Colleton County Summer Memories: A Look Back at Beach Trips and Local Adventures

For many who grew up in Colleton County, South Carolina, summer meant a distinct shift in pace – a time beginning just after Memorial Day and extending until after Labor Day. It was an era defined by bicycles, the unspoken rule of returning home when the streetlights came on, and a deep respect for adult guidance. This period fostered a sense of community where the entire town felt like a playground, accessible by the freedom of two wheels.

Beach Bound: Edisto and Beyond

Summer vacations often meant journeys to the coast. Edisto Beach was a popular destination, requiring a drive across what once seemed like hours over a two-lane bridge. The first glimpse of the pavilion was a welcome sight, offering hours of entertainment with pinball machines, skee-ball, bowling, ping pong, and various mechanical games. The pier provided opportunities for saltwater fishing, and driving along the beach offered a cool respite from the heat.

Further afield, Folly Beach Park offered weekend excitement with rides, music, and carnival games. Myrtle Beach, known as the home of the Shag dance, beckoned with its own pavilion, numerous putt-putt courses, and clubs like the Magic Attic and Studebakers, providing entertainment for the whole family.

River Adventures and Local Cookouts

For those preferring freshwater, the Edisto, Ashepoo, and Combahee Rivers provided ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and watersports. Saturday cookouts with friends were a staple of the summer, and waterskiing on the Ashepoo River added a thrill, albeit with the added awareness of alligators.

Florida Adventures: Before the Interstate

Trips to Florida were once significant adventures, particularly before the construction of Interstate 95. Traveling down US-301 through Georgia’s minor towns led to Jacksonville, accessible via the Mayport Ferry crossing the St. Johns River. St. Augustine, with its historic architecture, was another popular stop. A highlight for many was Marineland, the amusement park that housed “Flipper” the bottlenose dolphin, featured in the popular television series. Marineland predated the larger theme parks like Disney World, SeaWorld, and Universal, with attractions like Silver Springs and Cypress Gardens offering alternative entertainment.

Mountain Escapes: Cool Air and Scenic Views

For those not drawn to the beach, the mountains offered a cool escape. Towns like Cherokee, Maggie Valley, Saluda, and Tryon were within a few hours’ drive, providing beautiful views and the chance to wade in cold mountain water. Attractions like Sliding Rock, Chimney Rock, and the Cherokee Indian Village offered adventure and cultural experiences.

Lost Attractions and Evolving Entertainment

Some beloved attractions have since disappeared. Frontierland, once located where the Cherokee Casino now stands, offered a unique experience with a train entrance, a model train display, rides, Indian dance demonstrations, and a saloon reveal. Ghost Town in the Sky, though long closed, remains visible above Maggie Valley. Today, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg have turn into the entertainment hubs, with Dollywood, Anakeesta, and other attractions drawing visitors. Dollywood itself evolved from Rebel Railroad, which later became Silver Dollar City before its transformation in 1986.

A Call to Explore

Today’s summer travelers are encouraged to explore roadside attractions, support local eateries, and discover historic sites. Taking the scenic route, avoiding the interstates, allows for a connection to a simpler time and a deeper appreciation for the landscapes of the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida.

Colleton County Holiday Closures

Colleton County offices generally observe the following holidays: Modern Year’s Day (January 1), Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday (Third Monday in January), Presidents’ Day (Third Monday in February), Confederate Memorial Day (May 10), Memorial Day (Last Monday in May), Independence Day (July 4), Labor Day (First Monday in September), Veteran’s Day, Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November), the Day after Thanksgiving (Fourth Friday in November), Christmas Day (December 25), and the Day after Christmas (December 26). Colleton County FAQ. Offices providing emergency and public safety functions remain open on holidays.