South Carolina, with its rich maritime history and scenic coastlines, offers a unique road trip experience that combines the thrill of the ride with the allure of historic lighthouses. At BareKnuckleBiker.com, we've revved up our engines and embarked on an Only In South Carolina signature road trip, exploring the amazing lights of the Palmetto State. From a lighthouse shaped like a triangle to a light that’s essentially a cast-iron monopole, this journey is packed with unusual sights. Here’s our take on this adventure, including a glimpse into the history of each lighthouse, the road it's located on, and our own Bare Knuckle Biker Coolness Ratings.
1. Georgetown Light or North Island
Location: Southeast of Georgetown in Winyah Bay, accessible via a boat tour from Rover Tours, departing from 31 East Bay Street, Georgetown.
History: As South Carolina's oldest light, constructed in 1812, Georgetown Light stands as a beacon of history, accessible only by a guided boat tour that offers a closer look at this maritime sentinel.
Bare Knuckle Biker Coolness Rating: 6/10 - While the boat trip is an extra step, the ride to Georgetown offers beautiful Lowcountry scenery, making it a worthwhile start to our lighthouse road trip.
2. Cape Romain's 1827 Lighthouse
Location: Southeast of McClellanville, accessible via boat, nestled within the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge alongside its younger counterpart.
History: This lighthouse, alongside its sibling, marks a crucial point in maritime navigation, accessible for closer inspection only four times a year, though visible from a distance all year round.
Bare Knuckle Biker Coolness Rating: 7/10 - The journey to the ferry, combined with the possibility of a distant view, adds a layer of anticipation and mystery to the ride.
3. Cape Romain's 1857 Lighthouse
Location: Same as the 1827 Lighthouse, requiring a ferry ride from Bulls Island Ferry at 498 Bulls Island Road, Awendaw.
History: Standing close to its older sibling, this lighthouse shares a protected status within the wildlife refuge, offering a glimpse into the past of maritime navigation.
Bare Knuckle Biker Coolness Rating: 7/10 - Similar to its partner, the adventure to see these lighthouses adds an adventurous twist to our road trip.
4. Charleston Light
Location: 1815 Ion Ave, Sullivan's Island, SC 29482.
History: Lit in 1962, the Charleston Light is notable for its unique triangular shape and powerful beam, once the second most powerful in the Western Hemisphere.
Bare Knuckle Biker Coolness Rating: 9/10 - The ride to Sullivan's Island is as delightful as the destination, with this uniquely shaped lighthouse providing a perfect backdrop for bikers seeking picturesque stops.
5. Morris Island Light
Location: Viewable from the north end of Folly Beach, accessible via East Ashley Avenue.
History: This solitary warrior, now standing alone in the sea, is a cherished icon of the Lowcountry, with ongoing efforts by "SaveTheLight.org" to preserve its legacy.
Bare Knuckle Biker Coolness Rating: 8/10 - The journey to Folly Beach and the walk to view the lighthouse offer a blend of relaxation and reflection, making it a memorable part of our tour.
6. Hunting Island Lighthouse
Location: 2555 Sea Island Pkwy, St Helena Island, SC 29920, within Hunting Island State Park.
History: Open for tours, this lighthouse within South Carolina's most visited state park offers an intimate look at the state's coastal beauty and lighthouse history.
Bare Knuckle Biker Coolness Rating: 10/10 - The ride to Hunting Island is unmatched, combining scenic beauty with the thrill of exploring one of the few lighthouses open for climbing.
7. Harbour Town Lighthouse
Location: 149 Lighthouse Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928.
History: A popular attraction that lights up and serves as a navigational aid, this lighthouse offers spectacular views from its observation tower for a small fee.
Bare Knuckle Biker Coolness Rating: 8/10 - The journey to Hilton Head and the experience of climbing the lighthouse make for a high point in our road trip, blending history with stunning vistas.
8. Leamington Lighthouse
Location: 57 Leamington Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, nestled on the Arthur Hills Golf Course.
History: Known as the Rear Range Light, this unusual structure located in a gated community is a testament to Hilton Head's unique blend of history and modernity.
Bare Knuckle Biker Coolness Rating: 9/10 - The intrigue of visiting the most unusual lighthouse on our list, combined with the welcoming community agreement, makes this stop a must-see.
Our road trip through South Carolina's lighthouses has been a ride through history, scenic beauty, and the unique charm of the Palmetto State's coastlines. Each lighthouse tells a story, and the journey to each, whether by road or a short ferry ride, adds layers of adventure and discovery to the experience. From the solitude of Morris Island Light to the welcoming beam of the Harbour Town Lighthouse, this tour is a testament to the enduring appeal of South Carolina's maritime landmarks. Gear up, hit the road, and let the lighthouses guide your journey through one of the most picturesque regions of the Lowcountry.
1 comment
Last I knew motorcycles were not allowed into Sea Pines resort where the Harbor Town lighthouse is located.