Trip One: Cape Romain

(average of $230 a day for family of four…including stay at B&B, food, and activities)

Cape Romain!  Established in 1932 as a migratory bird refuge, Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge encompasses a 22-mile segment of the southeast Atlantic coast. The refuge consists of 66,267 acres which include a fascinating expanse of barrier islands, salt marshes, intricate coastal waterways, long sandy beaches, fresh and brackish water impoundments, and maritime forest. Points of interest include Bulls Island, Cape Island, and Lighthouse Island where two lighthouses, no longer operational, still stand.  Make plans to stay at Cape Romain B&B located in the beautiful town of McClellanville, just minutes from the refuge.  You should also make plans to visit The Village Museum and Hampton Plantation.  There are always weekly and monthly events at the refuge, so even if you don’t plan ahead, you can still look forward to an exciting weekend.

Trip Two: Riverbanks Zoo & Garden and EdVenture Museum

(under $500 for two nights/ two days of fun)

Take a half day from work on Friday, head up to Columbia and spend the rest of the afternoon at the EdVenture Museum.  Spend the night at a local Bed & Breakfast or at the Embassy Suites (they have a nightly Managers Reception with appetizers and wine/beer!  Your stay also includes a hot breakfast!)  Saturday morning, after breakfast, head over to the Riverbanks Zoo & Botanical Gardens.  Plan on having lunch at the zoo!  Around 3 or 4pm, head back to your room, get refreshed for the evening and head out to a local pizza place or have it delivered right to your room!  Sunday morning, after breakfast, head back to Charleston! OR trim $120 off your bill and head back Saturday evening.

Trip Three:  Beaulieu House at Cat Island Waterfront Bed & Breakfast

(about $620 for two nights/two days of fun)

Oh so close, but oh so far away!  Just over an hours drive, Beaufort is the second oldest city in SC, after Charleston.  With its picturesque alleys and homes, you can find yourself spending hours just touring the city.  Beaulieu House is located on the water and is only five minutes from downtown.  The Sanctuary has a newly rebuilt 18 hole championship course and an Olympic sized swimming pool. 

Trip Four: James Island County Park Campgrounds and Cottages

($50 a day)

Campgrounds and Cottages at Charleston County Parks and Recreation!  This is the ULTIMATE experience, with great savings and minimum travel time.  Within less than 30 minutes, you and your family (up to 6 people) could be camping out at the James Island County Park around $20* per night!   Doesn’t get any better than this if you’re trying to save time AND money.   And to throw in a lesson on community involvement, your family could even volunteer in the park for a few hours.  *rate is for Charleston County residents

Please share your money and time saving vacations with us!  Comment below or send us an email!