ABOUT SOUTH CAROLINA

South Carolina is a Southeastern state known for its historic charm, warm hospitality, and scenic landscapes. It’s often called the “Palmetto State” – a place where coastal beauty, lush forests, and small-town friendliness define daily life.

But there’s more to South Carolina than just beaches and history. Cities like Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville offer a rich mix of culture, entertainment, and dining. From world-class restaurants and art galleries to historic tours and live music, there’s always something to experience.

Whether you’re visiting for a race, a beach holiday, or a Southern road trip, South Carolina delivers a warm welcome and an unforgettable stay.

Fast facts about South Carolina

• Population: Approximately 5.4 million people (as of 2023).
• Size: Covers around 32,000 square miles (82,933 km²), making it the 40th largest U.S. state by area.
• Capital: Columbia, a vibrant city with a thriving arts scene, rich history, and central location.

Entry into the USA

Since South Carolina is part of the United States, all travelers must comply with U.S. entry regulations. These requirements depend on your country of citizenship and the purpose of your trip. Be sure to check the latest guidelines before traveling.

• Visa Requirements: travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries can enter for up to 90 days without a visa for tourism or business. Others may require a B-1/B-2 visitor visa.
• ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization): VWP travelers must apply online for ESTA authorization before traveling. Visit the ESTA website.
• Valid Passport: All visitors need a valid passport for the entire duration of their stay.

Currency

Like all U.S. states, South Carolina uses the United States Dollar (USD) as its official currency. Marked with the "$" symbol and divided into 100 cents, the U.S. dollar is managed by the Federal Reserve and is one of the world’s most widely used currencies. Exchange rates may vary, so it’s helpful to check updated rates before converting money.

• 1 USD ≈ 0.90 – 0.95 EUR
• 1 USD ≈ 0.70 – 0.75 GBP
• 1 USD ≈ 110 – 115 JPY
• 1 USD ≈ 1.25 – 1.30 CAD

Electricity

South Carolina uses the same electrical system as the rest of the United States. Outlets are typically NEMA 5-15 style, with two flat vertical prongs and a round grounding pin. The standard voltage is 120V with a frequency of 60Hz.

Mobile services

Staying connected in South Carolina is straightforward, with reliable mobile coverage from all major U.S. carriers. Whether you are in Charleston, Columbia, or Greenville, along the coast, or travelling through rural areas, most places offer solid cell service and mobile internet.

AT&T
AT&T provides strong statewide coverage, serving both major cities and smaller towns. Its 5G network is widely available in areas like Charleston, Columbia, Myrtle Beach, and Greenville. AT&T offers a variety of prepaid and postpaid plans, making it a reliable choice for both short-term visitors and long-term stays.

Verizon Wireless
Verizon is known for dependable service nationwide, and South Carolina is no exception. It covers rural regions and coastal areas well, which is useful for road trips and visits to smaller towns. Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband is active in larger cities like Columbia, Charleston, and Greenville, and the provider offers unlimited and shared data plans suitable for travellers.

T-Mobile
T-Mobile has excellent 5G coverage in urban and suburban areas, including Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and Myrtle Beach. It’s a popular option for international visitors thanks to its affordable unlimited plans and free international texting and data in many countries. Rural coverage is improving, but can be patchy in the mountainous northwest or remote Lowcountry areas.

For visitors, eSIM apps like Airalo can be an efficient way to access mobile data.

Important telephone numbers

When heading to a NASCAR race at Darlington Raceway in Darlington, South Carolina, it’s a good idea to keep essential phone numbers handy. These contacts can help with event-related enquiries as well as general emergencies: 

• Emergency Services: 911 (police, fire, and medical)
• Florence Police Department (non-emergency): +1 843-665-3191

Interesting facts about South Carolina

South Carolina is a state packed with history, natural beauty, and unique traditions. From its coastal charm to its motorsport roots, here are ten fun and fascinating facts about the Palmetto State:

The birthplace of barbecue
South Carolina is widely recognised as the birthplace of American barbecue, with four distinct regional sauces: mustard, vinegar-pepper, light tomato, and heavy tomato.

Home of NASCAR heritage
Darlington Raceway, nicknamed “The Track Too Tough to Tame,” is one of NASCAR’s oldest and most iconic tracks, hosting the Southern 500 since 1950.

The only state with its own tea plantation
South Carolina’s Charleston Tea Garden, on Wadmalaw Island, is the only large-scale tea plantation in the United States.

Sweetgrass basket tradition
The state is famous for its Gullah sweetgrass baskets, a handwoven craft passed down for generations, particularly around the Charleston area.

Myrtle Beach: Golf capital of the world
With over 90 golf courses, Myrtle Beach is considered a top global destination for golfers.

Fort Sumter and the Civil War
The first shots of the American Civil War were fired at Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbour on April 12, 1861.

A leader in peach production
While Georgia is called the “Peach State,” South Carolina actually produces more peaches per capita, earning the nickname “The Tastier Peach State.”

Loggerhead sea turtle haven
South Carolina’s coastline is a major nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles, especially on Hilton Head Island and Edisto Beach.

Spanish moss and live oaks
Historic cities like Charleston and Beaufort are shaded by sprawling live oaks draped in Spanish moss, creating postcard-worthy scenery.

Home of the Palmetto tree
South Carolina’s state flag features a palmetto tree and crescent, symbolising the palmetto logs that protected Fort Moultrie during the Revolutionary War.