South Carolina Highway 170

Winding through the heart of South Carolina’s Lowcountry, Highway 170 immerses travelers in the region’s signature landscape of sweeping salt marshes, ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss, and tidal creeks that shimmer under wide-open skies. This state scenic byway connects the Beaufort area to the coastal communities near Hilton Head Island, offering a quieter alternative to the interstate and a far more rewarding drive.

Along the route, expansive marsh vistas open up at nearly every turn, with egrets and herons wading through spartina grass. Roadside produce stands and small-town storefronts invite spontaneous stops. The corridor passes through communities steeped in Gullah-Geechee heritage, where the culture, cuisine, and traditions of the Lowcountry remain vibrantly alive.

Detour into historic Beaufort to explore antebellum architecture and waterfront parks, or pause at one of several pull-offs where the marsh views stretch unbroken to the horizon. The route also provides access to Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for birders and hikers alike.

Spring and fall deliver the most comfortable temperatures and the best light for photography. Allow one to two hours for a leisurely drive with stops — more if the Lowcountry charm convinces you to linger.

Explore Nearby

• Haig Point Rear Range Light — Lighthouse in South Carolina
• Haig Point Front Range Light — Lighthouse in South Carolina
• Wormsloe State Historic Site — State Park in Georgia
• Skidaway Island State Park — State Park in Georgia
• Sumter National Forest — National Forest in South Carolina