The Carolinas Holidays

A holiday in The Carolinas offers you the chance to experience Deep South charm and sophistication in both North and South Carolina in the USA.

While the quaint coastal towns and cities take centre stage, you can also explore plenty of incredible natural landscapes during your holidays to The Carolinas. Relax on the sprawling sandy beaches of the picturesque Outer Banks barrier islands, or head to the craggy peaks of the aptly-named Great Smoky Mountains. You can find both stunning spots in North Carolina.

No matter where you are along the coastline of the two states, you’re bound to find plenty of beautiful and unspoiled beaches, which are perfect for some rest and relaxation.

Historic holidays in the Carolinas

During your holiday in South Carolina, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time as you amble the quaint cobblestone streets and pass the pastel-coloured Antebellum houses of the harbour city of Charleston, the oldest city in the state. A renowned movie filming spot, you’ll soon discover why this charming city is a regular in the limelight.

Charleston isn’t the only city you should visit in the crown jewel of the Deep South, either. Head to the postcard-perfect historic city of Beaufort to learn of the area’s rich Antebellum past and explore the glamorous Federal-style mansions in the downtown district. Elsewhere, tour the ancient plantations that date back as far as the 1700s. These include the Hampton Plantation State Historic Site and the Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site.

On North Carolina holidays, discover the unique communities and blend of soulful cultures where Old and New South meet. Sports fans should make a beeline for Wilmington to learn why North Carolina is renowned as the ‘basketball country’. Speak to our experts today and we’ll plan your ideal itinerary.

Great sample itineraries

Our experts have planned a range of sample itineraries to help you plan your ideal, bespoke holiday in The Carolinas.

14 days

Rhythms of the South Self Drive

Guide Price £2,599 pp

Hit the road on a Rhythms of the South self drive tour and explore Georgia, Tennessee , Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida and South Carolina. Spend 14 days discovering the cities that changed the world’s musical landscape and awakened the civil...

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Adventure holidays

9 days

To the Outer Banks and Beyond Self Drive

Guide Price £2,309 pp

Whether you’re looking for breathtaking natural wonders, vibrant cities, historical landmarks or quaint fishing villages, America’s East Coast has it all. Our ‘To the Outer Banks and Beyond’ self drive is the perfect option for couples or families who want...

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City holidays

18 days

Deep South Explorer

Guide Price £3,199 pp

Take a drive through the Deep South and discover the inviting mix of Southern hospitality, fascinating history and culinary experiences that makes up this diverse region. Journey through Louisiana, Alabama, Kentucky, Tennessee and Mississippi on an 18 day adventure to...

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City holidays

9 days

Deep South Discovery

Get a taste of true southern charm as you set out on a Deep South Discovery tour. Venture through the states of Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama and Louisiana, stopping at vibrant cities ready to welcome you in with classic southern...

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Escorted tours

View all Carolinas itineraries (5)

Time Zone

GMT - 5 hours

Currency

USD - US Dollar

Visa Information

British passport holders require an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) to visit Memphis. You can obtain an ESTA from www.cbp.gov/esta

Language

English

Health Information

No vaccinations are required for travel to the Carolinas. All travellers should be up to date with routine immunisations. It’s important to contact your GP to check for the latest recommendations.

Explore the beautiful Carolinas from the charming historic sites in cities like Charleston and Asheville and scenic roads like the Blue Ridge Parkway to beautiful coastal region stretching from Hilton Head and lively Myrtle beach to the Outer Banks of North Carolina where wild horse run free on the beaches and lighthouse stand watch over the shores. There is so much to see and experience here.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is known worldwide as a great golf destination but there is so much more to this family friendly resort. Visit Broadway at the Beach with its wide array of shopping, dining and entertainment or enjoy the tranquillity of the Conway Riverwalk.
Wright Brothers Monument

Commemorating Wilbur and Orville Wright’s first powered flight, the monument stands 60 feet tall on top of one of the four hills that bordered the brothers’ camp and among the same dunes where the self-taught engineers launched the world’s first airplane flight. Take a walk to the visitor centre close by to reveal the full story behind the 12 second flight on 17 December 1903 and see a reproduction of the 1903 flyer.
Visit historic homes

Middleton Place - Explore the oldest plantation gardens in the USA at Middleton Place. Venture through the bewitching grounds, a mix of romantic woodland and classically formal French gardens, bounded by fields full of rare breed farm animals and real flood rice paddies. Magnolia Plantation - Owned by the Drayton family since 1676, the 500-acre Magnolia Plantation isn't just enjoyable for history buffs but for those who love a theme park too. Complete with a tram tour of the estate's flora and fauna, romantic boat tours, swamp gardens, a zoo and nature centre, there's definitely something for everyone. Biltmore - Discover America’s largest private home in Asheville, North Carolina. Take a tour of the 250 room Biltmore House, explore the stunning 8000 acre century-old gardens and stop by the winery for a tour and tasting.

Local Cuisine

Get a flavour of the local culture through your palate during your holiday in The Carolinas. Discover one of the top Southern dishes.

Grits

Grits are known as the staple dish in Southern cuisine. They are created with either hominy or stone-ground corn then boiled and mixed with butter and milk to offer a rich taste. Traditionally grits are served as a breakfast dish. However today they’re often served up as a side along with a scrumptious shrimp entrée.