Although Labor Day usually marks the end of summer fun, that doesn’t mean you can’t squeeze one last getaway before the fall weather hits. Lucky for you, the Carolinas offer many destinations for a Labor Day getaway.
Here are our top recommendations for your the best Labor Day Weekend Getaways in the Carolinas this year:
#1 – Outer Banks – The Best Labor Day Weekend Getaways in the Carolinas For Those That Love Peace And Quiet
This Labor Day Weekend trip really is the best! And yes, we know it’s a long ways to get out there. But after that five and a half hour drive, the peacefulness of the Outer Banks will make it all worth it. On one side, you have the sound, a beautiful body of water perfect for kitesurfing, fishing, and sunset views (a rare sight on the east coast to see the sun set over water). On the other side you have wide, expansive beaches and gorgeous blue water of the Atlantic Ocean. There’s plenty to do on the OBX too. You can see the many lighthouses. Bodie Island is one of our favorites…but don’t stray to far off the boardwalk there because there are rattlesnakes that like finding shade underneath them (seriously!!!). You can also go on a beachfront horseback ride, or head up to Corolla to see the wild horses that live up there. And definitely visit Jockey’s Ridge for the biggest sand dunes on the east coast. The OBX is a serene and wonderful place to wind down the dog days of summer. Exactly why it’s at the top of the list!
Distance from Charlotte: 5 and a half hour drive
outerbanks.org
#2 – Pawleys Island, South Carolina
Just south of busy Myrtle Beach is the quiet Pawleys Island. Pawleys is perfect for a lowkey weekend sitting on the beach, away from all of the noise.
Distance from CLT: 4 hours
townofpawleysisland.com
#3 – Asheville, North Carolina –– The Best Labor Day Weekend Getaways in the Carolinas For Those That Love Mountain Towns With Culture
Asheville is the perfect city for a cool break from the Charlotte humidity. Visit the eclectic downtown and stop by some breweries while in town.
Distance from CLT: 2.5 hours
exploreasheville.com
#4 – Lake Hartwell, South Carolina
Nestled on the South Carolina and Georgia state line is Lake Hartwell. Stay in an Airbnb and enjoy the scenic views of the lake.
Distance from CLT: 3 hours
lakehartwellcountry.com
#5 – Banner Elk, North Carolina
Located about two hours from Charlotte is the small mountain town of Banner Elk. On Labor Day Weekend, Banner Elk is hosting Art on the Greene, an pop-up outdoor gallery showcasing local artists. Hike, unwind, and admire local art in Banner Elk this Labor Day Weekend.
Distance from CLT: 2.5 hours
bannerelk.com
#6 – Folly Beach, South Carolina –– The Best Labor Day Weekend Getaways in the Carolinas For Those That Love That Laid Back Holiday
Only 30 minutes from bustling Charleston is Folly Beach. Folly Beach offers beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and fun activities the whole family can enjoy. Stay and enjoy some local bands over the long weekend.
Distance from CLT: 3.5 hours
visitfolly.com
#7 – Isle Of Palms, South Carolina
Just down the road from Folly is another of our favorite Carolina beaches. Isle Of Palms has so many things going for it. The beaches are absolutely beautiful. The small downtown area has some really great shops and restaurants. The Windjammer provides some much needed nightlife. Wild Dunes provides the luxury and world class golf, and the Isle Of Palms marina gives you access to all the natural beauty the inland waters around Isle Of Palms offer. If you do get on a boat near Isle Of Palms be sure to head to nearby Capers Island, only accessible by boat, to explore the gorgeous boneyard beaches. On the backside of the island you could encounter an alligator so be aware!!!
Distance from CLT: 3 hours and 30 minutes
iop.net
#8 – Travelers Rest, South Carolina
Just north of Greenville, South Carolina, is Travelers Rest. Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Travelers Rest offers many family friendly outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and golf.
Distance from CLT: 2 hours
travelersrestsc.com
#9 – Pinehurst, North Carolina –– The Best Labor Day Weekend Getaways in the Carolinas For Those That Want To Spend It Golfing
Pinehurst, also known as the Home of American Golf, is the perfect Labor Day getaway for golf lovers. Play a round on one of Pinehurst’s 37 golf courses, and stop by the Pinehurst Barbeque Festival, hosted on Labor Day Weekend.
Distance from CLT: 2 hours
homeofgolf.com
#10 – Wilmington, North Carolina
Only about four hours from Charlotte, Wilmington, North Carolina, has tons of fun activities for all ages. Enjoy the beach, learn about the baby sea turtles in the area, and visit some of your favorite movie or TV show sites – Wilmington is often referred to as “Hollywood East.”
Distance from CLT: 3.5 hours
wilmingtonandbeaches.com
