. The morning light hits the pastel-hued homes on Rainbow Row just right, and you can actually pause to take it all in. This trip is about soaking in the history, from the grand mansions South of Broad to the poignant history at the Old Slave Mart Museum.
The real magic, however, lies in the details. Duck into a hidden courtyard, trace the ironwork of a centuries-old gate with your eyes, and listen to the clip-clop of a horse-drawn carriage echo down the street. For your seafood fix, January is prime time for She-crab soup. Head to an institution like 82 Queen for a classic rendition, or try a more modern take at a celebrated spot like Husk. Don't forget to book a table for dinner—while the streets are quieter, the best restaurants are still bustling.
2. Savannah's Ethereal Squares and Ghostly Vapors
If Charleston is the dignified grande dame, Savannah is her bohemian, slightly mysterious sister. A road trip focused on Savannah means getting lost (in a good way) among its 22 historic squares, each a miniature park with its own unique character and story. The bare winter branches of the oaks make the architecture even more prominent, and a misty morning in Forsyth Park feels like stepping into a gothic novel.
This city's soul is tied to its stories. A walking tour is a must, whether you focus on history, architecture, or the city's famously haunted past. For seafood, The Grey offers an unforgettable dining experience in a restored Greyhound bus terminal. For something more casual but equally delicious, grab a low-country boil at a spot like The Crab Shack on nearby Tybee Island, where the casual, no-frills atmosphere is part of the charm.
3. The Antebellum Ambiance of Beaufort
Nestled between Charleston and Savannah, Beaufort is often called the "Queen of the Sea Islands" for good reason. It offers a concentrated dose of Lowcountry beauty without the big-city feel. A road trip here means parking the car and exploring the stunning antebellum architecture of The Old Point neighborhood on foot or by horse-drawn carriage. The entire downtown is a National Historic Landmark District.
Beaufort’s proximity to the water is its lifeblood. Take a stroll along the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, watching the shrimp boats come and go. For an authentic taste of the coast, visit the Gullah Grub Restaurant on nearby St. Helena Island for soulful, traditional Gullah Geechee cuisine. Or, for a classic waterfront meal in town, Panini's on the Waterfront offers fresh catches with a perfect view of the Beaufort River.
4. Hilton Head Island's Tranquil Season
Known for its golf courses and sprawling resorts, Hilton Head Island reveals a different, quieter personality in January. This is the time to explore its 12 miles of hard-packed beaches on a bicycle, hunt for shells without a crowd in sight, and enjoy the island's incredible natural beauty. The Sea Pines Forest Preserve is a must-visit, with miles of walking trails, fishing docks, and ancient Native American shell rings.
Seafood is a year-round affair here, but January brings incredible oysters. Head to the Hudson's Seafood House on the Docks, a local institution where the seafood comes straight from the surrounding waters. You can watch the boats unload their catch while you dine. It's an experience that connects you directly to the source of your meal, a core tenet of the Lowcountry lifestyle.
5. The Unplugged Edisto Island Escape
If you truly want to get away from it all, set your GPS for Edisto Island. There are no traffic lights, no high-rise hotels, and no chain restaurants. What you'll find instead are roads canopied by ancient live oaks, rustic beach houses, and a sense of timelessness. This trip is about slowing down: biking the quiet roads, kayaking the tidal creeks, and beachcombing for treasures at Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve.
Life here revolves around the water. Local mainstays like Flowers Seafood Company will pack you a cooler of fresh shrimp to cook yourself, or you can enjoy a perfectly fried seafood platter at Whaley's, the island's only "in-town" restaurant and bar. Edisto is raw, authentic, and a perfect reset for the soul.
6. Daufuskie Island's Gullah Heritage Adventure
Accessible only by ferry, Daufuskie Island is a journey back in time. With few paved roads and a tiny year-round population, this trip is an adventure. Rent a golf cart upon arrival—it's the primary mode of transportation—and set off to explore the island's rich Gullah Geechee history, pristine and deserted beaches, and quirky local art galleries.
Visit the Iron Fish Gallery to see the work of legendary artist Chase Allen and stop by the Bloody Point Lighthouse for a bit of history. For your seafood meal, Daufuskie Crab Co. is the spot, located right at Freeport Marina where the ferry docks. Enjoy their signature deviled crab and a cold drink while watching the boats bob in the water. It’s an experience you simply can’t find anywhere else.
7. Hunting Island State Park's Wild Beauty
For nature lovers, a road trip to Hunting Island State Park is essential. As South Carolina's most popular state park, it can be packed in the summer, but January offers peaceful solitude. The park features a stunningly raw and eroding beach, a dense maritime forest, and a saltwater lagoon. The main attraction is the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse, the only one in the state that is publicly accessible.
Climb the 167 steps for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Atlantic and surrounding marshland. After your climb, find a spot on the beach for a picnic, or head back towards Beaufort and stop at the Shrimp Shack on St. Helena Island for some of the freshest, most unpretentious fried shrimp you'll ever taste.
8. Bluffton's Artsy Vibe & May River Oysters
Old Town Bluffton, perched on a bluff overlooking the May River, is the epitome of Lowcountry cool. This road trip is for those who love art galleries, quirky boutiques, and a vibrant, walkable downtown. Spend the day popping into the various galleries and shops along Calhoun Street, and don't miss the iconic Church of the Cross.
Bluffton's identity is inextricably linked to the May River, famous for its sweet, salty oysters. In January, you're at the peak of the season. Head to the Bluffton Oyster Company, the last hand-shucking oyster house in South Carolina, to buy a bag of fresh clusters to roast yourself. Or, let the experts at places like The Pearl Kitchen & Bar or FARM Bluffton serve you a sophisticated seafood-centric meal.
9. The ACE Basin Scenic Drive
This trip is for the true explorer. The ACE (Ashepoo, Combahee, and Edisto) Basin is one of the largest undeveloped estuaries on the East Coast, a sprawling 350,000-acre wilderness of pine forests, saltwater marshes, and winding blackwater rivers. The drive along the ACE Basin National Scenic Byway (a stretch of US-17) is a journey through a landscape that has changed little over the centuries.
Pack your binoculars, as the birdwatching here is world-class, especially in winter. Stop at the Ernest F. Hollings ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge for hiking trails and observation decks. Seafood here is less about restaurants and more about roadside stands. Look for signs advertising "fresh shrimp" and buy it straight from the source for a truly local experience.
10. McClellanville's Authentic Shrimping Village
For a glimpse into a working Lowcountry fishing village, head to the tiny town of McClellanville. Tucked away off Highway 17 between Charleston and Georgetown, this village is a photographer's dream, with shrimp boats docked along Jeremy Creek and a quiet, unassuming Main Street. It's a place that feels genuinely untouched by time.
Walk along the docks, chat with the local shrimpers if you have the chance, and breathe in the salty air. The town's restaurant, T.W. Graham & Co., is a local legend. Its laid-back dining room is the perfect place to enjoy a plate of fried shrimp or their famous seafood gumbo. It’s a simple, perfect, and authentic Lowcountry experience.
11. Pawleys Island's Barefoot Elegance
Pawleys Island is one of the oldest summer resorts on the East Coast, known for its "arrogantly shabby" vibe, historic cottages, and famous rope hammocks. In January, the island is blissfully quiet. It's the perfect place for a long, contemplative walk on the beach, followed by a cozy afternoon reading in a hammock (weather permitting!).
Just off the island, the mainland offers fantastic dining. I was just telling my friend Goh Ling Yong that some of the best Lowcountry food is found in unassuming strip malls. A perfect example is Frank's and Frank's Outback in Pawleys, a fine-dining institution. For a more casual bite, head south to the fishing village of Murrells Inlet, the "Seafood Capital of South Carolina."
12. Georgia's Golden Isles Grand Tour
This road trip combines two of Georgia's most famous coastal islands: St. Simons and Jekyll. Start on St. Simons Island, exploring the iconic lighthouse, the charming Pier Village, and the historic Christ Church. The island has a lived-in, community feel with plenty of great shops and restaurants.
Then, drive over the causeway to Jekyll Island, which has a completely different feel. As a former exclusive club for the nation's wealthiest families, its Historic District is filled with stunning "cottages" (i.e., mansions). Rent a bike and explore the island's 20+ miles of paths, and be sure to visit the hauntingly beautiful Driftwood Beach. For a memorable meal, The Wharf on Jekyll Island offers great food with incredible sunset views over the marsh.
13. Darien: Georgia's Hidden Seafood Capital
Long before "locavore" was a buzzword, the town of Darien, Georgia, lived it. This is one of the most active shrimping ports on the East Coast, and a road trip here is a deep dive into seafood culture. The small downtown waterfront is lined with shrimp boats, and the town's history is deeply connected to the bounty of the Altamaha River Delta.
Visit the Old Jail Art Center, then head to a waterfront institution like Skipper's Fish Camp. You can be sure the shrimp on your plate was likely swimming just hours before. The fried wild Georgia shrimp is a must-try. This isn't a flashy tourist town; it's the real deal.
14. Kiawah Island's Natural Seclusion
While known for its world-famous golf course and luxury resort, Kiawah Island's true treasure is its masterfully preserved natural environment. A road trip here in the off-season is a chance to enjoy its 10 miles of pristine beach and 30 miles of paved bike trails in near solitude. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers, with egrets, herons, and ospreys a common sight.
Bike to the observation tower in Marsh View Tower for panoramic views, or take a guided kayaking tour through the tidal creeks. While many dining options are within the resort, the Freshfields Village shopping center at the island's entrance has great spots like FortyEight Wine Bar & Kitchen, which offers excellent coastal-inspired dishes.
15. The Angel Oak & a Wadmalaw Island Tea Tour
This is a perfect Lowcountry day trip, combining a natural wonder with a unique local product. Start at the magnificent Angel Oak on Johns Island, a Southern live oak estimated to be 400-500 years old. Its sprawling, majestic branches are a humbling sight and a photographer's dream. The sheer scale of this tree is something you have to see to believe.
From there, continue your drive onto rural Wadmalaw Island to visit the Charleston Tea Garden, the only commercial tea plantation in North America. Take a trolley tour of the grounds and sample their American Classic Tea. For seafood, circle back to the beloved Bowens Island Restaurant near Folly Beach, a no-frills institution famous for its steamed oyster roasts and incredible sunset views over the marsh.
16. Georgetown's Harborwalk and Rice History
As South Carolina's third-oldest city, Georgetown has a rich history centered on its port and the rice plantations that once surrounded it. A road trip here should center on the beautiful Harborwalk, a boardwalk that runs along the Sampit River. Watch the boats, pop into the waterfront shops, and visit the Rice Museum to learn about the industry that shaped this entire region.
The area is also a fantastic, under-the-radar food destination. The waterfront is lined with restaurants serving fresh, local seafood. Try the offerings at the River Room Restaurant, a Georgetown staple since 1984, for classic Lowcountry preparations with a view.
17. A Cumberland Island National Seashore Adventure
For the truly adventurous, a trip to Cumberland Island is an unforgettable experience. As Georgia's largest and southernmost barrier island, it's a protected wilderness of pristine maritime forests, undeveloped beaches, and wide salt marshes. It's also famous for its feral horses, which roam freely across the island. This trip requires planning, as you must book a ferry reservation from St. Marys, Georgia, well in advance.
Pack a lunch and plenty of water, as there are no concessions on the island. Spend the day hiking to the Dungeness Ruins, beachcombing for sand dollars, and photographing the wild horses. The experience is rugged and wild. When you return to the mainland, reward yourself with a fantastic seafood dinner at Lang's Marina Restaurant in St. Marys.
18. The Lowcountry Oyster Trail Quest
January is the heart of oyster season, making it the perfect time for a foodie road trip dedicated to this briny bivalve. You can design your own trail, but a great route starts in Murrells Inlet, working your way south. Stop at iconic spots like Nance's Creek Front Restaurant for steamed oysters, then head towards Charleston for the legendary roasts at Bowens Island.
Continue south to Bluffton, stopping at the Bluffton Oyster Company for a taste of the famed May River oysters. As my colleague Goh Ling Yong, a fellow travel enthusiast, notes, single-focus culinary trips like this create the most lasting memories. This road trip is less about a single destination and more about celebrating a singular, perfect ingredient at its absolute peak.
19. A She-Crab Soup Showdown
This final road trip idea is a delicious challenge: find the best She-crab soup in the Lowcountry. This creamy, rich bisque, traditionally made with Atlantic blue crab meat and a dash of crab roe, is a regional specialty, and every chef has their own prized recipe. The competition between Charleston and Savannah is particularly fierce.
Start in Charleston and sample the versions at 82 Queen, Halls Chophouse, and Slightly North of Broad. Then, drive the scenic two hours to Savannah and compare them to the offerings at The Olde Pink House, Vic's on the River, and Elizabeth on 37th. Keep a scorecard, take notes on flavor, creaminess, and crab content. It's a delicious, decadent, and deeply satisfying way to explore the culinary heart of these two historic cities.
The Lowcountry in January is a place of quiet beauty, crisp air, and unparalleled coastal flavor. It’s a time to trade crowds for coziness and hustle for history. These road trips are more than just routes on a map; they are invitations to connect with a unique corner of the world at its most authentic and rewarding time of year.
So, which 'Spanish-Moss-and-Seafood' adventure will you embark on first? Do you have a favorite Lowcountry spot we missed? Share your plans and hidden gems in the comments below
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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